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Chrome #1

So Much More

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Avery Moore writes about romance, but she sure as hell doesn’t live it. Blake Patterson has no trouble getting women, in fact as the owner of a popular club, women are practically throwing themselves at him.

They couldn’t be further from each other’s type, but when a solid friendship is formed, little by little the lines become blurred.

In this struggle between friendship and love, the desire between them becomes too much to resist.

What happens when your friend suddenly becomes So Much More?

192 pages, ebook

First published June 8, 2014

540 people are currently reading
1420 people want to read

About the author

Taryn Plendl

23 books311 followers
Taryn is a USA Today Bestselling Author who is also a lover of books and wine, usually enjoying them together. Writing has been a way for her to step away from chaotic reality and live a bit through her fun and sometimes damaged characters. You will almost always find a Happy Ever After at the end of her stories. She can't help it, it's an addiction.
She enjoys spending time with her friends and family, but cherishes those quiet nights after everyone is asleep when she can curl up on the couch to read with her geriatric dog. (Shh, don't tell...He's not supposed to be on the couch.)

www.TarynPlendl.com
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5 stars
394 (29%)
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450 (33%)
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372 (27%)
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 146 reviews
Profile Image for Deanna❤Pink Lady❤️.
820 reviews845 followers
September 8, 2014
3 Cute Stars
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I will say that this is a cute story. It is a friends to lovers scenario. Avery is a cute, adorable, sassy romance writer. She has a best friend Morgan. Blake is a sexy and cocky bar owner. His best friend Sean is the co-owner of the bar. Black and Avery meet and develop a pretty fast friendship. Avery is funny and can laugh at herself. She is not afraid to call Blake out and he really likes that about her. He has never been friends with a girl. Sometimes 2 people just click and are comfortable with each other. Each thinking the other is just a friend, a really good friend. But what if you feel so comfortable, so at ease, so right with the other, does that friendship eventually translate into love? Can't the opposite sex just be friends or does it become so much more?

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As you can guess, Avery and Blake realize that they have both have feelings for one another, but there is a miscommunication disaster. I will say that it did seem to go on for longer than necessary but it finally gets resolved.

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Complimentary copy received by author via the GReat Buddy Reads Group in exchange for an honest review.
Profile Image for Ⓐlleskelle - That ranting lady ッ.
1,038 reviews957 followers
September 6, 2014
Buddy Read with the GRRP group!

⭐️⭐️ 1.5 STARS ⭐️⭐️

This was a very short read but I kept putting it down, not really sure why, I'm a sucker for friends to lovers story so the blurb really was engaging... Unfortunately, I never could connect with Blake and Avery...



It was a novella length so I completely understand that the author could not write on and on about how they become friends, or about the slowly understanding and discovery of their deep feelings towards each other... But clearly, in that case, we jumped from "Hello stranger!" to best buddies who suddenly realize they love each other... Er...
I've read my share of novellas, and I can affirm that authors made me feel connected to the story within 100 pages before.



Nothing really original in that one, yet another reason for my low rating was the unnecessary drama.



Typical in romance, when everything is finally doing just fine, problems are piling right at your front door. But what do you do when you want to add a little angst to the story? Create drama? How convenient.



Well, NO.

The reason behind Blake' silence is laughable and had me rolling my eyes so hard that it hurt.
More then was reading far TOO MANY pages about them keeping silence radio. I'm not sure the big forced misunderstanding toward the end was necessarily. I would have enjoyed this sweet romance better without the "drama".



Although I love Rom Com, I need something to hold on to in them, their evolving feelings did not grab me, neither did the romance. It lacked in transition between the scenes, we have an expression in French "Passer du coq à l'âne", it felt like some important informations were being left out. I enjoyed Avery' sass and her relationship with Morgan, her best friend. Actually a whole star is dedicated to Avery's character. But not to Blake hot and cold attitude toward women. Or maybe his characterization were simply at fault.

So I guess it's a fail for me, to be honest I would have DNF'd it if not for the BR I joined in.



A copy of this book was generously provided to me by Carol (StarAngel's Reviews) for a Buddy Read at the GRRP group!
Profile Image for Jo ★The Book Sloth★.
486 reviews443 followers
September 8, 2014
3.5-4 Fluffy Stars



Avery Moore is about to take a trip down her personal hell by way of gym and when her clumsiness earns her the attention of one of the hottest guys she's ever seem she isn't pleased at all. As hot as the guy is, he isn't her type at all. Not that she has seen much action outside of the books she writes for a while now.

Blake Patterson is every bit the player his looks and his job as the half-owner of one of the hottest clubs in town would suggest. All he sees in Avery when he first meets her is the funny best friend of the girl his partner is after.

Soon they get to know each other though and they form an easy friendship which evolves to more without them even realising it. Can they take their relationship to the next level without losing what they have already built?




This book was a nice, novella-sized read. It had all the disadvantages novellas seem to have but it managed to counterpoint it with enough humor and cuteness so that by the end I didn't hold it against the author for long.

My two main problems:

1) Too much, too fast. The couple moved from strangers to best friends to the love of each other's life too fast. They met at the gym, they were best friends in the next couple of weeks(all of my best friends were years in the making) and on the third they decided they were in love. I wouldn't mind much a romance that developed in a matter of weeks if the author didn't try to persuade us that the couple had more than lust going between them. She tried too hard to beat into our heads that they were best friends, had that special connection, but did nothing to actually show it.

2) Lack of connection. This was inevitable from the size of the book and the fact that for the first 30% of the book they are still in their first meeting and that more than 30% of the second half of the book is a ridiculous misunderstanding which was equally ridiculously easy resolved when the truth came out.



One would ask, why then the 4 stars? I had fun reading. Plain and simple. The book possibly doesn't deserve them plotwise but I had a pleasant time reading it so I whole-heartendly give them. It was light, fluffy, and very easy to read. The first few pages were hilarious and even after that there were moments that had me laughing to myself. And I actually liked their interactions(the few they had).



So, if you go into this expecting a book that you'll have some fun reading and forget the next day you won't be disappointed. It won't rock anyone's world but it was exactly what I like for a few pleasant hours of light reading.

Complimentary copy received by author via the GReat Buddy Reads Group in exchange for an honest review.

PS. I wonder if the next book is about their best friends? I'm hoping for a full length novel because I genuinely enjoy the author's writing.
Profile Image for Allison ❤️Will Never Conquer Her TBR❤️.
1,045 reviews1,535 followers
September 6, 2014
3 Cute "Friends-To-Lovers" Stars!


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Avery, an erotica author, meets Blake, a bar owner, in the gym...in the worst possible position. She's pinned in one of the machines, contorted like a pretzel. Obviously too much weight on this machine for her weak legs. A tall, dark stranger helps her...after he smirks at her predicament.

What grows from that day is a steady, easy friendship. Blake, the owner of Crome, invites her to visit his bar, watches her flirt with other guys, date other guys...what used to be easy to sit back and watch becomes more painful.

Neither want to admit their feelings have grown from best friends to love. Can they take a chance and risk it all crumbling around them?

---------------

I had a hard time getting into this one at first. I was constantly putting it down for any sort of reasons. I did start to get more captivating about 40% in. At first, I was taken back how quick Blake acted like the protective bestie. I mean, like within a week of knowing each other. Hmm. But after that quick jump start. their story grew more naturally and I liked that versus the insta-love stuff we get so much. The conflict in the story I didn't love. It was a communication issue and I HATE needless drama for the sake of conflict building. Especially when the conflict was a stupid mistake...a mistake I was ready to throw my kindle about. Stupid is the only word for it.

Overall I liked it okay. But not a love.

And I thank you!

Complimentary copy received by author via the GReat Buddy Reads Group in exchange for an honest review.
Profile Image for Sleepy.
358 reviews18 followers
September 6, 2014
~I was given an ARC in exchange for an honest review~

This was a quick and sweet book.

Now I liked avery, she was a tell it like it is chick, could laugh at herself amd take jokes.
Blake was sexy and cocky but I liked him as well, he made me smile with his 'SEX GOD'comments.

I did feel at times it came off cheesy and a little lackluster for me with the relationship,but in saying that I enjoyed the friendship to love aspect of it. It wasn't, ok they meet and fall in love. No they meet in an awkward situation at least for avery then they become friends who hang out all the time then they start catching feelings.

Over all it was a cute story.

And I liked Sean, Blakes best friend and business partner, he seemed sweet and caring, hopefully he'll get his story told soon.
Profile Image for Carol (StarAngel's Reviews) Allen.
1,692 reviews634 followers
September 29, 2014
Book – So Much More (Chrome Series #1)
Author – Taryn Plendl
Publication Date – June 8, 2014
Genre – Romance/New Adult
Type – Companion Series
Cliffhanger - No
Rating – 4 out of 5 Stars

Complimentary Copy generously provided by Author in exchange for an honest review through the GReat Buddy Read.

My Thoughts - Story
We received this book to read through Great Buddy Read and had a blast going through the emotions while reading.



I enjoyed this book and thought the friend to lovers romance was compiled perfectly – I found it easy to connect to Blake and Avery…well, that is until toward the end when the two of them brought in extra angst that just didn’t belong.

I loved how Ms. Plendl brought in an awkward sex scene that was true to life…breaking out of the mold of big dicks, perfect thrusts and orgasms on demand!

My Thoughts – Writing Style
Ms. Plendl has a knack with short stories and fitting in tons of emotions between the pages of a short story.  The way this book was written, I quickly connected with the main characters along with the secondary ones.



The flow was impeccable and the only problem I found was the a bit over the top angst toward the end.

Re-Cap
Avery and Blake quickly become friends through their best buddies.  Doing everything together, Blake opens up Avery’s horizons on life and he weaves a place directly in her heart.

As they get closer, they try and deny what is happening between them – shit happens, they exchange words and walk away from each other.  Are they really happy apart from each other? Can someone else fill the void in their heart?

Reason for Reading – GReat Buddy Read
Story Rating – 4 out of 5 Stars
Steam Rating – 3.5 out of 5 Stars
Angst Rating – 4 out of 5 Stars
Writing Rating – 4 out of 5 Stars
Content Flow Rating – 4 out of 5 Stars
Heroine/Personality – Avery/Independent-Oblivious
Hero/Personality – Blake/Cute and also Oblivious
HEA (Spoiler) - 
Would Read More from Author? Yes
Recommend To – Readers who like a cute/short read about friendship that blossoms into more

For more Reviews, Free E-books and Giveaways

Profile Image for Laylaw.
323 reviews5 followers
September 11, 2014
4 "I want more" stars!! This story is adorable and I was smitten. I loved the back and forth between our two main characters.

Avery- is a true contradiction. She is laughable and her inner dialogue was too funny, but then she had this shy hidden side and was mysterious in a lot of ways.

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Blake- is funny, hot, and down right drool worthy. He seems to be an all around complete man with his own needs fulfilled and his business booming.

These two are not looking for anything or anyone- but fate has a way of dropping people into your lap and doing the unexpected. These two did not have LOVE at first sight moment, if anything there was some inital loating after a failed attempt and heroic rescue with a dastardly piece of gym equipment. But that didn't stop these two from becoming something more than aquiantances. They became friends- they played off each other well, became each others wing "man" throughout the story. We meet several other characters along the way to give you a hint of what is to come for future stories in the series and this book has just wet the palate.

Blake and Avery both end up with their own boyfriend and girlfriend and work with each others friendship during that time and you can truly see that they are using these people as place holders in their lives while they wrap their heads around the fact that both want more......

There is some angst and you will want to shake a few people but when Blake and Avery find the more they never knew they craved they can't help but run to it.

Major points for Taryn's humor and use of the gym and the angst with that! It was like listening to my own loathing at the gym- LOVED it.

The story is solid, cute, and worthy of a read as there is so much more for the Chrome series. I myself, am looking forward to some Tony....


Complimentary copy received by author via the GReat Buddy Reads Group in exchange for an honest review.
Profile Image for A.M..
Author 7 books58 followers
January 4, 2018
Morgan and Avery are friends.
The heroine Avery has big tits but is super skinny, can eat what she wants and hates gyms [she’s not LIKE OTHER GIRLS] Plus, she spends all her time deriding other women as gym bunnies. [I am so freaking tired of this from heroines who are ‘different’]. She’s also not as amusing or funny as she thinks she is. (she’s a writer… maybe it’s par for the course for her to misjudge her wit? *grins*)
The hero, Blake, owns a bar called Chrome (thus the series name) with his friend Sean. Sean wants to date Morgan, so they double date.
30% in and it’s just… boring. And disliking Avery doesn’t help.
So much empty dialogue, and ffs stop saying people’s names all the time.
48% Avery and Blake are hanging out as friends, and she’s dating some guy Jim but won’t have sex with him.
When she does, it’s bad.
He was genuinely a nice guy, treated me well, and it sure didn’t hurt that he had a rockin’ body. The only downfall was that he was an absolute awkward mess in the sex department. (p. 97).

So teach him. The skills are learned.
But Jim is cheating on her and Blake threatens him and tells him to dump her.
“I’m so sorry, Blake.”
“Christ, I hope not, Avery.” (p. 130).

We are 70% of the way in, STOP SAYING THEIR NAMES!

Meh
2 stars
134 reviews5 followers
May 3, 2014
I loveddddd this book .This is a fall in love with your best friend theme but done in a very cool,sexy, modern way. Blake owns a club,he is really hot and cocky and is a total ladies man. Avery is a clumsy,quirky Adorable Romance book writer. Blake meets Avery when he has to saves her from a hilarious awkward moment that she was stuck in.Somehow they become best friends. On paper they are total opposites but when they are together they are so in sync. They are just so perfect for each other. Every chapter I was falling more and more in love with them. I am already re reading this book. It was AMAZING !!!This is a Must Read 100 % ladies. I can not wait for book 2 <3
Profile Image for Amanda Adams.
484 reviews66 followers
August 6, 2018
Okay so I was going through all my signed paperbacks that I’ve received from Secret Smuffins over the past three years and came across this signed book. So I decided to see if I had it on my kindle and did. Btw it’s free. 😉 so figured I’d try it out. And I liked this book. I laughed a lot (which I needed). My only problem I wishes it was longer. I can’t wait to read and see what the future holds for the friends I know it’s coming.
2,336 reviews
August 26, 2017
I loved the romance between Avery and Blake. I loved that this was a friends to lovers story, which is my favorite romance trope ever. I loved how it showed how they met and their friendship got started. They really had some cute interactions with each other. At times it was very funny and very entertaining, but there were serious moments as well. I loved them as friends. I loved them as a couple. Just every time they were together was good. They just fit and loved them. So much so much.

What bothered me the most about this book was the length. It was too short. I wanted it longer and more of a build up between Avery and Blake. More development of the time spent together that lead them to become more and more attraction to each other then lead to their deep love for one another. However I will say that I did believe they were totally in love with one another and never doubted because I did very much see their feelings grow and grow the note time they spent together. But at the same time, even though weeks had passed, it did feel a little rushed and it took me back a smidge. I just wanted more of struggle with feelings and trying to fight then, but instead we were there already. I think I wanted more focus on them than I wanted on them dating other people. I didn't need to know the guy she was dating sucked in bed. I totally didn't need that scene. In fact I was a little taken back that it was. I could have done to a fade to black moment then reflection the next more. I needed the focus to be on Blake and Avery. And just needed more of them but because of the length it couldn't be done and has to cut to the chase. But it would have be totally worth it if it was.

I loved Blake. He was such a swoon worthy hero. He was funny. He was sweet. He was a great friend to Avery. He had this kind and loving heart. I loved it when he flirted with Avery because it was really sweet yet very entertaining and fun. I liked how he took care of her in various different situations. I just loved everything about him and his interactions with Avery. I loved that he wanted to protect her even to the detriment of himself, though he really should have told her the truth about the guy she was dating instead of letting him off the hook while Blake looked like a scumbag, which in reality he was doing the opposite. I loved his reaction when he realized that he was in love with Avery. He never been in love before and it showed but in totally sweet way because he didn't know what to do with himself and all these feelings that he had for her so he just reacted the way he did. And it was nice to see a guy that undone once he came to that realization. It touched my heart and it really made me soon for him because of that reaction. And I also loved that he was willing to do anything just to be close to her and have her in his life even if that was just friendship. He was just a good guy with a good heart. Loved him.

Though there were not a lot of love scenes between Avery and Blake, there were a lot of great sweet moments between the two of them that made up for the fact that there were many love scenes between them. They just had some great scenes together. I love the scene at the gym and the rock climbing wall because this showed off not only how much Blake cared about her but how she was coming to trust him and how their relationship was deepening and developing over the course of the book. It showed them becoming closer and closer. I loved seeing there a little Wednesday night ritual, though might have been mundane, showed how comfortable they were with one another and how they wanted to just spend time together. After Avery's break up, there was a really sweet scene where she came to him first for comfort and basically cried her eyes out all over him, but he was there and happy to comfort and hold her. How she didn't want to be alone and wanted to stay the night over and did with him holding her while all these deep feelings for one another was bubbling beneath the surface. I loved their first kiss at the movie theater. I loved when he came to get her when she was drunk and took care of her. I loved when they made love for the first time because it was such a beautiful and poignant moment between them. It was just really special and it showed how much they did love each other. It was just the perfect beginning them.

Overall I loved pretty much everything about this book aside from the length. I just wanted to see more of their relationship and the anticipation building and building throughout. If there was more length then the pacing would have been better I thought and not so rushed. Really I just wanted more of those sweet and tender moments between them. It was so good that I needed more. This couple touched me because of just how good they were together. Lots of yummy goodness. And had me craving more. But I did love what I got. It was so special.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for Loraine Oliver.
685 reviews2 followers
October 21, 2014
So Much More is a hilarious but touching read, as it is a contemporary romance that a lot of people can relate to, as it is the perfect start to a life time of true romance. These were the basics of a true romance according to Taryn's story,

1 You meet someone and you really like them.
2 You start meeting up once a week to just kick back like friends do and maybe watch a movie, so you have something to look forward to!
3 You start feeling things, and as you continue on your friendship route you may still be dating other people, but somehow everyone you are with comes up lacking in one way or another.
4 You find yourself reaching out to that person before reaching out to even your very best friends.
5 and last but not least you may feel devastated when they are not in your life any more, when something happens.
6 Your friends on both sides give you what you think is unwanted advice when they tell you to get your head out of the clouds and look around- you are a mess!
7 YOU ARE IN LOVE AND THE LAST ONE TO KNOW IT!!!!

This book had really great dialog and Avery comes across as sarcastic and hilarious at some of the things she says, but inside is a heart of gold, and her new friend Blake is the same way. After months of looking forward to every wednesday, things happen. Blake realizes his life without Avery in it is no life at all, and Sean, his best friend since he was a little boy, is quick to point out to Blake that he is in love and everyone but Blake knows it! The same hold true for Avery, when her best friend Morgan marches into her house one afternoon and tells Avery her pity party is over she needs to get out and start living.

The plot is good and the book is well written, it is funny, touching, and romance at it's best! Also the dialog between all of the characters is really good, and as you read this book, you actually feel like you are there! You know it is a great book when you can forget everything around you and just keep reading, to see how things end up. This story also had a really good cast of minor characters that I would love to see in future books. I really hope to see more by Taryn Plendl in the near future!

I gave this book a rating of 5***** Stars!
Profile Image for Coco.V.
50k reviews132 followers
Want to read
March 16, 2020
🎁 FREE on Amazon today (3/16/2020)! 🎁
Profile Image for Shaly.
1,198 reviews
September 12, 2017
I actually enjoyed Avery's character, she was a hot mess but her quirkiness and cute but sarcastic humor made up for it....until she became a ridiculous drunk over something not quite clear and over someone not worth it. She didn't love Jim, he sucked in bed and she had already admitted things were stale, why get so angry at Blake for his part in her breakup with Jim is beyond me! Which also leaves me to Blake's stupid ass reasoning for not telling her the truth about Jim, that didn't even make sense to me.

I did like how Blake and Avery became friends first then gradually fell in love! That whole insta-love scenario is one of my biggest pet peeves! They were stupid for pulling away the way they did, but they were cute together.

I didn't care to much for Morgan, she was way to pushy, always wanting her way and I dislike characters like hers.

Overall it was a short and somewhat cutesy read, unfortunately it didn't hold enough juice to keep me interested in this series..
Profile Image for My Secret Book Spot.
662 reviews23 followers
June 17, 2014
"So Much More (Chrome Series #1)" by Taryn Plendl
5 out of 5 stars (and then some)

Picture this...it's late and the husband is asleep. I can't sleep and I decide to start a new book. I'm trying to hold my Nook in such a way that the light doesn't wake him up (because I know he'll fuss that I'm reading instead of sleeping). I start the book and immediately have to put a hand over my mouth because it is ridiculously funny. Now I'm hooked into a book that I'm desperately trying not to laugh with (or else I'll wake the hubs), hold my Nook with one hand (since the other is over my mouth), and quaking in delight so much that I almost fell out of the bed (on more than one occasion)! That was my experience with "So Much More" by Taryn Plendl!

Avery is maybe one of the funniest female leads I've read in a long time. She's smart and possesses a razor sharp wit that knows no bounds. She never takes herself too seriously and has no problems aiming her humor at herself. I loved how willing she was to try new things even when she knew she was probably going to hate the experience. Avery is someone I could easily see myself hanging out with and having an insanely good time. She is a welcome breath of fresh air in a world over-saturated with damsels in distress.

Blake is a guy worth investing in. He loves Avery's humor and appreciates her in a way that has you falling head over heals for him. He's good looking but isn't in your face about it and never arrogant. He's playful and protective and values the friendship he has with Avery above all else. Blake is the perfect match for Avery in the wit department and their banter is light and infectious.

I LOVED the slow build in their relationship that Plendl uses. While they definitely have chemistry from the start it was really cool seeing the friendship develop first. It creates a solid foundation for them and allows the flames of attraction to be stoked into a raging inferno. This is a couple worth your time and investment.

Plendl's style is so easy to read. I flew through the book in one setting (shh, don't tell my husband) and I can't wait to get my hands on the next book! While I love a good drama, what Plendl has done is create a story oozing with humor and wry wit that keeps you on your toes and clenching your stomach with laughter. If I could give her more stars I wouldn't hesitate! This one is a must buy!!

*I was given a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.*

Shannon, My Secret Book Spot
Profile Image for Anny hernandez.
1,181 reviews13 followers
June 10, 2014
I was provided a copy of the book by the Author for an honest review.

I just finish reading this book, and I love it, love the characters, and love how the book turn out to be. This is a story about two people meeting and becoming friends, than turn to best friend, and finally fall in love, in my opinion that's the best way for you to fall in love with someone, is if that person is your best friend, that's the best kind, I am gone keep this short since I don't want to give anything away.

The story begging with Avery, she just got to the gym, and she being seating down in her car for the last five minutes, still wondering why she let her best friend drag her into the gym, Avery is a writer she love doing what she does, but she don't like the gym at all, after her first class is over, her best friend Morgan tell her to go check out the place, that's when she end up in the weight room, while in the weight room Blake was about to move to another machine, when he saw Avery walk in and get in one of the machine, that's when she got stuck and Blake tried to hold in his laugh, he walk up to her and ask if she needed help, at first she say no but when Blake turn around ready to walk, she realized that she did need his help, after that they all when their separated way, that same night Morgan drag Avery to a bar, Avery couldn't walk at all once they where in the bar and seating down, Sean walk up to their booth, he introduce him self and that's when Avery knew that was the guy from the gym, but as soon as he mention we, she ask we who, that's when she found out that Blake the guy from the gym is also one of the owner, that was the night that their friendship begging.

I really love and enjoy reading this book, I love the way how Avery and Blake are with each other, love it how their friendship turn into something much more how it became beautiful. Author Taryn Plendl THANK YOU for introducing to this awesome characters and this amazing book love it.
Profile Image for DawnMarie  Carpintero.
Author 2 books19 followers
September 29, 2014
5 Weird but Crazy Stars

I was given this book for my honest review.

“She slowly walked over to him and reached up on her tiptoes to place a sweet kiss on his lips. This would probably be the only time tonight that she would have to admire this beautiful man, so she was going to take her time” Avery

Avery-romance writer, smart and sassy

Blake-hunk bar owner

Avery is a romance writer that enjoys mostly everything except exercising this turns out to be a very funny quality in her that can attract a certain kind of man but could this fluke of a man be “the one”? Can a chance encounter turn out to be more or is it destined to be the one of friendship only?

Blake is the hunky bar owner that doesn’t do relationships what he does do is bed them and leave them more of the time than not. He doesn’t do women friendships of any kind but when seeing a quirky yet scared woman his heart goes out to her. Can this one of a kind be the woman that surpasses them all and captures what his heart has been longing for all these years?

Once Avery and Blake come together as friends can more be on their horizon? Can a one of a kind friendship turn out to be one of an amazing rainbow after a summer’s storm? Can these two find it in their hearts to admit that more is in store for them or will it just be an amazing fluke of a friendship that can withstand the tests that no other can touch? Is this is what dreams are made of?
This book is an amazing read that brings two uncharacteristic characters together to form the greatest bond of friendship or is it more? Please pick up this book to find out.

To the author thank you for letting me be a part of this journey. Anyone that reads this book will find a hunky guy that slowly develops. A woman that only knows what is in her head and that she creates upon the pages that she so writes about. An amazing read this is the first in the “Chrome Series”.

Happy Reading
191 reviews8 followers
June 12, 2014
This book had me laughing out loud at Avery, yelling at Blake for not always thinking clearly and hoping that everything will work out for all in the end!!!
Avery is a little spit-fire, who just happens to be a published book writer of romance with steamy sex scenes. (Too bad her real life is not like her books) Avery has a great sense of humor; she is able to crack a joke in any instance and definitely says what she means without hesitation. Blake loves this about her.
Blake is a self-proclaimed playboy that has no interest in a relationship. He is happy with one night stands and never talking to them again. The connection he forms with Avery is a new territory for him, and it was a great journey to watch.
After their initial awkward encounter at the gym, they meet up again when Morgan (Avery's best friend) is invited to go to Sean’s club Chrome to hang out. Avery had no idea that Sean and Blake were best friends, or that they were the owners of this club. This chance encounter began a wonderful friendship between Avery and Blake.
I absolutely loved the characters of this book. Avery was a riot, she might have been little, but she definitely knew how to get her point across. Blake was a great guy, gorgeous and nice, what more could you ask for. The friendship that they develop is amazing and so much fun to watch develop throughout the book.
The fact that she was a writer of sexy romance books was just a bonus, especially when Blake finally read one. The fact that it caused fear in his ability to measure up to the men in her book, definitely made me laugh out loud!!! I loved that the author actually had Blake read her book to learn more, because I believe in life if more men would read these books they might learn a little. J Thank you for an amazing read and I can’t wait to see what you have coming out next for the Chrome series.
Profile Image for Becky.
155 reviews
July 20, 2016
Are you looking for a book that will keep a smile on your face. Then this will be the one. It is a quick read that I found to be very enjoyable.

I loved that Avery Moore was your normal girl. She was beautiful and clumsy all at the same time. I was always looking for what will Avery do next. She is a romance writer but is no where like her characters in her books where the bedroom is concerned. She is just looking for Mr. Right. He is the one person who she would have never thought possible. She was smart and sassy and that's what made me love her character.

"Good Lord, Avery, you act like you've never been to the gym before. Don't look like I just kicked your puppy." - Morgan. Avery's best friend, partner in crime, shoulder to cry on. All around best friend.

Blake Patterson, is a successful club owner and total ladies man. He doesn't do the whole girlfriend thing. He never lets a girl come before any of his friends. Avery was vulnerable and that caught and held Blake's attention. They both met at the gym where he had to be her knight in shining armor. They were always together after that. She always had something smart to say to him and he loved it.

"I just know your boy here wouldn't leave me alone until he flexed his muscles and strutted around here like a male peacock."-Avery.

Looking forward to the next book to see where it leads Avery and Blake. The other supporting characters were fun to read about as well.
Profile Image for books are love.
3,163 reviews23 followers
June 10, 2014
Love this quirky sweet cute fun book. I love the self deprecating humour of Avery. That first spin class was a hoot. And her and Blake's interactions were awesome.

So Avery is a little insecure but so funny. Has a great balance of self deprecating humor and self esteem. She hates to exercise and is a erotica writer. She meets Blake. Funny, handsome a wee bit of a ego Blake who only does bed hopping and at first they barb each other. As time goes on they become besties. Besties who begin to have feelings for each other but won't admit it.

Blake is protective and supportive of Avery. I love how he is always there for her and his curiosity about her books is great. He owns a bar with his best guy friend Sean. These two are a great dynamic as well. So Blake one night does something out of love for Avery and it has unintended consequences. It is this night he finds he loves avery. But is afraid because he doesn't know how Avery feels.

These two come together and its precious until that pesky consequence comes up. Instead of telling her what happened, Blake shoulders the blame so she doesn't get hurt and Avery walks. This upsets both there lives and makes them both unbearable. One night Avery decides to do something stupid after she learns the truth and Blake comes to the rescue. Yeah Blake.

A fun quirky read that has you rooting for Blake and Avery as they navigate their feelings and friendship. I would love to see Sean's story sometime I do hope he finds someone.
Profile Image for Karen Harper.
383 reviews
June 6, 2014
When I read the synopsis for So Much More, I was immediately interested. I think it was the concept of a best friend becoming ‘so much more’. To me, this is closer to real life.
First of all, I loved Avery. Maybe it was because she didn’t like to exercise. I can empathise with that. Maybe it was because she was witty and she wasn’t afraid to say what she was thinking (most of the time), but then I had the pleasure of hearing her thoughts. I know I laughed several times and it wasn’t just because of Avery. Wait until you find out what her job is!
And then there was Blake. Siiiiigh! I think I fell in love with him the first time I came across him in this book and he just kept on getting better and better. Although there may have been a few times I wanted to smack him on the back of the head.
But I don’t think I would have enjoyed this book if it wasn’t for Taryn Plendl’s writing style. Her portrayal of the characters made them into ‘real’people not fantasy characters. Her descriptions of people and places were spot on without being too wordy and I also could also ‘hear’ her voice as I was reading So Much More.
This was the first time I had read a book written by this author, but when I was finished I immediately checked out what else she had written and bought The Philadelphia series. I gave So Much More 5 out 5 stars.
Written by Karen from A Thousand Lives
Profile Image for Lustful Literature.
1,822 reviews336 followers
June 12, 2014
** TARA'S 4 STAR REVIEW **

Avery Moore knows romance, or at least how to write it. She can’t seem to find the total package. When she leans on her friend Blake, everything might just change for Avery.

Avery and Blake became fast friends after meeting at the gym Neither of them are looking for love, Blake is a one hit wonder, not wanting more then one night with the same woman, until he meets Avery, and everything begins to change.

“I find comfort in looking right beside me, you know why? That’s where you are, Blake, and I hope you can find the same comfort, knowing that is where I am, too.”

As their friendship evolves, neither Avery nor Blake are willing to admit they have feelings for each other. Who will crack first?

“But you are different, Little Bit. more… so much more.”

~~~~~~~~~~~

This was a really great short story. It was a super fast read but don’t let the length fool you, it is packed full with a great story and great characters. The book flowed really well. The comedic aspect of the book brought many smiles to my face and I easily connected with Avery.



*received a copy from the author/publisher in exchange for an honest reveiw*
Profile Image for Angi.
166 reviews
July 5, 2014
This was a witty light and snarky read-I really liked the characters and their bantor and found another new author to enjoy. The story starts out full of humour as two besties, Morgan and Avery go to work out at a local gym. Avery isn't used to working out as Morgan surprises her with a spin class(which Averys thoughts on this is hilarious!)After class is over she'd like to hurt her friend! But Morgan sees a guy(Sean) she's been talking to there and goes over to him while Leaving Avery to check out things on her own-BAD IDEA!! She goes to a leg press machine and doesn't know what she's doing and practically hurts herself ..some more! Meanwhile someone's been watching her, a gorgeous swoon-worthy someone whom runs over to help while silently amused by her antics- His name is Blake. Well after that little fiasco Morgan talks Avery into going to a new club with her to meet her friend Sean whom owns it with no other than his bestie Blake- After getting inside and introductions are made they all start making arrangements to meet up but the two that make up the story here is Avery and Blake- Their friendship is easy and quite entertaining of course what's a story without some mishap or a little trouble..It is however a complete read with a good ending - 4 fun & witty stars!
Profile Image for Anna.
580 reviews20 followers
June 28, 2014
Avery is a successful romance novel writer, but she is lacking actual romance in her life. Her friend Morgan convinces her to join a gym where they meet and become friends with Blake and Sean who own a bar. Avery and Blake become fast friends and begin spending a lot of time with one another. They continue to date other people, but as their friendship becomes more important to both of them than their other relationships they realize that they may need to take things to the next level.

This is a pretty quick read, partially because I didn't put it down once I started. Avery is a great character. She's awkward, funny, and self-depricating, but not in a way that takes away from her self confidence. Blake is pretty great. Even during his days of sleeping around, he does it in a way that won't affect his co-workers, and will not be deceptive to the other people involved. He is extremely loyal to his friends, and his intentions seem to always be good. If you are in the mood for a friends to lovers story with engaging characters, this is a good choice. I look forward to reading more by this author in the future.

*An ARC was provided in exchange for an honest review
Profile Image for Pratr- Authors.
442 reviews10 followers
June 4, 2014
I received this book from Tayrn Plendl and Paranormal Romance & Authors that Rock in exchange for an honest review.

Avery meets Blake at the gym where her BFF Morgan talks her into going. Actual Blake has to rescue her after a little mishap with some gym equipment. They met again when Morgan drags Avery to met Sean and his friend Blake. Avery is funny, she always has a smart comment or joke to make and her and Blake become best buds.

I have to say I loved this book, I can't remember the last time I laughed so much reading a book. I mean laugh at loud in bed at night. The best part of the book is when Blake is determined to find out what kind of books Avery writes. The only part of the book I didn't like was it ended to soon. A few more hours of laughs and I would have been happy. The characters were great and the story line flowed seamlessly. The book wraps up nicely. It is part 1 of the Chrome series but it is a standalone.

Great book for any age lovers of contemporary romance.
Profile Image for Book Junky Girls.
840 reviews33 followers
June 12, 2014
Avery hates her best friend, best friends don't torture each other with spin class! And then going dancing the same night, it's just not happening. The cool thing is though she got a new friend out of all of it, one who can enjoy her since of humor. Blake is a great guy who takes life as it is and can enjoy a good time with anyone. The two have a great friendship while dating others, but when the relationships fizzle can they see in each other what their really want in a partner?

Avery is sarcastic and sassy, she's a blast to be around but seems to have terrible taste in men. Blake is sweet an caring he takes care of his friends and anyone who thinks to get in his way of his friendships has to go. Their relationship is fun and their back and forth banter is hilarious. Seeing them be friends you can tell there's chemestry even when they don't realize it themselves.

I enjoyed the story but do wish there would have been more details about the characters and their lives, overall through it's a series I'll be looking foward to seeing more of.
Profile Image for Michael Chulsky.
Author 2 books16 followers
October 24, 2014
What can I say about So Much More?

For starters - I do NOT read M/F regularly. It takes a decent blurb to get me hooked. And as an author, how could I not want to read a romantic story featuring an author?

The book had me hooked from start to finish. I'm the type of reader where if it doesn't draw me in by the end of the first page, I put it down. Obviously that wasn't the case here.

Avery Moore is an amazing character. She's sweet, funny, sarcastic, and it's wonderful to see inside her head and touch base with a romantic at heart.

Blake Patterson is a bit more difficult to connect with - I didn't like him initially because he came off as egotistic but as the story progressed he had me melted like hot butter on a biscuit. ;P

All in all, I'd say this novel is definitely worth picking up if you like cute and quirky stories. The author really makes you feel for the characters and has an amazing voice.


**I received a free copy of this book by the author and a positive review was not promised in return.**
**Seriously, she's fabulous.**
**You need to read this!!*
Profile Image for Jennifer.
82 reviews39 followers
August 1, 2014
This is just like a typical chick flick but in book form. I loved the best bud theme in this book, and I couldn't wait for the fun to begin.

Avery is such a fun character. She tells people just the way things are and you cannot help but laugh at it. Avery knows how to write about love and romance but has never really experienced it.

Blake is a sexy club owner but has one rule-don’t mix business with pleasure. But, that doesn't stop him from picking girls everywhere else.

After a chance meeting at the gym, they become best buds, but will this friendship turn into something else? Time will tell, guys. Sorry, you have to read the book to find out.

I really enjoyed this book, but what can I say I’m easily persuaded by hot guys. I adored the writing. I totally loved the characters; they really will have you in stitches. I hope that once you get to read this book, you will enjoy it just as much as I did.
Profile Image for Emily.
5,867 reviews546 followers
June 10, 2014
Avery Moore has no idea how she got talked into going to a gym, she is more of an appreciator of the easier things in life like couches, reading, and watching television which require no physical exertion other than blinking your eye and thumbing the remote. As a writer, Avery has a wicked sense of humor and it is that fact that has Blake Patterson quickly becoming her closest friend.

Blake a club owner who doesn't do relationships is quickly realizing Avery is becoming the most important woman in his life. Even though they are just friends, it takes an event to realize they are so much more. How does a guy who knows nothing about relationship begin one with his best friend?

This was positively charming. I so related to Avery, she says what she thinks and it often comes out filled with humor. Very fun read, thrilled to have found a new to me author.
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