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In the Cards
Lindsey Hilliard flees her charmed life in New York, searching for answers after her fiancé’s betrayal fills her with self-doubt. Unfortunately, her rented Malibu home is next door to Levi Hardy, the sexy but insufferable man who humiliated her years ago.
Hardened by a grim past he keeps concealed, Levi prefers maintaining a comfortable distance from folks, especially a nosy princess like Lindsey. But then a motorcycle collision brings him to his knees, forcing him to accept her assistance with his recovery. Sparks begin to fly when the woman who doesn’t believe in herself teaches the cynic how to have faith in others. Levi realizes his body will recover, but his heart won’t if Lindsey returns to the ex who wants her back.
In the biggest gamble of his life, Levi teaches her to trust her own voice, and hopes she’ll use it to say good-bye to her past and hello to a future with him.
Hardened by a grim past he keeps concealed, Levi prefers maintaining a comfortable distance from folks, especially a nosy princess like Lindsey. But then a motorcycle collision brings him to his knees, forcing him to accept her assistance with his recovery. Sparks begin to fly when the woman who doesn’t believe in herself teaches the cynic how to have faith in others. Levi realizes his body will recover, but his heart won’t if Lindsey returns to the ex who wants her back.
In the biggest gamble of his life, Levi teaches her to trust her own voice, and hopes she’ll use it to say good-bye to her past and hello to a future with him.
288 pages, Paperback
First published December 9, 2014
2318 people are currently reading
3270 people want to read
About the author
Jamie Beck
22 books2,620 followersJamie Beck is a Wall Street Journal and USA Today bestselling author of 18 novels, which have been translated into multiple languages and have sold more than three million copies worldwide. She is a two-time Booksellers' Best Award finalist, a Women’s Fiction Writers Association STAR award finalist, a National Readers' Choice Award winner, and critics at Kirkus, Publishers Weekly, and Booklist have respectively called her work "smart," "uplifting," and "entertaining." In addition to writing novels, she enjoys dancing around the kitchen while cooking and hitting the slopes in Vermont and Utah. Above all, she is a grateful wife and mother to a very patient, supportive family.
Fans can learn more about her on the web (www.jamiebeck.com). She also loves interacting with everyone on Facebook (www.facebook.com/JamieBeckBooks) and Instagram (@writerjamiebeck).
My newsletter subscribers get monthly fun tips, a chance to win a reader gift box, and other exclusive content. Sign up now! https://bit.ly/JBeckNewsletter. For updates on discounts and new releases, follow me on BookBub at http://bit.ly/2GBcLM3. NO SPAM--EVER.
Fans can learn more about her on the web (www.jamiebeck.com). She also loves interacting with everyone on Facebook (www.facebook.com/JamieBeckBooks) and Instagram (@writerjamiebeck).
My newsletter subscribers get monthly fun tips, a chance to win a reader gift box, and other exclusive content. Sign up now! https://bit.ly/JBeckNewsletter. For updates on discounts and new releases, follow me on BookBub at http://bit.ly/2GBcLM3. NO SPAM--EVER.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 445 reviews
December 1, 2019
4 Surprising Stars
* * * * Spoiler Free
This was a staggering surprise! What I thought was going to be a sweet little story with romance and happily ever afters... turned into a thought-provoking tale with heart, lessons, and truth.
This had the opposites meeting...having an exchange which made a huge impact on both. The impact may have been in different ways... but equally important. We fast forward and our gal is confronted by a cheating "perfect on paper" fiance. Her "well to do" family loves him; they have been engaged; the wedding is supposed to happen in two weeks. He admits to his indiscretion ONLY because there may be a health issue involved. This throws our gal for a loop. Luckily, she has a trust fund. She quits her job, rents a Malibu place and takes off.
There she thinks she will figure all of this out. By now, in her twenties, she should know her own mind and think about things, right... well maybe not. Because this woman has lived a life where her mother ran the show and her dad allowed it. Were they cruel or heartless... no. But there was this 'we know better attitude' and Lindsey saw through her father's actions not to rock the boat. Now she is out there in Malibu, trying to figure out if she wants to still marry her ex-fiance... who is not taking no for answer. He is trying to turn his mistake into a second chance.
Lindsey becomes comfortable in her place on the beach... and there in the home next door is Levi... the man who hurt her so many years ago. It was an encounter which gave her serious pain... but she thinks maybe he won't recognize her. At first, she gets her wish. She decides she will be the bigger person and try to be friendly... after all, they are living next door to each other for the next 6 months.
Levi has landed just where he wanted to be... his background allowed him to read people and to do it so well... he became a professional poker player, as well, as a bartender. While winning all of his funds, he learned how to day trade on the stock market. His personal upbringing was not the best...and he has developed steel walls to separate himself from others. He has acquaintances... no real friends...he will hook up but wants them gone as soon as done. He is self-sufficient... and that is how he likes it. He will be charming and polite... but never revealing.
As this interaction with Lindsey takes place... she seems familiar but he cannot place her. Once he does, though, he confronts the way she is dealing with him... he thinks she is playing him...he wants to know her scam...It comes out that was not it at all. Lindsey is hurt; retells the pain he inflicted on her all those years ago and leaves. Thoughtful and concerned... Levi writes a note saying he was sorry; they should just be polite neighbors. That night he is a victim of a hit and run. He is taken to the hospital and will have spinal surgery. Lindsey saw the police at the house, learns of all that happened and decides to go to the hospital and check on Levi. There she finds out the seriousness of the injury and the care he will need. He has no one... she knows this... she decides to assist him.
This story had a very slow ramp-up and if you could get through the first part, you were rewarded with some true concepts about life and living. The overwhelming theme was we become who we are through all of the challenges we experience. We need to experience loss and pain sometimes because wrapped around them...tied so tight...is also the joy and love. We must make our own decisions and not allow others to dictate.... and the most important lesson discussed was the realization of how children are not responsible for the actions of their parents...and they, the children, need to know they always deserve love and are good enough.
There were some hiccups... the back and forth of Lindsey not making a clear cut decision about the ex-fiance sooner or more emphatic. But overall, I felt the entire story was a positive read for me.
A gifted copy was provided by Montlake Romance Publishing through NetGalley for an honest review.
For more Reviews, Free E-books and Giveaways
* * * * Spoiler Free
This was a staggering surprise! What I thought was going to be a sweet little story with romance and happily ever afters... turned into a thought-provoking tale with heart, lessons, and truth.
This had the opposites meeting...having an exchange which made a huge impact on both. The impact may have been in different ways... but equally important. We fast forward and our gal is confronted by a cheating "perfect on paper" fiance. Her "well to do" family loves him; they have been engaged; the wedding is supposed to happen in two weeks. He admits to his indiscretion ONLY because there may be a health issue involved. This throws our gal for a loop. Luckily, she has a trust fund. She quits her job, rents a Malibu place and takes off.
There she thinks she will figure all of this out. By now, in her twenties, she should know her own mind and think about things, right... well maybe not. Because this woman has lived a life where her mother ran the show and her dad allowed it. Were they cruel or heartless... no. But there was this 'we know better attitude' and Lindsey saw through her father's actions not to rock the boat. Now she is out there in Malibu, trying to figure out if she wants to still marry her ex-fiance... who is not taking no for answer. He is trying to turn his mistake into a second chance.
Lindsey becomes comfortable in her place on the beach... and there in the home next door is Levi... the man who hurt her so many years ago. It was an encounter which gave her serious pain... but she thinks maybe he won't recognize her. At first, she gets her wish. She decides she will be the bigger person and try to be friendly... after all, they are living next door to each other for the next 6 months.
Levi has landed just where he wanted to be... his background allowed him to read people and to do it so well... he became a professional poker player, as well, as a bartender. While winning all of his funds, he learned how to day trade on the stock market. His personal upbringing was not the best...and he has developed steel walls to separate himself from others. He has acquaintances... no real friends...he will hook up but wants them gone as soon as done. He is self-sufficient... and that is how he likes it. He will be charming and polite... but never revealing.
As this interaction with Lindsey takes place... she seems familiar but he cannot place her. Once he does, though, he confronts the way she is dealing with him... he thinks she is playing him...he wants to know her scam...It comes out that was not it at all. Lindsey is hurt; retells the pain he inflicted on her all those years ago and leaves. Thoughtful and concerned... Levi writes a note saying he was sorry; they should just be polite neighbors. That night he is a victim of a hit and run. He is taken to the hospital and will have spinal surgery. Lindsey saw the police at the house, learns of all that happened and decides to go to the hospital and check on Levi. There she finds out the seriousness of the injury and the care he will need. He has no one... she knows this... she decides to assist him.
This story had a very slow ramp-up and if you could get through the first part, you were rewarded with some true concepts about life and living. The overwhelming theme was we become who we are through all of the challenges we experience. We need to experience loss and pain sometimes because wrapped around them...tied so tight...is also the joy and love. We must make our own decisions and not allow others to dictate.... and the most important lesson discussed was the realization of how children are not responsible for the actions of their parents...and they, the children, need to know they always deserve love and are good enough.
There were some hiccups... the back and forth of Lindsey not making a clear cut decision about the ex-fiance sooner or more emphatic. But overall, I felt the entire story was a positive read for me.
A gifted copy was provided by Montlake Romance Publishing through NetGalley for an honest review.
For more Reviews, Free E-books and Giveaways
January 15, 2015
Lindsey has an ivy league education, a trust fund, and the perfect fiancé. That is until she discovers her fiancé had a fling with a woman he met at a bar and might have given her an STD. Heart-broken she leaves New York and rents a beach house in Malibu hoping to make some life changing decisions.
Levi is a gambler by nature who made his money by pushing his luck at the card tables in Vegas and shrewdly investing his winnings. Having a con-man for a father and being abandoned by his mother has left him with trust issues and a reluctance to form attachments.
When Lindsey moves in next door his world views are immediately challenged. She somehow manages to keep breaking down the walls he built to protect himself. Then after a motorcycle accident he finds himself depending on her more than he's depended on anyone since his mother abandoned him.
I really loved this book. I was expecting a lot of angst and was pleasantly surprised when it didn't materialise. It's contemporary romance and the story is typical in one sense but with quite an interesting take on things.
Levi is a gambler by nature who made his money by pushing his luck at the card tables in Vegas and shrewdly investing his winnings. Having a con-man for a father and being abandoned by his mother has left him with trust issues and a reluctance to form attachments.
When Lindsey moves in next door his world views are immediately challenged. She somehow manages to keep breaking down the walls he built to protect himself. Then after a motorcycle accident he finds himself depending on her more than he's depended on anyone since his mother abandoned him.
I really loved this book. I was expecting a lot of angst and was pleasantly surprised when it didn't materialise. It's contemporary romance and the story is typical in one sense but with quite an interesting take on things.
January 29, 2015
3.5 stars!
What a surprising read. What I thought would be a light romantic tale turned into a thought provoking romance with a few unpredictable twist and turns along the way.
As both Lindsey and Levi find themselves facing startling challenges, circumstances bring them together, resulting in a slow building, touching love story.
What a surprising read. What I thought would be a light romantic tale turned into a thought provoking romance with a few unpredictable twist and turns along the way.
As both Lindsey and Levi find themselves facing startling challenges, circumstances bring them together, resulting in a slow building, touching love story.
December 9, 2019
I picked this up because a friend mentioned something I'll get to later. And I found it surprisingly good, so that worked out well.
From the start, I knew that Levi would be what made or broke my engagement. He's closed off emotionally, but not without good reason. Abandoned by his mother and left with his grifter father, his emotional landscape is rather bleak. It almost makes it worse that he abandoned his father's lifestyle and ethical flexibility as soon as he could, choosing instead to use the skills and talents his father taught him in legitimate ways. Okay, semi-legitimate in that he turned his reading people and risk assessment to make a ground stake at poker in Vegas that he then turned into a livable resource through the stocks and bond markets. So he's a variety of wish-fulfillment in being so capable and rich in such a way that still leaves him rather broken.
Fortunately, Beck does a really good job of making his emotional landscape feel very real and present. I mean, it still functions as a negative motivation* because of its effect on the plot (as a break on relationship progress) but at least Levi knows that what he really wants is emotional security (that he lacks) which is a positive goal that can work around his fear of relying on others. The thing is, he vacillates a bit, sometimes acknowledging that he really wants Lindsey to choose him even while making plans that he knows will push her away.
Holding my engagement together through Levi's instability is how much I loved Lindsey. I loved how kind and courageous she could be on her own and how natural it was for her to help Levi when she sees his considerable need. The story really needed the drastic events of a traffic accident that largely incapacitates him to get that initial slide around his barriers, but I love how unashamed Lindsey was in jumping in even through his unkindnesses. I liked that she was working on asserting herself with her friends and family, too, though that kind of doormat personality often drives me up a wall. But since this is what brings the two together, I barely noticed what would normally really kill me. Levi's self-imposed emotional isolation gives Lindsey the space she needs to ask herself what it is that she wants, even when Levi isn't actively asking her the question (though I loved how frequently he did). So I really enjoyed seeing her blossom out of caring for Levi, even though he was kind of a pain about it.
There was enough back and forth in Levi's "I want her, she'll hurt me" that I can't give this more than four stars. But I'm really glad to give it all four of them because the ending just came together so well.
What piqued my interest: Tandie mentioned that she was glad when Lindsey encouraged Levi to get professional help for his emotional issues and I'll echo how well this works. .
A note about Audiobook: I listened to the audio of this, which was good, but oddly disjointed. Will Damron does an outstanding job with Levi's perspective, but Amy Rubinate in Lindsey's, while good, just isn't up to the same quality. It was an odd effect having the two be noticeably different quality levels, even though both were good enough that it didn't really effect the story.
A note about Steamy: There are a few explicit sex scenes that happen late and very clumped together putting this barely in the middle of my steam tolerance. I like how well it worked, really, because it happened when it needed to and I liked the dynamic that intimacy brought into their relationship (for both good and ill).
* Negative Motivations: I kind of hate that the term "negative motivation" isn't widespread, yet. Since it isn't, I'm going to save off this little jag to append to my reviews that feature the term. Jennifer Crusie blogged about it a bit back (or, if that link doesn't work, here's a cache of the original) and it changed how I understand story. The problem with the term is that if you've never heard it before, you'd assume it meant motivations that are harmful or immoral. Not so. What it refers to is motivations not to do something. The thing is that many of us are motivated to not do things for a lot of different, perfectly valid and reasonable, reasons. The problem is that in a story motivations to not do things are a huge drag on the plot—particularly considering the fact that most negative motivations are overcome by the character simply deciding they don't care any more (or, rather, that they do care and are now motivated to do the thing). So not only do you have a counter to action but you also have a situation where to overcome it, all a character has to do is change their mind. Which means eventually, the reader is rooting for the character to get over him/herself already and do the thing we want them to do. Conflict drives story. Conflict between a reader and a main character drives readers away from story.
From the start, I knew that Levi would be what made or broke my engagement. He's closed off emotionally, but not without good reason. Abandoned by his mother and left with his grifter father, his emotional landscape is rather bleak. It almost makes it worse that he abandoned his father's lifestyle and ethical flexibility as soon as he could, choosing instead to use the skills and talents his father taught him in legitimate ways. Okay, semi-legitimate in that he turned his reading people and risk assessment to make a ground stake at poker in Vegas that he then turned into a livable resource through the stocks and bond markets. So he's a variety of wish-fulfillment in being so capable and rich in such a way that still leaves him rather broken.
Fortunately, Beck does a really good job of making his emotional landscape feel very real and present. I mean, it still functions as a negative motivation* because of its effect on the plot (as a break on relationship progress) but at least Levi knows that what he really wants is emotional security (that he lacks) which is a positive goal that can work around his fear of relying on others. The thing is, he vacillates a bit, sometimes acknowledging that he really wants Lindsey to choose him even while making plans that he knows will push her away.
Holding my engagement together through Levi's instability is how much I loved Lindsey. I loved how kind and courageous she could be on her own and how natural it was for her to help Levi when she sees his considerable need. The story really needed the drastic events of a traffic accident that largely incapacitates him to get that initial slide around his barriers, but I love how unashamed Lindsey was in jumping in even through his unkindnesses. I liked that she was working on asserting herself with her friends and family, too, though that kind of doormat personality often drives me up a wall. But since this is what brings the two together, I barely noticed what would normally really kill me. Levi's self-imposed emotional isolation gives Lindsey the space she needs to ask herself what it is that she wants, even when Levi isn't actively asking her the question (though I loved how frequently he did). So I really enjoyed seeing her blossom out of caring for Levi, even though he was kind of a pain about it.
There was enough back and forth in Levi's "I want her, she'll hurt me" that I can't give this more than four stars. But I'm really glad to give it all four of them because the ending just came together so well.
What piqued my interest: Tandie mentioned that she was glad when Lindsey encouraged Levi to get professional help for his emotional issues and I'll echo how well this works. .
A note about Audiobook: I listened to the audio of this, which was good, but oddly disjointed. Will Damron does an outstanding job with Levi's perspective, but Amy Rubinate in Lindsey's, while good, just isn't up to the same quality. It was an odd effect having the two be noticeably different quality levels, even though both were good enough that it didn't really effect the story.
A note about Steamy: There are a few explicit sex scenes that happen late and very clumped together putting this barely in the middle of my steam tolerance. I like how well it worked, really, because it happened when it needed to and I liked the dynamic that intimacy brought into their relationship (for both good and ill).
* Negative Motivations: I kind of hate that the term "negative motivation" isn't widespread, yet. Since it isn't, I'm going to save off this little jag to append to my reviews that feature the term. Jennifer Crusie blogged about it a bit back (or, if that link doesn't work, here's a cache of the original) and it changed how I understand story. The problem with the term is that if you've never heard it before, you'd assume it meant motivations that are harmful or immoral. Not so. What it refers to is motivations not to do something. The thing is that many of us are motivated to not do things for a lot of different, perfectly valid and reasonable, reasons. The problem is that in a story motivations to not do things are a huge drag on the plot—particularly considering the fact that most negative motivations are overcome by the character simply deciding they don't care any more (or, rather, that they do care and are now motivated to do the thing). So not only do you have a counter to action but you also have a situation where to overcome it, all a character has to do is change their mind. Which means eventually, the reader is rooting for the character to get over him/herself already and do the thing we want them to do. Conflict drives story. Conflict between a reader and a main character drives readers away from story.
December 1, 2019
This book surprised me. It was well written, had a decent plot, and a realistic HEA.
Lindsey flees to a beachfront condo after her fiancé tells her he cheated and there was an STD involved. She realizes she’s been allowing her parents and her fiancé to dictate her life choices. A bit of geographical distance helps her start figuring out her own wants and needs.
Lindsey discovers that Levi, a guy who gave her a mean set down as a teen, is her neighbor. He’s cranky and emotionally constipated. She’s enthusiastic and cheerful. He can’t stand her.
Levi winds up in the hospital having major spinal surgery after a hit and run accident. He literally has no family or friends, and Lindsey forces him to accept her help during his difficult recovery. He was such a jerk!
Lindsey didn’t come off as a total doormat, so yay! She had zero romantic interest in Levi, and recognized he had issues that kept him from relying upon anyone. She came to realize that caregiving made her feel emotionally fulfilled, and that kickstarted a search for a different career. She believed that there was a reason she and Levi had ended up neighbors, and that it meant they each had something to teach the other. It was so great that she didn’t interpret that to mean they were meant to be soulmates. I enjoyed seeing them slowly become friends.
There was a bit of angst, and a few misunderstandings as they got more invested in each other, but these episodes were resolved quickly and didn’t devolve into any BIG MISUNDERSTANDINGS.
I wanted to clap when Lindsey asked Levi to get professional help dealing his deep emotional issues! I hate it when characters are healed by love or by the right person. He was seriously dysfunctional, and there was no realistic way he’d suddenly be capable of having a healthy relationship. She didn’t give him an ultimatum, and he was able to recognize it was the only way he could move forward and share his life.
* I think there were two sexy scenes towards the end. They were brief and not overly descriptive. No crude talk, and I can’t remember if there was any swearing.
Lindsey flees to a beachfront condo after her fiancé tells her he cheated and there was an STD involved. She realizes she’s been allowing her parents and her fiancé to dictate her life choices. A bit of geographical distance helps her start figuring out her own wants and needs.
Lindsey discovers that Levi, a guy who gave her a mean set down as a teen, is her neighbor. He’s cranky and emotionally constipated. She’s enthusiastic and cheerful. He can’t stand her.
Levi winds up in the hospital having major spinal surgery after a hit and run accident. He literally has no family or friends, and Lindsey forces him to accept her help during his difficult recovery. He was such a jerk!
Lindsey didn’t come off as a total doormat, so yay! She had zero romantic interest in Levi, and recognized he had issues that kept him from relying upon anyone. She came to realize that caregiving made her feel emotionally fulfilled, and that kickstarted a search for a different career. She believed that there was a reason she and Levi had ended up neighbors, and that it meant they each had something to teach the other. It was so great that she didn’t interpret that to mean they were meant to be soulmates. I enjoyed seeing them slowly become friends.
There was a bit of angst, and a few misunderstandings as they got more invested in each other, but these episodes were resolved quickly and didn’t devolve into any BIG MISUNDERSTANDINGS.
I wanted to clap when Lindsey asked Levi to get professional help dealing his deep emotional issues! I hate it when characters are healed by love or by the right person. He was seriously dysfunctional, and there was no realistic way he’d suddenly be capable of having a healthy relationship. She didn’t give him an ultimatum, and he was able to recognize it was the only way he could move forward and share his life.
* I think there were two sexy scenes towards the end. They were brief and not overly descriptive. No crude talk, and I can’t remember if there was any swearing.
August 29, 2014
Congratulations to Jamie! This genre is one I don't normally read, but I should. I was hooked immediately (er - I worked hard to avoid being the poster-child for a stay-at-home Mom reading and popping bon-bons)and was incredibly impressed by her beautiful writing. I even underlined some very insightful passages. I would recommend this for a fast and fun read.
p.s. Did anyone else envision a young Rob Lowe as Levi?
p.s. Did anyone else envision a young Rob Lowe as Levi?
February 6, 2020
Lindsey has a trust fund, ivy league education and a perfect fiancé. Until he confesses he cheated and might have given her STD. Needing time to think, she kisses NYC-life good bye and rents a Malibu beach house. And instanly recognizes her new neighbor, who embarassed her years ago.
Levi is a gambler. He doesn't do uncalculated decisions and doesn't trust anyone, thanks to being abandoned by his mother and his recently killed con-man for a father. But an accident forces him to accept the help of his beautiful neighbor, who's determined to get to know him.
First of all: I hate the Cover. But that's also the worst there's to say about this book. I don't know what it was, but I liked the story from the very start. It's such a good story with enough drama but no overwhelming angst.
Levi had me instantly with his sexy smile, the dimples and the gravelly voice, I mean he loves to cook and reading, how good is that guy? And with time Lindsey grew to me also, her development is great. I was all in for her, when she went over, after he was a prick for her birthday, showing she cares.
Both of them seem somehow lost. He doesn't have anyone to trust, is all about analyzing and reading people but not giving away anything. She lets her family dictate what she's to want, lacking courage to take on her own life but so determined to help others.
There were so many scenes I loved. Like her jealousy over the surfer girl, hilarious, him becoming her hero in front of her mother and telling her that helping the unfortunate is no waste of education. And of course, her slapping his.
There were some that made me mad, I mean, it was her birthday. And pretty much everything including her mother and Rob. Same as Lindsey, I knew it.
Their issues are transported so well, you really get to understand why he can't trust and is afraid to feel. You get her conflict, to forgive or to get over her perfect match, the life she was supposed to have.
Then their respective problems with each other were perfectly woven into this. Her snob-mother would never approve of him and when her fiancé of years cheated on her, why wouldn't the cynic she just met?
But they always came around. Each time there was an issue, they somehow got around and talked their way through it. I enjoyed that there was back and forth, both of them making mistakes but also being able to get over it.
I also really appreciate the normal ending, it didn't drag through additional drama but just was.
Levi is a gambler. He doesn't do uncalculated decisions and doesn't trust anyone, thanks to being abandoned by his mother and his recently killed con-man for a father. But an accident forces him to accept the help of his beautiful neighbor, who's determined to get to know him.
First of all: I hate the Cover. But that's also the worst there's to say about this book. I don't know what it was, but I liked the story from the very start. It's such a good story with enough drama but no overwhelming angst.
Levi had me instantly with his sexy smile, the dimples and the gravelly voice, I mean he loves to cook and reading, how good is that guy? And with time Lindsey grew to me also, her development is great. I was all in for her, when she went over, after he was a prick for her birthday, showing she cares.
Both of them seem somehow lost. He doesn't have anyone to trust, is all about analyzing and reading people but not giving away anything. She lets her family dictate what she's to want, lacking courage to take on her own life but so determined to help others.
There were so many scenes I loved. Like her jealousy over the surfer girl, hilarious, him becoming her hero in front of her mother and telling her that helping the unfortunate is no waste of education. And of course, her slapping his.
There were some that made me mad, I mean, it was her birthday. And pretty much everything including her mother and Rob. Same as Lindsey, I knew it.
Their issues are transported so well, you really get to understand why he can't trust and is afraid to feel. You get her conflict, to forgive or to get over her perfect match, the life she was supposed to have.
Then their respective problems with each other were perfectly woven into this. Her snob-mother would never approve of him and when her fiancé of years cheated on her, why wouldn't the cynic she just met?
But they always came around. Each time there was an issue, they somehow got around and talked their way through it. I enjoyed that there was back and forth, both of them making mistakes but also being able to get over it.
I also really appreciate the normal ending, it didn't drag through additional drama but just was.
April 20, 2019
This book had potential but never quite got there. I failed to fathom why heroine continued to speak to her disapproving mother. Also, until the very end she hasn't taken a decision on whether she is going to take her cheating ex back. I also didn't find the romance very romancey. Yes, the book tackles growth for h/H but it didn't click much with the romance.
December 9, 2014
I received a copy of this book from the publisher via Netgalley for an honest review.
Did not finish. Stopped at 51%
I just didn't want to read anymore. I made myself read to 50%. The story isn't holdingy interest at all. Not sure what the hold up was to ramping up their story.
I don't care for Lindsay and grew to not care for Levi either. There is zero spark or chemistry between these two. The issue with Rob shouldn't take this long to deal with and was leading me to think this book was going in a different direction than a HEA. Guess I'll never know.
Their first encounter, that was all there was to it? No guy would have remembered her based only on that. So that didn't work for me.
I just wasn't a fan.
Did not finish. Stopped at 51%
I just didn't want to read anymore. I made myself read to 50%. The story isn't holdingy interest at all. Not sure what the hold up was to ramping up their story.
I don't care for Lindsay and grew to not care for Levi either. There is zero spark or chemistry between these two. The issue with Rob shouldn't take this long to deal with and was leading me to think this book was going in a different direction than a HEA. Guess I'll never know.
Their first encounter, that was all there was to it? No guy would have remembered her based only on that. So that didn't work for me.
I just wasn't a fan.
September 7, 2015
Nice, although somewhat uneven, opposite-attract type of story. A first meeting between Levi, a bartender with a chip on his shoulder, and Lindsey, a rich trust-fund girl turned out to be embarrassing for the girl. Her teenage crush met with rejection.
Fast forward 8 years. Lindsey's fiance cheated on her with a co-worker. Heartbroken, and much to her family's dismay, she decides to move cross-country and rent a home in Malibu. Ironically enough, her neighbor happens to be Levi. Having grown up with an absentee mother and a con artist for a father, Levi strives to build a better life for himself. His skills in poker and wise stock market investments made him a relatively wealthy self-made man but he is still a loner. He wants to keep it this way despite a growing attraction to his neighbor. But after a terrible accident, Levi is left with no other option but to accept Lindsey's help and allow her into his home and into his life. The story was told from both protagonists' POV. Its well written, and a slow building romance felt realistic. The pace was little uneven specially when we get Lindsey's POV. Her prolong indecisiveness of what to do with her cheating fiancé was annoying, her constant need to share everything with her best friend felt too chick-lit to me.
Fast forward 8 years. Lindsey's fiance cheated on her with a co-worker. Heartbroken, and much to her family's dismay, she decides to move cross-country and rent a home in Malibu. Ironically enough, her neighbor happens to be Levi. Having grown up with an absentee mother and a con artist for a father, Levi strives to build a better life for himself. His skills in poker and wise stock market investments made him a relatively wealthy self-made man but he is still a loner. He wants to keep it this way despite a growing attraction to his neighbor. But after a terrible accident, Levi is left with no other option but to accept Lindsey's help and allow her into his home and into his life. The story was told from both protagonists' POV. Its well written, and a slow building romance felt realistic. The pace was little uneven specially when we get Lindsey's POV. Her prolong indecisiveness of what to do with her cheating fiancé was annoying, her constant need to share everything with her best friend felt too chick-lit to me.
February 18, 2015
Levi Hardy vowed never to have a relationship or follow in his parents footsteps. Having created a life for himself, he is happy with keeping others at bay and living in solitude. That is until Lindsey Hilliard walks into his life, he remembers the tenacious woman he met years ago and it seems she still is a whirlwind of energy.
Lindsey needs to walk away, her fiancee betrayed her and her family and friends seem to be pushing her into accepting his discretion and entering a marriage where trust is an issue. Deciding to go to California and clear her head, she is shocked to learn her beach crush Levi, who was a jerk, is next door neighbor. Levi is still surly and not to interested in forming a relationship, but when he is in an accident with no one to help, Lindsey steps up. Levi and Lindsey create a friendship of sorts but Levi is beginning to realize that he doesn't want to live without Lindsey.
Full review on Single Titles
http://singletitles.com/?p=10500
Lindsey needs to walk away, her fiancee betrayed her and her family and friends seem to be pushing her into accepting his discretion and entering a marriage where trust is an issue. Deciding to go to California and clear her head, she is shocked to learn her beach crush Levi, who was a jerk, is next door neighbor. Levi is still surly and not to interested in forming a relationship, but when he is in an accident with no one to help, Lindsey steps up. Levi and Lindsey create a friendship of sorts but Levi is beginning to realize that he doesn't want to live without Lindsey.
Full review on Single Titles
http://singletitles.com/?p=10500
October 22, 2015
Really enjoyed this read....
September 22, 2017
There was a lot going on in this book, self-induced drama wise, but I enjoyed the character development throughout this story and watching two people find their way in the world.
April 21, 2020
WOW these two had such emotional & growing to do but what they got through all that was each other as well.
October 3, 2023
I absolutely loved these characters ,the psychological and psychosocial aspects clearly very well researched.The focus on the well crafted interpersonal relationships drew me in,but the winning formula from the get go? The loveable leads ...each shines brightly on their own but when they fuse as God and nature intended ,we are talking zenith proportions! They each truly complement the other ,their love warms the heart and once that sexual anticipation finally gave way....epic snap crackle and pop!
They each fight their battles singularly at first,then more successfully as the unit they are becoming ! The sequelae of Levi's painful past\childhood and of Lindsay's controlling parental units and her fiance's infidelity eventual fade to the rear view where they belong.
Thank you Jamie for the impeccable writing and such an unforgettable couple whose successful emotional conversion ultimately carried me on a journey laden with angst and joy in equal measure!
They each fight their battles singularly at first,then more successfully as the unit they are becoming ! The sequelae of Levi's painful past\childhood and of Lindsay's controlling parental units and her fiance's infidelity eventual fade to the rear view where they belong.
Thank you Jamie for the impeccable writing and such an unforgettable couple whose successful emotional conversion ultimately carried me on a journey laden with angst and joy in equal measure!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 28, 2014
Lindsay and Levi met 8 years ago at a resort in Florida, he embarrassed her and she never forgot him. After Lindsay fleas from New York to Malibu, leaving her friends, family and ex-fiancé, to find herself and see if she can forgive her ex-fiancé, Rob, after his betrayal. Levi on the other hand likes to stay to himself and keeps his distance from his family and everyone around him. He learned early on after his mother left him and his father that people you care about can hurt you.
When I first read the synopsis I thought that Levi was going to be a guy that would lead Lindsay on and break her heart in the end. Maybe that was his plan but he wasn’t that guy at all. One he sorted out his feeling and understood them, he tried to explain himself to Lindsey.
Lindsay on the other hand had such a big heart! She didn’t need to take care of Levi after his accident, but she did. She tried to get to know him and was so thoughtful. While Levi was in the hospital she knew he would like a book to read, so she went to the library for him. She also knew he is very particular about his food, so she would bring him something each day so he wouldn’t need to eat the hospital food. I was not a fan of the people around Lindsay; everyone seemed to want to tell her how to live her life and how what she was doing was so wrong, I am so glad she had Levi on her side!
Together Lindsay and Levi found themselves and helped each other grow as people. They taught each other life lessons and that would bond them together!
When I first read the synopsis I thought that Levi was going to be a guy that would lead Lindsay on and break her heart in the end. Maybe that was his plan but he wasn’t that guy at all. One he sorted out his feeling and understood them, he tried to explain himself to Lindsey.
Lindsay on the other hand had such a big heart! She didn’t need to take care of Levi after his accident, but she did. She tried to get to know him and was so thoughtful. While Levi was in the hospital she knew he would like a book to read, so she went to the library for him. She also knew he is very particular about his food, so she would bring him something each day so he wouldn’t need to eat the hospital food. I was not a fan of the people around Lindsay; everyone seemed to want to tell her how to live her life and how what she was doing was so wrong, I am so glad she had Levi on her side!
Together Lindsay and Levi found themselves and helped each other grow as people. They taught each other life lessons and that would bond them together!
November 4, 2014
This is an amazing story of friendship, trusting someone and finding yourself.
The beginning of the book was moving quite slowly and dragging. It took me a while to get into the story as the beginning Lindsey was quite childish. But quickly the author drags you in and makes you like the character and reveal their personality and more details about them which was nice. I didn't think I would end up liking this book as much as I did in the beginning. Levi is an arrogant playboy who uses his good looks to get what he wants but he turns out to be so much more. The more you go into the story the more mysterious he gets and you see how a successful men he is despite having a rough start in life. He stays true to himself throughout the book and for me stole the spotlight from Lindsey. She has a priviledge background but isn't at all how you would expect her to be. She's selfless and sweet. She doesn't back down from wearing Levi down. They are complete opposite but work so well together and have amazing chemistry together. One character i didn't really like was Jill, Lindsey's supposed to be best friend. She's most of the time quite bitchy to her and didn't deserve to have Lindsey's friendship from the wayshe's treating her but Lindsey being her natural loving self didn't push her away. This is an amazing first book filled with love, touching moments and laughter. The character for the most part are very attaching and you can't help rooting for them.
The beginning of the book was moving quite slowly and dragging. It took me a while to get into the story as the beginning Lindsey was quite childish. But quickly the author drags you in and makes you like the character and reveal their personality and more details about them which was nice. I didn't think I would end up liking this book as much as I did in the beginning. Levi is an arrogant playboy who uses his good looks to get what he wants but he turns out to be so much more. The more you go into the story the more mysterious he gets and you see how a successful men he is despite having a rough start in life. He stays true to himself throughout the book and for me stole the spotlight from Lindsey. She has a priviledge background but isn't at all how you would expect her to be. She's selfless and sweet. She doesn't back down from wearing Levi down. They are complete opposite but work so well together and have amazing chemistry together. One character i didn't really like was Jill, Lindsey's supposed to be best friend. She's most of the time quite bitchy to her and didn't deserve to have Lindsey's friendship from the wayshe's treating her but Lindsey being her natural loving self didn't push her away. This is an amazing first book filled with love, touching moments and laughter. The character for the most part are very attaching and you can't help rooting for them.
October 13, 2014
Lindsey sure knows how to get people to do what she wants, "oh, fine. I'll bring beer, then. And don't worry, I don't have any food allergies." Food allergies? Who is this chick and how'd she rope me into cooking for her?" As Levi and Lindsey grow closer Lindsey's feelings grow and sometimes Levi can be a butt so I felt for Lindsey at times, "I hold up my hand. "No need. You don't own me explanations, Levi. We had no agreement. You're free to do what you want, with whomever you want. So, if that's all, I'll be on my way." Lindsey likes to run in the morning to get her blood pumping but you know Levi likes to help out where he can in blood flow, "I yank her back into bed. "I'll keep your blood pumping." Grasping her behind the neck, I steal another kiss." I enjoyed reading this book it was cute and I loved how Lindsey rediscovered herself.
July 31, 2015
Very good book. How can one person let so many people run their life for them. Lindsay is supposed to be getting married until her fiancé decides to come clean about an affair he had. Her family, friends & her ex believe she should forgive & forget & go on with the wedding, but for some reason she can't. Running to the other side of the country she runs into her past & Levi. He rebuffed her years ago but now he's stopped cold by her. After a terrible accident Levi needs her help & she's happy to help him. Their relationship begins to grow but he still can't commit & she hasn't made a decision on whether to go back to her ex or not. When they finally get together her ex shows up to fight for her but too little too late. Can Levi love her the way she needs? Can Lindsay make Levi believe in forever? I would definitely recommend this book as a good read.
January 11, 2015
In the Cards by Jamie Beck was the first book that I have read by this author. The storyline was solid and had a second chance romance spin to it. The chemistry between Lindsey & Levi was amazing once they both got over their issues with themselves and each other. If you are looking for a good book without a cliffhanger then look no further then In the Cards. Looking forward to reading more books by Jamie Beck!!
October 30, 2014
It was OK. It actually started off pretty good. I thought wow, this is going to be a good one, then during the course of the book it started to fall flat for me. It got a little boring. Levi was portrayed to cynical for to much of the book. And Lindsey was too much of a doormat that couldn't make up her mind. The ending was rushed, but a happy one one the plus side.
August 25, 2017
Maybe three and a half stars. The female lead, Lindsey, was a little too Mary Sue and a little too bland. There was too much of that running off after only hearing half the story, which is a kind of tiresome cliché. But on the whole, it was an easy, breezy summer book that didn't require a whole lot of brain cells and was fairly enjoyable.
January 18, 2015
A great read!! Not what I expected and pleasantly surprised.
June 23, 2015
I really enjoyed this book. I enjoyed the male character, but the female character not so much. She seemed too childish.
October 18, 2018
It’s funny how the word “obligated” can pop up in an epilogue and totally ruin a book for you.
October 4, 2019
I thought the book was alright but I didn't really connect with the characters & I found Lindsey to be annoying. I've read other books by this author which I've really enjoyed, just not this one.
July 2, 2017
Love this story
What a great story of heartfelt love, redemption, forgiveness and second chances. I loved Lindsay's character and how she learned to face her fears and grow in confidence. I loved Levi's character and how he gave in to learning to trust and love.
Jamie Beck, I do believe I have now read all your books and can safely say your stories get into my heart. I can't wait for your next book in August!
What a great story of heartfelt love, redemption, forgiveness and second chances. I loved Lindsay's character and how she learned to face her fears and grow in confidence. I loved Levi's character and how he gave in to learning to trust and love.
Jamie Beck, I do believe I have now read all your books and can safely say your stories get into my heart. I can't wait for your next book in August!
June 4, 2019
Awesome Book! The kind that makes you feel everything the characters do and more. A fabulous read! A great break when you need one. .......................
Awesome Book! The kind that makes you feel everything the characters do and more. A fabulous read! A great break when you need one. .......................
Awesome Book! The kind that makes you feel everything the characters do and more. A fabulous read! A great break when you need one. .......................
June 5, 2017
My Musings
Another emotionally charged romance by Jamie Beck. This is one rollercoaster ride. Really loved the hero! He rose above neglect and abandonment and didn't let it get him down. Happy reading 📚!
Another emotionally charged romance by Jamie Beck. This is one rollercoaster ride. Really loved the hero! He rose above neglect and abandonment and didn't let it get him down. Happy reading 📚!
January 31, 2019
Cute but
Cute book but it took me forever to get into. I almost stopped reading. Characters are cute and the story did turn out really cute.
Cute book but it took me forever to get into. I almost stopped reading. Characters are cute and the story did turn out really cute.
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