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Hearts of Haines #1
Kiss Me Hard Before You Go
Every summer, Gray Barnes and his eighteen-year-old daughter, Evie, open up their farm in the foothills of South Carolina to Kip Kierkin’s Carnival of Wonder. The carnival attracts hordes of locals and out-of-towners, and it brings in the extra cash that Gray and his daughter need to keep the family estate running. Evie decided long ago that she wants nothing to do with the carnival or the farm that her dad so desperately works to keep afloat. She doesn’t understand her father’s appreciation for the land or the work that it takes to maintain it, but that’s all about to change when she meets Finch Mills. Finch is a lifer – a carny since birth. He’s spent all of his twenty-two years on the circuit and longs for a different path. He’s never paid much attention to Evie, not until this eventful summer of 1978.
330 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 2, 2014
70 people are currently reading
1370 people want to read
About the author
Shannon McCrimmon
12 books151 followersShannon McCrimmon is the author of several novels, including The Summer I Learned To Dive and Kiss Me Hard Before You Go. She currently lives in Greenville, South Carolina with her husband and toy poodle. She'd love to hear from you. Connect with her at shannonmccrimmon.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 52 reviews
May 23, 2014
Sometimes taking a trip down memory lane is just what you need to get out of a rut...and this was the perfect book.
Set in the 70s, this sweet and nicely written YA story will pull you back in time to an era nearly forgotten. With it's nostalgic feel of farmland and cattle and a delightful quaint town, I promise, you'll feel like you were actually there. I know I did.
I think the thing that made this novel stand out for me was it's authenticity--because trust me, I was alive and well in the 70's and remember things exactly as Ms. McCrimmon told it. Yep, "Smokey and the Bandit" and "Grease" were also mentioned which made me smile...a lot. And let's not forget Finch and Evie. Even though they dug each other, their constant one upping was laugh out loud funny and uh huh, I could even hear my teenagers' antics in their words, "your face is stupid." But...once their relationship was more established, they were a little nicer to each other. Well, mostly.
I quite enjoyed their journey together. The troubles they faced, the issues they overcame but mostly, the way they inadvertently helped one another grow up and see the possibilities in all things.
Set in the 70s, this sweet and nicely written YA story will pull you back in time to an era nearly forgotten. With it's nostalgic feel of farmland and cattle and a delightful quaint town, I promise, you'll feel like you were actually there. I know I did.
I think the thing that made this novel stand out for me was it's authenticity--because trust me, I was alive and well in the 70's and remember things exactly as Ms. McCrimmon told it. Yep, "Smokey and the Bandit" and "Grease" were also mentioned which made me smile...a lot. And let's not forget Finch and Evie. Even though they dug each other, their constant one upping was laugh out loud funny and uh huh, I could even hear my teenagers' antics in their words, "your face is stupid." But...once their relationship was more established, they were a little nicer to each other. Well, mostly.
I quite enjoyed their journey together. The troubles they faced, the issues they overcame but mostly, the way they inadvertently helped one another grow up and see the possibilities in all things.
May 17, 2014
Bravo Shannon bravo! First off, thank you so much for my copy. The book is gorgeous and I love that it is signed to me. Thank you again!!
Okay this cover, awesome right? It catches your eye like all the great covers do. And the title. Aww. At first I was thinking...um...sex...but nope. The title is perfect and you find out the meaning towards the end of the book.
Now the review itself. I loved this book! I wish that I didn't have to work so that I could have just read it and done nothing else. Let me tell you about Shannon McCrimmon though first. She wrote a series before this book, The Summer I Learned to Dive and The Year I Almost Drowed, both with are amazing. Shannon knows romance and tragedy and she manages to write exact novels about it. Well now continuing with Kiss Me Hard Before You Go. Amazing. The best way to describe this book. I was captivated from page one and I stayed interested throughout the novel. I wanted to know how this farm girl and carny's story ended. Evie, a farm girl in a small community lives with her dad and cares for cows. One day she wants to leave the farm. Every year they have a carnival come to town and set up on their land in order to bring in extra cash. Cue Finch. Finch was born into carnival life and can't wait to get out of it. During the summer of 1978 Finch and Evie finally discover each other. On the way they experience life, loss, and romance.
This book was not what I was expecting...it was better! I have loved Shannon's other books but man this one is more than amazing. It had you laughing, crying, aww-ing, and so much more. My only thing is I wish there would be a sequel. I want more Evie, Finch, Katie, Cooper, Doris, Mouse, and Friedrich. Oh yes there are more characters that you will fall in love with. See, now go out and buy this awesome book!
Okay this cover, awesome right? It catches your eye like all the great covers do. And the title. Aww. At first I was thinking...um...sex...but nope. The title is perfect and you find out the meaning towards the end of the book.
Now the review itself. I loved this book! I wish that I didn't have to work so that I could have just read it and done nothing else. Let me tell you about Shannon McCrimmon though first. She wrote a series before this book, The Summer I Learned to Dive and The Year I Almost Drowed, both with are amazing. Shannon knows romance and tragedy and she manages to write exact novels about it. Well now continuing with Kiss Me Hard Before You Go. Amazing. The best way to describe this book. I was captivated from page one and I stayed interested throughout the novel. I wanted to know how this farm girl and carny's story ended. Evie, a farm girl in a small community lives with her dad and cares for cows. One day she wants to leave the farm. Every year they have a carnival come to town and set up on their land in order to bring in extra cash. Cue Finch. Finch was born into carnival life and can't wait to get out of it. During the summer of 1978 Finch and Evie finally discover each other. On the way they experience life, loss, and romance.
This book was not what I was expecting...it was better! I have loved Shannon's other books but man this one is more than amazing. It had you laughing, crying, aww-ing, and so much more. My only thing is I wish there would be a sequel. I want more Evie, Finch, Katie, Cooper, Doris, Mouse, and Friedrich. Oh yes there are more characters that you will fall in love with. See, now go out and buy this awesome book!
May 26, 2014
This book was absolutely precious! I loved it and didn't want to put it down the entire time I read it. I had to of course, but it was with great difficulty. I knew the second I saw the cover and read the blurb, McCrimmon had a winner on her hands. First of all...how stinkin’ adorable is the cover? Like major adorable, right? Right. Secondly, loved the story. I mean 1978 was an awesome year. I was born. Duh.
**
"The Sun is a star," she said. She rarely paid attention in science class, but that was the one thing she remembered.
"You're like the sun," he said.
"How's that?"
"You brighten my day and give it life."
**
We follow Evie and her father as they welcome the fair onto their land for the next five weeks. Well, Evie doesn't necessarily welcome them with open arms. In fact, she despises its very presence. But this year is different. This year she meets the incorrigible Finch Mills.
Everything about him drives her nuts. And nothing she says is able to deter him from smirking at her. But soon they form a relationship that is unlike any the two have ever had.
This book will have you rolling with the flow of emotions. It will have you smiling one second, only to be tearing up the next. It will have you feel as if you are flying with the birds, elated at the happiness that is happening in the moment, just to be thrown down into the trenches of sadness in the next turn. My heart was all over the place. And I loved every second of it.
The characters. Oh these fun, beautiful, melt your heart characters. And I am not just talking about Evie and Finch. Oh no. There are all the others as well. Like Doris, Mouse, Katie, and more. They all play a role and play it well. You feel for them and only want the best for them. It was a great family of characters that you have to know what happens to each and every one of them.
**
She stared up at him, and he leaned down to kiss her. And for that moment he forgot where he was and where he was supposed to be, and how he was supposed to act, and gave into her.
**
The romance is sweet and 100% perfect. I was so smitten with it all my face is hurting from the smile I kept on my face the entire book. Well, except for the sad parts. I definitely wasn't smiling then. But it is more smiles than not. And I can say with absolute certainty I would love to reread this one again. And soon.
I wholeheartedly recommend this book if you are looking for that perfect-summer-romance read. I know you won't regret it and can bet you will be in love with everyone by the time you are only pages in. I know I was. 5 Smitten As A Kitten Stars!
**
"The Sun is a star," she said. She rarely paid attention in science class, but that was the one thing she remembered.
"You're like the sun," he said.
"How's that?"
"You brighten my day and give it life."
**
We follow Evie and her father as they welcome the fair onto their land for the next five weeks. Well, Evie doesn't necessarily welcome them with open arms. In fact, she despises its very presence. But this year is different. This year she meets the incorrigible Finch Mills.
Everything about him drives her nuts. And nothing she says is able to deter him from smirking at her. But soon they form a relationship that is unlike any the two have ever had.
This book will have you rolling with the flow of emotions. It will have you smiling one second, only to be tearing up the next. It will have you feel as if you are flying with the birds, elated at the happiness that is happening in the moment, just to be thrown down into the trenches of sadness in the next turn. My heart was all over the place. And I loved every second of it.
The characters. Oh these fun, beautiful, melt your heart characters. And I am not just talking about Evie and Finch. Oh no. There are all the others as well. Like Doris, Mouse, Katie, and more. They all play a role and play it well. You feel for them and only want the best for them. It was a great family of characters that you have to know what happens to each and every one of them.
**
She stared up at him, and he leaned down to kiss her. And for that moment he forgot where he was and where he was supposed to be, and how he was supposed to act, and gave into her.
**
The romance is sweet and 100% perfect. I was so smitten with it all my face is hurting from the smile I kept on my face the entire book. Well, except for the sad parts. I definitely wasn't smiling then. But it is more smiles than not. And I can say with absolute certainty I would love to reread this one again. And soon.
I wholeheartedly recommend this book if you are looking for that perfect-summer-romance read. I know you won't regret it and can bet you will be in love with everyone by the time you are only pages in. I know I was. 5 Smitten As A Kitten Stars!
May 22, 2017
First off, let me start off by saying that I've been in a little bit of a reading rut. (Ruined by a serious book hangover caused by Melissa Brown's Wife Number Seven) So since then, I just craved something different. I FINALLY found it reading this little gem. This book is so sweet that I just fell in love with ALL of the characters. This is a little bit of a mash-up of the movie, BIG FISH, and the book, WATER FOR ELEPHANTS—but all set in the 70s and very unique on its own. It's a clean summer read with a lot of heart!!
May 18, 2014
4.5 Stars - a sweet romance that shows two sides of a coin...the life of a farmer, and the life of a carnie - and those two opposites show the how different things can be for both a small town girl and a boy with no roots, and whose life constantly takes him to a new town. I appreciate this clean, emotionally pinging read that will strike at your heart chords, and make you fall in love with the characters - sometimes just before pulling the rug out from underneath you. *I received a copy of this book for free from the publisher in exchange for an honest review*
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May 14, 2014This book is near and dear to my heart. It's now available in print and ebook on Amazon.com
June 3, 2020
Read this entire review here: KISS ME HARD BEFORE YOU GO- A FEEL GOOD ’70S ROMANCE
Review by Mandi Harris
Overall Rating = 4.5; Romance Rating = 4
If you want a good romance tinged with passion, Evie and Finch’s is it. There are no mature scenes in the book, but you still feel the sparks between the two. Their romance happens organically, not a sudden attraction or love at first sight. It builds up little by little with understanding and respect. I personally enjoyed the two snarking at each other at the beginning of the novel. The moments they have together are magic and will make you smile.
Overall, this book is a romance lover’s dream. Check it out if you want a good story with a happy ending.
Read this entire review and others (especially if you love old-fashioned chivalrous romance) at: THE SILVER PETTICOAT REVIEW
Review by Mandi Harris
Overall Rating = 4.5; Romance Rating = 4
If you want a good romance tinged with passion, Evie and Finch’s is it. There are no mature scenes in the book, but you still feel the sparks between the two. Their romance happens organically, not a sudden attraction or love at first sight. It builds up little by little with understanding and respect. I personally enjoyed the two snarking at each other at the beginning of the novel. The moments they have together are magic and will make you smile.
Overall, this book is a romance lover’s dream. Check it out if you want a good story with a happy ending.
Read this entire review and others (especially if you love old-fashioned chivalrous romance) at: THE SILVER PETTICOAT REVIEW
May 29, 2014
“How far is that star?” Evie pointed to the sky.
“Don’t know but it shines so bright you’d think it was close by,” he said and intertwined his fingers with her. He rubbed the surface of her hand with his thumb.
“The sun is a star,” she said. She rarely paid attention in science class, but that was the one thing she remembered.
“You’re like the sun,” he said.
“How’s that?”
“You brighten my day and give it life.”
LOVE LOVE LOVE this book!!! Who knew a book that takes place on a farm and in the 70s would interest me so much?!? I never would have believed it, but given that it was written by Shannon McCrimmon I knew I would love it. Every time I read her books they just keep getting better and better. Kiss Me Hard Before You Go is no exception.
Let me start by saying that I seriously love the cover! It completely captured my attention and is just seriously beautiful. I just love how different and whimsical it is. Once I got my copy, obviously, the big question was whether the beautiful packaging matched the story inside. Now, I will say I took my time reading this story…mainly to savor it. However, once I got to a certain point, I just devoured that puppy. The story is a pretty simple boy and girl fall in love story except for the circus and time period. With the simple story though, Shannon managed to make it completely interesting and beautiful. Plus I learned way more about cow farming then I probably want to know. The fact that it takes place in the 70s was never an issue with me, which was surprising because I’m not a fan of stories taking place in the past. I honestly didn’t even realize it was the 70s most of the time except for a few cultural references and clothing choices. It did take me aback at how much cheaper things were back then as well. With that said I can’t imagine this story taking place in any other time period. It just wouldn’t have the same feel to it.
Katie was the only person Evie knew who cried at the end of Star Wars’ cheesy, happy over-the-top ending where Luke, Han and the rest of the bunch stood on stage facing the audience after receiving medals from Leia.
“They’re all together, and the Death Star was destroyed,” she had said to Evie.
Plus who doesn't love a good Star Wars reference ;). I had to remind myself that only the first one was out in 1978. And yes I do know when they were released…no judgment please :p.
Now, Evie and Finch…sigh. I just loved them. The love hate relationship in the beginning was great especially since Evie could never come up with good comebacks. I loved all their talks and how they really seemed to get to know each other. It was just an adorable love story to see unfold. The secondary characters were amazing as well. They were all great, especially Mouse, Doris, Friederich, and Stoney. Love them circus freaks!
The pacing of the story was great. It never felt rushed or too slow, well, except for the ending. The end just begs for an epilogue. With that said though it’s not a bad ending. I just would have loved a little extra to see how things played out after the last page. But I could just be greedy and want more Evie and Finch :).
Seriously though, read this book! It is just simply amazing!! You’ll fall in love with the circus and its wonderful cast of characters…and be grateful that the smell of cow doesn't seep through the pages.
June 1, 2014
The instant you set your eyes on the cover of this amazing novel, you are hooked. The image of the innocent farm girl with the carnival as a backdrop immediately catches your attention. The cover and the quirky title hint at a sexy romance novel but the reader will be pleasantly surprised. Few authors are able to grab a reader’s attention through book covers and titles and also hold the reader’s interest through the entire book. By transference of thoughts and emotions of the main character into your mind, Shannon McCrimmon is able to do in Kiss Me Hard Before You Go.
Kiss Me Hard Before You Go is a novel of first love, friendships and families. Through her descriptive writing, the reader becomes the characters in the story and at times being able to imagine the smell of the fresh mown hay, cigarette smoke, the buttered popcorn and the cotton candy. Her characters are so believable you feel the emotions, the love, the sense of family that keeps Evie from leaving her farm life behind and striking out in search of new adventures even though that is what she longs to do.
Ms. McCrimmon is able to successfully hide some of life’s little lessons deep within the story, never preaching the lessons but in the end, you uncover her hidden thoughts and concepts and the quirky title takes on a meaning.
Evie, the innocent farm girl is not your normal teenager. She is a loner as so many country farm girls are and Ms. McCrimmon captures her personality perfectly with just the right blend of Southern charm and sassy country attitude. She longs for the day she will leave the farm and make her own start in life but she knows that her father would like her to stay and run the farm. She doesn’t understand why he works so hard to keep the farm going, leasing the land to the traveling carnival during the summer months. There are others in the town who prefer that he wouldn’t do that, bring such undesirable people into their quaint, quiet town. Labeled “carneys”, they are thought of as drunks, thieves, gypsies, dirty and smelly , not at all to be trusted but the author shows not all carneys are bad people and there are good people among the bad in all groups of people from all walks of life. She is able to portray the life of a carney with exact detail, the ridicule, stares, name calling and abuse and to show that people can rise above evil words and deeds and are capable of love, friendship and trust.
Evie soon learns how greed and the cruelty of others can turn your world upside down. And how love, true friends and family, whether blood relations or not, can give you hope and make you feel safe.
The story takes many twists and turns but with every turn, the author captivates your attention and keeps you wanting more of Evie, Finch and the other loveable characters in this story.
Throughout this book you will cry, you will laugh, and want to let people know just how you feel and what you think because YOU experience everything the characters do just as if you had been transposed into their world. And they capture your heart and leave you longing for more of Evie, Finch and their ”family”.
This is an awesome book from cover to cover. A good read for a summer afternoon – the best time to smell that fried dough!
Kiss Me Hard Before You Go is a novel of first love, friendships and families. Through her descriptive writing, the reader becomes the characters in the story and at times being able to imagine the smell of the fresh mown hay, cigarette smoke, the buttered popcorn and the cotton candy. Her characters are so believable you feel the emotions, the love, the sense of family that keeps Evie from leaving her farm life behind and striking out in search of new adventures even though that is what she longs to do.
Ms. McCrimmon is able to successfully hide some of life’s little lessons deep within the story, never preaching the lessons but in the end, you uncover her hidden thoughts and concepts and the quirky title takes on a meaning.
Evie, the innocent farm girl is not your normal teenager. She is a loner as so many country farm girls are and Ms. McCrimmon captures her personality perfectly with just the right blend of Southern charm and sassy country attitude. She longs for the day she will leave the farm and make her own start in life but she knows that her father would like her to stay and run the farm. She doesn’t understand why he works so hard to keep the farm going, leasing the land to the traveling carnival during the summer months. There are others in the town who prefer that he wouldn’t do that, bring such undesirable people into their quaint, quiet town. Labeled “carneys”, they are thought of as drunks, thieves, gypsies, dirty and smelly , not at all to be trusted but the author shows not all carneys are bad people and there are good people among the bad in all groups of people from all walks of life. She is able to portray the life of a carney with exact detail, the ridicule, stares, name calling and abuse and to show that people can rise above evil words and deeds and are capable of love, friendship and trust.
Evie soon learns how greed and the cruelty of others can turn your world upside down. And how love, true friends and family, whether blood relations or not, can give you hope and make you feel safe.
The story takes many twists and turns but with every turn, the author captivates your attention and keeps you wanting more of Evie, Finch and the other loveable characters in this story.
Throughout this book you will cry, you will laugh, and want to let people know just how you feel and what you think because YOU experience everything the characters do just as if you had been transposed into their world. And they capture your heart and leave you longing for more of Evie, Finch and their ”family”.
This is an awesome book from cover to cover. A good read for a summer afternoon – the best time to smell that fried dough!
June 15, 2014
If Shannon McCrimmon is one thing, it's a creative storyteller. If she's a couple more things, I'd add original and off-beat (in a good way!) to the list.
I recently fell in love with Shannon's novel, The Days Lost, (5 stars! fantastic!) and wanted to check out more of her work. I don't usually read YA romance, but this one seemed different from the usual fare. At first I felt a little out-of-my-element since this isn't my usual 'thing'. But that didn't last long. Shannon is a writer who knows how to put her readers at ease. You can't help but be charmed by these characters: our petite and spunky little spitfire Evie, Finch, Katie, Doris, Mouse, and all the rest. She endears you with her setting: a carnival set up on a large family farm, 1978. At first Evie wants nothing to do with Finch, the handsome young carnival hunk. I'll let you guess whether or not she changes her mind about that (hint: yes!).
This is a very sweet story: a great romantic summer read that will pull your heartstrings in all sorts of directions. 4 stars! :)
I recently fell in love with Shannon's novel, The Days Lost, (5 stars! fantastic!) and wanted to check out more of her work. I don't usually read YA romance, but this one seemed different from the usual fare. At first I felt a little out-of-my-element since this isn't my usual 'thing'. But that didn't last long. Shannon is a writer who knows how to put her readers at ease. You can't help but be charmed by these characters: our petite and spunky little spitfire Evie, Finch, Katie, Doris, Mouse, and all the rest. She endears you with her setting: a carnival set up on a large family farm, 1978. At first Evie wants nothing to do with Finch, the handsome young carnival hunk. I'll let you guess whether or not she changes her mind about that (hint: yes!).
This is a very sweet story: a great romantic summer read that will pull your heartstrings in all sorts of directions. 4 stars! :)
July 23, 2015
This book seemed promising from the title and cover, and it didn't disappoint. It wasn't what I was looking for, nor was it related to what I've been reading, but it was a welcomed and happy mistake! What a cute light read!
November 20, 2017
A winner
This book is a delightful look at life ! The tragedy and the ecstasy of life and love . a vengeful antagonist and a bevy of the best kinds of friends make this book a real delight to read. I am writing g this as book 2 downloads . I can't wait to read on in the story ... Definitely worth a look you'll be glad you did !
This book is a delightful look at life ! The tragedy and the ecstasy of life and love . a vengeful antagonist and a bevy of the best kinds of friends make this book a real delight to read. I am writing g this as book 2 downloads . I can't wait to read on in the story ... Definitely worth a look you'll be glad you did !
July 13, 2020
Not a big fiction reader but Shannon McCrimmon is super talented. She creates authentic characters that really pull you into the stories. Despite not knowing or caring much for farms, rural/small town life or carnivals, I really loved this tale. Can’t wait to read the next one.
March 29, 2018
Fun
I just love Evie and her dad. Finch and his carnie friends are just wonderful. You can just smell the funnel cakes as you read. Evie's friend Kate seems lime a lost girl who has a terrible father. I just fell for all of them.
I just love Evie and her dad. Finch and his carnie friends are just wonderful. You can just smell the funnel cakes as you read. Evie's friend Kate seems lime a lost girl who has a terrible father. I just fell for all of them.
May 30, 2014
Kiss Me Hard Before You Go, by Shannon McCrimmon, is a wonderfully heartwarming story about first love, true friendships, and family. McCrimmon did a fantastic job of hooking me into her novel during the first chapter. I instantly grew attached to Evie, the main character, who is a spitfire with a heart of gold and spunky personality.
Evie is not a normal young adult in that she keeps to herself, doesn't date, and works on the family farm day and night. She has one best friend, Katie, who has been her BFF since Kindergarten. Evie's dad, Gray, owns a beautiful piece of land in South Carolina where they farm and raise cattle. Gray is a single father but makes up for it by providing Evie with all of his love and support. He really is an A+ father. However money, as with many farmers, is always tight. To help make ends meet, Gray built and runs a skating rink on his property and also rents a parcel of his land out to a traveling carnival every summer.
Year after year, the carnival comes and sets up for a month and Evie hates every minute of it. Sitting on her porch she can smell the sweetness of the food, see the lights from the rides, and hear the music and laughter. It's enough to make her dread the long summer month and wish she were anywhere but there. Gray, on the other hand, is in little boy heaven during carnival season. He loves everything about the carnival, especially the rides.
The year that Kiss Me Hard Before You Go takes place finds Evie in a surly mood. She is worried about her future and starts dreading the possibility of working on the farm for the rest of her monotonous life. Day in and day out she wakes up, cooks breakfast, takes care of the cattle and other farm issues, and then falls into bed exhausted. However, what she doesn't realize is that this year is different. Her life is about to be turned upside down in more ways than one.
Finch, the carnival maintenance man, has been a carny all of his life. His mother and father were both from the carnival circuit and it never occurred to him that he could do anything different. He runs into Evie as the carnival is setting up and they quickly get off on the wrong foot. Her snappiness brings about his sarcastic cockiness and Evie decides he is a horrible boy. However, fate has other plans for the two as they run into each other again and again and their chemistry is undeniable. What follows is an unforgettable summer that will change Evie's life forever.
There are many stereotypes about carny’s that have existed for years. They are gypsies, crooks, drunks, can't be trusted, etc. McCrimmon touches on many of these stereotypes in Kiss Me Hard Before You Go. While a few of the carny’s were less than stellar individuals, four of the most kind hearted people in the novel were carny’s. Finch, Doris, Mouse, and Friedrich are not related by blood but are each other's family. They are there for each other and make sacrifices that many related by blood would not make. I LOVED these characters. Doris, Mouse, and Friedrich are side show attractions. Doris is the 'largest' woman alive, Mouse the 'smallest' man alive, and Friedrich is known as the tattooed man. These characters receive insults, snickers, and constant stares everywhere they go, but learn to take it all with a grain of salt. When Evie meets them she sees past their outward appearances and embraces their kindness.
I really can't say enough about Shannon McCrimmon's Kiss Me Hard Before You Go. I have read three of her books and loved them all. I have learned that McCrimmon writes stories with wonderfully developed characters, catchy plots, and beautiful settings. Kiss Me Hard Before You Go does not disappoint- in fact it exceeded all of my expectations which is very hard to do! This has quickly become the best novel I have read in a LONG time. I finished reading it five days ago and Evie and Finch are still occupying my thoughts. My fingers are crossed for a sequel to this wonderful story!! If you buy one book this summer season to read trust me, buy Kiss Me Hard Before You Go. You won't be disappointed!!!
*I have been provided a complimentary copy of the book, Kiss Me Hard Before You Go, for the purpose of review.*
Evie is not a normal young adult in that she keeps to herself, doesn't date, and works on the family farm day and night. She has one best friend, Katie, who has been her BFF since Kindergarten. Evie's dad, Gray, owns a beautiful piece of land in South Carolina where they farm and raise cattle. Gray is a single father but makes up for it by providing Evie with all of his love and support. He really is an A+ father. However money, as with many farmers, is always tight. To help make ends meet, Gray built and runs a skating rink on his property and also rents a parcel of his land out to a traveling carnival every summer.
Year after year, the carnival comes and sets up for a month and Evie hates every minute of it. Sitting on her porch she can smell the sweetness of the food, see the lights from the rides, and hear the music and laughter. It's enough to make her dread the long summer month and wish she were anywhere but there. Gray, on the other hand, is in little boy heaven during carnival season. He loves everything about the carnival, especially the rides.
The year that Kiss Me Hard Before You Go takes place finds Evie in a surly mood. She is worried about her future and starts dreading the possibility of working on the farm for the rest of her monotonous life. Day in and day out she wakes up, cooks breakfast, takes care of the cattle and other farm issues, and then falls into bed exhausted. However, what she doesn't realize is that this year is different. Her life is about to be turned upside down in more ways than one.
Finch, the carnival maintenance man, has been a carny all of his life. His mother and father were both from the carnival circuit and it never occurred to him that he could do anything different. He runs into Evie as the carnival is setting up and they quickly get off on the wrong foot. Her snappiness brings about his sarcastic cockiness and Evie decides he is a horrible boy. However, fate has other plans for the two as they run into each other again and again and their chemistry is undeniable. What follows is an unforgettable summer that will change Evie's life forever.
There are many stereotypes about carny’s that have existed for years. They are gypsies, crooks, drunks, can't be trusted, etc. McCrimmon touches on many of these stereotypes in Kiss Me Hard Before You Go. While a few of the carny’s were less than stellar individuals, four of the most kind hearted people in the novel were carny’s. Finch, Doris, Mouse, and Friedrich are not related by blood but are each other's family. They are there for each other and make sacrifices that many related by blood would not make. I LOVED these characters. Doris, Mouse, and Friedrich are side show attractions. Doris is the 'largest' woman alive, Mouse the 'smallest' man alive, and Friedrich is known as the tattooed man. These characters receive insults, snickers, and constant stares everywhere they go, but learn to take it all with a grain of salt. When Evie meets them she sees past their outward appearances and embraces their kindness.
I really can't say enough about Shannon McCrimmon's Kiss Me Hard Before You Go. I have read three of her books and loved them all. I have learned that McCrimmon writes stories with wonderfully developed characters, catchy plots, and beautiful settings. Kiss Me Hard Before You Go does not disappoint- in fact it exceeded all of my expectations which is very hard to do! This has quickly become the best novel I have read in a LONG time. I finished reading it five days ago and Evie and Finch are still occupying my thoughts. My fingers are crossed for a sequel to this wonderful story!! If you buy one book this summer season to read trust me, buy Kiss Me Hard Before You Go. You won't be disappointed!!!
*I have been provided a complimentary copy of the book, Kiss Me Hard Before You Go, for the purpose of review.*
September 14, 2015
What a hidden gem this book was?! I got it recommended by a book friend as a great summer read and it was just that and more.
This is the story of Evelyn or Evie as everyone calls her and is set in the late 1970s. She's an 18 year old girl, living on a farm with her father, Gray, her dog Tripod and her pet ox Miles. Every year, her dad rents out a part of their land for Kip Kierkin's Carnival of Wonder. This helps them keep their farm going so it's a necessary evil as Evie sees it. This is how she meets Finch and his adoptive family, Fredrick, Doris and Mouse, the carnival's 'freaks'. The book is in a way Evie's story of survival and her understanding that family are the people who love and help you without asking for anything in return.
Told from a third person multiple POV, Kiss Me Hard Before You Go lets us see what goes on inside the head of most of the characters involved in this story and I didn't find it hard to keep up with at all - I actually really loved it.
"You're like the sun.[...] You brighten my day and give it life."
Evie is an incredible heroine - she's feisty, caring, considerate, loves her father and BFF, Katie - she's more mature than her 18 years of age. I liked her spunk when meeting Finch - she kept him at a distance for quite awhile and he had to work to get to her.
"Don't try, just be, Finch, cause I like you just as you are."
Finch is another reason why I liked this book - he's a great romance hero - he's attentive, gentlemanly - you wouldn't think that considering he was raised in a carnival - and helpful - he's there for everyone that he cares for and not only.
"I still felt empty because no matter how much you love something, if it don't love you back, you ain't ever going to be content."
Their romance had a very slow build up which is refreshing - they talked, went on dates, had dinner together - all the things that make me believe that this is true love - yes, even in books, we need the wooing in order to be able to connect with a certain couple. I liked their interaction – it was fun and sweet, but also deep and meaningful. Both Evie and Finch were holding back because of the way they were raised, but in the end they needed one another to realize there’s more to life than just being content with ‘right now’. Finch showed Evie it’s alright to ask for help and no one will judge you for that, and Evie showed him, how wonderful life can be if you just settle in one place instead of just ‘passing through’.
The book had a suspense element to it that kept me intrigued all the way through - let's just say the bad guy wasn't who I predicted and I'm usually never wrong ;)
I'm really excited to get to book 2 and see this story progress - it ended beautifully, but I want more <3
This is the story of Evelyn or Evie as everyone calls her and is set in the late 1970s. She's an 18 year old girl, living on a farm with her father, Gray, her dog Tripod and her pet ox Miles. Every year, her dad rents out a part of their land for Kip Kierkin's Carnival of Wonder. This helps them keep their farm going so it's a necessary evil as Evie sees it. This is how she meets Finch and his adoptive family, Fredrick, Doris and Mouse, the carnival's 'freaks'. The book is in a way Evie's story of survival and her understanding that family are the people who love and help you without asking for anything in return.
Told from a third person multiple POV, Kiss Me Hard Before You Go lets us see what goes on inside the head of most of the characters involved in this story and I didn't find it hard to keep up with at all - I actually really loved it.
"You're like the sun.[...] You brighten my day and give it life."
Evie is an incredible heroine - she's feisty, caring, considerate, loves her father and BFF, Katie - she's more mature than her 18 years of age. I liked her spunk when meeting Finch - she kept him at a distance for quite awhile and he had to work to get to her.
"Don't try, just be, Finch, cause I like you just as you are."
Finch is another reason why I liked this book - he's a great romance hero - he's attentive, gentlemanly - you wouldn't think that considering he was raised in a carnival - and helpful - he's there for everyone that he cares for and not only.
"I still felt empty because no matter how much you love something, if it don't love you back, you ain't ever going to be content."
Their romance had a very slow build up which is refreshing - they talked, went on dates, had dinner together - all the things that make me believe that this is true love - yes, even in books, we need the wooing in order to be able to connect with a certain couple. I liked their interaction – it was fun and sweet, but also deep and meaningful. Both Evie and Finch were holding back because of the way they were raised, but in the end they needed one another to realize there’s more to life than just being content with ‘right now’. Finch showed Evie it’s alright to ask for help and no one will judge you for that, and Evie showed him, how wonderful life can be if you just settle in one place instead of just ‘passing through’.
The book had a suspense element to it that kept me intrigued all the way through - let's just say the bad guy wasn't who I predicted and I'm usually never wrong ;)
I'm really excited to get to book 2 and see this story progress - it ended beautifully, but I want more <3
April 13, 2017
A lackluster effort riddled with redundant filler, spelling errors, incorrectly used words ("libel" is not the same as "liable"--no one is libel to do something) and unnecessary stage direction. This is a first-draft level story that needs several layers of editing.
First, the plot holes. Why is there a skating rink on the farm? ("To make extra money," I know, but since we hardly see Evie or her father doing actual farm work, maybe they should start there?) What nights is it open, and does anyone else run it when Evie's not there? Because she only seems to be there when a plot point needs to happen at the rink. It never stops her from being somewhere else when she'd rather be. Then there's her best friend, whose pregnancy subplot is thin and pointless--as near as I can tell, she's only pregnant so Finch can punch her jerk of a boyfriend once to impress/defend Evie. There's no other relevance to the main plot.
Second, the writing clean-up. There's so much filler. People "remember" something in one sentence then start "reminiscing" in the next. They take whole paragraphs to move across a room, every motion requiring description. Missing or misplaced commas abound, clauses dangle wildly, and I had to reread many sentences due to pronoun confusion, leading me to believe one character was performing an action when it was someone else.
Evie and Finch were dull protagonists who I never got excited enough about to root for, and honestly, there wasn't even that much conflict in their relationship. Her dad's prohibition on the "carnies" talking to Evie is abandoned right away (or else there wouldn't even be a story) but the father doesn't even give Finch a hard time when they meet before one of Evie's dates. And Finch leaving with the carnival isn't addressed at all until right before it happens, then the weeks he's gone are compressed into about a chapter, leaving the reader to feel it's hardly been any time at all before he's back.
Had I not been reading this for #readselfpublished in order to give an honest review, I would not have finished this.
First, the plot holes. Why is there a skating rink on the farm? ("To make extra money," I know, but since we hardly see Evie or her father doing actual farm work, maybe they should start there?) What nights is it open, and does anyone else run it when Evie's not there? Because she only seems to be there when a plot point needs to happen at the rink. It never stops her from being somewhere else when she'd rather be. Then there's her best friend, whose pregnancy subplot is thin and pointless--as near as I can tell, she's only pregnant so Finch can punch her jerk of a boyfriend once to impress/defend Evie. There's no other relevance to the main plot.
Second, the writing clean-up. There's so much filler. People "remember" something in one sentence then start "reminiscing" in the next. They take whole paragraphs to move across a room, every motion requiring description. Missing or misplaced commas abound, clauses dangle wildly, and I had to reread many sentences due to pronoun confusion, leading me to believe one character was performing an action when it was someone else.
Evie and Finch were dull protagonists who I never got excited enough about to root for, and honestly, there wasn't even that much conflict in their relationship. Her dad's prohibition on the "carnies" talking to Evie is abandoned right away (or else there wouldn't even be a story) but the father doesn't even give Finch a hard time when they meet before one of Evie's dates. And Finch leaving with the carnival isn't addressed at all until right before it happens, then the weeks he's gone are compressed into about a chapter, leaving the reader to feel it's hardly been any time at all before he's back.
Had I not been reading this for #readselfpublished in order to give an honest review, I would not have finished this.
June 23, 2014
I absolutely loved this book along with the author's writing style. Kiss Me Hard Before you go was as sweet as honey, refreshing as lemonade on a hot summer day, and a blast from the past with Stevie Nicks playing in the background. I LOVE STEVIE NICKS!
"To her nothing could compare to the poetic lyrics of Stevie Nicks."
Evie is a country girl through and through. Its just her and her dad working hard on the farm trying to make ends meet. She is fairly content, besides wanting to travel, but hates when summer comes around. That is the time when that annoying carnival comes in to town... adding more work for her. This summer is different, though, because she notices an added nuisance, Finch...the carny handyman.
"She wanted to turn the truck around and run him over and over again until she flattened him like a pancake and got rid of that annoying smirk of his."
Finch notices Evie as well. The little farm girl is all grown up. He is warned to stay away, but there is no need. Why would he bother with such a hot tempered chick anyway? But fate has already been woven for these two...or should I say some wayward cows have plans for them. : )
As the story moves along and I relaxed in its warm and comfortable arms, tragedy happens and mysteries begin. Somebody has it out for the carnies and possible Evie's farm. I was not expecting the change of events, that's for sure. It had me on the edge of my seat and embracing a few of the beloved carnies. Both Evie and Finch experience loss, find love, and discover what true friendships mean.
This book is one of my favorites so far this year. It is a must summer read. I know it will fill your heart as it did mine
June 23, 2014
I absolutely loved this book along with the author's writing style. Kiss Me Hard Before you go was as sweet as honey, refreshing as lemonade on a hot summer day, and a blast from the past with Stevie Nicks playing in the background. I LOVE STEVIE NICKS!
"To her nothing could compare to the poetic lyrics of Stevie Nicks."
Evie is a country girl through and through. Its just her and her dad working hard on the farm trying to make ends meet. She is fairly content, besides wanting to travel, but hates when summer comes around. That is the time when that annoying carnival comes in to town... adding more work for her. This summer is different, though, because she notices an added nuisance, Finch...the carny handyman.
"She wanted to turn the truck around and run him over and over again until she flattened him like a pancake and got rid of that annoying smirk of his."
Finch notices Evie as well. The little farm girl is all grown up. He is warned to stay away, but there is no need. Why would he bother with such a hot tempered chick anyway? But fate has already been woven for these two...or should I say some wayward cows have plans for them. : )
As the story moves along and I relaxed in its warm and comfortable arms, tragedy happens and mysteries begin. Somebody has it out for the carnies and possibly Evie's farm. I was not expecting the change of events, that's for sure. It had me on the edge of my seat and embracing a few of the beloved carnies. Both Evie and Finch experience loss, find love, and discover what true friendships mean.
This book is one of my favorites so far this year. It is a must summer read. I know it will fill your heart as it did mine
May 23, 2014
I was so excited to get a copy of this and could not wait to read it. I mean, seriously... who can resist a good story with carnies? After reading The Days Lost by Shannon McCrimmon, I knew that Kiss Me Hard Before You Go would be good, but it turned out so much better than I ever expected!
The first page draws you in, the first chapter sets a tone of mystery that will be a background to the whimsy and entertainment of the rest of the story.
If you've read some of my other reviews, then you know that I am a sucker for stories that are set in the south. What can I say, I'm a true southern girl! In Kiss Me Hard Before You Go, McCrimmon expertly folds in just the right amount of southern charm and sass with sayings that will have you chuckling throughout the book.
The characters are great! Evie is strong, sassy, and won't take crap from anybody. I love the fact that she is not only relatable, but the type of character that you read and think that you want to be more like her. Finch is totally swoon-worthy! I love how Doris (one of the other carnies) describes him as being a piss-ant with the heart of a lion. Like Evie, he takes no crap, but is fiercely loyal and fights for what he wants... and Evie has piqued his interest.
For this and more reviews, check out http://livinginafictionalreality.blog...
The first page draws you in, the first chapter sets a tone of mystery that will be a background to the whimsy and entertainment of the rest of the story.
If you've read some of my other reviews, then you know that I am a sucker for stories that are set in the south. What can I say, I'm a true southern girl! In Kiss Me Hard Before You Go, McCrimmon expertly folds in just the right amount of southern charm and sass with sayings that will have you chuckling throughout the book.
The characters are great! Evie is strong, sassy, and won't take crap from anybody. I love the fact that she is not only relatable, but the type of character that you read and think that you want to be more like her. Finch is totally swoon-worthy! I love how Doris (one of the other carnies) describes him as being a piss-ant with the heart of a lion. Like Evie, he takes no crap, but is fiercely loyal and fights for what he wants... and Evie has piqued his interest.
For this and more reviews, check out http://livinginafictionalreality.blog...
August 12, 2016
When I first picked up Kiss Me Hard Before You Go by Shannon McCrimmon, I wasn't sure how I would like a book that takes place in the late 70s. And to my surprise, I actually enjoyed the humor and the budding romance between Evie Barnes and Finch Mills.
"Since when are Floridians yankees?"
"Since they don't know the difference between sweet tea and unsweetened tea," she said.
There were sections of light humor like that that had me smiling.
Evie Barnes is an eighteen-year old farmer's daughter who didn't understand all that her father did to keep their land up and running while Finch Mills is from the carnival that sets up on the farm every year for about five weeks.
As the days progressed, this summer of 1978 became one that Evie would never forget.
This heartfelt novel breathes light into what life was like in 1978 if you weren't around to experience it for yourself. There were moments where you found yourself in tears and moments where you'd bite your lip until it bled in anxiety for what was to come.
At first it was a bit dry and slow but it quickly became engrossing and I struggled to put it down.
This is truly a 5 Star book.
Great job Shannon McCrimmon, great job.
"Since when are Floridians yankees?"
"Since they don't know the difference between sweet tea and unsweetened tea," she said.
There were sections of light humor like that that had me smiling.
Evie Barnes is an eighteen-year old farmer's daughter who didn't understand all that her father did to keep their land up and running while Finch Mills is from the carnival that sets up on the farm every year for about five weeks.
As the days progressed, this summer of 1978 became one that Evie would never forget.
This heartfelt novel breathes light into what life was like in 1978 if you weren't around to experience it for yourself. There were moments where you found yourself in tears and moments where you'd bite your lip until it bled in anxiety for what was to come.
At first it was a bit dry and slow but it quickly became engrossing and I struggled to put it down.
This is truly a 5 Star book.
Great job Shannon McCrimmon, great job.
September 19, 2014
Kiss Me Hard Before You Go is as sweet and beautiful as its cover. Really, did you get a load of that awesome cover? Take another look. I’ll wait.
Stunning, isn’t it?
What I love about this story is how easy it is to relate to the characters. Evie and Finch are so very real, the reader has no choice but to feel a connection. The pacing is flawless, and the setting takes you back to a time not long ago, but feels like several lifetimes. Society is so different now than it was back in the 70’s and it was refreshing to visit a place that isn’t so all-consuming and chaotic. Reading the story of Evie and Finch allowed me to sit back, relax and let the tale unfold like a napkin in the breeze. All stories have some amount of drama, but this one doesn’t shove it down your throat or make you feel anxious. I was wholly absorbed in this book from beginning to end.
My hat goes off to Shannon for her remarkable storytelling super power. Kiss Me Hard Before You Go is a book that can, and should, be read by everyone. Trust me when I say that you should do nothing else before adding this one to your TBR.
Stunning, isn’t it?
What I love about this story is how easy it is to relate to the characters. Evie and Finch are so very real, the reader has no choice but to feel a connection. The pacing is flawless, and the setting takes you back to a time not long ago, but feels like several lifetimes. Society is so different now than it was back in the 70’s and it was refreshing to visit a place that isn’t so all-consuming and chaotic. Reading the story of Evie and Finch allowed me to sit back, relax and let the tale unfold like a napkin in the breeze. All stories have some amount of drama, but this one doesn’t shove it down your throat or make you feel anxious. I was wholly absorbed in this book from beginning to end.
My hat goes off to Shannon for her remarkable storytelling super power. Kiss Me Hard Before You Go is a book that can, and should, be read by everyone. Trust me when I say that you should do nothing else before adding this one to your TBR.
April 21, 2016
How freaking awesome is that cover! It's 1978. Evie Barnes adores her father. Mom ran out on them years before- leaving Evie and her dad Gray to handle the everyday affairs of farm life. Every summer, Gray allows Kip Kierkin’s Carnival of Wonder on his property in order to make extra money. Evie doesn't care for the carnival folks and is not looking forward to seeing them on her land. Finch Mills is a carny and proud of it. Evie and Finch do clash at the beginning but as things progess, a friendship of sorts begins to blossom. I can't wait to read the second book in this series.
July 28, 2015
I adored this book so much. Perfect summer read if you're looking for a sweet romance with some suspense. Evie & Finch captured my heart and had me anxiously hoping for a happy ending for them. Set in the 1970's added a fresh take on what was already an intriguing story, then add the carnival aspect & I was hooked! This book quickly became a favorite and not only have I read more than once but can see myself returning to visit these characters again. 5 Stars!
July 26, 2014
This was one sweet read. I enjoy Sharron's characters so much and the world she painted felt so real. You can't help but fall in love with it as the young couple from different worlds fall in love and take you along their journey. I would really enjoy seeing another book about Evie and Finch. I'm sure Shannon can take us to the next chapter of their life!
June 1, 2014
Bravo Miss Shannon!!!! You have once again blown me away!!!! I didn't want it to end...The story teaches anyone who reads it a lesson...someone may seem different or be from a different walk of like then yours but they may turn out to be your best friend or more...love the acceptance in this book! Be ready for tears, yelling at your book or ereader and laughs!!!!! Enjoy and Happy Reading!!!!
October 1, 2014
One of my favorite books of the year. Nobody writes quirky, realistic characters like Ms McCrimmon. Her people are not the King and Queen of the prom, they are the people on the sidelines of life often, in the background.
She makes you care draws you in, and writes slam dunk great stories that worm their way into your brain and never let you go.
She makes you care draws you in, and writes slam dunk great stories that worm their way into your brain and never let you go.
June 9, 2015
Shannon McCrimmon put together a wonderful work with this look back. The characters in the story are well developed and they are quite believable. McCrimmon shares the store in a great way and it deals with some tough issues in a very good way. I received this book through the Firstread program and it was a very enjoyable read that I finished in a day.
November 17, 2015
I loved this book! If you grew up in the seventies, you will enjoy all of the pop culture of the day, music, movies and fashion. Great, sweet love story with plenty of other twists and turns to keep young readers interested. A great coming of age story that is so wholesome it's great for adolescent readers too.
June 11, 2014
I think that Shannon McCrimmon really did a great job with this book! I loved it! I really felt like she was telling me a story. I fell in love with the characters! I had a couple tears fall because I felt close to them. I also laughed with them. It was really well written.
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