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Brush Strokes
Art student, Olivia Banks, was living her dream at an exclusive school when everything came crashing down around her. Now back in the small town she grew up in, she's forced to spend her senior year at her old school where she's known as the 'freak', all because she'd rather focus on her painting than the trivial drama of high school. But things aren't the same as they were when she left. And the one thing that is turning her life upside down the most just happens to be the resident bad boy, Colt Morgan. Her senior year was supposed to fly by so she could pack up and leave again, but what happens when there's suddenly a reason to want to stay?
*17+ MATURE YA / New Adult. This book contains strong language and some sexual content. For mature audiences.
*17+ MATURE YA / New Adult. This book contains strong language and some sexual content. For mature audiences.
264 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 1, 2014
72 people are currently reading
646 people want to read
About the author
Janelle Stalder
29 books379 followersJanelle Stalder was born and raised in Brampton, Ontario. At an early age she developed a love for literature. Her debut novel, Eden, was the first book in a series of four, released in September of 2011. Since then she has released an Adult Dystopian Romance series, the New World Series, hitting the best sellers list on Amazon. She has also released a Mature YA/NA novel, Brush Strokes, that stayed on the best sellers list for contemporary romance for sixteen straight weeks. She is a strong supporter of other independent authors and loves to interact with her readers.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 55 reviews
May 5, 2014
Brush Strokes Review on K-Books
"You touch her and I'll break you're hands."
I have been such a huge Janelle Stalder fan since I read her debut novel, Eden. It blew me away and since that day I have been devouring each and every book than Janelle puts out. Whether it be fantasy or dystopia, YA or NA Janelle was fast becoming one of my all time favourite authors... and then came her first ever contemporary novel... and Janelle is definitely one of my favourite authors of all time. I really can't figure out why Janelle hasn't wrote a contemporary novel before now... she is definitely one of the best in the genre if Brush Strokes is anything to go by.
Olivia had everything. The perfect life. She was living the dream at a prestigious art school and nothing could be better. But then everything came crashing down and she is suddenly faced with her senior year back at her old school where she is dubbed as the freak just because she is different. But everything isn't the same. resident bad boy and next door neighbour, Colt, who Olivia has had a crush on forever is actually noticing that she exists. Can she trust the womanizer to actually be different with her? Or will she end up with a broken heart?
I absolutely loved every single second of this book. Once again Janelle's excellent writing style and characterisation drew me in right from the start and I just couldn't put this book down. Janelle is so amazing and she has just proved that she can write absolutely anything and just be amazing. Brush Strokes is no different. It completely takes over your life and you will find yourself putting everything on your to-do list to one side until you have devoured this book in it's entirety in one sitting.
Janelle's characters are all fantastic and Olivia and Colt are no different. What I loved the most about them is that they both have pretty bad pasts but none of them are really traumatic. What you find in the majority of NA Contemporary novels is that the girl will have a really traumatic thing that has happened to her so I found it really refreshing that Olivia didn't. I also found it really refreshing that Colt has a bad past. It's very rare to find the guy having a bad past too and I loved that. It really made both characters really relatable, because they weren't perfect... but that in it's own way makes them perfect characters.
I loved Brush Strokes so much. It was just absolutely amazing. It had everything that you would want in a contemporary romance novel. It was sweet and flirty, sexy and swoony and packed full of heart-racing romance. I loved that Janelle had an arty influence right the way through the book, not only with Olivia but by putting a art-related quote at the start of each chapter. I absolutely loved reading them.
The ending of this book will have your mind-spinning. I had figured it out right at the start of "that chapter" before it was revealed but I know that it had a lot of people taken by surprise and freaking out. It just proves how much of an incredible author Janelle is. If there is only one NA novel that you read this year make sure that it is Brush Strokes. It's utter perfection wrapped up in an exceptional written package. It will steal your heart and leave you breathless.
"I want to be able to walk up to you at school and kiss you until neither of us can think straight, and then do it again and again and again, throughout the entire day so that every damn person in that schools knows you're mine."
"You touch her and I'll break you're hands."
I have been such a huge Janelle Stalder fan since I read her debut novel, Eden. It blew me away and since that day I have been devouring each and every book than Janelle puts out. Whether it be fantasy or dystopia, YA or NA Janelle was fast becoming one of my all time favourite authors... and then came her first ever contemporary novel... and Janelle is definitely one of my favourite authors of all time. I really can't figure out why Janelle hasn't wrote a contemporary novel before now... she is definitely one of the best in the genre if Brush Strokes is anything to go by.
Olivia had everything. The perfect life. She was living the dream at a prestigious art school and nothing could be better. But then everything came crashing down and she is suddenly faced with her senior year back at her old school where she is dubbed as the freak just because she is different. But everything isn't the same. resident bad boy and next door neighbour, Colt, who Olivia has had a crush on forever is actually noticing that she exists. Can she trust the womanizer to actually be different with her? Or will she end up with a broken heart?
I absolutely loved every single second of this book. Once again Janelle's excellent writing style and characterisation drew me in right from the start and I just couldn't put this book down. Janelle is so amazing and she has just proved that she can write absolutely anything and just be amazing. Brush Strokes is no different. It completely takes over your life and you will find yourself putting everything on your to-do list to one side until you have devoured this book in it's entirety in one sitting.
Janelle's characters are all fantastic and Olivia and Colt are no different. What I loved the most about them is that they both have pretty bad pasts but none of them are really traumatic. What you find in the majority of NA Contemporary novels is that the girl will have a really traumatic thing that has happened to her so I found it really refreshing that Olivia didn't. I also found it really refreshing that Colt has a bad past. It's very rare to find the guy having a bad past too and I loved that. It really made both characters really relatable, because they weren't perfect... but that in it's own way makes them perfect characters.
I loved Brush Strokes so much. It was just absolutely amazing. It had everything that you would want in a contemporary romance novel. It was sweet and flirty, sexy and swoony and packed full of heart-racing romance. I loved that Janelle had an arty influence right the way through the book, not only with Olivia but by putting a art-related quote at the start of each chapter. I absolutely loved reading them.
The ending of this book will have your mind-spinning. I had figured it out right at the start of "that chapter" before it was revealed but I know that it had a lot of people taken by surprise and freaking out. It just proves how much of an incredible author Janelle is. If there is only one NA novel that you read this year make sure that it is Brush Strokes. It's utter perfection wrapped up in an exceptional written package. It will steal your heart and leave you breathless.
"I want to be able to walk up to you at school and kiss you until neither of us can think straight, and then do it again and again and again, throughout the entire day so that every damn person in that schools knows you're mine."
May 2, 2014
Istyria book blog ~ B's world of enchanted books
4.5 stars
Okay. The first half of this book I was constantly saying: 'Just kiss already!!' The next 20-30% I was saying: 'Stop being idiots, make up and kiss already!!' and then my brain exploded and I died.
Olivia Banks just returned from an exclusive school to her small hometown, forced to spend her senior year at her old school. But not everything is as she remembered. Suddenly two guys are interested in her, one of which is the resident bad boy Colt Morgan. Her plan was to go through senior year and then pack up and leave again. But it seems like Colt is not going to let that happen.
First off, don't let the blurb mislead you! I thought there would be a huge thing with Olivia and why she had to leave, but there is not. Something does happen, but it doesn't have anything to do with that. I asked Janelle if I was missing something, but she admitted she's just not good at writing blurbs. And honestly, who is? Anyway, that doesn't matter. I just wanted to let you guys know and get that out of the way so I can gush about this book for the rest of the review.
Is the story super original and fresh? Probably not. It's hard to find something fresh and original in this genre. I've said it before and I'll say it again: it doesn't matter that the basic story is the same, as long as it's executed well I don't care. And yes, Janelle did get it right. This is her first New Adult Contemporary Romance and it is amazing. It's hard to go from fantasy and dystopian to good old contemporary. Believe me, I know. But it's really really good! The writing is great, like I expected from Janelle. And god that ending. My brain just exploded. DON'T click on that spoiler! I mean it. If you have not read this book yet, do not read it. I need your brain to explode too.
I loved the characters in this book, even though I just wanted to punch them at times for being idiots. I loooved Olivia. She's so much like me. She's not very social, shy, insecure,... I can totally relate to that. She's practically me. Except for the art. I suck at art, I really do. I adored Ella, Olivia's best friend. And I'm so excited to read the next book, which is about her! She reminded me a bit of my best friend Stephanie. Rannon was also cool, but you know... Colt. He's not the typical bad boy to be honest. Especially when it comes to Olivia. He's so giddy around her. He's had a crush on her for years and I just love him. He made me giggle a lot.
Obviously the romance was amazing. It made me sooooooo frustrated! For the most part I just wanted them to kiss already! And then I wanted them to stop being idiots! I was on the edge of my seat and I didn't stop reading. Seriously. I'm writing this right after reading this and my mouth is all dry because I haven't gotten out of my chair for hours. My butt hurts like hell and it's 1am. That's how good this is.
Brush Strokes is one hell of a contemporary debut. I can't wait to read Ella's story! If you haven't read anything by Janelle Stalder yet, you really have to! She has an awesome fantasy series, an amazing dystopian series and now a fantastic contemporary series. So choose one and start reading.
May 30, 2014
Quick review:
Cover: Pretty
Rating: R
Thumbs Up: 4.5
Overall: A really good read
Characters: Well Done
Plot: Falling in love with the bad boy next door
Page Turner: Yes
Series Cont.? Yes
Recommend: Yes
Book Boyfriend: Colt
SUMMARY (50 words or less)
You’re going to love this book. It’s a YA book because it’s set in high school. It’s a NA book because of the maturity level. No matter it’s just a good read. And you’ll love it because even though Olivia’s the artist, it’s Colt who paints love across her heart.
For a full review and yummy pic, see my blog post at:
http://mybookboyfriend.blogspot.com/2...
Cover: Pretty
Rating: R
Thumbs Up: 4.5
Overall: A really good read
Characters: Well Done
Plot: Falling in love with the bad boy next door
Page Turner: Yes
Series Cont.? Yes
Recommend: Yes
Book Boyfriend: Colt
SUMMARY (50 words or less)
You’re going to love this book. It’s a YA book because it’s set in high school. It’s a NA book because of the maturity level. No matter it’s just a good read. And you’ll love it because even though Olivia’s the artist, it’s Colt who paints love across her heart.
For a full review and yummy pic, see my blog post at:
http://mybookboyfriend.blogspot.com/2...
May 7, 2014
I... That was a... rabble, rabble, rabble. Gah! I can't say a damn thing right now without spoilers. No, wait- it's New Adult, that's something that's not spoilery. Ummm... bad boy with tattoos and peircings... Check. Great BFF - Check. VERY interesting male BFF that is quite promising - Check. Passionate kisses - Check, Check, Check! A beginning that punched me in the gut and hooked me in it's clutches - Check. Not just a check on that beginning, more like a heart-stopping paintball just went splat on my forehead.
At this moment in time, that's all I got, without giving it away for free, and this book pimp isn't a dime store slut. Sorry guys. Janelle, you clever, and evil author, you.
The author gifted me an advance copy in exchange for my thoughts, my opinions are my own and not for sale.
At this moment in time, that's all I got, without giving it away for free, and this book pimp isn't a dime store slut. Sorry guys. Janelle, you clever, and evil author, you.
The author gifted me an advance copy in exchange for my thoughts, my opinions are my own and not for sale.
July 12, 2014
Rating: 4/5
Janelle's first contemporary novel didn't disappoint me at all. I have a bbad past with the genre. I can never really get into contemporary novels so I mostly stay away from them, but once in a while one book will show up in my radar that I know I have to give it a try. Brush Strokes was it. I really enjoyed this little piece of heaven that Janelle created.
Brush Strokes is the story of Olivia and Colt. They are next door neighbors that always had a thing for each other but never even talked. So, when Olivia leaves to go to art school and then comes back, Colt decides it's time for a change. They start hanging out and getting to know each other and fall even harder in love. Their love story was really sweet, warm and fuzzy. But besides the two MCs Janelle did a great job with the secondary characters, especially the two best friends. They were a breath of fresh air, giving the story a more fun side.
All in all, this was a great story. I loved how each chapters started with a quote about art and how Colt and Olivia's story progressed and bloomed. Highly recommended for lovers of contemporary novels.
Janelle's first contemporary novel didn't disappoint me at all. I have a bbad past with the genre. I can never really get into contemporary novels so I mostly stay away from them, but once in a while one book will show up in my radar that I know I have to give it a try. Brush Strokes was it. I really enjoyed this little piece of heaven that Janelle created.
Brush Strokes is the story of Olivia and Colt. They are next door neighbors that always had a thing for each other but never even talked. So, when Olivia leaves to go to art school and then comes back, Colt decides it's time for a change. They start hanging out and getting to know each other and fall even harder in love. Their love story was really sweet, warm and fuzzy. But besides the two MCs Janelle did a great job with the secondary characters, especially the two best friends. They were a breath of fresh air, giving the story a more fun side.
All in all, this was a great story. I loved how each chapters started with a quote about art and how Colt and Olivia's story progressed and bloomed. Highly recommended for lovers of contemporary novels.
July 1, 2014
I love this book... Janelle took Brush Strokes and painted it all over my heart.
This is not a boy meets girl kind of book, this is boy's known girl, he's too scared to talked to girl. Girl crushes on boy... Girl...what?!?! Boy talks to girl once she moves back home? Colt *swoon worthy* He's had to grow up at a very young age, going from a family to living with a single mom was hard for him to see. He has a bad boy persona but he's kind and selfless in a way. Olivia, an artist who has had a crush on Colt, with the help of her bestie she comes out of her shell, and show him there is more to her then meets they eye.
They both have been observers of each others lives with out the other knowing. I love that Olivia encourages him to go to college and to let go of his self doubt... Colt, is a big softy when it coms to her, it's sweet as their love blooms. The lengths they go for one another is heart warming. This is an all around freaking great book to re-read again, and again. yes, I'll say it again GO...GET THIS BOOK.
This is not a boy meets girl kind of book, this is boy's known girl, he's too scared to talked to girl. Girl crushes on boy... Girl...what?!?! Boy talks to girl once she moves back home? Colt *swoon worthy* He's had to grow up at a very young age, going from a family to living with a single mom was hard for him to see. He has a bad boy persona but he's kind and selfless in a way. Olivia, an artist who has had a crush on Colt, with the help of her bestie she comes out of her shell, and show him there is more to her then meets they eye.
They both have been observers of each others lives with out the other knowing. I love that Olivia encourages him to go to college and to let go of his self doubt... Colt, is a big softy when it coms to her, it's sweet as their love blooms. The lengths they go for one another is heart warming. This is an all around freaking great book to re-read again, and again. yes, I'll say it again GO...GET THIS BOOK.
July 7, 2014
Genre: YA romance
Sensuality: PG
I sorta liked this since, sometimes, I dont mind a vapid Boy Meets Girl high school story, but I cant overlook the very mediocre writing. Lots of telling, not showing. No character development. Don't let the good reviews fool you.
Looks like there is a second book featuring a new couple but I am not sure I would be interested.
Rating: about 2.25
Sensuality: PG
I sorta liked this since, sometimes, I dont mind a vapid Boy Meets Girl high school story, but I cant overlook the very mediocre writing. Lots of telling, not showing. No character development. Don't let the good reviews fool you.
Looks like there is a second book featuring a new couple but I am not sure I would be interested.
Rating: about 2.25
June 2, 2014
5 Stars!
I love it! I love it! I love it! Can't wait to read the next book! Now I am a fan! :)
I love it! I love it! I love it! Can't wait to read the next book! Now I am a fan! :)
May 12, 2014
Source: From the Author
Format: Advance eGalley
Series: Standalone
Category: New Adult
Genre: Contemporary Romance
Ratings: 3.5 stars
Loved the new idea Janelle Stalder had for her New NA novel, Brush Strokes. It begins about an artist, Olivia Banks who never quite fit in excluding her drop dead good looks who would have any guy dropping to his knee, and yet she was still an anti-social freak. Meanwhile, tattooed, bad boy and hotly pierced Colt Morgan who had been watching from a good 20 feet away at the lovely daughter of Mr. Banks. Both seemed oblivious to how much they want each other and so no one made a move not until Olivia moved back into town after two years of studying art. She has transformed into more than just a drop dead beauty and so everyone wants her. But Colt says “Nobody touch her.” She doesn’t have plans to stay in this small town, but then she found a reason to WANT to stay.
“Doesn’t that man own a damn shirt?” I muttered with a huff.
“Dear God, I hope not,” Ella said on a sign, fanning herself with her hand.
I squealed when I finally got my hands on an arc. I forgot how Janelle Stalder writes phenomenally. The book isn’t perfect, but it is well-deserving of a high rating. I enjoyed a lot of the book’s predicaments and hot romance. I would always become overly excited once those two are stuck in one chapter, I knew what to expect. Colt had always seen Olivia more than as a beauty in the book well it was written there. I needed to be convinced more to why Colt even wanted her to begin with. From what I’ve read, he only saw how she was physically blessed with. I get that she’s pretty, but what else. After my frustration towards Colt I got to realize how perfect those two are together. He’s bad, she’s good. Opposites should attract and so it shall.
He pulled back with wide eyes.
“Who told you my middle name? I smiled.
“Your mother.”
“That wench,” he muttered leaning in again.
What made the romance a teeny bit unreal? The tug-of-war, perhaps. I might have gotten a little bit confused with Colt’s intentions, he says he can’t have her yet he bullies everyone that would dare gawk at her. So back to flirting then it returns to another I can’t have you conversation. I was becoming weary of the idea of him being chivalrous, he wanted to save her from himself. He kinda did. His reasoning to why he pushed her away didn’t have me entirely convinced. I almost forgot to mention, Ella, she’s the best friend of Olivia. She’s very fun to read in Brush Strokes because of her awesome persona and bitch smack-talk. I love that she has Ella’s back all the time, but some times she can’t give the best advice. (She goes back on her word.) There was a time when Olivia was conflicted whether she should have Colt or not, Ella is not the answer because it seems she supports either of what Olivia chooses. What was the point of having this girl-talk? Eeeeeh!
I slowly looked over my shoulder at him, and almost choked on my own breathe. Of course he had to be shirtless.
Some conflicts were not resolved properly like Colt’s relationship with his father. I was able to catch a glimpse of Colt’s past, but hardly any answers at all. I wasn’t surprised by the secret his father has kept from him, but that didn’t stop my inquisitiveness. I needed answers.
“I hate you more than I hate green Skittles,” I said in a hushed voice. Her hand gripped her chest as those damn puppy eyes came out.
“Ouch,” she said. “That hurts, Them’s strong words, Ollie. Strong words.”
For what it’s worth, I got to like the story in the end. I’m not fully sated with how the book had ended. It could have ended in a different manner, I would like to change a few parts, it seemed like the story is unfinished. It isn’t ready to end yet for me. I’d like to see a story based on Ella and Rannon, and maybe a novella for Colt and Olivia.
May 10, 2014
I don't think my heart will stop racing....I don't think this is healthy.
First warning: I was given this in exchange for an honest review, as an ARC and all that ness <3 And I gotta be honest in my reviews ^.^
Song Choice: "Done All Wrong" by Black Rebel Motorcycle Club, "Sail" by AWOLNATION, "All of Me" John Legend, "I miss you" Blink 182
First thoughts: Okay so i should warn everyone that I am not a big contemporary fiction reader, and to be honest it takes authors like Janelle who I love everything they have produced in the past, to get to me even read an ARC contemp. I don't accept them because I fear that I will get bored and then i will feel like an ass for not finishing. That was not the case here, far from it. I practically read this in a day and i loved every moment of it. This was amazing. Janelle made me fall head over heels for all of her characters, as she always does, and haha its good to know she can write a completely just bad, gross character like Reagan, for reals. I shudder just thinking about her.
Thoughts on Plot: I loved this. So I thought it was going to be college, I was wrong it was high school, please don't let that turn you off from the book, when Janelle Stalder writes main characters that are so immature that make me want to punch someone in the face, I am sure that hell will freeze over. There are characters that are the embodiment of high school but its needed, and only furthers to make the story better. Okay stop with characters becca that comes later! The story, so while I don't read a lot of contemporary fiction i think this was brilliantly original. I enjoyed that it was a story about two people trying to figure things out, they were trying to find themselves, and figure out their first loves. I mean they were passionate, they fought, they didn't just give up. Ahh so awesome. I was really excited it wasn't lets start them right off the bat dating and dealing with the landmines of high school. I really enjoyed how this was a really character driven book. I do enjoy action, i do but this was so amazing because it was an action love story. It wasn't lets fall in love because we have to, its because we chose too, and lets show the progression. This was unbelievably sexy, and not in the lets just shove sex in your face, nah, it was the little things, the words that were said.
Characters:
I love Janelle's characters always.
Olivia: I really liked her. I liked her because she felt real to me. She had all the thoughts, and self-conscious issues all women have had once in their life- and don't you DARE give me those rolly eyes and say, well i never did because you would be down right lying! its okay, its a part of life, its when you over come them and realize how kickass you really are that matters. And I think that Olivia while lived in self-conscious land with us, she also never wanted to validate herself to be accepted, she was happy enough with who she was, she grew, and she was a totally amazing MC.
Colt: Honestly? I felt this was more of his story than it was Olivia's. I think Olivia was the supporter here and that wasn't a bad thing at all. I think Colt had the most growing to do in this book, I think he saw himself in a way that only degraded himself. He wasn't a bad guy, he just had tough choices and a life that wasn't so easy. Everyone was so alright with seeing his tattoos, and oh so sexy piercings that they didn't see him. Well someone did ;) Olivia. Everyone was okay with just judging him, and only pounding into him that is who he always would be. But there is so much more to him. LOVED. LOVED HIM. and talk about knowing how to treat a woman ^.^ ;) Alright I'll stop being gross.
Ella: Adored her. She was all sass and i cannot wait to see what she has in store for us. For reals ^.^ hehehe I feel like she a tornado that can't be stopped.
The ending: :| beautiful. ^.^
Check me out here if you want to see more Becca-ness: http://theviolethourbookreviews.wordp...
First warning: I was given this in exchange for an honest review, as an ARC and all that ness <3 And I gotta be honest in my reviews ^.^
Song Choice: "Done All Wrong" by Black Rebel Motorcycle Club, "Sail" by AWOLNATION, "All of Me" John Legend, "I miss you" Blink 182
First thoughts: Okay so i should warn everyone that I am not a big contemporary fiction reader, and to be honest it takes authors like Janelle who I love everything they have produced in the past, to get to me even read an ARC contemp. I don't accept them because I fear that I will get bored and then i will feel like an ass for not finishing. That was not the case here, far from it. I practically read this in a day and i loved every moment of it. This was amazing. Janelle made me fall head over heels for all of her characters, as she always does, and haha its good to know she can write a completely just bad, gross character like Reagan, for reals. I shudder just thinking about her.
Thoughts on Plot: I loved this. So I thought it was going to be college, I was wrong it was high school, please don't let that turn you off from the book, when Janelle Stalder writes main characters that are so immature that make me want to punch someone in the face, I am sure that hell will freeze over. There are characters that are the embodiment of high school but its needed, and only furthers to make the story better. Okay stop with characters becca that comes later! The story, so while I don't read a lot of contemporary fiction i think this was brilliantly original. I enjoyed that it was a story about two people trying to figure things out, they were trying to find themselves, and figure out their first loves. I mean they were passionate, they fought, they didn't just give up. Ahh so awesome. I was really excited it wasn't lets start them right off the bat dating and dealing with the landmines of high school. I really enjoyed how this was a really character driven book. I do enjoy action, i do but this was so amazing because it was an action love story. It wasn't lets fall in love because we have to, its because we chose too, and lets show the progression. This was unbelievably sexy, and not in the lets just shove sex in your face, nah, it was the little things, the words that were said.
Characters:
I love Janelle's characters always.
Olivia: I really liked her. I liked her because she felt real to me. She had all the thoughts, and self-conscious issues all women have had once in their life- and don't you DARE give me those rolly eyes and say, well i never did because you would be down right lying! its okay, its a part of life, its when you over come them and realize how kickass you really are that matters. And I think that Olivia while lived in self-conscious land with us, she also never wanted to validate herself to be accepted, she was happy enough with who she was, she grew, and she was a totally amazing MC.
Colt: Honestly? I felt this was more of his story than it was Olivia's. I think Olivia was the supporter here and that wasn't a bad thing at all. I think Colt had the most growing to do in this book, I think he saw himself in a way that only degraded himself. He wasn't a bad guy, he just had tough choices and a life that wasn't so easy. Everyone was so alright with seeing his tattoos, and oh so sexy piercings that they didn't see him. Well someone did ;) Olivia. Everyone was okay with just judging him, and only pounding into him that is who he always would be. But there is so much more to him. LOVED. LOVED HIM. and talk about knowing how to treat a woman ^.^ ;) Alright I'll stop being gross.
Ella: Adored her. She was all sass and i cannot wait to see what she has in store for us. For reals ^.^ hehehe I feel like she a tornado that can't be stopped.
The ending: :| beautiful. ^.^
Check me out here if you want to see more Becca-ness: http://theviolethourbookreviews.wordp...
June 14, 2014
Olivia was unnoticeable before moving away for two years, known as the freak who paints. Now she’s returned for her senior year and suddenly everyone is being nice to her and she’s got the two hottest guys fighting for her attention; the school star Jake and the bad boy next door, Colt. Olivia has to adjust to the attention and make some decisions that could end up in heartbreak.
Olivia is a shy, artsy, loving, caring girl, why everyone ignored her besides her best friend Ella is beyond me. From the descriptions of her she’s beautiful in my mind and she’d be an awesome friend. Once she builds her self-confidence she really is amazing. I love how she reacts to Colt and the bit bye ays she gets back at him, really made me giggle ALOT!
Reagan and her girls annoyed the hell out of me but don’t the school bitches (pardon my French) always do that? Every time she appeared in the story it made me want to slap her silly little face, and Jenn was almost as bad but then without them the story wouldn’t have been as good so no complaints from me, just some muttered cursing ;)
Colt *sigh* sorry! Colt is the bad boy next door, covered in tattoos and body piercing he seems like your typical bad boy, going through the ladies, never getting attached but that is sooooo not the case when it comes to Olive. I loved how he was with her, they seemed perfect for each other and I can’t believe how long they danced around each other for. Just like, Jesus! Make out already… Ya know?
Haha but I’m just impatient and I loved the way it all happened. It wasn’t rushed into and it didn’t feel dragged out either. The pacing was great and wasn’t boring for me at all. I expected great things from this book and great is what I got. Janelle’s writing sucked me in and kept me captivated right until the end and I can’t wait to read Ella’s story, like can I have it now please? Ahhhhh there’s me being impatient again but I seriously can’t wait to get my hands on it!
**A copy was provided for review purposes**
Original review at: http://morphybooksblog.wordpress.com/...
Olivia is a shy, artsy, loving, caring girl, why everyone ignored her besides her best friend Ella is beyond me. From the descriptions of her she’s beautiful in my mind and she’d be an awesome friend. Once she builds her self-confidence she really is amazing. I love how she reacts to Colt and the bit bye ays she gets back at him, really made me giggle ALOT!
Reagan and her girls annoyed the hell out of me but don’t the school bitches (pardon my French) always do that? Every time she appeared in the story it made me want to slap her silly little face, and Jenn was almost as bad but then without them the story wouldn’t have been as good so no complaints from me, just some muttered cursing ;)
Colt *sigh* sorry! Colt is the bad boy next door, covered in tattoos and body piercing he seems like your typical bad boy, going through the ladies, never getting attached but that is sooooo not the case when it comes to Olive. I loved how he was with her, they seemed perfect for each other and I can’t believe how long they danced around each other for. Just like, Jesus! Make out already… Ya know?
Haha but I’m just impatient and I loved the way it all happened. It wasn’t rushed into and it didn’t feel dragged out either. The pacing was great and wasn’t boring for me at all. I expected great things from this book and great is what I got. Janelle’s writing sucked me in and kept me captivated right until the end and I can’t wait to read Ella’s story, like can I have it now please? Ahhhhh there’s me being impatient again but I seriously can’t wait to get my hands on it!
**A copy was provided for review purposes**
Original review at: http://morphybooksblog.wordpress.com/...
May 9, 2014
This was a really good steamy young adult romance novel that I was lucky enough to receive an ARC of in exchange for my honest opinion. This book was amazing and the romantic tension was so much that I was literally fanning myself at times!! I also love that the book is from both Olivia and Colt's perspectives. Normally I like the mystery of what the other people are thinking, but I find it is a great touch in this romance.
Olivia moves back home from a prestigious art school for her senior year as her parents can no longer affords tuition. When Olivia left after her freshman year, she was known as a quiet artsy "freak". Needless to say, Olivia is dreading returning to her former high school. The only bright spots are her best friend and eye candy, bad boy neighbor Colt. She has never really spoken to Colt, but since his family moved in next door she has always had a thing for him.
When she moves home, she is in for a surprise. Olivia is like the new toy back in town and boys all around are interested in her.
This review and others can be found on my blog Free Bookster.
Favorite Quotes:
"Looking directly at Colt Morgan was like staring into the sun. One could go blind from over-exposure if they stared too long.
I just stopped walking all together at the front of the class as our eyes locked. My heart started racing and I hated it for that. If I didn't need the damn thing to live, I would have told it to take a hike. Traitor.
No one tanned that much and wore frosted lipstick can ever really be trusted to look out for anyone but themselves.
The grin that spread across his face had my stomach rolling. He shoved his hands in the back of his pants, rocking on his heels. I couldn't stop myself from looking at that smile and the way his lip ring wrapped around the full bottom lip of his mouth. Damn him and his stupid ring, and his stupid silver eyes, and his stupid hair and the way it always looks messy but good, and those stupid tattoos and stupid muscles.
Olivia moves back home from a prestigious art school for her senior year as her parents can no longer affords tuition. When Olivia left after her freshman year, she was known as a quiet artsy "freak". Needless to say, Olivia is dreading returning to her former high school. The only bright spots are her best friend and eye candy, bad boy neighbor Colt. She has never really spoken to Colt, but since his family moved in next door she has always had a thing for him.
When she moves home, she is in for a surprise. Olivia is like the new toy back in town and boys all around are interested in her.
This review and others can be found on my blog Free Bookster.
Favorite Quotes:
"Looking directly at Colt Morgan was like staring into the sun. One could go blind from over-exposure if they stared too long.
I just stopped walking all together at the front of the class as our eyes locked. My heart started racing and I hated it for that. If I didn't need the damn thing to live, I would have told it to take a hike. Traitor.
No one tanned that much and wore frosted lipstick can ever really be trusted to look out for anyone but themselves.
The grin that spread across his face had my stomach rolling. He shoved his hands in the back of his pants, rocking on his heels. I couldn't stop myself from looking at that smile and the way his lip ring wrapped around the full bottom lip of his mouth. Damn him and his stupid ring, and his stupid silver eyes, and his stupid hair and the way it always looks messy but good, and those stupid tattoos and stupid muscles.
November 5, 2015
I read this book a lot of months ago and I love how I remember so many details and how after finishing it I wanted to give it a 5 stars. But somehow I missed updating it on my profile. So now, glad with the knowledge of how much it sticked to me, I'm giving it mark it deserves. It really was a good NA story.
May 13, 2015
The tension between the main characters is through the roof. I loved the main characters! This book is a quick fun easy read!
August 3, 2018
You evil evil genius
Ok wow this story was actually really good! And the amazingly evil author gave me a scare there for a moment! Olivia and Colts story is so cute. Sexy bad boy and weird girl next door who loves to paint.
Ok wow this story was actually really good! And the amazingly evil author gave me a scare there for a moment! Olivia and Colts story is so cute. Sexy bad boy and weird girl next door who loves to paint.
October 15, 2018
Ok story. For some reason didnt do it for me.
January 21, 2015
Wow, Janelle did it again! She has such a way with words all her stories flow so easily. This time she decided to explore into contemporary and the result was great. I have to admit that the simplicity of the plot was the best part of everything. Basically it goes like this: boy and girl next door have been secretly stalking each other from afar during years, and finally gather the courage to talk and exploit their undying love. Throw in a little help from their friends, and you got yourself a great story. Simple, but cute and endearing. Plus, Janelle really knows how to toss some unexpected turns and add some strokes of her own originality, blending it all in some masterpiece. Just a quick heads up, she will fool you big time! And I loved it! So be prepared for whatever.
But what is really great about the story is that it works. It is fun, unexpected and believable. This could happen to anyone you know, and the best part is that you will get so easily lost in the romance; you won’t know what hit you. It is intense and moderate at the same time, and it honestly captures the strength and rush you feel when love as passionate as that strikes you.
It was easy to fell for these characters, especially because their relationships ringed so true to me. The loyalty, and teasing and frowning at each other, was pretty much every good friendship relationship out there. I have even met the type of pushy friend like Ella, though I liked her better, because she was sassy, straight forward and very reliable. I’m actually so glad we’ll be getting her story next, because honestly, I can’t wait to get me some more of this. Nonetheless, I wished I had known from the beginning this was going to be a series.
I also adored Rannon. Colt and he make such a great and fun pair to be around. Again, his loyalty simply won me over (yeah, loyalty is pretty big with me); not only to his friend, but the love they shared for each other extended to the unspoken duty of taking care of each other’s family as well. I really loved to see how they got each other’s back.
Last but not least, Olive and Colt, hot! I’ve already talked a bit about their relationship, so if you want to know more, read the book, it’s worth it.
I’ve said this so many times before, but I really am a sucker for dual points of view; and yet again I was proven right. When it is well done, like in this book, it adds something extra, because you get the whole story. It’s always important to get both sides of a story before truly understanding how things really happened, and that absolutely applied to this book.
In sum, awesome story, great characters, hot and sweet romance, great writing and some funny surprises equals a great book!
*Note: I received a free copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review, but my opinion was not biased in any way by this fact.
But what is really great about the story is that it works. It is fun, unexpected and believable. This could happen to anyone you know, and the best part is that you will get so easily lost in the romance; you won’t know what hit you. It is intense and moderate at the same time, and it honestly captures the strength and rush you feel when love as passionate as that strikes you.
It was easy to fell for these characters, especially because their relationships ringed so true to me. The loyalty, and teasing and frowning at each other, was pretty much every good friendship relationship out there. I have even met the type of pushy friend like Ella, though I liked her better, because she was sassy, straight forward and very reliable. I’m actually so glad we’ll be getting her story next, because honestly, I can’t wait to get me some more of this. Nonetheless, I wished I had known from the beginning this was going to be a series.
I also adored Rannon. Colt and he make such a great and fun pair to be around. Again, his loyalty simply won me over (yeah, loyalty is pretty big with me); not only to his friend, but the love they shared for each other extended to the unspoken duty of taking care of each other’s family as well. I really loved to see how they got each other’s back.
Last but not least, Olive and Colt, hot! I’ve already talked a bit about their relationship, so if you want to know more, read the book, it’s worth it.
I’ve said this so many times before, but I really am a sucker for dual points of view; and yet again I was proven right. When it is well done, like in this book, it adds something extra, because you get the whole story. It’s always important to get both sides of a story before truly understanding how things really happened, and that absolutely applied to this book.
In sum, awesome story, great characters, hot and sweet romance, great writing and some funny surprises equals a great book!
*Note: I received a free copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review, but my opinion was not biased in any way by this fact.
May 24, 2014
Not only is Janelle one of my fav authors but she's now dipped into the New Adult genre and totally, utterly and completely won me over for good!
I will never say no to anything this woman writes! Her words make you believe and hope and dream for her characters.
Her intro into this genre with Brush Strokes is perfect!
Colt and Olivia have been neighbors since they were young but Olivia went off to an art school during the first few of her high school years. Now she's back home for her senior year. Olivia is shy and would much prefer to stay in and paint but her BBF Ella is not about to let her end her final year in HS as a hermit.
Olivia has been away for years so no one recognizes her when she comes back to school. She's like a new toy and everyone wants to play with her. Except she only has eyes for Colt and little does she know, same goes for him. He's only had eyes for her. They are polar opposites but something draws the two of them together.
Colt's had it hard. His dad gave him his pride and joy and his down fall all in a matter of a day. It brings Colt down to his knees losing his dad but he puts all that hurt into a car that he will one day restore to its full glory.
The two dance are each other part of the summer but of course Colt gets a wild hair up his ass and things dont go as planned. Things fall apart just as fast and now they are back to ground zero.
Now school has started and they do the same song and dance but now theres a 3rd party in the mix. Colts not gonna have that. He's gotta get his act together and win Olivia back, right? Its not that simple. She wants him to really work for it. He cant just act like a jerk one minute and expect to win her back in the next without really showing some effort. Let the wooing commence :)
But this is high school. There is a multitude of cattiness and bitchiness going on and then some. And of course things arent as they seem.
Can they get passed all that and find happiness?
I really enjoyed reading this book. I think there could have been more about Colt and Olivia, I'm waiting for a novella of the two :) but overall this was a great story of finding love outside your comfort zone.
I highly recommend.
I will never say no to anything this woman writes! Her words make you believe and hope and dream for her characters.
Her intro into this genre with Brush Strokes is perfect!
Colt and Olivia have been neighbors since they were young but Olivia went off to an art school during the first few of her high school years. Now she's back home for her senior year. Olivia is shy and would much prefer to stay in and paint but her BBF Ella is not about to let her end her final year in HS as a hermit.
Olivia has been away for years so no one recognizes her when she comes back to school. She's like a new toy and everyone wants to play with her. Except she only has eyes for Colt and little does she know, same goes for him. He's only had eyes for her. They are polar opposites but something draws the two of them together.
Colt's had it hard. His dad gave him his pride and joy and his down fall all in a matter of a day. It brings Colt down to his knees losing his dad but he puts all that hurt into a car that he will one day restore to its full glory.
The two dance are each other part of the summer but of course Colt gets a wild hair up his ass and things dont go as planned. Things fall apart just as fast and now they are back to ground zero.
Now school has started and they do the same song and dance but now theres a 3rd party in the mix. Colts not gonna have that. He's gotta get his act together and win Olivia back, right? Its not that simple. She wants him to really work for it. He cant just act like a jerk one minute and expect to win her back in the next without really showing some effort. Let the wooing commence :)
But this is high school. There is a multitude of cattiness and bitchiness going on and then some. And of course things arent as they seem.
Can they get passed all that and find happiness?
I really enjoyed reading this book. I think there could have been more about Colt and Olivia, I'm waiting for a novella of the two :) but overall this was a great story of finding love outside your comfort zone.
I highly recommend.
December 31, 2014
A pretty good romance read. This was a sweet long-time acquaintances become lovers story. I loved how there was such a funny and usual twist to the end. The story took a while to get going but both Colt and Olivia were interesting characters and I enjoyed getting to know them. The alternating points of view were good at providing insights to the way both of them were feeling at different points in the story. It took Olivia and Colt a long time to finally get together - something I was greatly frustrated by for most of the book - but to be honest their relationship is really the crux of the whole story so I guess it makes sense. For some reason I had some suspicion that Olivia had some dark secret reason she went away to art school (other than her love of art and desire to get away from the horrible social scene at her high school) but as it turned out that wasn't the case. There were allusions to some secret of Colt's for most of the story and when it finally came out I laughed so hard at how different it was to everything Olivia suspected. That chapter where Olivia was imagining everything that Colt could be hiding was so cheezily over-dramatized it had me rolling my eyes while smiling. It was definitely an unexpected dramatic twist to end to the story. I'd recommend this book if you're looking for a good high-school romance read to kill a few hours with. It's well-written and entertaining and I know I'll be looking into some of the author's other books in the future.
May 27, 2014
After being away for two years, Olivia is back home for her senior year of high school - something she is not looking forward to. Before she left she was the quiet, shy girl no one paid much attention to, except to make fun of for her. Now that she's back she just wants to get through this year, which doesn't sound so difficult. Until next door neighbor bad boy extraordinaire decides he's waited around in the wings long enough and it's finally time to go after what he's always wanted…Olivia.
I liked the characters in this book. Olivia is pretty down to earth. For the most part, she does not care much what other people think of her. She has her art and her best friend, Ella. What more could a girl ask for? Ella is a fun loving character and I am looking forward to reading her story. She is who she is and doesn't make apologies for it. She tells it like it is, and if she offends you, too bad. Then there is Colt. Colt thinks of himself as the bad boy type, and he is to a point, but he's also got this soft side, especially when it comes to Olivia. And I have to mention, Rannon. He is Colt's best friend. He brings a lot of fun to the story. I hope we get to see more of him later.
Overall this is a fun story with a lot of high-school drama, art, and swimming in cold lakes. I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
I liked the characters in this book. Olivia is pretty down to earth. For the most part, she does not care much what other people think of her. She has her art and her best friend, Ella. What more could a girl ask for? Ella is a fun loving character and I am looking forward to reading her story. She is who she is and doesn't make apologies for it. She tells it like it is, and if she offends you, too bad. Then there is Colt. Colt thinks of himself as the bad boy type, and he is to a point, but he's also got this soft side, especially when it comes to Olivia. And I have to mention, Rannon. He is Colt's best friend. He brings a lot of fun to the story. I hope we get to see more of him later.
Overall this is a fun story with a lot of high-school drama, art, and swimming in cold lakes. I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
May 27, 2014
Books told from the first person point of view often leave half of the story untold. One of the ways that authors get around that is by alternating the point of view between the main characters and that can often feel like “cheating”. Not so in Janelle Stalder’s novel, Brush Strokes. Ms. Stalder alternates between the first person points of view of Olivia Banks, a senior in high school who has long been known as the “weird art girl”, and Colt Morgan, a bad boy who lives next door to Olivia. Filled with many of the tropes found in romance novels (such as the hero and heroine both like each other a lot more than the other believes), Brush Strokes does not come across as clichéd because of the introduction of Olivia’s art, and through her art, Olivia discovers that worst-case scenarios aren’t always what they first seem to be.
I thoroughly enjoyed this novel, and I look forward to Ella’s story. The characters are believable and the story had enough twists and complications to keep my attention throughout. Because the characters are believable, and because many teenagers are finding themselves in sexual situations, I would caution that this book be read only by mature readers 16+. The sexual situations are not extremely graphic, but they are present. The book does have a non-cliffhanger (yay!), happily-ever-after ending.
I thoroughly enjoyed this novel, and I look forward to Ella’s story. The characters are believable and the story had enough twists and complications to keep my attention throughout. Because the characters are believable, and because many teenagers are finding themselves in sexual situations, I would caution that this book be read only by mature readers 16+. The sexual situations are not extremely graphic, but they are present. The book does have a non-cliffhanger (yay!), happily-ever-after ending.
August 26, 2016
Adorable! This is a hard book to review without giving it all away.
Olivia is an artist who has always been insecure about herself. She’s had the school reputation for being the weird art girl and dreads returning to a world where she is invisible. Colt is the resident bad boy complete with tats and piercings who has always secretly crushed on Olivia. Olivia returns after 2 years of being away in school and BAM! All the feelings and emotions these two had hid away come gushing out. Both see past the facade of the other.
I do wish we would’ve gotten more of a backstory on Olivia and her stint at art school. Why did she go away? Why is it that in 2 years she never really came back? Also found it odd that her parents were never around. Also, the ending felt disconnected from the rest of the story and left me wanting more. Thus the reason for 4 stars instead of 5. Not sure what the plans are for the rest of the series but I hope we get to catch up with these two again.
Overall this was a great new adult read full of some angst, misunderstandings, hot moments, laughter, growing up and love. Lots of love. 4 solid stars!
ARC provided by Janelle Stalder in exchange for an honest review.
Thanks Janelle!
Olivia is an artist who has always been insecure about herself. She’s had the school reputation for being the weird art girl and dreads returning to a world where she is invisible. Colt is the resident bad boy complete with tats and piercings who has always secretly crushed on Olivia. Olivia returns after 2 years of being away in school and BAM! All the feelings and emotions these two had hid away come gushing out. Both see past the facade of the other.
I do wish we would’ve gotten more of a backstory on Olivia and her stint at art school. Why did she go away? Why is it that in 2 years she never really came back? Also found it odd that her parents were never around. Also, the ending felt disconnected from the rest of the story and left me wanting more. Thus the reason for 4 stars instead of 5. Not sure what the plans are for the rest of the series but I hope we get to catch up with these two again.
Overall this was a great new adult read full of some angst, misunderstandings, hot moments, laughter, growing up and love. Lots of love. 4 solid stars!
ARC provided by Janelle Stalder in exchange for an honest review.
Thanks Janelle!
September 11, 2014
3.5 stars
This is your typical high school book. Nerdy (but beautiful) girl, falls in love/lust with his bad boy neighbor. Add to it a cool best friend on the boys side, a cool (although pushy) friend on the girls side and the typical jock.
What I liked about this book were the H/h. The heroine sounded as someone i would like to hang out with and the same goes for the hero (whose relationship with his bf and mother I loved). And it's not the first book I read from Janelle Stalder and I really like her writing voice
However it is the same story we have read lots of time. The jock, the bitch@ girls, the HS counselor.... Too many stereotypes.
This is one of those books were I have a long debate with myself whether to give it 3 stars or 4. I know I won't remember this book in a couple of weeks and that screams a 3 star to me, however no cliffhanger and for what I think its the second time in my life I took a books price into consideration. Paying less than 2$ for a book makes a difference. It tells me that the author its conscious about being an author with some growth to do and I respect that.
This is your typical high school book. Nerdy (but beautiful) girl, falls in love/lust with his bad boy neighbor. Add to it a cool best friend on the boys side, a cool (although pushy) friend on the girls side and the typical jock.
What I liked about this book were the H/h. The heroine sounded as someone i would like to hang out with and the same goes for the hero (whose relationship with his bf and mother I loved). And it's not the first book I read from Janelle Stalder and I really like her writing voice
However it is the same story we have read lots of time. The jock, the bitch@ girls, the HS counselor.... Too many stereotypes.
This is one of those books were I have a long debate with myself whether to give it 3 stars or 4. I know I won't remember this book in a couple of weeks and that screams a 3 star to me, however no cliffhanger and for what I think its the second time in my life I took a books price into consideration. Paying less than 2$ for a book makes a difference. It tells me that the author its conscious about being an author with some growth to do and I respect that.
January 10, 2015
Colt and Olivia have been next door neighbors forever and, though they’ve never really even talked have been attracted to the other for a long time. Olivia had been at a boarding school for two years, but had to come back after her junior year because her parents couldn’t afford it. Over the summer, Olivia and Colt finally talk and hang out a couple of times and it seems that they might finally get together when Colt just stops talking to Olivia because he thinks he’s not good enough for her. She, of course, doesn’t know this and is hurt because she thinks that he just decided she wasn’t interesting enough for him.
The thing was, this was like so many YA/NA books, the two main characters never talked to each other because one was too shy and the other felt he/she wasn’t good enough (usually the girl and guy, respectively) and there are several misunderstandings and one sees the other kissing, hanging out with, whatever, someone else, which makes that person go out with someone else. The writing was fine, though there were some weird spelling things, and this was fine as a beach or rainy day read, but it’s just not one that’s overly memorable.
The thing was, this was like so many YA/NA books, the two main characters never talked to each other because one was too shy and the other felt he/she wasn’t good enough (usually the girl and guy, respectively) and there are several misunderstandings and one sees the other kissing, hanging out with, whatever, someone else, which makes that person go out with someone else. The writing was fine, though there were some weird spelling things, and this was fine as a beach or rainy day read, but it’s just not one that’s overly memorable.
June 6, 2014
As a fan of Janelle Stalder's I couldn't wait to get my hands on this novel, and I wasn't disappointed. Colt Morgan is a dreamy guy - and I wish guys had been around like him when I was in high school!
Olivia Banks is back home, and she's determined to fly under the radar for her Senior year and then escape as soon as she can. But her best friend makes that difficult, and not to mention, the guy next door - Colt Morgan. Olivia has been watching him for years, and he's been watching her. The tension between the two mounts and even I couldn't wait for them to declare their love for one another!
The book is a sweet high school romance that I loved living through these characters! A must read!
**Recommended for mature YA or 18+**
Olivia Banks is back home, and she's determined to fly under the radar for her Senior year and then escape as soon as she can. But her best friend makes that difficult, and not to mention, the guy next door - Colt Morgan. Olivia has been watching him for years, and he's been watching her. The tension between the two mounts and even I couldn't wait for them to declare their love for one another!
The book is a sweet high school romance that I loved living through these characters! A must read!
**Recommended for mature YA or 18+**
August 10, 2014
I've never read anything from this author before, but as with every book I read I liked the blurb so downloaded it. Overall I did enjoy the story but it's not as mature as I would've liked. I have no issue reading senior high school stories, in fact I loved Penelope Douglas' Fall Away series, but I found the language in this one a little babyish.
I don't know any self respecting 19 year old boys that would constantly refer to each other as 'best friends', so that didn't ring true as one example. And not much really happens in the story bar some false starts. It's definitely not as gritty as I would've liked either.
I'd say a good 3.5 stars and I'm in two minds if I'll read Ella's story next, I'll sample download it first I think.
I don't know any self respecting 19 year old boys that would constantly refer to each other as 'best friends', so that didn't ring true as one example. And not much really happens in the story bar some false starts. It's definitely not as gritty as I would've liked either.
I'd say a good 3.5 stars and I'm in two minds if I'll read Ella's story next, I'll sample download it first I think.
Want to read
January 14, 2015Art student, Olivia Banks, was living her dream at an exclusive school when everything came crashing down around her. Now back in the small town she grew up in, she's forced to spend her senior year at her old school where she's known as the 'freak', all because she'd rather focus on her painting than the trivial drama of high school. But things aren't the same as they were when she left. And the one thing that is turning her life upside down the most just happens to be the resident bad boy, Colt Morgan. Her senior year was supposed to fly by so she could pack up and leave again, but what happens when there's suddenly a reason to want to stay
did_not_finish
April 3, 202312/02/2018 - I'm not gonna finish this one. The fact that the MC hates cats is, it turns out, the least of my problems with this snoozefest.
Let me elaborate:
There really isn't any tension. The "bad boy" isn't really bad, there don't appear to be any obstacles getting in the way of the two MCs getting it on, and that damn ribbon of hair just needs to stay bloody put behind Olivia's ear. Or maybe she should chop it off so people don't have to keep tucking it back?
I don't feel invested in either character and part of me is struggling to care whether they get together or not.
I figure these are good reasons not to keep reading, so I won't. No rating since I can't judge the entire book.
Let me elaborate:
There really isn't any tension. The "bad boy" isn't really bad, there don't appear to be any obstacles getting in the way of the two MCs getting it on, and that damn ribbon of hair just needs to stay bloody put behind Olivia's ear. Or maybe she should chop it off so people don't have to keep tucking it back?
I don't feel invested in either character and part of me is struggling to care whether they get together or not.
I figure these are good reasons not to keep reading, so I won't. No rating since I can't judge the entire book.
May 13, 2014
I loved this book. The story sucks you in and you can't put it down till your done.
Beautiful, heart touching, and sexy.
"I want to be able to walk up to you at school and kiss you until neither of us can think straight, and then do it again and again and again, throughout the entire day so that every damn person in that schools knows you're mine."
"Looking directly at Colt Morgan was like staring into the sun. One could go blind from over-exposure if they stared too long."
Beautiful, heart touching, and sexy.
"I want to be able to walk up to you at school and kiss you until neither of us can think straight, and then do it again and again and again, throughout the entire day so that every damn person in that schools knows you're mine."
"Looking directly at Colt Morgan was like staring into the sun. One could go blind from over-exposure if they stared too long."
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