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Effortless With You #2
Perfectly Messy
Popularity isn't everything it's cracked up to be. Justin Marshall knows this better than most. For the captain of the basketball team, small business owner, and son of Minnesota's next governor, life can get pretty overwhelming. But Justin can handle anything as long as he has Lucy, the girl who fell for the man he’s trying to be. But for Justin and Lucy, finding time together proves challenging. Stolen kisses and whispered promises just aren't enough. That is, until scandalous photos of the couple are leaked to a press intent on creating a juicy scandal during Justin's dad's gubernatorial campaign. And when Lucy becomes fair play for the tabloids and gossip pages, Justin does the only thing he can to protect he breaks her heart. For Lucy, junior year is everything she hoped it would new friends, second chances, and a boyfriend she can’t stop kissing. That is, until the boy she’s pretty sure she loves chooses the life his family wants for him, over her. Now it’s up to Lucy to teach him what it really means to have everything. Because for Justin, being who everyone needs him to be just might cost him the one person he can’t live without.
309 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 1, 2014
37 people are currently reading
1540 people want to read
About the author
Lizzy Charles
7 books347 followersWhen Lizzy Charles isn’t scrambling to raise her two spunky toddlers or caring for premature and sick babies as a neonatal intensive care nurse, she’s in a quiet corner writing or snuggled up with a novel and a few squares of dark chocolate. Black tea keeps her constant and she loves guacamole. She married her high school sweet heart, a heart-melting musician, so it’s no surprise she’s fallen in love with writing contemporary YA romance novels.
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April 16, 2023Review to come!
February 27, 2014
***I was given an ARC in exchange for an honest review***
Ah... the thing about sequels that I love is I'm already very attached to the characters. After reading Effortless with You I knew I'd fall in love all over again with Justin and Lucy.
This book differs from the first in several aspects, but is still beautifully written and character driven. In Perfectly Messy, we get to be in both Justin and Lucy's minds as they juggle their busy lives and their relationship. With Lucy returning to basketball and Justin busy with his father's campaign, they find little time to be together, and for two teenagers, two hours apart is a lifetime! ;)
Because of their busy schedules, when they actually do spend time together, their hormones like to get the better of them ;) And with Justin's family in the electoral limelight, paparazzi parade down on him, and soon the couple experiences what it's like to have everybody and their mom up in their business.
The story was fast-paced, sweet, sad, and hit on so many issues teens (and adults) deal with cyber bullying. Lizzy Charles knows how to write stories that MEAN something, and entertain you all at the same time. I'll gladly read and recommend Perfectly Messy to both young adult and adult audiences.
Ah... the thing about sequels that I love is I'm already very attached to the characters. After reading Effortless with You I knew I'd fall in love all over again with Justin and Lucy.
This book differs from the first in several aspects, but is still beautifully written and character driven. In Perfectly Messy, we get to be in both Justin and Lucy's minds as they juggle their busy lives and their relationship. With Lucy returning to basketball and Justin busy with his father's campaign, they find little time to be together, and for two teenagers, two hours apart is a lifetime! ;)
Because of their busy schedules, when they actually do spend time together, their hormones like to get the better of them ;) And with Justin's family in the electoral limelight, paparazzi parade down on him, and soon the couple experiences what it's like to have everybody and their mom up in their business.
The story was fast-paced, sweet, sad, and hit on so many issues teens (and adults) deal with cyber bullying. Lizzy Charles knows how to write stories that MEAN something, and entertain you all at the same time. I'll gladly read and recommend Perfectly Messy to both young adult and adult audiences.
April 15, 2014
WOW I CAN'T WAIT FOR THIS BOOK! I completely fell in love with Lucy and Justin in the first one and now there's a SECOND?!?!
Okay...so here are the two people everyone's talking about...LUCY AND JUSTIN
I am totally psyched to read this book! CAN'T WAIT!
Okay...so here are the two people everyone's talking about...LUCY AND JUSTIN
I am totally psyched to read this book! CAN'T WAIT!
June 7, 2014
Review Originally Posted at: Book Freak
It’s perfect. It’s messy. I loved it!
Lucy can’t believe she’s with Justin now. He’s everything she wants – he’s good-looking, sweet, popular and completely head-over heels in love with her. But popularity has its downfall, because our Justin has so much on his plate, I was surprised how he can juggle it all without blowing up. He loves his family, he loves Lucy, he loves basketball, he loves his business – he can’t give up anything, he didn’t want to disappoint anyone. He was a ticking time-bomb. But as long as he has Lucy, he knew everything will be okay.
And Lucy being the perfect loving girlfriend tiptoes and tries to understand his busy schedules. She contents herself with the time he spent with her – after all, he was doing it for his family. She stayed in the sidelines, supporting him. She feels she can handle anything as long as he is with her, until scandalous photos starts to leak to the media creating a malicious scandal during Justin’s father gubernatorial campaign. And Justin did one thing I didn’t expect him to do – he breaks her heart. It was like: WTF! What the heck is wrong with you? She needed you! Why would you leave her? Although it drove the press’ attention from her, it was painful to watch her broken again. All because of him.
She had done everything to make everything smooth for him. Even when the pictures came out, and suddenly she was relieving her freshmen year all over again, but this time it was even more painful and lonelier since the guy whom she trusted and she loved the most was choosing his family over her. If he doesn’t want her anymore, it was fine, she was moving on… or at least she’d try.
Will Justin be able to pull his head out of his a** and make things right? Or will he let go of the best thing that has ever happened to him?
As for their family? The support Lucy got from her father and mother was really great, especially when they gave her the benefit of the doubt, despite what came out in the media. As for Justin’s? I get to have a love-hate relationship with his father, but completely adored his mother. The parents were just as interesting as our young couple.
I loved this story! Completely fell in love with it, because this happened right after a HEA – sometime when reality will set in and not because your prince came to your rescue, everything will just turn perfectly for you. Making love work requires a lot of effort and hard work from both sides. When everything turns ugly and less than perfect, you need to hold on to that love and trust that love to withstand the imperfections life is throwing at you.
This story is not just about love, it’s a story about family, and friendship. It gave surprising twists – especially rekindled friendships which had my jaws dropping, and had my love for Lucy completely solidified. This girl has a big heart, and Justin better be mending it right away!
✪Complimentary Copy was given in exchange for an honest review.✪
More of my reviews at http://reviewsofabookmaniac.blogspot.com
June 7, 2014
I thoroughly enjoyed Effortless with You and fell in love with Lucy and Justin's story, so I couldn't wait to read Perfectly Messy and see how things worked out for these two. Effortless with You was a delightful treasure in a sea of YA books available, demonstrating the talented writing of debut author Lizzy Charles, and she further demonstrates her talent in Perfectly Messy, holding the reader captive as the story unfolds. Lucy and Justin have gone through some difficult situations and things finally seem perfect for them, until they aren't. Faced with not only the challenges normal teenagers face in life and relationships, they are also faced with the fact that Justin's father is in the public eye and the negative press that that sometimes includes, especially when your perfect world begins to fall apart.
I love Justin's character. He is a hottie, but more than that, he is a real stand-up guy that has a good head on his shoulders and is responsible, yet still manages to be a dreamboat. When pressures from family, school, his dad's political race, and being a good boyfriend mount, he kind of crumbles and doesn't handle things too well. I got really aggravated with him, but that is a good thing, because it just made him seem more real, and though heartbreaking, watching him grow into the guy he becomes is so worth it. Lucy's character is much more mature in this novel, almost too understanding at times, but then that fiery side comes forth and she manages to stand up for herself showing the tough girl she really is, while igniting that spark in Justin that spurs him on to realize what he wants and needs in life, and what he needs to do to get it.
To make a contemporary romance shine brighter than the others these days is quite a feat, and Perfectly Messy is definitely one of those books that shines bright and makes you take notice. The story is well written, keeping your attention from beginning to end, causing the reader to love and root for the characters, cheering them on to the finish line so they can find their happily ever after. The romance aspect is done really well, and the characters....well, Justin has definitely got the swoon factor down pat. If you are a fan of YA contemporary romance, then Effortless with You and Perfectly Messy are two books that I would most definitely recommend and are well worth making the time to read, perfect for young adult readers and those of us who are young at heart.
I love Justin's character. He is a hottie, but more than that, he is a real stand-up guy that has a good head on his shoulders and is responsible, yet still manages to be a dreamboat. When pressures from family, school, his dad's political race, and being a good boyfriend mount, he kind of crumbles and doesn't handle things too well. I got really aggravated with him, but that is a good thing, because it just made him seem more real, and though heartbreaking, watching him grow into the guy he becomes is so worth it. Lucy's character is much more mature in this novel, almost too understanding at times, but then that fiery side comes forth and she manages to stand up for herself showing the tough girl she really is, while igniting that spark in Justin that spurs him on to realize what he wants and needs in life, and what he needs to do to get it.
To make a contemporary romance shine brighter than the others these days is quite a feat, and Perfectly Messy is definitely one of those books that shines bright and makes you take notice. The story is well written, keeping your attention from beginning to end, causing the reader to love and root for the characters, cheering them on to the finish line so they can find their happily ever after. The romance aspect is done really well, and the characters....well, Justin has definitely got the swoon factor down pat. If you are a fan of YA contemporary romance, then Effortless with You and Perfectly Messy are two books that I would most definitely recommend and are well worth making the time to read, perfect for young adult readers and those of us who are young at heart.
July 13, 2014
Review posted on http://cleanreadsplease.blogspot.com
Ok, what the heck just happened?
Seriously. What. I'm so confused. But in a good way. I think?
So this is the sequel to Effortless With You which I read yesterday. So I read the first half of this last night and finished the rest this morning. So the first half went on like your normal sequel, it was great. I liked seeing Justin and Lucy's relationship together. They were facing hurdles, but nothing too unexpected. And then about half way through a drama happens that I didn't see coming but ok. That was fine, everybody's reactions to it were understandable. And then even Justin's ultimate reaction and resolution was expected as well. I'm trying to be as vague as possible here, so as to not give too much away...
But then, the last chapter of the book? The final resolution that wasn't and then the one that was? And then all the realness and messiness?? I'm here for all of that. I'm totally here for Lucy calling out Justin for his ish. Even though I didn't even know that that's what it was. I know i'm not making any sense here. It's cause I'm still a bit confused. But in a good way. This book is a whirlwind. It's real. I get so bored of everybody's emotions being so cookie cutter and perfect in YA. It's annoying. But this wasn't that.This was the characters having expectations and making mistakes that people have and make in real life. This was having ish blow up in your face like it does in real life. This was not setting people up for false expectations of what love is. This was indeed messy, but perfect at the same time.
So though I'm still kind of dazed from that last chapter, Lizzy Charles you have made a fan out of me. I'm here for all of this realness.
Breath of fresh air.
Ok, what the heck just happened?
Seriously. What. I'm so confused. But in a good way. I think?
So this is the sequel to Effortless With You which I read yesterday. So I read the first half of this last night and finished the rest this morning. So the first half went on like your normal sequel, it was great. I liked seeing Justin and Lucy's relationship together. They were facing hurdles, but nothing too unexpected. And then about half way through a drama happens that I didn't see coming but ok. That was fine, everybody's reactions to it were understandable. And then even Justin's ultimate reaction and resolution was expected as well. I'm trying to be as vague as possible here, so as to not give too much away...
But then, the last chapter of the book? The final resolution that wasn't and then the one that was? And then all the realness and messiness?? I'm here for all of that. I'm totally here for Lucy calling out Justin for his ish. Even though I didn't even know that that's what it was. I know i'm not making any sense here. It's cause I'm still a bit confused. But in a good way. This book is a whirlwind. It's real. I get so bored of everybody's emotions being so cookie cutter and perfect in YA. It's annoying. But this wasn't that.This was the characters having expectations and making mistakes that people have and make in real life. This was having ish blow up in your face like it does in real life. This was not setting people up for false expectations of what love is. This was indeed messy, but perfect at the same time.
So though I'm still kind of dazed from that last chapter, Lizzy Charles you have made a fan out of me. I'm here for all of this realness.
Breath of fresh air.
June 7, 2014
This was such an easy and enjoyable read filled with emotions. Lucy has the perfect boyfriend and a great start to her junior year in high school. However,their relationship is put to the test when Justin tries to be the perfect person he thinks he has to be for everyone,including Lucy. But no one can be perfect 24/7 and the balance of family,friends,school,and girlfriend brings Justin to his knees. Now he must figure out how to put everything into perspective before he looses everything.
I loved Lucy's strength and determination. She attributes the person she's become to Justin,who helped he learn to be who she really is and stop living in fear. But there comes a time when she must learn to be herself without codependent on someone else.
Justin is really a sweet guy and an awesome boyfriend.But life's trials has made him think he has to be the perfect son and the perfect person. However in doing this,he drives people away and becomes the person he never wanted to be. After a few people finally point out to him that it's alright to be perfect and with Lucy is where he belongs,he finds his true self.
I loved Lucy's strength and determination. She attributes the person she's become to Justin,who helped he learn to be who she really is and stop living in fear. But there comes a time when she must learn to be herself without codependent on someone else.
Justin is really a sweet guy and an awesome boyfriend.But life's trials has made him think he has to be the perfect son and the perfect person. However in doing this,he drives people away and becomes the person he never wanted to be. After a few people finally point out to him that it's alright to be perfect and with Lucy is where he belongs,he finds his true self.
June 8, 2014
Tiffany's Review:
Sometimes parents don't realize the pressure they put on their children. Make good grades, don't get in trouble, be the best in your sport...the list is never ending. Sometimes children need to know that everything will not always be PERFECT...sometimes life will get MESSY!
Another great young love story!!! Justin is the son of a politician that is running for governor. Lucy comes from a family that has struggled with depression. When Lucy and Justin first start dating everything is prefect. Then Justin gets so busy with commitments that he has little to no time to spend with Lucy. When the media starts publishing dirty photos of the happy couple things really spiral out of control.
Will their love be enough to get them through all of the mess?! I give this one 4 stars!
Full Review Here: http://curling-up-with-a-good-book.bl...
Sometimes parents don't realize the pressure they put on their children. Make good grades, don't get in trouble, be the best in your sport...the list is never ending. Sometimes children need to know that everything will not always be PERFECT...sometimes life will get MESSY!
Another great young love story!!! Justin is the son of a politician that is running for governor. Lucy comes from a family that has struggled with depression. When Lucy and Justin first start dating everything is prefect. Then Justin gets so busy with commitments that he has little to no time to spend with Lucy. When the media starts publishing dirty photos of the happy couple things really spiral out of control.
Will their love be enough to get them through all of the mess?! I give this one 4 stars!
Full Review Here: http://curling-up-with-a-good-book.bl...
August 9, 2014
This is the second book (after Effortless With You), and love is put to the test this go round, getting a little messy indeed. Will Justin and Lucy pass the test and hang on to their newfound love?
Readers got only Lucy’s point of view in the first book. Now, we get POVs from both Justin and Lucy which I enjoyed so much more. There are things going on in each of their lives that benefit readers by getting into the minds of both lead characters. It really helps give depth and solidify the storyline bringing it to life.
You’ll find this one mixed with some happy and some sad, ups and downs, fun times, too – along with some meaningful lessons for life as well. The happy wrap-up comes a bit quickly with some strings hanging. Most likely a set-up for a third installment.
Readers got only Lucy’s point of view in the first book. Now, we get POVs from both Justin and Lucy which I enjoyed so much more. There are things going on in each of their lives that benefit readers by getting into the minds of both lead characters. It really helps give depth and solidify the storyline bringing it to life.
You’ll find this one mixed with some happy and some sad, ups and downs, fun times, too – along with some meaningful lessons for life as well. The happy wrap-up comes a bit quickly with some strings hanging. Most likely a set-up for a third installment.
July 6, 2015
I was a bit disappointed. I loved the first book in the series and this one was just okay. It was a little slow and boring enough times with not enough conflict to make it a great read. Decent though.
December 21, 2015
I love visiting with Justin and his Lady. This was a good follow up book.
August 30, 2022
i really really wanted to enjoy this book. every fibre of my being loved Effortless With You and finding out that this book had a sequel had melted me into a pile of goo. I loved the story behind lucy in Effortless With You and her spunky personality. i could relate and understand what she was going through, how teenage years precariously place your relationships with family and how everything starts to change. i loved justin's character there, how he accepted lucy with her flaws but this book undid whatever love i had for that one.
here lucy was some sort of angel descended from heaven with absolutely no flaws and was 0% a human. maybe if i'm being generous, -2.5% a teenager. don't get me wrong, i've always loved lizzy charles' writing but this one just didn't do it for me. justin did not sound even a bit like a teenage boy, he sounded what a girl would want an ideal boy to think about her. he was made so ideal that some of these new traits given to him teetered him past the point of original he sounded so fabricated, his thoughts always, always praising lucy even when she was wrong and
unfortunately justin sounded stupid and didn't have any opinion for himself throughout. they had only one fight, which was so silly and forced that the book completely fell flat for me. lucy lost her spunk and was only dreaming about justin's dreamy eyes.
long story short, i couldn't believe that these two young, smart and crazy competitive teenagers couldn't have one fight in a book? they always HAD to agree with each other, which went against their characters sketched out so beautifully in book one. in comparison with Effortless With You, this seemed like a fanfic more than an individual novel.
here lucy was some sort of angel descended from heaven with absolutely no flaws and was 0% a human. maybe if i'm being generous, -2.5% a teenager. don't get me wrong, i've always loved lizzy charles' writing but this one just didn't do it for me. justin did not sound even a bit like a teenage boy, he sounded what a girl would want an ideal boy to think about her. he was made so ideal that some of these new traits given to him teetered him past the point of original he sounded so fabricated, his thoughts always, always praising lucy even when she was wrong and
unfortunately justin sounded stupid and didn't have any opinion for himself throughout. they had only one fight, which was so silly and forced that the book completely fell flat for me. lucy lost her spunk and was only dreaming about justin's dreamy eyes.
long story short, i couldn't believe that these two young, smart and crazy competitive teenagers couldn't have one fight in a book? they always HAD to agree with each other, which went against their characters sketched out so beautifully in book one. in comparison with Effortless With You, this seemed like a fanfic more than an individual novel.
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August 25, 2025I can't say enough about how much I enjoyed this book. It was a bit of a rollercoaster that left me quickly turning page after page to see what was going to happen next. Book that grip me like that always make their way to my favorites shelf and Perfectly Messy is no exception. :)
February 28, 2017
Just wonderful! I loved this so much!
May 4, 2018
AHHHH i waited for this book sooo long, justin is just the best ever.You have to read the first book though to get a better understanding.Its worth the read.
December 8, 2020
2.5 stars
November 7, 2022
HAH this one’s good too it’s just such a quick read
May 28, 2014
PERFECTLY MESSY, the sequel to EFFORTLESS WITH YOU by Lizzy Charles is a breath of fresh air in the contemporary young adult market. The characters are well rounded and extremely likable, jumping off the page so much you feel like they’re a part of your lives. Charles places these wonderful characters in real-life high-stress scenarios that would even make adults buckle, let alone the two teenage leads. Yet, these experiences define and shape who they are, and that is what is so beautiful about the young adult genre. Charles’ characters handle the situations thrown at them in a real and raw way that only teenagers could and that is what makes PERFECTLY MESSY so undeniably fantastic...the sheer ‘reality’ of this beautiful piece of young adult fiction.
Charles decided to alternate the points of view between main characters Lucy and Justin, and if you’ve read EFFORTLESS WITH YOU then you know how much of an awesome treat it is to finally get inside Justin’s gorgeous head! The decision, in my opinion, was a brilliant one because it allows readers to get a more in-depth look at the characters and the obstacles that are pushing at them from both sides. It gives insight into their characteristics, seeing how they each react differently to the same situation, and it strengthens them as individuals, separating them both from the relationship that makes them whole. The technique is beautifully done and Charles gives readers two unique and clearly distinct voices which weave effortlessly between chapters.
The chemistry between Justin and Lucy that readers fell in love with during the first book is doubled if not tripled in PERFECTLY MESSY. This time Charles raises the stakes, putting their relationship under the scrutiny of a political-fueled media and the harshest kind of judges--their peers. No matter how perfect their relationship was, or they were for each other, they were going to run into obstacles, and Charles didn’t pull any punches, placing our beloved Lucy and Justin in the tensest of situations, forcing them to question their love, their family, and their true sense of self. And it is well-written, with a sharp pace that keeps you turning pages, and dialogue that is so realistic readers will feel transported to high school, in a good way. Another thing I love about Charles, like I stated before, this is a real story. Too often in the young adult genre we find characters behaving in a manner that teenagers wouldn’t dream of and her characters are extraordinary in their believability.
And if nothing of the above hooks you, then let me give you this...the HEAT between Justin and Lucy is enough to pick up this book. Their relationship is intense, with a love the sings every time their in each other’s presence, and an electricity that sizzles off the page. Lucy isn’t the girl who stands behind Justin (though she does have his back) she’s the girl who stands beside him, matching each of his confident strides, as well as each of his screw ups. That’s what I love about Lucy, she’s a strong female character who is able to love the male lead while knowing who she is and this enhances the relationship between the two rather than deter it. I mean, what is better than two strong characters joining together and embarking on a true tale of love, complete with the ups and downs and trials that come naturally during that time period in their lives?
PERFECTLY MESSY is all and more than fans of EFFORTLESS WITH YOU could hope for and will have readers cheering for Justin and Lucy one second and fanning themselves from the heat the next.
Charles decided to alternate the points of view between main characters Lucy and Justin, and if you’ve read EFFORTLESS WITH YOU then you know how much of an awesome treat it is to finally get inside Justin’s gorgeous head! The decision, in my opinion, was a brilliant one because it allows readers to get a more in-depth look at the characters and the obstacles that are pushing at them from both sides. It gives insight into their characteristics, seeing how they each react differently to the same situation, and it strengthens them as individuals, separating them both from the relationship that makes them whole. The technique is beautifully done and Charles gives readers two unique and clearly distinct voices which weave effortlessly between chapters.
The chemistry between Justin and Lucy that readers fell in love with during the first book is doubled if not tripled in PERFECTLY MESSY. This time Charles raises the stakes, putting their relationship under the scrutiny of a political-fueled media and the harshest kind of judges--their peers. No matter how perfect their relationship was, or they were for each other, they were going to run into obstacles, and Charles didn’t pull any punches, placing our beloved Lucy and Justin in the tensest of situations, forcing them to question their love, their family, and their true sense of self. And it is well-written, with a sharp pace that keeps you turning pages, and dialogue that is so realistic readers will feel transported to high school, in a good way. Another thing I love about Charles, like I stated before, this is a real story. Too often in the young adult genre we find characters behaving in a manner that teenagers wouldn’t dream of and her characters are extraordinary in their believability.
And if nothing of the above hooks you, then let me give you this...the HEAT between Justin and Lucy is enough to pick up this book. Their relationship is intense, with a love the sings every time their in each other’s presence, and an electricity that sizzles off the page. Lucy isn’t the girl who stands behind Justin (though she does have his back) she’s the girl who stands beside him, matching each of his confident strides, as well as each of his screw ups. That’s what I love about Lucy, she’s a strong female character who is able to love the male lead while knowing who she is and this enhances the relationship between the two rather than deter it. I mean, what is better than two strong characters joining together and embarking on a true tale of love, complete with the ups and downs and trials that come naturally during that time period in their lives?
PERFECTLY MESSY is all and more than fans of EFFORTLESS WITH YOU could hope for and will have readers cheering for Justin and Lucy one second and fanning themselves from the heat the next.
June 25, 2014
Review:
The first book of the series was one of those special books last year that was subtle, sweet, emotional and made an impact on me, even though, I would have never expected it to and am quite confused even now as to why it touched me to that degree. At first glance, it’s was a simple and even somewhat of a typical book in the genre, but I thought it was a beyond lovely and as soon as I accidentally saw that it had a sequel, I was already digging in.
I was anticipating to see Lucy and Justin finally together in a relationship, but I didn’t predict their time to be so incredibly full of obstacles and issues. It was crazy for Justin, he was being pulled in every imaginable direction and the poor guy was wearing thin and no one really seemed to realize it. While I adored Lucy for being understanding and patient, I don’t think she grasped what he was really forced to endure. Not saying that she didn’t have a hard time as well. Also, I didn’t like that some problems were quite unreasonable and straight out cliché dumb. Please, let’s stop with the Photoshop and compromising photo hassle, I’ve encounter this in more books than I’d like to and it’s getting somewhat repetitive, but mostly, I think it’s a nasty plot device. Overall, I really liked to see how they juggled each other, friends, hobbies, studies, family, especially since all the issues were portrayed quite realistically and I’m glad not everything worked out, because it’s not always meant to in actual life. It was interesting to observe how the problems affected and made the couple act. I loved that it wasn’t smooth sailing for them and there was more than enough to overcome till the light was visible at the end of the tunnel.
What I didn’t like was the last major conflict between Justin and Lucy, which was simply ridiculous compared to what they had already been able to tolerate to that point. I didn’t like it at all, it was a stupid decision and while I vaguely saw the benefits I wasn’t fond of such stalling before the end. It was really out of place and didn’t go with the characters I had come to know till that point.
While the first book focused heavily on Lucy and her family issues and the romance was on the sidelines. I liked that this book was more about the relationship of her and Justin, but most of all, I appreciated how it now dealt with the problems of both of them, which they had to face separately or together. The viewpoint being switched from him to her was also helpful in seeing both sides of the story.
Characters:
Lucy – I really liked her, she was a down-to-earth and sensible girl, who tried to be reasonable and nice, and mostly succeeded. Her reaction and attitude in the final conflict, however, lost several points in me liking her and I don’t think it was her fault, so I’m still fond of her and find her a cool girl.
Justin – Poor guy, he was a mess in this compared to the calm and collected we got to know in the first book. But this just proves to never judge a book by its cover, you never know what’s actually going on inside.
Overall:
A sweet follow-up to a very sweet first book. I liked how the characters and the story itself had developed and this really felt like a sequel and not the same book with some alterations (am I the only one who feels like many New Adult series are like that after the first book?). So again, I recommend this and the first book strongly and confidently. Also, will there be a book number 3? I don’t know, but I do know that I will definitely pick it up if it comes my way.
The first book of the series was one of those special books last year that was subtle, sweet, emotional and made an impact on me, even though, I would have never expected it to and am quite confused even now as to why it touched me to that degree. At first glance, it’s was a simple and even somewhat of a typical book in the genre, but I thought it was a beyond lovely and as soon as I accidentally saw that it had a sequel, I was already digging in.
I was anticipating to see Lucy and Justin finally together in a relationship, but I didn’t predict their time to be so incredibly full of obstacles and issues. It was crazy for Justin, he was being pulled in every imaginable direction and the poor guy was wearing thin and no one really seemed to realize it. While I adored Lucy for being understanding and patient, I don’t think she grasped what he was really forced to endure. Not saying that she didn’t have a hard time as well. Also, I didn’t like that some problems were quite unreasonable and straight out cliché dumb. Please, let’s stop with the Photoshop and compromising photo hassle, I’ve encounter this in more books than I’d like to and it’s getting somewhat repetitive, but mostly, I think it’s a nasty plot device. Overall, I really liked to see how they juggled each other, friends, hobbies, studies, family, especially since all the issues were portrayed quite realistically and I’m glad not everything worked out, because it’s not always meant to in actual life. It was interesting to observe how the problems affected and made the couple act. I loved that it wasn’t smooth sailing for them and there was more than enough to overcome till the light was visible at the end of the tunnel.
What I didn’t like was the last major conflict between Justin and Lucy, which was simply ridiculous compared to what they had already been able to tolerate to that point. I didn’t like it at all, it was a stupid decision and while I vaguely saw the benefits I wasn’t fond of such stalling before the end. It was really out of place and didn’t go with the characters I had come to know till that point.
While the first book focused heavily on Lucy and her family issues and the romance was on the sidelines. I liked that this book was more about the relationship of her and Justin, but most of all, I appreciated how it now dealt with the problems of both of them, which they had to face separately or together. The viewpoint being switched from him to her was also helpful in seeing both sides of the story.
Characters:
Lucy – I really liked her, she was a down-to-earth and sensible girl, who tried to be reasonable and nice, and mostly succeeded. Her reaction and attitude in the final conflict, however, lost several points in me liking her and I don’t think it was her fault, so I’m still fond of her and find her a cool girl.
Justin – Poor guy, he was a mess in this compared to the calm and collected we got to know in the first book. But this just proves to never judge a book by its cover, you never know what’s actually going on inside.
Overall:
A sweet follow-up to a very sweet first book. I liked how the characters and the story itself had developed and this really felt like a sequel and not the same book with some alterations (am I the only one who feels like many New Adult series are like that after the first book?). So again, I recommend this and the first book strongly and confidently. Also, will there be a book number 3? I don’t know, but I do know that I will definitely pick it up if it comes my way.
September 18, 2025
I can't say enough about how much I enjoyed this book. It was a bit of a rollercoaster that left me quickly turning page after page to see what was going to happen next. Book that grip me like that always make their way to my favorites shelf and Perfectly Messy is no exception. :)
June 6, 2014
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kimberlyfaye reads
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I had so many mixed feelings going into this book! After falling in love with Lucy and Justin in Effortless With You, I really wanted more of their story. I wanted to see them as a couple. But, the blurb of this book made it clear that things were about to get rather bumpy for the couple and I wasn’t sure that was something I would like to read. In the end my curiosity (and the want of more of Lucy and Justin) won out and I’m so very glad I decided to read Perfectly Messy. It was a great continuation of the story of Lucy and Justin.
I loved Lucy in this book. She’s grown so nicely from the somewhat spoiled brat we met at the beginning of Effortless With You. She’s moved past the drama with her ex and so-called friend. She’s playing a sport she loves again. It was impossible NOT to like her. Golden Boy Justin is far from perfect in this book. Where in Effortless With You he seemed to have it all together, the pressure of school, family, job and sports is really starting to get to him in the sequel. No matter how hard he tries to balance everything, it’s just not possible. He’s getting pressure from the people involved with his father’s campaign for governor. There’s talk of putting him on a reality dating show. It’s just one big… mess. Unfortunately the part of his life that starts to slip most is his time with Lucy, which made me really sad. But they’re still determined to make their relationship work. If they can just get through the campaign…
One of my favorite things about this book was that it was told in dual POV, so we got the story from both Lucy and Justin’s perspective. There was a lot happening and they weren’t great at communicating in this book. But as the reader, I never felt like I didn’t know what was going on with both of them. Which, of course, led me to shaking my iPad, wishing they would just talk to each other about everything! I adored these two together and it pained me to see all the crap they were going through in this book. And boy, did they go through a lot.
Perfectly Messy made me feel so many feels. It gave a realistic look at Lucy and Justin’s relationship, which means it wasn’t all warm and fuzzy. You get the good and the bad with this book and that is what I loved most about it. Sure, it made me angry and sad at times, but I was thrilled with it overall. It had so many sweet, heartfelt moments that it left me smiling a big cheesy grin and fondly remembering my first love. Perfectly Messy is another beautifully-written book by a fairly new author who has just landed herself on my auto-buy author list. I can’t wait for more from her in the future.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
I had so many mixed feelings going into this book! After falling in love with Lucy and Justin in Effortless With You, I really wanted more of their story. I wanted to see them as a couple. But, the blurb of this book made it clear that things were about to get rather bumpy for the couple and I wasn’t sure that was something I would like to read. In the end my curiosity (and the want of more of Lucy and Justin) won out and I’m so very glad I decided to read Perfectly Messy. It was a great continuation of the story of Lucy and Justin.
I loved Lucy in this book. She’s grown so nicely from the somewhat spoiled brat we met at the beginning of Effortless With You. She’s moved past the drama with her ex and so-called friend. She’s playing a sport she loves again. It was impossible NOT to like her. Golden Boy Justin is far from perfect in this book. Where in Effortless With You he seemed to have it all together, the pressure of school, family, job and sports is really starting to get to him in the sequel. No matter how hard he tries to balance everything, it’s just not possible. He’s getting pressure from the people involved with his father’s campaign for governor. There’s talk of putting him on a reality dating show. It’s just one big… mess. Unfortunately the part of his life that starts to slip most is his time with Lucy, which made me really sad. But they’re still determined to make their relationship work. If they can just get through the campaign…
One of my favorite things about this book was that it was told in dual POV, so we got the story from both Lucy and Justin’s perspective. There was a lot happening and they weren’t great at communicating in this book. But as the reader, I never felt like I didn’t know what was going on with both of them. Which, of course, led me to shaking my iPad, wishing they would just talk to each other about everything! I adored these two together and it pained me to see all the crap they were going through in this book. And boy, did they go through a lot.
Perfectly Messy made me feel so many feels. It gave a realistic look at Lucy and Justin’s relationship, which means it wasn’t all warm and fuzzy. You get the good and the bad with this book and that is what I loved most about it. Sure, it made me angry and sad at times, but I was thrilled with it overall. It had so many sweet, heartfelt moments that it left me smiling a big cheesy grin and fondly remembering my first love. Perfectly Messy is another beautifully-written book by a fairly new author who has just landed herself on my auto-buy author list. I can’t wait for more from her in the future.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
August 3, 2014
I received a copy of this from the author for a review.
Before I started this book, I went back and reread Effortless With You, which was a genius idea on my part. It sped up my reading of this book and got me back into the mindset of Lucy. Plus, when you remember why they fell in love in the first place, it's easier to handle when love isn't quite going the way you think it should.
I really liked this book, but I didn't think it was as good as the last one. But it's so close. Hopefully, I can explain that.
First of all, it was fantastic to see Lucy and Justin in their normal lives together instead of the slightly idyllic world that is summer vacation. And Lucy was such a better character in this book than the last one (which is partly the point. She's not supposed to be a great role model in the first book). I liked her so much more. But I didn't like Justin as much, which hurt. He was still Justin but he wasn't the same fabulous guy I fell in love with in the first book. Which is, again, the point. Sigh.
I really liked seeing their relationship evolve as the story went on. They hit new milestones in the story (such as meeting the parents) which was funny, nerve-wracking, and all around realistic. That was delightful.
The minor characters really showed a lot of growth in this story as well. I loved that. From our favorites (Jen, Laura) to new characters (Ian) and old baddies (Marissa), none of the characters were exactly the same as they were from the first book. That was so great. I love character development.
And this story pushes such a great message to girls: Be yourself and be strong, because not everyone is going to be ok with that, but those people don't matter as much as the people who love you. So empowering. Love that.
The only thing I really started to have an issue with was the drama in the story. I know it has to be there. But the story rotates perspectives between Justin and Lucy, so we got double the drama. Between the girl drama Lucy was experiencing to the political drama Justin was enmeshed in and then the relationship drama they both experienced, it was a lot of drama. With this book, I have pretty much maxed out on the amount of realistic fiction I can handle for at least 2 books. Basically the whole second half of the book set me on edge.
Truly, it's a lovely story that adds a lot of depth to the characters I already loved. I am so glad Lizzy Charles saw fit to hook me up with this. These characters are so fantastically real and their situations so relatable. (Well, maybe not the political part of Justin's story, but the rest of it. Totally.)
Before I started this book, I went back and reread Effortless With You, which was a genius idea on my part. It sped up my reading of this book and got me back into the mindset of Lucy. Plus, when you remember why they fell in love in the first place, it's easier to handle when love isn't quite going the way you think it should.
I really liked this book, but I didn't think it was as good as the last one. But it's so close. Hopefully, I can explain that.
First of all, it was fantastic to see Lucy and Justin in their normal lives together instead of the slightly idyllic world that is summer vacation. And Lucy was such a better character in this book than the last one (which is partly the point. She's not supposed to be a great role model in the first book). I liked her so much more. But I didn't like Justin as much, which hurt. He was still Justin but he wasn't the same fabulous guy I fell in love with in the first book. Which is, again, the point. Sigh.
I really liked seeing their relationship evolve as the story went on. They hit new milestones in the story (such as meeting the parents) which was funny, nerve-wracking, and all around realistic. That was delightful.
The minor characters really showed a lot of growth in this story as well. I loved that. From our favorites (Jen, Laura) to new characters (Ian) and old baddies (Marissa), none of the characters were exactly the same as they were from the first book. That was so great. I love character development.
And this story pushes such a great message to girls: Be yourself and be strong, because not everyone is going to be ok with that, but those people don't matter as much as the people who love you. So empowering. Love that.
The only thing I really started to have an issue with was the drama in the story. I know it has to be there. But the story rotates perspectives between Justin and Lucy, so we got double the drama. Between the girl drama Lucy was experiencing to the political drama Justin was enmeshed in and then the relationship drama they both experienced, it was a lot of drama. With this book, I have pretty much maxed out on the amount of realistic fiction I can handle for at least 2 books. Basically the whole second half of the book set me on edge.
Truly, it's a lovely story that adds a lot of depth to the characters I already loved. I am so glad Lizzy Charles saw fit to hook me up with this. These characters are so fantastically real and their situations so relatable. (Well, maybe not the political part of Justin's story, but the rest of it. Totally.)
May 30, 2014
Psychocat Reads Review of PERFECTLY MESSY by Lizzy Charles
When I found out Lizzy had a sequel to EFFORTLESS WITH YOU releasing, I was thrilled. When the opportunity to join the release tour came up, I jumped at it. Once I started reading PERFECTLY MESSY, I was hard pressed to put it down.
The Book as Part of a Series: The beauty of a sequel is that, if you read the first book, you already know at least some of the characters. After falling in love with EFFORTLESS WITH YOU, I couldn't wait to jump back in with Lucy, Justin, and their friends in PERFECTLY MESSY. You could enjoy this book on its own, but to get the most out of it take the time to read EFFORTLESS WITH YOU first.
Characters: In the second book, we see Lucy and Justin continue to develop. We see them both struggle and grow as they navigate through the challenges thrown at them. Lizzy also continued to develop some of the secondary characters from book one. I'll admit, I squealed with delight when Alex showed up again. Between the friends closest to the couple, and their parents, the secondary characters enriched the story. It's a small enough group that you can get to know each of them, but diverse enough to add extra life to a wonderful book.
Relationships: Yes, Lucy and Justin are central to the book, but the relationships go so much deeper. Part of what made me love both of Lizzy's books is the realistic portrayal of the friend and family relationships. They are all complicated. They have their fun moments, and they have their struggles. Being able to see how the relationships that surround the romance impact it makes the story richer.
Too Perfect or Perfectly Flawed: Ah, the glorious perfection of the very flawed teenage years. This book was filled with lots of "No! No! Don't do that!" moments mixed with tons of "Oh! Thank goodness!" ones. That went for both the adults and the teenagers. Lizzy did a great job of integrating some of the very real struggles teenagers face into the story of PERFECTLY MESSY. By the end of the book, I had to agree the entire thing was perfectly messy.
Jen's Final Rating: 5 STARS!!!!! I'm even more in love with these characters than I was after reading EFFORTLESS WITH YOU. I'm keeping my fingers crossed for more from Lizzy with the wonderful cast of characters she's created.
Psychocat's Final Rating: 5 CLAWS. She was ready to shred a couple of characters in the first book, but she's out to kill after this one.
When I found out Lizzy had a sequel to EFFORTLESS WITH YOU releasing, I was thrilled. When the opportunity to join the release tour came up, I jumped at it. Once I started reading PERFECTLY MESSY, I was hard pressed to put it down.
The Book as Part of a Series: The beauty of a sequel is that, if you read the first book, you already know at least some of the characters. After falling in love with EFFORTLESS WITH YOU, I couldn't wait to jump back in with Lucy, Justin, and their friends in PERFECTLY MESSY. You could enjoy this book on its own, but to get the most out of it take the time to read EFFORTLESS WITH YOU first.
Characters: In the second book, we see Lucy and Justin continue to develop. We see them both struggle and grow as they navigate through the challenges thrown at them. Lizzy also continued to develop some of the secondary characters from book one. I'll admit, I squealed with delight when Alex showed up again. Between the friends closest to the couple, and their parents, the secondary characters enriched the story. It's a small enough group that you can get to know each of them, but diverse enough to add extra life to a wonderful book.
Relationships: Yes, Lucy and Justin are central to the book, but the relationships go so much deeper. Part of what made me love both of Lizzy's books is the realistic portrayal of the friend and family relationships. They are all complicated. They have their fun moments, and they have their struggles. Being able to see how the relationships that surround the romance impact it makes the story richer.
Too Perfect or Perfectly Flawed: Ah, the glorious perfection of the very flawed teenage years. This book was filled with lots of "No! No! Don't do that!" moments mixed with tons of "Oh! Thank goodness!" ones. That went for both the adults and the teenagers. Lizzy did a great job of integrating some of the very real struggles teenagers face into the story of PERFECTLY MESSY. By the end of the book, I had to agree the entire thing was perfectly messy.
Jen's Final Rating: 5 STARS!!!!! I'm even more in love with these characters than I was after reading EFFORTLESS WITH YOU. I'm keeping my fingers crossed for more from Lizzy with the wonderful cast of characters she's created.
Psychocat's Final Rating: 5 CLAWS. She was ready to shred a couple of characters in the first book, but she's out to kill after this one.
May 29, 2014
We are The Unofficial Addiction Book Fan Club, to know more about this book, go to the post in our website:
Perfectly Messy (Effortless With You #2) by Lizzy Charles
If you are interested, you can visit our website:
The Unofficial Addiction Book Fan Club
The Unofficial Addiction Book Fan Club's Review:
Rate: 4 stars
Review:
Perfectly Messy is beyond sweet and full of emotion. This story it's simply "what happens after that beautifully happy ending".
Justin and Lucy struggle with finding time together. They are both teenagers with long schedules filled with activities. That leaves them little time together and when they do get some time their attraction is too much to ignore it. Like in every relationship, problems start to arise and the solution that Justin can find is to break up with Lucy in order to not hurt her. Choosing his family over the girl of his dreams.
Justin is one of those characters you instantly fall in love with: definitely sweet, hot, responsible and so mature you sometimes forget he's a teenager. In this book he's dealing with a lot of pressure from his family due to his father's political career. That pressure makes him take some decisions, that although those decisions make his family happy, that lead him to lose what he wants and desires, the most important thing for him.
You have to remember that Justin's only a kid after all and that he's trying to do the right thing. This makes you want to hate him, but you can't 'cause it's Justin and after all this makes him more "human", more real.
Lucy is also more mature and bring all that "girl power" that she was capable of exploiting. She is determined to stand up for herself and it makes the reader to want to applaud all her actions.
It breaks my heart one such a lovely couple with a well-deserved ending, find themselves facing another problem that leads the reader in an emotional rollercoaster. There a lot of emotions poured in this story and it's reflected when you read it.
I had a great time reading this book and I highly recommend this story to all Lizzy Charles' fans and those readers who like a good, sweet and tender love story.
Perfectly Messy (Effortless With You #2) by Lizzy Charles
If you are interested, you can visit our website:
The Unofficial Addiction Book Fan Club
The Unofficial Addiction Book Fan Club's Review:
Rate: 4 stars
Review:
Perfectly Messy is beyond sweet and full of emotion. This story it's simply "what happens after that beautifully happy ending".
Justin and Lucy struggle with finding time together. They are both teenagers with long schedules filled with activities. That leaves them little time together and when they do get some time their attraction is too much to ignore it. Like in every relationship, problems start to arise and the solution that Justin can find is to break up with Lucy in order to not hurt her. Choosing his family over the girl of his dreams.
Justin is one of those characters you instantly fall in love with: definitely sweet, hot, responsible and so mature you sometimes forget he's a teenager. In this book he's dealing with a lot of pressure from his family due to his father's political career. That pressure makes him take some decisions, that although those decisions make his family happy, that lead him to lose what he wants and desires, the most important thing for him.
You have to remember that Justin's only a kid after all and that he's trying to do the right thing. This makes you want to hate him, but you can't 'cause it's Justin and after all this makes him more "human", more real.
Lucy is also more mature and bring all that "girl power" that she was capable of exploiting. She is determined to stand up for herself and it makes the reader to want to applaud all her actions.
It breaks my heart one such a lovely couple with a well-deserved ending, find themselves facing another problem that leads the reader in an emotional rollercoaster. There a lot of emotions poured in this story and it's reflected when you read it.
I had a great time reading this book and I highly recommend this story to all Lizzy Charles' fans and those readers who like a good, sweet and tender love story.
May 27, 2014
For the majority of the book, I really wanted to kick Justin. I was so annoyed that he seemed so perfect in EWY but then he's so...well, not perfect in PM!! I guess that may have been the point and OH did he live up to that. At many times during the book, wanted to kick him for making stupid decisions lol. Guess it makes him more realistic. I find myself wanting to kick DH in the pants every now and then, too lol. That being said, I still swooned just as much with some of those lines that come out of Justin's mouth!! Holy heart-melt!! I totally understand why Lucy feels like she's going to wake up from a dream sooner or later.
I really felt for him and Lucy when they were going through all the "paparazzi" problems. I've seen firsthand how harsh social media can be, especially if it's negative and you're on the receiving end of that. It's senseless and cruel--bullying at its finest. I think that Lizzy touched on a really sensitive and very real issue that teens, in general, deal with these days (a whole lot more than we were exposed back in the day).
This book was a great continuation of Lizzy Charles' first book, Effortless With You. It definitely added to the series and enriched the story which isn't always the case in a lot of series. I loved that this book was a continuation to Lucy and Justin's story. Even moreso, I loved that it was more a book about Justin (as EWY was more a book about Lucy). It allowed for more development of both characters and, of course, of their relationship. I find that a lot of times, I'm left with the "they get together and they live happily ever after". I hate being left wanting more and I was most definitely not disappointed with Perfectly Messy. I must say, though, the only thing I'm still crossing my fingers for is more Alex!!
I really felt for him and Lucy when they were going through all the "paparazzi" problems. I've seen firsthand how harsh social media can be, especially if it's negative and you're on the receiving end of that. It's senseless and cruel--bullying at its finest. I think that Lizzy touched on a really sensitive and very real issue that teens, in general, deal with these days (a whole lot more than we were exposed back in the day).
This book was a great continuation of Lizzy Charles' first book, Effortless With You. It definitely added to the series and enriched the story which isn't always the case in a lot of series. I loved that this book was a continuation to Lucy and Justin's story. Even moreso, I loved that it was more a book about Justin (as EWY was more a book about Lucy). It allowed for more development of both characters and, of course, of their relationship. I find that a lot of times, I'm left with the "they get together and they live happily ever after". I hate being left wanting more and I was most definitely not disappointed with Perfectly Messy. I must say, though, the only thing I'm still crossing my fingers for is more Alex!!
May 27, 2014
As if this couldn't get more intense and interesting this book kicks it up a notch!
Lucy and Justin are getting along famously when the spit hits the fan. Life smashes into the young couple and things spin way out of control. Talk about a test of love!
What Lucy and Justin go through is epic and it leaves you speed reading to find out what happens next. The supporting characters shine in this book as friends and family come together, clash and collide in this emotionally charged rollercoaster ride!
I was left spinning afterwards. Finding myself at "The End" without realizing that I was so close. Wow. I really didn't think it would be better than the first book but it knocked it out of the park with subject matter that I don't see a lot of. I loved the grimy political aspect and seeing what something like that can do to a family's dynamic.
Anyways I am not spoiling this, no way. I just don't roll that way!!
I most definitely recommend this book with a ten star oh sorry, five star rating firmly attached. Get your copies of Effortless With You and Perfectly Messy today, you won't be disappointed!! Just make sure you settle into a comfy reading spot because you won't want to put it down!
Lucy and Justin are getting along famously when the spit hits the fan. Life smashes into the young couple and things spin way out of control. Talk about a test of love!
What Lucy and Justin go through is epic and it leaves you speed reading to find out what happens next. The supporting characters shine in this book as friends and family come together, clash and collide in this emotionally charged rollercoaster ride!
I was left spinning afterwards. Finding myself at "The End" without realizing that I was so close. Wow. I really didn't think it would be better than the first book but it knocked it out of the park with subject matter that I don't see a lot of. I loved the grimy political aspect and seeing what something like that can do to a family's dynamic.
Anyways I am not spoiling this, no way. I just don't roll that way!!
I most definitely recommend this book with a ten star oh sorry, five star rating firmly attached. Get your copies of Effortless With You and Perfectly Messy today, you won't be disappointed!! Just make sure you settle into a comfy reading spot because you won't want to put it down!
July 12, 2014
Perfectly Messy is Lizzy Charles' sequel to Effortless With You the follow up to Lucy's and Justin's love story. Perfectly Messy was a great read and I highly recommend it giving it 4.5 stars.
**Might contain Spoilers**
Where the first book was written from Lucy's POV this book alternates POV from Justin and Lucy and it is interesting to see and feel what Justin is going through as well as Lucy, even though at times it broke my heart for all the anguish they must endure to get to their HEA. I'm glad to see that Lucy receives redemption from her freshman year of basketball. It was also great to see more on Lucy's relation with her mom as well as what happens to Marissa and her relationship with Lucy.
Good HEA, but found things wrapped up too quickly right at the end and left me with questions. Such as who is harassing Justin, and will Ian and Marissa become a couple? I would like further development and info on the lives of Alex, Jen and Trish, and Laura and Luke? And of course, more on Lucy and Justin and Justin's company. Will Ms. Charles write a third book to answer things questions? Yes she should and I will be one of the firsts in line to read it.
Great story highly recommend it!
**Might contain Spoilers**
Where the first book was written from Lucy's POV this book alternates POV from Justin and Lucy and it is interesting to see and feel what Justin is going through as well as Lucy, even though at times it broke my heart for all the anguish they must endure to get to their HEA. I'm glad to see that Lucy receives redemption from her freshman year of basketball. It was also great to see more on Lucy's relation with her mom as well as what happens to Marissa and her relationship with Lucy.
Good HEA, but found things wrapped up too quickly right at the end and left me with questions. Such as who is harassing Justin, and will Ian and Marissa become a couple? I would like further development and info on the lives of Alex, Jen and Trish, and Laura and Luke? And of course, more on Lucy and Justin and Justin's company. Will Ms. Charles write a third book to answer things questions? Yes she should and I will be one of the firsts in line to read it.
Great story highly recommend it!
June 10, 2014
Perfectly Messy is a great follow up to Effortless with You. Lucy and Justin are in love and loving being together. Justin's dad is running for governor and there are pressures on him to attend fund raisers, make appearances and even to appear as a single, eligible guy on a new reality show. (this last one is at the insistence of a manipulative campaign manager)
They are getting to spend less and less time together. Lucy is finally getting her old groove back, playing basketball and making new friends. Even the evil Marissa is revealed to have a tragic past and is coming around.
But there are some cruel reminders of Lucy's freshman year that suddenly appear in the press and this causes immense pressure on their relationship.
Just when Lucy needs Justin the most, will he let her down? Can they shut out the world, and focus on each other and what is truly important?
I enjoyed this one almost as much as the first. I thought the ending was a little rushed, or maybe that is because I wanted to see more of them and their relationship! The epilogue was short, but sweet. Maybe a novella for them...a few years down the road to catch us up on what they are doing?
They are getting to spend less and less time together. Lucy is finally getting her old groove back, playing basketball and making new friends. Even the evil Marissa is revealed to have a tragic past and is coming around.
But there are some cruel reminders of Lucy's freshman year that suddenly appear in the press and this causes immense pressure on their relationship.
Just when Lucy needs Justin the most, will he let her down? Can they shut out the world, and focus on each other and what is truly important?
I enjoyed this one almost as much as the first. I thought the ending was a little rushed, or maybe that is because I wanted to see more of them and their relationship! The epilogue was short, but sweet. Maybe a novella for them...a few years down the road to catch us up on what they are doing?
August 2, 2014
Seriously, sweetest ending to the sweetest series I have ever read. Lucy's life has turned around since EWY. Her relationship with her family is better, she's got the perfect boyfriend, and only the occasional jealous girl is mean to her at school. But she and Justin are not in the clear yet. His dad is in a position of power and public speculation. Such is the world of politics.
When Justin refuses to sell out for his father's campaign, things get dirty. Questionable photos are leaked to the press, leaving he and Lucy to navigate the waters without the trust of their families. Innocence is proven, but it's not an easy road.
Justin eventually brings his father back to the lighter side of things, and decides nothing is worth being without Lucy. He sets out to win her back. And his methods are absolutely adorable.
Once again, I was reminded of the struggles and triumphs of my own high school days, not at all similar to these two, but Lizzy has a style of writing that leaves you with no choice but to travel down memory lane. I absolutely adored these books, and cannot wait to read more from this author.
When Justin refuses to sell out for his father's campaign, things get dirty. Questionable photos are leaked to the press, leaving he and Lucy to navigate the waters without the trust of their families. Innocence is proven, but it's not an easy road.
Justin eventually brings his father back to the lighter side of things, and decides nothing is worth being without Lucy. He sets out to win her back. And his methods are absolutely adorable.
Once again, I was reminded of the struggles and triumphs of my own high school days, not at all similar to these two, but Lizzy has a style of writing that leaves you with no choice but to travel down memory lane. I absolutely adored these books, and cannot wait to read more from this author.
August 5, 2014
I have to start by saying I love this book! I think I even like it more than the first! I totally fell in love with the characters in the first book and I love the fact that I was able to experience the two high school students face the challenges in their lives in the second book.
Lucy: It was amazing to read more about Lucy. She not only learned to overcome her fear and do what she loves but do it for the right reason.
Justin: I thought it was awesome that we got to learn more about Justin in the second book! I also thought it was cool how in the first book we were shown how Lucy figured out who she really is and in the second book we saw Justin work through some stuff in his life and find out who he really is.
I also like how the book was written in dual point of view and that the storyline still made sense when the view point changed. My favorite part about the book was that it took you through the journey of two teenagers figuring out that love isn't always perfect but it's definitely worth it!
Lucy: It was amazing to read more about Lucy. She not only learned to overcome her fear and do what she loves but do it for the right reason.
Justin: I thought it was awesome that we got to learn more about Justin in the second book! I also thought it was cool how in the first book we were shown how Lucy figured out who she really is and in the second book we saw Justin work through some stuff in his life and find out who he really is.
I also like how the book was written in dual point of view and that the storyline still made sense when the view point changed. My favorite part about the book was that it took you through the journey of two teenagers figuring out that love isn't always perfect but it's definitely worth it!
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