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All In
For Grace Marsh there had never been a doubt that she was meant to be with Grant Michaels. From the moment she had met her brothers’ best friend she had known he was the one for her, and after two years together it seemed that he felt the same.
Until the night he knocks on her door and sends her entire world into a tailspin when he breaks her heart.
Jacob Ross was the American dream. The son of a football legend who was well on his way to a place by his father’s side in the NFL hall of fame. Until the day he walked away from it all without looking back.
A chance meeting between them finally puts Grace on the path toward putting her heart back together. But can she make a future with Jacob when she keeps getting pulled back into the past? Can she prove to him that she’s All In, or will she lose it all before it even really begins?
Until the night he knocks on her door and sends her entire world into a tailspin when he breaks her heart.
Jacob Ross was the American dream. The son of a football legend who was well on his way to a place by his father’s side in the NFL hall of fame. Until the day he walked away from it all without looking back.
A chance meeting between them finally puts Grace on the path toward putting her heart back together. But can she make a future with Jacob when she keeps getting pulled back into the past? Can she prove to him that she’s All In, or will she lose it all before it even really begins?
231 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 2, 2014
7 people are currently reading
276 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 42 reviews
October 7, 2014
I just devour this series. Loved them
February 3, 2015
To say it was amazing it's like saying the sky it"s blue. It was fantastic. I loved it. Every single word.
I finished this book in like 3 hours, and now I want to start all over again. But not just this. The first one as well. Both are way over 5 star for me.
Plsssss Ms Garner,i want Roby's book as well.
I finished this book in like 3 hours, and now I want to start all over again. But not just this. The first one as well. Both are way over 5 star for me.
Plsssss Ms Garner,i want Roby's book as well.
June 8, 2014
This is a great book and a great series. The story is fantastic and keeps you interested from start to finish. 5 stars for me!
July 30, 2014
I received a complimentary e-copy of All In in exchange for an honest review.
All In is the 2nd book in the Cedar Mountain University series, following Pieces of Me. Pieces of Me was Delaney and Cole's story and All In is Grace's story. Grace is Cole's sister and Delaney's college roommate. All In could be read as a standalone but I'd recommend reading Pieces Of Me first, just so you can get to know some of the other characters in Grace's life.
Grace and Grant were the golden couple - She's been in love with him ever since he became friends with her brother Holden and they've been dating for 2 years. Everyone, Grace included, just figured that they'd be together forever. And they probably would have been had Grant not ripped her world apart by breaking up with her so they could each see other people. It's just a shame that when he ended their relationship, it didn't end his friendship with Holden so even though Grace and he are no longer together, he's still too often hanging around, proving that it's hard to get over someone who is always around.
Grace didn't want to see other people but she gets tired of moping around and one night at a frat party she's starting to feel no pain and considers having a one night stand to help get past the heartbreak. She comes close only to decide it's a bad idea and is relieved when another frat brother Jacob steps in and offers her an out and offers her his bed to sleep for the night. He's a perfect gentlemen, sleeping on the floor but when he drives her home the next morning, the typical college rumors start flying when people see her leaving the frat house with Jacob.
Jacob and Grace start spending more time together and even though they start dating for real, Grant is always circling around in their space, making it hard for Jacob to know if Grace is truly over Grant and completely into their relationship. Will she be able to convince him that she's all in with him or will Grant be an obstacle that they just can't get through?
I loved All In. I devoured Pieces of Me when I read it last year and honestly I never thought that Ann Garner would be able to come even close to making me love another couple as much as I loved Delaney and Cole, but she absolutely did with Jacob and Grace. I love that even though this was Grace's story, Delaney and Cole were just as much involved that I didn't have to miss them and wonder about where they were in their relationship.
Grace wore her heart on her sleeve and I loved her for it. You always knew how she was feeling about Grant, and about Jacob. Jacob had his own baggage to deal with and I could understand his position in wondering if Grace was all there for him. It was painful to watch them grow closer only to fall further apart and more times than not I just wanted to smack Grant for still having the power to mess with Grace's head when things were going well with Jacob and I couldn't wait to get to the end to see if things were going to finally work out for Grace and Jacob.
It's safe to say that I'm a huge fan of Ann Garner and I'll be keeping an eye out for more by her!
All In is the 2nd book in the Cedar Mountain University series, following Pieces of Me. Pieces of Me was Delaney and Cole's story and All In is Grace's story. Grace is Cole's sister and Delaney's college roommate. All In could be read as a standalone but I'd recommend reading Pieces Of Me first, just so you can get to know some of the other characters in Grace's life.
Grace and Grant were the golden couple - She's been in love with him ever since he became friends with her brother Holden and they've been dating for 2 years. Everyone, Grace included, just figured that they'd be together forever. And they probably would have been had Grant not ripped her world apart by breaking up with her so they could each see other people. It's just a shame that when he ended their relationship, it didn't end his friendship with Holden so even though Grace and he are no longer together, he's still too often hanging around, proving that it's hard to get over someone who is always around.
Grace didn't want to see other people but she gets tired of moping around and one night at a frat party she's starting to feel no pain and considers having a one night stand to help get past the heartbreak. She comes close only to decide it's a bad idea and is relieved when another frat brother Jacob steps in and offers her an out and offers her his bed to sleep for the night. He's a perfect gentlemen, sleeping on the floor but when he drives her home the next morning, the typical college rumors start flying when people see her leaving the frat house with Jacob.
Jacob and Grace start spending more time together and even though they start dating for real, Grant is always circling around in their space, making it hard for Jacob to know if Grace is truly over Grant and completely into their relationship. Will she be able to convince him that she's all in with him or will Grant be an obstacle that they just can't get through?
I loved All In. I devoured Pieces of Me when I read it last year and honestly I never thought that Ann Garner would be able to come even close to making me love another couple as much as I loved Delaney and Cole, but she absolutely did with Jacob and Grace. I love that even though this was Grace's story, Delaney and Cole were just as much involved that I didn't have to miss them and wonder about where they were in their relationship.
Grace wore her heart on her sleeve and I loved her for it. You always knew how she was feeling about Grant, and about Jacob. Jacob had his own baggage to deal with and I could understand his position in wondering if Grace was all there for him. It was painful to watch them grow closer only to fall further apart and more times than not I just wanted to smack Grant for still having the power to mess with Grace's head when things were going well with Jacob and I couldn't wait to get to the end to see if things were going to finally work out for Grace and Jacob.
It's safe to say that I'm a huge fan of Ann Garner and I'll be keeping an eye out for more by her!
October 30, 2014
I absolutely LURV the character Grace in this book. I mean seriously, I think the author may have telepathy, or at least visited the depths of my brain, because she is basically me, but book size. Okay, so I don't have short hair, or any of Grace's physical characteristics, or even a man like Jacob, or two brothers, I think it was two anyway, but I kind of do not have a filter from my brain to my mouth, just like her. I tend to say everything that comes to mind, or at least most things, and sometimes I tend to tell the harsh truth, even though no one wants to hear it, but then I never follow my own advice to others, so that kind of makes me a hypocrite, and I also like pumpkin spice lattes, if they're not scalding hot enough to basically make my tongue go all tingly and numb.
I adore how she and Jacob interact throughout this entire book. They just have this natural rhythm, and I could not get over how amazingly cute some of the dialogue between the two was. They have a true connection, and I absolutely loved how Grace was able to get Jacob to open up about his past and the accident which made him give up football. I also loved how Jacob made Grace feel so loved and makes her want to be better than herself just for his sake. Both of them just complement one another so perfectly, that when they begin to drift apart (over a d-bag like Grant, by the way, okay so maybe it is a tad bit Grace's fault too, and maybe just a small part Jacob's) it just made me ache inside.
*sniff sniff*
And Del... That poor girl. Her story is told in this one, enough that you know what went on, but not so much that reading the first book, which is her story in its full form, is completely disregardable. She just seems so sweet, and her experience and the aftermath of it influences and is important to Jacob and Grace's relationship. It basically starts the incident that causes the downfall of the couple. And without it, I do not think Grace and Jacob would have truly appreciated the connection they share.
Anyway, this story was really good. I laughed, cringed, almost yelled in anger during certain parts involving a certain someone named Grant (sorry, but he frustrated me) and just wanted to encourage the relationship of these two characters so much. It was nice to see Grace's transition from pining over her ex to suddenly falling for this amazing guy who saw her for her. Who even called her a punch of sunshine during a very difficult time in his life. It was very sweet and, ugh, I just completely couldn't keep a smile off my face when it ended.
I adore how she and Jacob interact throughout this entire book. They just have this natural rhythm, and I could not get over how amazingly cute some of the dialogue between the two was. They have a true connection, and I absolutely loved how Grace was able to get Jacob to open up about his past and the accident which made him give up football. I also loved how Jacob made Grace feel so loved and makes her want to be better than herself just for his sake. Both of them just complement one another so perfectly, that when they begin to drift apart (over a d-bag like Grant, by the way, okay so maybe it is a tad bit Grace's fault too, and maybe just a small part Jacob's) it just made me ache inside.
*sniff sniff*
And Del... That poor girl. Her story is told in this one, enough that you know what went on, but not so much that reading the first book, which is her story in its full form, is completely disregardable. She just seems so sweet, and her experience and the aftermath of it influences and is important to Jacob and Grace's relationship. It basically starts the incident that causes the downfall of the couple. And without it, I do not think Grace and Jacob would have truly appreciated the connection they share.
Anyway, this story was really good. I laughed, cringed, almost yelled in anger during certain parts involving a certain someone named Grant (sorry, but he frustrated me) and just wanted to encourage the relationship of these two characters so much. It was nice to see Grace's transition from pining over her ex to suddenly falling for this amazing guy who saw her for her. Who even called her a punch of sunshine during a very difficult time in his life. It was very sweet and, ugh, I just completely couldn't keep a smile off my face when it ended.
July 1, 2014
For this and my other reviews please check out my site - Sharon's Book Nook!
*copy provided by author in return for an honest review*
All In is one of those books that bring to light all those feelings when the one person you love most in this world breaks your heart and finding out what it takes to move on.
It’s told from the point of view of Grace who’s boyfriend of two years suddenly breaks up with her, shattering her world. Grace is a character who I related to easily. She’s very quirky, says what she thinks, sometimes without filtering her thoughts and experiences all the normal emotions and reactions that a girl feels when the love of her life gives up on their relationship. In this case it’s Grant, her brother’s best friend. I wasn’t quite sure what to make of Grant at first, as he was a villain for a good part of the book upsetting Grace. As the story moves on you begin to gain a better understanding of him and the reasons for his actions. Then there is Jacob, Grace’s new love interest. He’s a very swoon-worthy likeable character in my opinion, but he’s also a very emotional due to the tragedies he has experienced in his life.
It’s well written, and moves at a pace that keep you enthralled. The characters are an interesting group that most people could relate to in one way, or another, particular the family trio of Grace, Cole and Holden.
The romance between Grace and Jacob is sweet and not rushed. The progression of their relationship feels realistic and heats up when it should as they become more comfortable with one another and includes tastefully written and sometimes amusing love scenes.
As for the ending of this book…Yes, it’s a happy one, but I also found it quite funny as Grace’s quirkiness comes into play once again leaving you with a smile on your face. Not only because the ending is good but because it made me laugh, and that’s always welcomed.
If you enjoy books that contain a college romance, moving on from a broken heart or just a fun love story then you need to give this a try.
Nice read 4 stars!
*copy provided by author in return for an honest review*
All In is one of those books that bring to light all those feelings when the one person you love most in this world breaks your heart and finding out what it takes to move on.
It’s told from the point of view of Grace who’s boyfriend of two years suddenly breaks up with her, shattering her world. Grace is a character who I related to easily. She’s very quirky, says what she thinks, sometimes without filtering her thoughts and experiences all the normal emotions and reactions that a girl feels when the love of her life gives up on their relationship. In this case it’s Grant, her brother’s best friend. I wasn’t quite sure what to make of Grant at first, as he was a villain for a good part of the book upsetting Grace. As the story moves on you begin to gain a better understanding of him and the reasons for his actions. Then there is Jacob, Grace’s new love interest. He’s a very swoon-worthy likeable character in my opinion, but he’s also a very emotional due to the tragedies he has experienced in his life.
It’s well written, and moves at a pace that keep you enthralled. The characters are an interesting group that most people could relate to in one way, or another, particular the family trio of Grace, Cole and Holden.
The romance between Grace and Jacob is sweet and not rushed. The progression of their relationship feels realistic and heats up when it should as they become more comfortable with one another and includes tastefully written and sometimes amusing love scenes.
As for the ending of this book…Yes, it’s a happy one, but I also found it quite funny as Grace’s quirkiness comes into play once again leaving you with a smile on your face. Not only because the ending is good but because it made me laugh, and that’s always welcomed.
If you enjoy books that contain a college romance, moving on from a broken heart or just a fun love story then you need to give this a try.
Nice read 4 stars!
November 10, 2014
You know those books were you read the first book and it was so good and you loved it so much when the second one comes out you are so anxious because there is no way that it can be as good as the first one? Well that was this book for me. Ann Garner wrote such a heartbreakingly beautiful story that I didn’t think it could get any better. Well this one wasn’t better but I think it was just as good. (There is nothing like the first couple of a series anyways.)
I really like this tight group of characters. They are all so in each other’s business but you can tell they really care about each other. I am also really glad the author gave us more about Cole and Delany. I feel like we got to connect with Cole more in this book then we did in his book. We got to see how the break-up of Grace and Grant was effecting everyone. Which made me happy because I read all of these books about people falling in love with family member’s best friends and you never get to know what happens when it falls apart. We got to see the end of a romance and the build of a stronger one.
“I want to share my forever with you, Grace.” He says softly. “I can’t imagine there ever being someone else I want by my side more than you.”
I really love this Cedar Mountain University series. The writing is done well and the characters are amazing. The series has so much going for it. Love, friendship, humor, and college life. I can’t wait to see if we will get more and who it will be!
Read more of my reviews here...
I really like this tight group of characters. They are all so in each other’s business but you can tell they really care about each other. I am also really glad the author gave us more about Cole and Delany. I feel like we got to connect with Cole more in this book then we did in his book. We got to see how the break-up of Grace and Grant was effecting everyone. Which made me happy because I read all of these books about people falling in love with family member’s best friends and you never get to know what happens when it falls apart. We got to see the end of a romance and the build of a stronger one.
“I want to share my forever with you, Grace.” He says softly. “I can’t imagine there ever being someone else I want by my side more than you.”
I really love this Cedar Mountain University series. The writing is done well and the characters are amazing. The series has so much going for it. Love, friendship, humor, and college life. I can’t wait to see if we will get more and who it will be!
Read more of my reviews here...
August 3, 2016
**All In provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.**
All In stands as the second book in this new adult series. Grace Marsh really stood out for me in book one and she was equally as good in her own story. As a sophomore in college having been recently dumped by the boy she thought was the love of her life, I think Grace naturally embodies what it’s like to be a woman at this time in her life. Her reactions and thoughts are normal for the changes she faces post-breakup. Especially when the boy that broke your heart is your brother’s best friend and a fixture in your life. Grace meets Jacob Ross at a party and he becomes her love interest. Jacob’s story line proves to be interesting adding extra glimpses into his charm. He intrigued me with his wit and the description of his smile. He’s also quite sweet. These two together were fun, feisty, and at times angsty. Unlike in the first book, these two main characters really grabbed my attention from the start and held it. Grace makes mistakes in this that seem true to the situation even though at times I wanted to shake her. The issues I had with the story were the plot points involving Delaney in Grace’s story again felt unnatural to me. And the abrupt change of scenes in the story left me dangling on the edge of wanting more from almost every chapter. There were certain elements to each of their stories that felt unfinished and rushed. There could have been more development. It’s also a shorter read just like the first in the series. All In gave me a quick, fun story with two great characters who adored each other making it easy for the reader to adore them.
All In stands as the second book in this new adult series. Grace Marsh really stood out for me in book one and she was equally as good in her own story. As a sophomore in college having been recently dumped by the boy she thought was the love of her life, I think Grace naturally embodies what it’s like to be a woman at this time in her life. Her reactions and thoughts are normal for the changes she faces post-breakup. Especially when the boy that broke your heart is your brother’s best friend and a fixture in your life. Grace meets Jacob Ross at a party and he becomes her love interest. Jacob’s story line proves to be interesting adding extra glimpses into his charm. He intrigued me with his wit and the description of his smile. He’s also quite sweet. These two together were fun, feisty, and at times angsty. Unlike in the first book, these two main characters really grabbed my attention from the start and held it. Grace makes mistakes in this that seem true to the situation even though at times I wanted to shake her. The issues I had with the story were the plot points involving Delaney in Grace’s story again felt unnatural to me. And the abrupt change of scenes in the story left me dangling on the edge of wanting more from almost every chapter. There were certain elements to each of their stories that felt unfinished and rushed. There could have been more development. It’s also a shorter read just like the first in the series. All In gave me a quick, fun story with two great characters who adored each other making it easy for the reader to adore them.
June 4, 2014
Another great book in the Cedar Mountain University Series by Ann Garner. I really loved the first book - Pieces of Me with Delaney and Cole. Now it's Grace's story. Grace is Cole and Holden's baby sister and Delaney's roommate/best friend. Grace was always in love with Grant Michaels. She thought they would have forever together until the moment he broke up with her. So then she had to see him with a different girl upon another girl, etc. whenever the group was together. Grace finds herself at a fraternity party with a girl from one of her classes and she's been drinking quite alot. She's thinking about a one-night stand when Jacob Ross shows up to stop her from that and save her. He lets her stay in his room while he sleeps on the floor. Jacob Ross was the former Quarterback for the school's team when all of a sudden he quits. His father is a NFL player. Grace still thinks that she is in love with Grant and won't ever get over it. Jacob is just there for her and loves spending his time with her and seeing how things go. They start going on dates but nothing physical happens.
It's a really great book with wonderful characters. We get to see some more of Cole and Delaney's relationship and the hard times she continues to have. Just because their book ended doesn't mean their story is over. It's good to make plans but plans won't stick - just because you think you are meant to be with one person doesn't mean that they are the right one for you. You can love someone but not be really in love with them.
It's a really great book with wonderful characters. We get to see some more of Cole and Delaney's relationship and the hard times she continues to have. Just because their book ended doesn't mean their story is over. It's good to make plans but plans won't stick - just because you think you are meant to be with one person doesn't mean that they are the right one for you. You can love someone but not be really in love with them.
August 30, 2016
4 1/2 stars
I really enjoyed reading this book. I loved how strong Grace was, even though it broke her a little. After her boyfriend, Grant, of two years breaks up with her, she has to find a way to move on. It's difficult because he's been involved with her family for such a long time and not only is he her brother's best friend, he's also friends with everyone that she knows. After a few weeks, Grace finds herself at a party and meets up with Jacob who rescues her from a potential really bad decision. Of course, the rumors fly fast and furious about her and Jacob. At first, they're just hanging out, but then they start to date for real. Everyone keeps getting on her for going out with Jacob, which I just completely don't understand. No one seems to be giving Grant a hard time for dumping her and moving right along. Double standard, people! Things between Jacob and Grace heat up and they both are all in with each other. Then things happen that cause trouble for them, and eventually both Grace and Jacob make a couple decisions that hurt them both. I loved Grace's strength at the end of this book, and Jacob's persistence in making clear what and who he wanted. This is the second in a series, and I really want to go back and read the first to get a better idea of what happened to Cole and Delaney. I am looking forward to reading more books in this series. It was well written, and the characters were likeable and very easy to relate to, Ann did a great job with this book.
I really enjoyed reading this book. I loved how strong Grace was, even though it broke her a little. After her boyfriend, Grant, of two years breaks up with her, she has to find a way to move on. It's difficult because he's been involved with her family for such a long time and not only is he her brother's best friend, he's also friends with everyone that she knows. After a few weeks, Grace finds herself at a party and meets up with Jacob who rescues her from a potential really bad decision. Of course, the rumors fly fast and furious about her and Jacob. At first, they're just hanging out, but then they start to date for real. Everyone keeps getting on her for going out with Jacob, which I just completely don't understand. No one seems to be giving Grant a hard time for dumping her and moving right along. Double standard, people! Things between Jacob and Grace heat up and they both are all in with each other. Then things happen that cause trouble for them, and eventually both Grace and Jacob make a couple decisions that hurt them both. I loved Grace's strength at the end of this book, and Jacob's persistence in making clear what and who he wanted. This is the second in a series, and I really want to go back and read the first to get a better idea of what happened to Cole and Delaney. I am looking forward to reading more books in this series. It was well written, and the characters were likeable and very easy to relate to, Ann did a great job with this book.
October 20, 2014
I was a bit nervous after I started reading this book. The way the description is and how the story was going I didn't know if the main story line was going to be Jacob pining after Grace but her still wanting to get back with Grant or her totally falling in love with Jacob.
I loved how it actually went.
Going in to the book I was all for Grant, he was portrayed really well in the first book. I was kind of like hmm Grace's story? that will prob be boring since we already know she's with Grant but ya no, that wasn't the grace. I read the description and was like ohhhh.
I loved the way it went. I loved Jacob and so many times my heart broke for him and I just wanted to flick Grace in her forehead and be like WHAT THE EFF ARE YOU THINKING.
I also thought the end was rather abrupt. I really really wished for an epilogue. I don't know if there's supposed to be another book in this series in which you will see Grace again but if not then this book really needed the epilogue. Even to see a few months in to the future, not even like a 5 years down the road thing.
And like I said in the review of the first book-if I could change something, it be that this book be told in dual POV. I think the male's perspective is really important and I wish I could have gotten it in this one.
But overall I cranked out the 2 books in this series in like a day and a half which means I was a fan!!
I hope there is still more to come from this series.
I loved how it actually went.
Going in to the book I was all for Grant, he was portrayed really well in the first book. I was kind of like hmm Grace's story? that will prob be boring since we already know she's with Grant but ya no, that wasn't the grace. I read the description and was like ohhhh.
I loved the way it went. I loved Jacob and so many times my heart broke for him and I just wanted to flick Grace in her forehead and be like WHAT THE EFF ARE YOU THINKING.
I also thought the end was rather abrupt. I really really wished for an epilogue. I don't know if there's supposed to be another book in this series in which you will see Grace again but if not then this book really needed the epilogue. Even to see a few months in to the future, not even like a 5 years down the road thing.
And like I said in the review of the first book-if I could change something, it be that this book be told in dual POV. I think the male's perspective is really important and I wish I could have gotten it in this one.
But overall I cranked out the 2 books in this series in like a day and a half which means I was a fan!!
I hope there is still more to come from this series.
October 26, 2014
I was given an authors released copy for an honest review. I have to honestly give this 5 stars. Grant and Grace have known each other for a long period of time, dated. Grace is devastated when Grant dumps her and makes her feel like she is not good enough for him. She berates herself. She has a hard time moving on from Grant and it takes her months to start moving on from him, mainly because he is alos best friends with one of her brothers. She attends a party with a friend, unfortunately both are too drunk to drive home and she can't find her friend either. That's when she meets Jacob. She likes Jacob...a lot. At first she feels guilty and thinks she is using him to get over Grant. But even their relationship has its ups and downs. Jacob gives her a hard time when she has to go rescue her ex from a bar because he is too drunk to drive home and says that he won't share. Jacob learns that Grant kisses her during a 3 day stint where Grace is helping a friend through a tough time, and although Grace didn't return the kiss and was in fact pissed and told him off and told him to leave, she didn't tell Jacob about it and he reacts badly…..but does it last? Does he forgive Grace? Grace is an unexpected accident after once again rescuing Grant but what happens? What does Grace do to help Jacob forgive himself for what happened in the past that he feels guilty of? You will love this book just like I did I can promise that.
June 29, 2014
I just want to start out by saying thank you to Ann for sending me her book to read! I loved it!
As a college student I tend to be pretty critical of any books set in a college town, however All In was accurate in describing college life. I especially loved how she didn't make the fraternity parties out to be some kind of black tie affair with thousands of dollars of decorations and entertainment - hello, these are guys in their twenties we're talking about. They don't spend money on anything other than booze if they don't have to do so!
Overall, I really enjoyed this story. I haven't read the first book in the series, but I didn't have any trouble understanding what was going on. I hate when romances are too cheesy and the characters fall in love instantly without even getting to know each other, but this book wasn't like that. In my opinion, it's a good combination of being entertaining but still realistic.
The only complaint I had about the book was that it ended pretty abruptly. I was hoping for some sort of epilogue or something because I wanted to read more about Grace and Jacob!
I look forward to reading the next book in this series! I wonder if it's going to be Grant's story or Linc and Collins' story. I guess we will find out!
As a college student I tend to be pretty critical of any books set in a college town, however All In was accurate in describing college life. I especially loved how she didn't make the fraternity parties out to be some kind of black tie affair with thousands of dollars of decorations and entertainment - hello, these are guys in their twenties we're talking about. They don't spend money on anything other than booze if they don't have to do so!
Overall, I really enjoyed this story. I haven't read the first book in the series, but I didn't have any trouble understanding what was going on. I hate when romances are too cheesy and the characters fall in love instantly without even getting to know each other, but this book wasn't like that. In my opinion, it's a good combination of being entertaining but still realistic.
The only complaint I had about the book was that it ended pretty abruptly. I was hoping for some sort of epilogue or something because I wanted to read more about Grace and Jacob!
I look forward to reading the next book in this series! I wonder if it's going to be Grant's story or Linc and Collins' story. I guess we will find out!
November 18, 2014
ARC was provided in exchange for honest review.
4 Pixie Loving Stars!
All In is the sequel to Pieces of Me and is about Delaney’s best friend and Cole’s younger sister, Grace Marsh. It explores her relationship with her now ex-boyfriend Grant, and new love interest Jacob Ross. She has only ever had one boyfriend, Grant, and everything with relationships is still new to her. On top of that, she doesn’t really know how to let Grant go, which affects her relationship with Jacob tremendously.
Here’s my thing, in Pieces of Me , I loved Grant, however in this book, I really struggled with whether I liked him or not. At times I felt bad for him, and then other times he would piss me off so much. Now Jacob on the other hand, was such a nice breath of fresh air. I loved the way he treated Grace and how he never pushed her. He made her fall in love with him without even trying which was beautiful.
My only con about this book is that I felt that it left a lot of story out between chapters. I felt that some of the chapters ended a little choppy. I wanted more! Regardless of that, everyone should read this book, and I hope we are getting more from you soon Ms. Garner!
4 Pixie Loving Stars!
All In is the sequel to Pieces of Me and is about Delaney’s best friend and Cole’s younger sister, Grace Marsh. It explores her relationship with her now ex-boyfriend Grant, and new love interest Jacob Ross. She has only ever had one boyfriend, Grant, and everything with relationships is still new to her. On top of that, she doesn’t really know how to let Grant go, which affects her relationship with Jacob tremendously.
Here’s my thing, in Pieces of Me , I loved Grant, however in this book, I really struggled with whether I liked him or not. At times I felt bad for him, and then other times he would piss me off so much. Now Jacob on the other hand, was such a nice breath of fresh air. I loved the way he treated Grace and how he never pushed her. He made her fall in love with him without even trying which was beautiful.
My only con about this book is that I felt that it left a lot of story out between chapters. I felt that some of the chapters ended a little choppy. I wanted more! Regardless of that, everyone should read this book, and I hope we are getting more from you soon Ms. Garner!
November 25, 2014
I really really liked this book a lot! I loved the story and how it all started with a break-up from a long term relationship. We all know how hard it is to get over our first love and first real relationship so to read a book that starts with the heroin's heartache after the loss of her first love was definitely interesting and refreshing. I really liked Grace's character; she was mature, in spite of her young age, and she dealt with things gracefully to say the least - well except for the first party scene which was definitely not a graceful moment for Grace. Grant, her ex, was in a weird place emotionally but I'm sure that he will be able to redeem himself in a future book hopefully. I'm definitely interested in reading more about him, even though he was kind of an anti-hero/asshole in this book. Jacob and Grace were great together and it was interesting to see how Grace could compare how she felt about him with how she felt about Grant and realize what true love feels like.
I definitely recommend this book but maybe it would be best if you read the first book in the series before this one. Even though All In is a standalone, I felt like I was missing parts of the story because I didn't read the previous book.
*I received a free copy in exchange for my honest review*
I definitely recommend this book but maybe it would be best if you read the first book in the series before this one. Even though All In is a standalone, I felt like I was missing parts of the story because I didn't read the previous book.
*I received a free copy in exchange for my honest review*
August 29, 2014
I really enjoyed this book. I haven't read the first one but I will be after enjoying this one so much. Grace is a brilliant female lead she is funny, strong, beautiful, loyal and so much more, she's have her moments of feeling sorry for herself but being dumped you can understand it. I loved that she doesn't have a filter and when she wants to know why Jacob hasn't kissed her after two weeks did make me laugh I thought oh no cringe moment ahead but the way the author wrote it it was more of and aww he's perfect kind of moment.
I loved the relationship between Grace and her brothers esp Cole with Delaneys situation and how much grace does love them and wants to help.
As much as I wanted to hate Grant I just felt really sorry for him in the end and hope the author writes his story and he gets his happy ever after. He seems very lost not knowing what he wants,who he wants and im glad that Grace didn't go back to him.
I really hope the author continues with this series and I think that maybe Collins and Lincoln should have a story a lot of potential there.
This book is a beautiful story of first love, heartbreak,friendship and real love. I will definitely recommend it :)
I loved the relationship between Grace and her brothers esp Cole with Delaneys situation and how much grace does love them and wants to help.
As much as I wanted to hate Grant I just felt really sorry for him in the end and hope the author writes his story and he gets his happy ever after. He seems very lost not knowing what he wants,who he wants and im glad that Grace didn't go back to him.
I really hope the author continues with this series and I think that maybe Collins and Lincoln should have a story a lot of potential there.
This book is a beautiful story of first love, heartbreak,friendship and real love. I will definitely recommend it :)
October 1, 2014
I received this from Xpresso Book Tours in return for a fair and honest review.
Anyone who has suffered through a break up will empathise with Grace as she tries to cope with both her feelings and the convoluted situation of Grant being a long-term family friend. As much as I wanted to, I just couldn't hate Grant like I wanted to. It seemed out of character for him which is funny as I only 'met' him in Pieces of Me. However, Jacob is exactly the right one for Grace and goes about showing her how much she means to him.
There is a lot of wise advice from Mama in this book, which I have highlighted so that I can use it on my girls in the future. It was wonderful to see the story between Cole and Delaney continuing although it was heartbreaking to read it.
This book made me laugh and made me cry. Grace is feisty, sassy and with love and loyalty to give. She is a brilliant female lead and I'm so glad that I have read her story. Does she end up with Jacob? Read it and see! Personally, I'm hooked and can't wait for the next book in the series.
Anyone who has suffered through a break up will empathise with Grace as she tries to cope with both her feelings and the convoluted situation of Grant being a long-term family friend. As much as I wanted to, I just couldn't hate Grant like I wanted to. It seemed out of character for him which is funny as I only 'met' him in Pieces of Me. However, Jacob is exactly the right one for Grace and goes about showing her how much she means to him.
There is a lot of wise advice from Mama in this book, which I have highlighted so that I can use it on my girls in the future. It was wonderful to see the story between Cole and Delaney continuing although it was heartbreaking to read it.
This book made me laugh and made me cry. Grace is feisty, sassy and with love and loyalty to give. She is a brilliant female lead and I'm so glad that I have read her story. Does she end up with Jacob? Read it and see! Personally, I'm hooked and can't wait for the next book in the series.
December 2, 2014
'All In' was a really sweet romance novel that can be read as a standalone but I would definitely recommend reading the first book as I didn't and felt like I was missing out on a lot. The two characters from the first book appear in this one a lot and I would have loved to have read their story but do not see the point now.
I think Grace's character was written really naturally and she was characterised realistically and I felt like it was normal of a woman of Grace's age to be reacting and going through things that Grace went through.
I also really liked Jacob's character and he was definitely what Grace needed after breaking up with her boyfriend, Grant. The contrast between Jacob and Grant was massive but was a good thing from the author as it makes the readers admire Jacob more.
It was a quick, fun read but sometimes I felt the story line was too abrupt and it would go too quickly for me to actually connect to the characters and their stories.
*Thanks to the author who provided a free copy in exchange of a review*
I think Grace's character was written really naturally and she was characterised realistically and I felt like it was normal of a woman of Grace's age to be reacting and going through things that Grace went through.
I also really liked Jacob's character and he was definitely what Grace needed after breaking up with her boyfriend, Grant. The contrast between Jacob and Grant was massive but was a good thing from the author as it makes the readers admire Jacob more.
It was a quick, fun read but sometimes I felt the story line was too abrupt and it would go too quickly for me to actually connect to the characters and their stories.
*Thanks to the author who provided a free copy in exchange of a review*
October 14, 2014
The story sucked me in from the beginning and I loved the writing. Grace is a tough, tells-it-like-she-sees-it girl who has had her heart broken by the only boy she's ever loved. Jacob is the good looking jock who has experienced a tragedy that pulled him away from the game he loved. They meet, and the sparks are immediate. I liked the friendship between Jacob and Grace, but felt her relationship escalated quickly when compared to her reflections of her relationship with Grant. The story line was good, maybe a little predictable, but the small subplots kept the story moving along. The characters were likable and I did feel a connection to them. I will admit to a few tears and loved the direction of the last few chapters, but felt like the ending was wrapped up a little to quickly. Steamyness is Medium/Hot with a couple of semi-graphic scenes. I look forward to reading the next book in the series.
November 29, 2014
All In was a typical college romance book. It had an enjoyable main character, Grace, who had a lot of spunk and was fun to read in her point of view. Grace had two very protective and loving brothers, Holden and Cole, who I enjoyed as well. Grace felt like she knew the path her life was taking and became very comfortable in her relationship with Grant. She knew she had a future with him until she didn't. This break up wrecked her world for a bit until she realized that she could function on her own. Along comes Jacob, an ex football star, and it turns her world around again. When she was least expecting it, this perfect guy comes into her life but she had to find a way to let him "All In." There are some good side stories going on in this one and it makes me think we'll see other characters' stories in the future of this series. I give it 3.5 stars and recommend it to those who want a fun, easy stand alone read.
June 5, 2014
I had originally read Pieces of Me by Ann garner which is the first novel from the Cedar Mountain University series. I absolutely love Pieces of me and i have honestly read it 10 times since i love Delaney and Cole and i just can't get enough of them!. All in was about Grace, Delaney's roommate and Cole's sister, and her story about falling in love and getting heartbroken. Although i truly did enjoy this book, i found it hard to connect with Jacob like i did with Cole and i found it hard to have an image of Jacob and Grace while Cole and Delaney came to me so easily. I also have to admit that i was a sucker for the parts where Delaney and Cole were in and i just re read those parts because i still love them and i can't get enough! I hope that in the future we can see another book about Cole and Delaney because i would be the first one in line to have it :)
July 21, 2014
*I received this book from the author in exchange for an honest review*
I did not know when I started the book that it was a number 2 in a series. I will be going back to read book one :-)
I loved Grace and her attitude, mannerisms,how loyal and loving she is even after having her heart broken and world shattered with the sudden end of her 2 year relationship with Grant. I found her to be one of the more realistic characters written in a long time. I appreciated her lack of filter sometimes and how she went after what she wanted.
I appreciated the relationships she has with her brothers and how her parents interact with the group overall. All the "secondary" characters were well done.
Overall I really liked it. It was a fast read for me with romance, realism and a nice pace that kept me engaged from start to finish.
I did not know when I started the book that it was a number 2 in a series. I will be going back to read book one :-)
I loved Grace and her attitude, mannerisms,how loyal and loving she is even after having her heart broken and world shattered with the sudden end of her 2 year relationship with Grant. I found her to be one of the more realistic characters written in a long time. I appreciated her lack of filter sometimes and how she went after what she wanted.
I appreciated the relationships she has with her brothers and how her parents interact with the group overall. All the "secondary" characters were well done.
Overall I really liked it. It was a fast read for me with romance, realism and a nice pace that kept me engaged from start to finish.
October 12, 2014
This is the second book in the series which started with Pieces of Me. We were introduced to Grace in that book, and her story continues here.
I really enjoyed parts of this book. I thought that the awkwardness in the group following the breakup was described excruciatingly well. There were, at times, delicious points of intimacy between Jacob and Grace.
However, I didn't really feel the same level of connection with Grace, Jacob and Grant that I felt with Delaney and Cole. Maybe that's because Grace appears to be to be a much more immature character than the others, but for whatever reason, I didn't enjoy this book as much.
Now, that's not to say it isn't a good story, I just didn't feel it quite matched up to the previous one. Accordingly, this is a B- for me (4* Amazon)
I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
I really enjoyed parts of this book. I thought that the awkwardness in the group following the breakup was described excruciatingly well. There were, at times, delicious points of intimacy between Jacob and Grace.
However, I didn't really feel the same level of connection with Grace, Jacob and Grant that I felt with Delaney and Cole. Maybe that's because Grace appears to be to be a much more immature character than the others, but for whatever reason, I didn't enjoy this book as much.
Now, that's not to say it isn't a good story, I just didn't feel it quite matched up to the previous one. Accordingly, this is a B- for me (4* Amazon)
I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
December 14, 2014
*I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review*
Grace is heartbroken when her boyfriend of two years leaves her. Jacob's dreams of playing in the NFL have been crushed. Both these people are lost. Until they meet each other.
I truly enjoyed this book! It was sweet, sexy and heartbreaking. I loved Grace. She tried so hard to be strong even when she didn't want to be. Jacob was a seriously sexy man who I thought was perfect for Grace. Reading about the ups and downs of their relationship and seeing them working on overcoming their pasts, was a roller coaster ride of emotions that I didn't want to end. This was book two of the Cedar Mountain University series but I read it as a standalone without any issues. However, I do want to go back and read book one because this one was so good. A lovely book that you must read!
Grace is heartbroken when her boyfriend of two years leaves her. Jacob's dreams of playing in the NFL have been crushed. Both these people are lost. Until they meet each other.
I truly enjoyed this book! It was sweet, sexy and heartbreaking. I loved Grace. She tried so hard to be strong even when she didn't want to be. Jacob was a seriously sexy man who I thought was perfect for Grace. Reading about the ups and downs of their relationship and seeing them working on overcoming their pasts, was a roller coaster ride of emotions that I didn't want to end. This was book two of the Cedar Mountain University series but I read it as a standalone without any issues. However, I do want to go back and read book one because this one was so good. A lovely book that you must read!
November 15, 2014
Received for an honest review.
I so enjoy books about young love. I'm teleported back in time to my own experiences. I didn't read the first in the series but the author provides enough background knowledge for you to follow along. I really like all the characters. Grace is my kind of woman. Strong, in control, sharp tongued and is unapologetic about being herself. Jacob is such a great guy and believes in being a gentleman as well as a bad boy. Great combination. I really wish we could have had more time with him and his past. Grant just pissed me off. I love him but he is being all kinds of stupid. I know he's young and dealing with demons which I hope to read more about. I loved that everything was real and genuine. It just makes since. I laughed at Jacob and Grace's banter and groined in frustration with their behavior. Simply put its a great book. Can't wait to read more.
I so enjoy books about young love. I'm teleported back in time to my own experiences. I didn't read the first in the series but the author provides enough background knowledge for you to follow along. I really like all the characters. Grace is my kind of woman. Strong, in control, sharp tongued and is unapologetic about being herself. Jacob is such a great guy and believes in being a gentleman as well as a bad boy. Great combination. I really wish we could have had more time with him and his past. Grant just pissed me off. I love him but he is being all kinds of stupid. I know he's young and dealing with demons which I hope to read more about. I loved that everything was real and genuine. It just makes since. I laughed at Jacob and Grace's banter and groined in frustration with their behavior. Simply put its a great book. Can't wait to read more.
November 17, 2014
Love, love, love this book!!!
First, read the first book in this series. you will want the pleasure of hearing Cole and Delaneys story. And...it will offer you a better background to this book. Grace, where to start..she made me sooooooo mad in the first book with her reaction and selfishness regarding Delaney. so I went into this a little resentful, but that soon faded as her heart was shattered.
Jacob....what an amazing man. Her laughter bringing him out of a dark time.
Great characters, Friendships, Love, Betrayal, Heartache, and soooo much more. You won't be disappointed. just hit buy!!! :)
First, read the first book in this series. you will want the pleasure of hearing Cole and Delaneys story. And...it will offer you a better background to this book. Grace, where to start..she made me sooooooo mad in the first book with her reaction and selfishness regarding Delaney. so I went into this a little resentful, but that soon faded as her heart was shattered.
Jacob....what an amazing man. Her laughter bringing him out of a dark time.
Great characters, Friendships, Love, Betrayal, Heartache, and soooo much more. You won't be disappointed. just hit buy!!! :)
July 8, 2016
I really liked this story. If you've ever been through a break-up, you have doubts and questions when you start dating again...especially if you are falling in love. This book goes through all of that and explains it so well that you feel you are living through it too. I loved what shegot back for Jacob and what he gave Grace in return. I also like the resolution in the situation with Grant. I'd like to read more on this group of friends and family.
ARC provided in exchange for honest review.
ARC provided in exchange for honest review.
November 7, 2014
I received this book in exchange of an honest review
I loved this book! It was a cute and fun read. I love Grace and Jacob together - I swear they were really made for each other. But I hated Grace's actions towards the end. I get it that Grant is still her friend but she ain't his babysitter. I wanted to shake her head while I was reading. I'm glad she's not a real person (and a friend of mine). I'd definitely recommend this to my other friends because their love story is really cute!
P.S I'd definitely include Jacob in my book boyfriend list!!!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 11, 2014
I really enjoyed All In. Initially I wasn't sure I would like Grace, but once I got to "know" her I appreciated her strength and the fact that she was a strong female character. This story definitely gave me "the feels" and I was rooting for Grace and Jacob. I enjoyed everything about Jacob's character and thought he made for a great love interest. The sex scenes were great, the drama realistic and the ending satisfying. I didn't read the first book (which wasn't a problem) in the series, but I intend to read the first one and can't wait for others.
November 16, 2014
ARC given for honest review.
No cliff hanger. Can be read as a stand alone even though this is the 2nd book in the series.
What a great book. This book features and focuses on Grace. She is a great lead female.
Grace faces the challenges of a broken heart. She has a wonderful family and friend network but that causes its own set of issues and contributes to making this story really enjoyable.
Looking forward to more from this author.
No cliff hanger.
No cliff hanger. Can be read as a stand alone even though this is the 2nd book in the series.
What a great book. This book features and focuses on Grace. She is a great lead female.
Grace faces the challenges of a broken heart. She has a wonderful family and friend network but that causes its own set of issues and contributes to making this story really enjoyable.
Looking forward to more from this author.
No cliff hanger.
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