What do you think?
Rate this book
Crush #1
Just a Little Crush
Good girls stay away from Ryder Briggs . . . or, at least, they try to. In Renita Pizzitola’s emotional novel of heartache and seduction, one college freshman just can’t get enough.
Brinley Dawson doesn’t drink, she studies—and despite the accusations of her alcoholic mother, she’s still a virgin. But if Brinley’s life is so put together, why is she freaking out to be going to college with the gorgeous, green-eyed jerk she kissed on a stupid dare in high school? Ryder Briggs can have any girl he wants . . . and the rumors say that he does. So why, after publicly embarrassing Brinley four years ago, is he suddenly acting like he’s interested?
Ryder never forgot Brinley. In fact, those perfect seven minutes permanently raised the bar for what a kiss could be. The truth is, Ryder doesn’t dare get too close to anyone. He knows how that worked out for his parents. But when his roommate takes a shot at Brinley, Ryder can’t contain his jealousy. Now he must do the hardest thing he’s ever done: forget about sex and convince Brinley his feelings are real.
Brinley isn’t sure whether she believes Ryder, but for the first time, her body isn’t playing by the rules. Then she discovers that she’s an unwilling part of a cruel game, humiliating her all over again—and Ryder might be to blame. Has Brinley’s little crush turned into a huge mistake . . . or has she found the one guy worth trusting with her heart?
Brinley Dawson doesn’t drink, she studies—and despite the accusations of her alcoholic mother, she’s still a virgin. But if Brinley’s life is so put together, why is she freaking out to be going to college with the gorgeous, green-eyed jerk she kissed on a stupid dare in high school? Ryder Briggs can have any girl he wants . . . and the rumors say that he does. So why, after publicly embarrassing Brinley four years ago, is he suddenly acting like he’s interested?
Ryder never forgot Brinley. In fact, those perfect seven minutes permanently raised the bar for what a kiss could be. The truth is, Ryder doesn’t dare get too close to anyone. He knows how that worked out for his parents. But when his roommate takes a shot at Brinley, Ryder can’t contain his jealousy. Now he must do the hardest thing he’s ever done: forget about sex and convince Brinley his feelings are real.
Brinley isn’t sure whether she believes Ryder, but for the first time, her body isn’t playing by the rules. Then she discovers that she’s an unwilling part of a cruel game, humiliating her all over again—and Ryder might be to blame. Has Brinley’s little crush turned into a huge mistake . . . or has she found the one guy worth trusting with her heart?
236 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 21, 2014
119 people are currently reading
2778 people want to read
About the author
Renita Pizzitola
9 books280 followersRenita Pizzitola is the author of New Adult contemporary romance and Young Adult fantasy. When not writing, she can be found feeding her caramel macchiato addiction and reading just about anything she can get her hands on. She lives in Austin, Texas.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 339 reviews
October 23, 2014
ARC provided by NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
3.5 *Spin the Bottle* Stars
It all started with a game of Spin the Bottle. The most fuckable guy in school, Ryder Briggs, spun the bottle and it landed on 15-year-old Brinley, who wasn’t even really playing the game. But pass up Seven in Heaven with Ryder Briggs? Yea, no. So she followed him to the bathroom.
While in the bathroom, Ryder decided they should figure out what they’re going to tell everybody once they exit the bathroom. He could tell she was uncomfortable and he didn’t want to push a kiss on her. He was just taking her into the bathroom so that all the other kids wouldn’t pick on her. So to keep her from having to kiss him, he was going to let her just say she did it. Or not. It was her story to tell, apparently.
One of the stories Ryder came up with was to tell everyone that he wanted to kiss her, but she wouldn’t let him. And that , of course, was unbelievable. While Brinley was trying to explain to him why there’s no way anybody would believe that he wanted to kiss her, he took her, and her lips, by surprise.
With this being her first kiss, Brinley didn’t know what to do, so she applied what she knew best. Academic knowledge. She applied the basic Unity of Opposites theory. When his tongue ran over and under, hers ran under and over. Her first kiss was turning out be one helluva kiss. Until he pressed his body against hers and she felt a visitor of his that wasn’t there before. With her inexperience, she didn’t know what to do with a situation like that, so she ran. In her escape, she found everyone at the party staring at her. As she stumbled out of the party, her legs tangled on a chair and she toppled head first into the pool. But with Ryder’s contribution to her being teased, she ”more like bellyflopped” into the pool. With that comment, Brinley swore from that day on, he was scum to her and that she would hate him. Hate Every. Single. Sexy. Thing. About him.
After that debacle, Mason befriended her; taking up for her when everybody else was picking on her. Mason, over the years, becomes her best friend. Always there to pick up the pieces, always there when she needed to talk.
4 years later, Brinley runs into Ryder at a college party. They didn’t talk, but Ryder did manage to interrupt while Brinley stepped outside to talk to Noah, an interested fellow college, party-goer.
Soon after that, Ryder is turning up around every corner.
Ryder wiggles his way back into her life, or maybe just her attention span, but there are still some things that need to be addressed. Like the fact that he just completely disregarded her at the high-school party, or the fact that he’s a renowned man-whore. But little does Brinley know, Ryder sees something in her. Something that’s making him want to do right, be right. But the past that Brinley has had with him, proves that she can’t trust him.
Ryder is the all-around sexy NA hero. He’s the campus player. The bad boy with a lip ring. The one every girl wants. But the one that he wants, he’s not willing to let himself have. Because to do so would be a mistake. Because to do so would only cause her more pain and heartache.
There was family drama with both lead characters, but I didn’t feel that it was over the top, or that it affected the characters very much in shaping the person that they turned out to be. They didn’t blame their family for own mishaps and poor decisions. And that speaks volumes in a world of cliché NA.
I enjoyed this read. The secondary characters played out a lot in this. I found to really enjoy the characters. From their names to their personality, it all just….fit. I hope to see more of the supporting characters in future installments.
The epilogue in Ryder’s POV could have used a bit more love. It was WAY too short, but I guess the little I got was sweet.
Would recommend this to anyone looking for a sweet NA read. Low angst, mild steam, fluid pace.
3.5 *Spin the Bottle* Stars
”It took me seven minutes to fall in love with him, and only seven seconds to fall out.”
It all started with a game of Spin the Bottle. The most fuckable guy in school, Ryder Briggs, spun the bottle and it landed on 15-year-old Brinley, who wasn’t even really playing the game. But pass up Seven in Heaven with Ryder Briggs? Yea, no. So she followed him to the bathroom.
”So what should our story be?”
While in the bathroom, Ryder decided they should figure out what they’re going to tell everybody once they exit the bathroom. He could tell she was uncomfortable and he didn’t want to push a kiss on her. He was just taking her into the bathroom so that all the other kids wouldn’t pick on her. So to keep her from having to kiss him, he was going to let her just say she did it. Or not. It was her story to tell, apparently.
One of the stories Ryder came up with was to tell everyone that he wanted to kiss her, but she wouldn’t let him. And that , of course, was unbelievable. While Brinley was trying to explain to him why there’s no way anybody would believe that he wanted to kiss her, he took her, and her lips, by surprise.
With this being her first kiss, Brinley didn’t know what to do, so she applied what she knew best. Academic knowledge. She applied the basic Unity of Opposites theory. When his tongue ran over and under, hers ran under and over. Her first kiss was turning out be one helluva kiss. Until he pressed his body against hers and she felt a visitor of his that wasn’t there before. With her inexperience, she didn’t know what to do with a situation like that, so she ran. In her escape, she found everyone at the party staring at her. As she stumbled out of the party, her legs tangled on a chair and she toppled head first into the pool. But with Ryder’s contribution to her being teased, she ”more like bellyflopped” into the pool. With that comment, Brinley swore from that day on, he was scum to her and that she would hate him. Hate Every. Single. Sexy. Thing. About him.
After that debacle, Mason befriended her; taking up for her when everybody else was picking on her. Mason, over the years, becomes her best friend. Always there to pick up the pieces, always there when she needed to talk.
4 years later, Brinley runs into Ryder at a college party. They didn’t talk, but Ryder did manage to interrupt while Brinley stepped outside to talk to Noah, an interested fellow college, party-goer.
Soon after that, Ryder is turning up around every corner.
Ryder wiggles his way back into her life, or maybe just her attention span, but there are still some things that need to be addressed. Like the fact that he just completely disregarded her at the high-school party, or the fact that he’s a renowned man-whore. But little does Brinley know, Ryder sees something in her. Something that’s making him want to do right, be right. But the past that Brinley has had with him, proves that she can’t trust him.
Ryder is the all-around sexy NA hero. He’s the campus player. The bad boy with a lip ring. The one every girl wants. But the one that he wants, he’s not willing to let himself have. Because to do so would be a mistake. Because to do so would only cause her more pain and heartache.
’Without pain, we’re numb.
There was family drama with both lead characters, but I didn’t feel that it was over the top, or that it affected the characters very much in shaping the person that they turned out to be. They didn’t blame their family for own mishaps and poor decisions. And that speaks volumes in a world of cliché NA.
I enjoyed this read. The secondary characters played out a lot in this. I found to really enjoy the characters. From their names to their personality, it all just….fit. I hope to see more of the supporting characters in future installments.
The epilogue in Ryder’s POV could have used a bit more love. It was WAY too short, but I guess the little I got was sweet.
Would recommend this to anyone looking for a sweet NA read. Low angst, mild steam, fluid pace.
October 19, 2014
3,5 stars
I'll make this short and sweet. Like the book itself.
Virginal eighteen-year old girl - Brinley.
Hot man-whore about to change his ways - Ryder.
High-school sweethearts kind of sex.
A couple of misunderstandings who are OBVIOUSLY resolved and lead to happily ever afters.
It really isn't a bad book. It's just that it's textbook NA, and I'm a little sick of reading the same formula over and over again. Why does the girl have to be a virgin? Why can't she be a little more promiscuous? Why can't she match the guy, experience-wise? What's with the insta-love/insta-lust? That was the "meh" factor of the story.
So what evens the scale? Definitely Fallon, Brinley's slutty and hilarious roommate. And Ryder. You can't possibly direct any hate whatsoever to such a swoony, panty-dropping guy. Hate's definitely not the right emotion. If you know what I mean...
Overall, "Just a Little Crush" was a nice read, nothing out of the ordinary. It's great to pass the time, but I probably won't remember reading it a year from now.
**ARC kindly provided by Random House Publishing via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review**
I'll make this short and sweet. Like the book itself.
Virginal eighteen-year old girl - Brinley.
Hot man-whore about to change his ways - Ryder.
High-school sweethearts kind of sex.
A couple of misunderstandings who are OBVIOUSLY resolved and lead to happily ever afters.
It really isn't a bad book. It's just that it's textbook NA, and I'm a little sick of reading the same formula over and over again. Why does the girl have to be a virgin? Why can't she be a little more promiscuous? Why can't she match the guy, experience-wise? What's with the insta-love/insta-lust? That was the "meh" factor of the story.
So what evens the scale? Definitely Fallon, Brinley's slutty and hilarious roommate. And Ryder. You can't possibly direct any hate whatsoever to such a swoony, panty-dropping guy. Hate's definitely not the right emotion. If you know what I mean...
Overall, "Just a Little Crush" was a nice read, nothing out of the ordinary. It's great to pass the time, but I probably won't remember reading it a year from now.
**ARC kindly provided by Random House Publishing via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review**
January 1, 2015
i never normally start a review with how hot the male character is in a book but god RYDER is 1 hot piece of ass he had me al excited ;)
so back 2 the book luvd the overall story character were great main an others i liked brinley she was great she had a bit a bad experience in high school an she happen with the boy she had a crush on (ryder) she had avoided him after that an had not seen him in yrs then she meet him at a party with her bff mason
brinley didnt want anything 2 do with ryder after what happen but he was everywhere she turned after seein him at the party there was something between them but there was a few hurdles in the way but i luvd how ryder was with with brinley not makin her do anything that she didnt want which was sweet an made me like him more an they were very hot 2gether
i liked the other characters in the book luvd fallon she was so funny an helped brinley when she needed her an mason brinleys bff was good but he was a lil hot an cold in some parts an pissed me off a lil but he a good character
i m glad i found this book cause it was really good an enjoyed it was dyin 2 know how things would work out couldnyt put it down xxxx
so back 2 the book luvd the overall story character were great main an others i liked brinley she was great she had a bit a bad experience in high school an she happen with the boy she had a crush on (ryder) she had avoided him after that an had not seen him in yrs then she meet him at a party with her bff mason
brinley didnt want anything 2 do with ryder after what happen but he was everywhere she turned after seein him at the party there was something between them but there was a few hurdles in the way but i luvd how ryder was with with brinley not makin her do anything that she didnt want which was sweet an made me like him more an they were very hot 2gether
i liked the other characters in the book luvd fallon she was so funny an helped brinley when she needed her an mason brinleys bff was good but he was a lil hot an cold in some parts an pissed me off a lil but he a good character
i m glad i found this book cause it was really good an enjoyed it was dyin 2 know how things would work out couldnyt put it down xxxx
August 14, 2014
DAMN, I WANT ME SOME RYDER RIGHT NOW!!! AWESOME story and I'm hoping that both Mason AND Fallon get their stories (preferably with each other!!!!!)
*ARC courtesy of Netgalley and Random House Publishing*
*ARC courtesy of Netgalley and Random House Publishing*
November 10, 2014
A nice, N.A. book, with a cute premise but in its entity, rather dull.
I had a good time reading it, and it was really easy to follow. Nothing special, but that is not such a bad thing.
Ryder and Brinley are the main characters. Both have their secrets and burdens, for wich neither is really responsible. Ryder has a good heart, he is a playboy, yes, but he is also very straight forward and when he gives his heart to Brin it's for good.
Brinley is a girl hunted by her mother's actions and she tries her best to not turn like her. She is guarded and inexperienced, but it's just her way to cope.
The story starts with their first kiss in highschool, wich was absolutely adorable, but ended up being a huge disaster. A few years later they meet again in a party, now both in college, and they fall effortlessly in love.
Friends, family and a vulgar site, will stand in their way and try to seperate them, new allies will make their appearances, but in the end it's up to them..
THOUGHTS ABOUT THE BOOK
- Ryder is great. He has a nind heart.
- I liked Fallon very much. I think her story would be very interesting.
- Brinley was somewhat boring. Being in her mind was tedious.
- Mason was a great friend.
- Her grandma was a pleasant person.
- Their kisses were very hot..
- I was so happy in the end about them. I actually felt their relief when they finally left their parents mistakes behind.
ARC provided via Netgalley in exchange of an honest review. Thank you!
I had a good time reading it, and it was really easy to follow. Nothing special, but that is not such a bad thing.
Ryder and Brinley are the main characters. Both have their secrets and burdens, for wich neither is really responsible. Ryder has a good heart, he is a playboy, yes, but he is also very straight forward and when he gives his heart to Brin it's for good.
Brinley is a girl hunted by her mother's actions and she tries her best to not turn like her. She is guarded and inexperienced, but it's just her way to cope.
The story starts with their first kiss in highschool, wich was absolutely adorable, but ended up being a huge disaster. A few years later they meet again in a party, now both in college, and they fall effortlessly in love.
Friends, family and a vulgar site, will stand in their way and try to seperate them, new allies will make their appearances, but in the end it's up to them..
THOUGHTS ABOUT THE BOOK
- Ryder is great. He has a nind heart.
- I liked Fallon very much. I think her story would be very interesting.
- Brinley was somewhat boring. Being in her mind was tedious.
- Mason was a great friend.
- Her grandma was a pleasant person.
- Their kisses were very hot..
- I was so happy in the end about them. I actually felt their relief when they finally left their parents mistakes behind.
ARC provided via Netgalley in exchange of an honest review. Thank you!
February 10, 2015
There is time when I feel like I have to stop reading New Adult contemporary romance. I don't remember when the last time I got 4 stars reading. But silly me, I keep thinking that I might find a good one if I keep trying. I got this book from a recommendation after my not-so-good NA contemporary romance, and it is still not-so-good for me.
It has everything I usually read and is so predictable I was questioning the main character, Brinley, for not guessing it. I don't know whether she's that clueless or just ignorant or is truly naive. Let's say she's a naive-clueless nineteen years old, but what happened with her in the past should be a lesson for her. So it seems she didn't get her lesson well. It's so frustrating knowing that your main character falling to the same hole again, even when at the end of the day, it isn't quite the same hole. But still I want her to get her lesson.
Reading her personality is not-so-good either. She says that she's shy but she doesn't seem that shy. I don't find her shy enough as a shy person. She slut-shaming her roommate while she doesn't know her at all. She also says that what Ryder did to her 4 years ago made her angry and caused her as an outsider at their school. But the first time she meet him again, she's weak and all from his gorgeousness. I feel like I want to shout to her and demand her answer of where her anger and hate go? I think four years as an outsider in school is quite a long time to hold grunge, but suddenly it goes nowhere in the first sight at their second meeting. I don’t buy it.
And Ryder, is just typical I'm-not-good-for-you-so-stay-away-from-me-but-I-can't-stay-away-so-I-keep-knocking-on-your-door kind of guy. His hot and cold attitude is so annoying I want to smack his head and tell him to make up his mind.
All in all, it looks like I'm still searching my perfect NA contemporary romance. And this one is far from it. So the question is, like Adele says, should I give up or should I keep chasing pavement?
It has everything I usually read and is so predictable I was questioning the main character, Brinley, for not guessing it. I don't know whether she's that clueless or just ignorant or is truly naive. Let's say she's a naive-clueless nineteen years old, but what happened with her in the past should be a lesson for her. So it seems she didn't get her lesson well. It's so frustrating knowing that your main character falling to the same hole again, even when at the end of the day, it isn't quite the same hole. But still I want her to get her lesson.
Reading her personality is not-so-good either. She says that she's shy but she doesn't seem that shy. I don't find her shy enough as a shy person. She slut-shaming her roommate while she doesn't know her at all. She also says that what Ryder did to her 4 years ago made her angry and caused her as an outsider at their school. But the first time she meet him again, she's weak and all from his gorgeousness. I feel like I want to shout to her and demand her answer of where her anger and hate go? I think four years as an outsider in school is quite a long time to hold grunge, but suddenly it goes nowhere in the first sight at their second meeting. I don’t buy it.
And Ryder, is just typical I'm-not-good-for-you-so-stay-away-from-me-but-I-can't-stay-away-so-I-keep-knocking-on-your-door kind of guy. His hot and cold attitude is so annoying I want to smack his head and tell him to make up his mind.
All in all, it looks like I'm still searching my perfect NA contemporary romance. And this one is far from it. So the question is, like Adele says, should I give up or should I keep chasing pavement?
October 29, 2014
5 loved it like fucking crazy stars!
My very first time reading a book by Renita Pizzitola.
Ryder and Brinley played a game of spin the bottle when they were younger. They were from two different crowds. When they kissed it was explosive until Brinley felt Ryder's erection and bolted and fell in the pool. She earned a nick name that stuck all through out High School. It took her 7 minutes to fall in love with Ryder and 7 seconds to hate him. He of course is the reason everyone started calling her BellyFlop Brinley.
Imagine her surprise when she runs into Ryder at a party while at college. Just so happens Ryder's roommate Noah likes Brinley. Ryder is not going to allow that to happen. So it all begins.
I loved Ryder! He screamed bad boy and was smart, sexy, dirty talking, an amazing kisser and a no girlfriend kind of guy. When he informs Brinley that he compares every girl he kisses to their kiss 4 yrs ago and no one has came close. I think she bolts again. lol He knows he is not good enough for Brinley and tries to keep his distance. Brinley however sees him differently and makes it very hard on him. I loved Brinley. Even though she claimed to hate Ryder she still had a little crush on him. She was not experienced but couldn't help the way she responded every time Ryder was close.
Ryder is hiding something and I wasn't sure what it was. Of course we all know there has to be some type of drama. lol
I thought this was very sweet with lots of sweet steam. lol I will defiantly be reading more by this author. I can't wait for Fallon's book! She was Brinleys roommate and was a big ass flirt. I loved her. Hopefully Mason's story will be after that.
My very first time reading a book by Renita Pizzitola.
Ryder and Brinley played a game of spin the bottle when they were younger. They were from two different crowds. When they kissed it was explosive until Brinley felt Ryder's erection and bolted and fell in the pool. She earned a nick name that stuck all through out High School. It took her 7 minutes to fall in love with Ryder and 7 seconds to hate him. He of course is the reason everyone started calling her BellyFlop Brinley.
Imagine her surprise when she runs into Ryder at a party while at college. Just so happens Ryder's roommate Noah likes Brinley. Ryder is not going to allow that to happen. So it all begins.
I loved Ryder! He screamed bad boy and was smart, sexy, dirty talking, an amazing kisser and a no girlfriend kind of guy. When he informs Brinley that he compares every girl he kisses to their kiss 4 yrs ago and no one has came close. I think she bolts again. lol He knows he is not good enough for Brinley and tries to keep his distance. Brinley however sees him differently and makes it very hard on him. I loved Brinley. Even though she claimed to hate Ryder she still had a little crush on him. She was not experienced but couldn't help the way she responded every time Ryder was close.
Ryder is hiding something and I wasn't sure what it was. Of course we all know there has to be some type of drama. lol
I thought this was very sweet with lots of sweet steam. lol I will defiantly be reading more by this author. I can't wait for Fallon's book! She was Brinleys roommate and was a big ass flirt. I loved her. Hopefully Mason's story will be after that.
November 9, 2016
Supah-cheesetastic! Story relied heavily on coincidence to throw love interests together. Meh.
October 22, 2014
ARC kindly provided by the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Title: Just a Little Crush (Crush #1)
Series: Standalone series
Author: Renita Pizzitola
Rating: 2 stars
POV: first person heroine
HEA:
Heat/Steam 2/5
Triggers?
Cliffhanger: . No.
Intolerable Heroine .Yes.
Über Douchebagery .Meh Yeah.
Taboo Subject Matter .No.
Cheating:
Love Triangle
Unfortunately this book just didn't work for me. I couldn't stand the heroine and the hero was an absolute douchebag. I feel like I've read this a million times before and it was just filled with my least favorite romance tropes.
1. Virgin Heroine
2. Reformed Man-whore
3. Hero treats heroine like shit for years but she still can't wait to hand over her virginity on a silver plater
4. Uber jealous and possessive 5% into the story (btw where the fuck was this all throughout high school when you were treating her like crap?)
5. Big misunderstanding turns into a separation
I can't stand stories where the heroine is this meek little girl who falls in love with a guy that treats her like shit and then can't wait to handover her safely guarded virginity on a silver plater. I mean c'mon! It's pathetic how she turns into mush around him and completely forgets about how he humiliated her in high school and never apologized for it. Why does she never bring this up when he starts sniffing around her because now he's ready to treat her properly? He's been hooking up with girls for years after their first kiss in high school and now that he's tired of hiding his feelings she's ripe for the picking? Gross.
Oh and
Though I will tell you, you ruined me. I've held a lot of girls I kissed to your standard and I've been sorely disappointed."
Umm..yeah how romantic. Thanks for sharing how you've been whoring around and thinking about me while kissing other women instead of growing some balls and making things right in high school? I don't want to be mean about this but I've just about had enough about books like this. What kind of example are we setting for young girls these days?
That it's good to save your virginity and then give it to guys who treated you like garbage? That apparently girls like Fallon are whores just because she's not a virgin? Are we really supposed to swoon because the uber hot manwhores like Ryder finally decide to give us some attention? Meh. Not my cup of tea.
August 17, 2014
4.5 Amazing Stars!
Brinley is a good girl. She studies hard, doesn't party, doesn't drink and certainly doesn't get involved with bay boys. That is, until she runs into Ryder Briggs. The infamous Ryder who single-handedly ruined her High School experience in a mere 7 minutes, is once again standing in front of her. This time in college, looking more gorgeous than ever. But are his motives really genuine when he starts to pursue her?
It's no question that Ryder can have whoever he wants, so naturally wanting her after publicly humiliating her 4 years ago is a bit strange. But strange as can be, Ryder begins to actively pursue her, wanting to spend all his time with her, and giving her and only her his undivided attention.
Every bad boy can change, right?
When an exclusive invite only bet gets revealed Brinley feels like she's 15 all over again, and this time she's not so sure she's going to forgive.
----
So really this book was amazing. A little predictable yeah, but the characters were seriously somethings else. Funny, witty, real. I LOVED Fallon seriously such a cool character that had me laughing well into the night. Her lack of filter and go get em' attitude was hilarious. And Mason was a pretty clutch character, offered a bit of drama, but I can see where its stemmed from. Ryder was just amazing, i'd like to have me one please. And Brinley as innocent as she was, she wasn't an idiot which was a HUGE relief!
Definitely a must read, this book had it all!
Brinley is a good girl. She studies hard, doesn't party, doesn't drink and certainly doesn't get involved with bay boys. That is, until she runs into Ryder Briggs. The infamous Ryder who single-handedly ruined her High School experience in a mere 7 minutes, is once again standing in front of her. This time in college, looking more gorgeous than ever. But are his motives really genuine when he starts to pursue her?
It's no question that Ryder can have whoever he wants, so naturally wanting her after publicly humiliating her 4 years ago is a bit strange. But strange as can be, Ryder begins to actively pursue her, wanting to spend all his time with her, and giving her and only her his undivided attention.
Every bad boy can change, right?
When an exclusive invite only bet gets revealed Brinley feels like she's 15 all over again, and this time she's not so sure she's going to forgive.
----
So really this book was amazing. A little predictable yeah, but the characters were seriously somethings else. Funny, witty, real. I LOVED Fallon seriously such a cool character that had me laughing well into the night. Her lack of filter and go get em' attitude was hilarious. And Mason was a pretty clutch character, offered a bit of drama, but I can see where its stemmed from. Ryder was just amazing, i'd like to have me one please. And Brinley as innocent as she was, she wasn't an idiot which was a HUGE relief!
Definitely a must read, this book had it all!
September 3, 2014
ARC received for an honest review (Book is due to be published Oct 21)
4 Crush Stars
Just a little crush is about Sweet innocent Brinley who kisses a jock named Ryder in high school on a spin the bottle dare and Brinley cant forget the humiliation that went from it and Ryder cant forget his feelings from the kiss. Both characters are hoarding some parental freaking issues like you wouldn’t even believe. I really thought their home life would hinder their crush but it did not.
This story is about a slutty guy in college and an innocent girl. Brinley is posted on a website for hot virgin points and someone devirginized her… did Ryder go back to his slutty days and sleep with her to gain points? Or is everything not nearly as black and white and it appears.
This book is a very quick read (my version was double spaced ) so I flew thru the book in about 2 hours. It has a believable storyline although parts of it are way overdone im kinda getting over the I tattooed this on my body for you because we are forever story line.
No cliffhangers and a HEA… how perfect!
4 Crush Stars
Just a little crush is about Sweet innocent Brinley who kisses a jock named Ryder in high school on a spin the bottle dare and Brinley cant forget the humiliation that went from it and Ryder cant forget his feelings from the kiss. Both characters are hoarding some parental freaking issues like you wouldn’t even believe. I really thought their home life would hinder their crush but it did not.
This story is about a slutty guy in college and an innocent girl. Brinley is posted on a website for hot virgin points and someone devirginized her… did Ryder go back to his slutty days and sleep with her to gain points? Or is everything not nearly as black and white and it appears.
This book is a very quick read (my version was double spaced ) so I flew thru the book in about 2 hours. It has a believable storyline although parts of it are way overdone im kinda getting over the I tattooed this on my body for you because we are forever story line.
No cliffhangers and a HEA… how perfect!
October 19, 2014
I really enjoyed this book! Brinley is on the sweet and innocent side. She's a college student, a virgin, and she doesn't really party or drink. Ryder is a man-whore who gave Brinley her very first kiss. Ryder is mysterious and maybe even has some secrets. Brinley and Ryder together have some amazing chemistry. I also really liked a lot of the supporting characters. As much as I liked this book, I felt like there was something missing and I just can't put my finger on it, just something small that kept it from being a 5 star read for me. Overall, I really enjoyed this book and I look forward to reading the next book in this series!
**ARC provided in exchange for an honest review**
**ARC provided in exchange for an honest review**
August 12, 2016
5 Stars loved it!!!
July 19, 2016
A hot and yet cute kind of romance!
This is a love story that you will surely appreciate. Not just because of the gradual way that the main characters developed their relationship, but also because the other characters around them will surely entertain you.
Ryder and Brinley don't have a great history. In fact, it's really bad. After a humiliating event, they let time pass without anyone acknowledging the other. They see each other again and they still have this magnetic pull towards one another.
I like Brinley's obvious innocence in this book. It made her adorable and at the same time, quite hot. I also like Ryder's devotion to her.
Like I said, I also love the people around the main characters. They give more spice to the book. Mason, Brinley's best friend is kind of commendable because he sticks with her no matter what. Fallon, the unlikely ally that Brinley found is also very nice to read about. Their group of friends is indeed a nice group. :)
The complication between them may run deep, but the attraction remains. When things got out of hand, it was a little frustrating to read about. I could just feel the anger of Brinley. I would be so disappointed if it were to happen to me. Gosh! When they finally patched things up, all was well in paradise!
I love the way it ended. I look forward to the next books about the other characters. I'm sure it'll be great. :)
This is a love story that you will surely appreciate. Not just because of the gradual way that the main characters developed their relationship, but also because the other characters around them will surely entertain you.
Ryder and Brinley don't have a great history. In fact, it's really bad. After a humiliating event, they let time pass without anyone acknowledging the other. They see each other again and they still have this magnetic pull towards one another.
I like Brinley's obvious innocence in this book. It made her adorable and at the same time, quite hot. I also like Ryder's devotion to her.
Like I said, I also love the people around the main characters. They give more spice to the book. Mason, Brinley's best friend is kind of commendable because he sticks with her no matter what. Fallon, the unlikely ally that Brinley found is also very nice to read about. Their group of friends is indeed a nice group. :)
The complication between them may run deep, but the attraction remains. When things got out of hand, it was a little frustrating to read about. I could just feel the anger of Brinley. I would be so disappointed if it were to happen to me. Gosh! When they finally patched things up, all was well in paradise!
I love the way it ended. I look forward to the next books about the other characters. I'm sure it'll be great. :)
October 3, 2016
This book was incredibly stupid, immature and frustrating. This was my thought when I got to the part where the school newspaper would not run the story about the disgusting website.
The author's setup behind not running the story, was because the heroine and everyone else in the book believed that she and the victims would face public backlash rather than the revolting males who set it up. I could not, I simply could not move on from that point. Especially since the girls identity would be hidden.
I don't think the boys would have gone to jail for anything, but I certainly believe their character ought be revealed.
Those boys got away scotch free for the demoralizing actions they committed, and I simply cannot forgive the author for that.
The heroine was weak to me. I could not understand her instant love for the hero, she always seemed to throw a pity-party about not fitting in with a certain crowd and none of the characters had any true depth.
The hero- what was so great about him? He was good-looking and popular. That's all.
The story was also boring for me, I skimmed my way through without interest and then I got to that part in the book that cemented the deal for me. This is not a book I would recommend for anyone, especially young girls.
The author's setup behind not running the story, was because the heroine and everyone else in the book believed that she and the victims would face public backlash rather than the revolting males who set it up. I could not, I simply could not move on from that point. Especially since the girls identity would be hidden.
I don't think the boys would have gone to jail for anything, but I certainly believe their character ought be revealed.
Those boys got away scotch free for the demoralizing actions they committed, and I simply cannot forgive the author for that.
The heroine was weak to me. I could not understand her instant love for the hero, she always seemed to throw a pity-party about not fitting in with a certain crowd and none of the characters had any true depth.
The hero- what was so great about him? He was good-looking and popular. That's all.
The story was also boring for me, I skimmed my way through without interest and then I got to that part in the book that cemented the deal for me. This is not a book I would recommend for anyone, especially young girls.
October 28, 2014
I'm having a hard time wrapping my head around the fact that this book got so many rave reviews. Nothing about this stands out. It's your typical NA novel - completely predictable which isn't always a bad thing, but in this case it most definitely is.
I couldn't stand Brinley. She's the epitome of annoying NA heroines - a virgin who every guy wants, but is totally clueless about it and has low self-esteem. Brinely constantly questions why someone like Ryder would be into her and honestly, I wondered the same thing. She claims to hate Ryder, but within the first few chapters is making out with him. Yeah, I sense some real hatred right there. And the worst of it is, he was a complete douche bag to her in high school and without even addressing it, she can't resist kissing him. Girl, please.
Then there's Ryder. He's a bit of man whore but can't get Brinley's kiss out of his head - even though it's been years. I'm not buying it.
If you're looking for a predictable NA read with an annoying heroine and a douche bag hero, then I guess this is the book for you.
I couldn't stand Brinley. She's the epitome of annoying NA heroines - a virgin who every guy wants, but is totally clueless about it and has low self-esteem. Brinely constantly questions why someone like Ryder would be into her and honestly, I wondered the same thing. She claims to hate Ryder, but within the first few chapters is making out with him. Yeah, I sense some real hatred right there. And the worst of it is, he was a complete douche bag to her in high school and without even addressing it, she can't resist kissing him. Girl, please.
Then there's Ryder. He's a bit of man whore but can't get Brinley's kiss out of his head - even though it's been years. I'm not buying it.
If you're looking for a predictable NA read with an annoying heroine and a douche bag hero, then I guess this is the book for you.
October 21, 2014
**ARC kindly provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
4 More than just a little WOW stars!!
"It took me seven minutes to fall in love with him, and only seven seconds to fall out"
This is the kind of story that I love. I love the writing style, I love the story, and I love the flow of it all. This is the kind of book that when you sit down to read you are trapped, there is not getting off until the ride is over, and what a ride it was!
For all of us readers there is a certain type of story line, certain writing styles, that we just love. This was that for me.
In this story we meet Brinley. A young, inexperienced, naïve girl who is so sweet. In fact, so sweet she almost gives you a toothache. However, you can't help but like her. She grew up in a less than ideal home, was never the popular kid, and always felt somewhat like she didn't belong. She has never had many friends, except for her best friend Mason. Brinley has hoped to leave all the high school nonsense and emotional baggage behind when she goes to college. She feels like she is doing a pretty good job of it. She knows her place, where she does and doesn't belong. She has Mason and she is doing well in school. Her biggest problem is fighting off the unwanted advances of Noah. That is until one night at a party, when the nightmare from highschool, and the life she is trying to build for herself now collide.
Ryder, is the guy ever girl wants to be with, and all the guys want to be. He has looks, money, and a bad boy reputation to go with it. He is cool, calm, and aloof. At least that is what everyone sees. What people don't get a chance to see is the real Ryder. He is carrying around a burden that is weighing him down, after all family issues always seem to be the heaviest. Ryder is growing tired of trying to be who everyone thinks or expects him to be. He knows he is know good for anyone and avoids relationships like the plague. Besides, no girl has ever compared to the one who he got to spend 7 minutes in heaven with.
Ryder now has a new battle to fight, the battle of whether to stay away, or give in. Brinley has to learn to trust. Is Ryder the bad boy everyone says, or is he the guy he seems to be when he is with her?
These two have a lot to over come if they are going to be together, especially when the past seems to repeat itself!
I really enjoyed this story and went back and forth between 4 and 5 stars. I think what kept me from giving it 5 stars is while I liked Brinley's character, I didn't feel like I knew her or connected with her like I would have liked. I felt like I connected with Ryder more even though the book was told from Brinley's POV.
The supporting characters were great and I really hope this author makes this into a series, I would love to read Mason's and Fallon's stories! There is definitely more there.
4 More than just a little WOW stars!!
"It took me seven minutes to fall in love with him, and only seven seconds to fall out"
This is the kind of story that I love. I love the writing style, I love the story, and I love the flow of it all. This is the kind of book that when you sit down to read you are trapped, there is not getting off until the ride is over, and what a ride it was!
For all of us readers there is a certain type of story line, certain writing styles, that we just love. This was that for me.
In this story we meet Brinley. A young, inexperienced, naïve girl who is so sweet. In fact, so sweet she almost gives you a toothache. However, you can't help but like her. She grew up in a less than ideal home, was never the popular kid, and always felt somewhat like she didn't belong. She has never had many friends, except for her best friend Mason. Brinley has hoped to leave all the high school nonsense and emotional baggage behind when she goes to college. She feels like she is doing a pretty good job of it. She knows her place, where she does and doesn't belong. She has Mason and she is doing well in school. Her biggest problem is fighting off the unwanted advances of Noah. That is until one night at a party, when the nightmare from highschool, and the life she is trying to build for herself now collide.
Ryder, is the guy ever girl wants to be with, and all the guys want to be. He has looks, money, and a bad boy reputation to go with it. He is cool, calm, and aloof. At least that is what everyone sees. What people don't get a chance to see is the real Ryder. He is carrying around a burden that is weighing him down, after all family issues always seem to be the heaviest. Ryder is growing tired of trying to be who everyone thinks or expects him to be. He knows he is know good for anyone and avoids relationships like the plague. Besides, no girl has ever compared to the one who he got to spend 7 minutes in heaven with.
Ryder now has a new battle to fight, the battle of whether to stay away, or give in. Brinley has to learn to trust. Is Ryder the bad boy everyone says, or is he the guy he seems to be when he is with her?
These two have a lot to over come if they are going to be together, especially when the past seems to repeat itself!
I really enjoyed this story and went back and forth between 4 and 5 stars. I think what kept me from giving it 5 stars is while I liked Brinley's character, I didn't feel like I knew her or connected with her like I would have liked. I felt like I connected with Ryder more even though the book was told from Brinley's POV.
The supporting characters were great and I really hope this author makes this into a series, I would love to read Mason's and Fallon's stories! There is definitely more there.
September 10, 2014
5 Ryder loving stars
ARC generously provided by publisher via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
Brinley Dawson is enjoying college even though she doesn't have much of a social life. She has her best friend Mason and school is going great, and she is finally away from the awful nickname she earned in high school, thanks to Ryder Briggs. Ryder Briggs was a year older then Brinley and her first kiss. She ended up at the right end of a spin the bottle game which resulted in the seven minutes it took her to fall for Ryder. In the aftermath of that kiss it took seven seconds for Ryder to say something the made her hate him for the rest of high school.
Now Brinley finds herself running into Ryder at college and determined to keep up her distaste for him. However, the problem is her head tells her to stay away while her body and heart tell her to give him a chance. Brinley is confused by Ryder's hot and cold reaction to her but knows that she cannot deny the attraction she feels for him. Soon Brinley finds herself dating Ryder and in a place she never expected, however will secrets come out that will be the end to them?
I will admit, this book was like complete junk food to me. I could not put it down. I ate it up. I loved Ryder, and yes I knew from the get go that there was some sort of secret that was coming to come back and bite Ryder but it still didn't take anything from the story. You can see Ryder's struggle in wanting to be deserving of Brinley, and he is just so darn lovable.
I liked Brinley too because she is not some fragile weak girl, but knows what she wants and is will to take a risk to get it, then she handles everything with backbone and grace. Brinley and Ryder are good together and for each other. I will admit I am still not sure how I feel about Mason, didn't completely trust him and his intentions but think it still worked out in the end.
IS this book world altering? No. Will you leave this book feeling like you learned something new or had a life altering experience? No. If you want a really good enjoyable read that will take you from your own world for a little bit, then yes you should read this book. IT is sweet, fun, and just an enjoyable read.
ARC generously provided by publisher via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
Brinley Dawson is enjoying college even though she doesn't have much of a social life. She has her best friend Mason and school is going great, and she is finally away from the awful nickname she earned in high school, thanks to Ryder Briggs. Ryder Briggs was a year older then Brinley and her first kiss. She ended up at the right end of a spin the bottle game which resulted in the seven minutes it took her to fall for Ryder. In the aftermath of that kiss it took seven seconds for Ryder to say something the made her hate him for the rest of high school.
Now Brinley finds herself running into Ryder at college and determined to keep up her distaste for him. However, the problem is her head tells her to stay away while her body and heart tell her to give him a chance. Brinley is confused by Ryder's hot and cold reaction to her but knows that she cannot deny the attraction she feels for him. Soon Brinley finds herself dating Ryder and in a place she never expected, however will secrets come out that will be the end to them?
I will admit, this book was like complete junk food to me. I could not put it down. I ate it up. I loved Ryder, and yes I knew from the get go that there was some sort of secret that was coming to come back and bite Ryder but it still didn't take anything from the story. You can see Ryder's struggle in wanting to be deserving of Brinley, and he is just so darn lovable.
I liked Brinley too because she is not some fragile weak girl, but knows what she wants and is will to take a risk to get it, then she handles everything with backbone and grace. Brinley and Ryder are good together and for each other. I will admit I am still not sure how I feel about Mason, didn't completely trust him and his intentions but think it still worked out in the end.
IS this book world altering? No. Will you leave this book feeling like you learned something new or had a life altering experience? No. If you want a really good enjoyable read that will take you from your own world for a little bit, then yes you should read this book. IT is sweet, fun, and just an enjoyable read.
October 2, 2014
Just a Little Crush is a gem in the new adult genre.
Brinley is a college freshman who keeps to the straight and narrow. And despite growing up with an alcoholic mother who blames her for her own mistakes, she's a strong young woman who studies hard and doesn't drink or party.
Enter Ryder. The incredibly hot guy with a reputation of being a player. He also happens to be the guy with whom she shared her first kiss and immediately after was responsible for the embarrassment and humiliation that plagued her throughout high school.
Brinley is shocked to see Ryder at a party and is determined to keep her distance. But Ryder seems to consistently seek her out and Brinley can't deny her growing attraction to him.
Brinley and Ryder were so well-written and so believable. I found them both completely likable and I thoroughly enjoyed them and their story. Brinley made decisions that seemed reasonable and within character. And Ryder had just enough of the bad boy image without being so obnoxious that you wonder what the female protagonist sees in him. They both had less than stellar home lives but it was handled realistically without unnecessary drama. I loved that neither the characters nor their story was angsty or over-dramatized, a breath of fresh air in the new adult genre.
Pizzitola's writing is enjoyable and she has a gift for realistic dialogue that felt spot-on. There was humor and there were heartfelt moments and it all came together to create a story that pulled me in completely. Highly recommended!
ARC kindly provided by the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Brinley is a college freshman who keeps to the straight and narrow. And despite growing up with an alcoholic mother who blames her for her own mistakes, she's a strong young woman who studies hard and doesn't drink or party.
Enter Ryder. The incredibly hot guy with a reputation of being a player. He also happens to be the guy with whom she shared her first kiss and immediately after was responsible for the embarrassment and humiliation that plagued her throughout high school.
Brinley is shocked to see Ryder at a party and is determined to keep her distance. But Ryder seems to consistently seek her out and Brinley can't deny her growing attraction to him.
Brinley and Ryder were so well-written and so believable. I found them both completely likable and I thoroughly enjoyed them and their story. Brinley made decisions that seemed reasonable and within character. And Ryder had just enough of the bad boy image without being so obnoxious that you wonder what the female protagonist sees in him. They both had less than stellar home lives but it was handled realistically without unnecessary drama. I loved that neither the characters nor their story was angsty or over-dramatized, a breath of fresh air in the new adult genre.
My lips answered with a kiss, but my heart answered with forever.
Pizzitola's writing is enjoyable and she has a gift for realistic dialogue that felt spot-on. There was humor and there were heartfelt moments and it all came together to create a story that pulled me in completely. Highly recommended!
ARC kindly provided by the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
October 18, 2017
*Received copy for honest review*
This book is amazing! I absolutely loved it from the very start, who else flashed back to their first game of spin the bottle? Renita Pizzitola did a beautiful job with the writing in this book, it was detailed perfectly, had an amazing plot, and down to earth characters. I can't say enough how much I loved this book!!
The best friend dynamic in this is amazing, my best friend is also of the opposite sex and we have always had a similar friendship. When you know someone so well after so long you don't even think about how others see your friendship. Brinley and Mason are just like that, best friends, comfortable together in almost any situation, but also slightly complicated.
Mason is a chill guy, he's sweet, caring, understanding and he likes women..a lot, but he always put his best friend Brinley before any girl. After being friends with Brinley for so long he may be a bit confused about what kind of feelings he has for her, making his emotions go a little crazy when she starts spending time with someone she has claimed to hate since she was fifteen years old.
Brinley is amazing, I loved her from the very start, only someone amazing would try to look her worst to go to a party! She is strong, confident, comfortable with herself, and has been harboring a HUGE crush on Ryder for the last four years. Brinley hasn't ever forgotten how amazing it was to have her very first kiss with Ryder after following him into a bathroom at a high school party.
Ryder is a bit of a playboy, but has always had a crush on the beautiful Brinley ever since she gave him the best kiss of his life his sophomore year of high school, but he blew his shot by taking the low road and embarrassing her in front of everyone right after that kiss. I love Ryder, bad boy facade with his tattoos, and lip ring, but he's actually a bit scarred inside and is sweet, caring and easy to love.
Pizzitola did an amazing job with this book and I look forward to reading more from her in the future, she is very talented, and knows how to weave a story!
This book is amazing! I absolutely loved it from the very start, who else flashed back to their first game of spin the bottle? Renita Pizzitola did a beautiful job with the writing in this book, it was detailed perfectly, had an amazing plot, and down to earth characters. I can't say enough how much I loved this book!!
The best friend dynamic in this is amazing, my best friend is also of the opposite sex and we have always had a similar friendship. When you know someone so well after so long you don't even think about how others see your friendship. Brinley and Mason are just like that, best friends, comfortable together in almost any situation, but also slightly complicated.
Mason is a chill guy, he's sweet, caring, understanding and he likes women..a lot, but he always put his best friend Brinley before any girl. After being friends with Brinley for so long he may be a bit confused about what kind of feelings he has for her, making his emotions go a little crazy when she starts spending time with someone she has claimed to hate since she was fifteen years old.
Brinley is amazing, I loved her from the very start, only someone amazing would try to look her worst to go to a party! She is strong, confident, comfortable with herself, and has been harboring a HUGE crush on Ryder for the last four years. Brinley hasn't ever forgotten how amazing it was to have her very first kiss with Ryder after following him into a bathroom at a high school party.
Ryder is a bit of a playboy, but has always had a crush on the beautiful Brinley ever since she gave him the best kiss of his life his sophomore year of high school, but he blew his shot by taking the low road and embarrassing her in front of everyone right after that kiss. I love Ryder, bad boy facade with his tattoos, and lip ring, but he's actually a bit scarred inside and is sweet, caring and easy to love.
Pizzitola did an amazing job with this book and I look forward to reading more from her in the future, she is very talented, and knows how to weave a story!
March 6, 2015
4.5 stars
Brinley cant believe her luck...dragged to a party she doesn't want to be at by her best friend she comes face to face with the man who turned seven of the best minutes of her life into the worst seven seconds of her life back in high school and saddled her with a horrible nick name for the rest of the year. He is the last person she wants to see but can't seem to avoid.
But the more time she spends with Ryder, the more she thinks she may have been wrong about him. She can't help falling for him and giving herself to him completely. Just when she thinks her life is finally great, she learns something about Ryder she never expected and isn't sure she can forgive.
I really liked this story!! The characters are very well written, like able and believable. The story line is solid and flows well. It has just the right amount of everything...humor, passion, angst, heartbreak and heat. There were a couple of things that were predictable about the story but also things that surprised me which I love.
My thoughts:
Quick hook or slow starter? 5 (I was hooked from the first chapter)
Character development: 4.5
Level of Romance between characters: 4.5
Passion/Heat level: 4.5 (chemistry between these two is instant but because of their backstory, it takes most of the first half of the book for them to finally get together.)
Angst/Heartbreak: 4.5 (the last quarter of the book is filled with angst and heartbreak)
Cliffhanger?: Nope, this one doesn't leave you hanging although I hope the author plans to write books with the amazing side characters in this one.
Overall, I loved it and can't wait to read more from this author.
I received a free copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review.
Brinley cant believe her luck...dragged to a party she doesn't want to be at by her best friend she comes face to face with the man who turned seven of the best minutes of her life into the worst seven seconds of her life back in high school and saddled her with a horrible nick name for the rest of the year. He is the last person she wants to see but can't seem to avoid.
But the more time she spends with Ryder, the more she thinks she may have been wrong about him. She can't help falling for him and giving herself to him completely. Just when she thinks her life is finally great, she learns something about Ryder she never expected and isn't sure she can forgive.
I really liked this story!! The characters are very well written, like able and believable. The story line is solid and flows well. It has just the right amount of everything...humor, passion, angst, heartbreak and heat. There were a couple of things that were predictable about the story but also things that surprised me which I love.
My thoughts:
Quick hook or slow starter? 5 (I was hooked from the first chapter)
Character development: 4.5
Level of Romance between characters: 4.5
Passion/Heat level: 4.5 (chemistry between these two is instant but because of their backstory, it takes most of the first half of the book for them to finally get together.)
Angst/Heartbreak: 4.5 (the last quarter of the book is filled with angst and heartbreak)
Cliffhanger?: Nope, this one doesn't leave you hanging although I hope the author plans to write books with the amazing side characters in this one.
Overall, I loved it and can't wait to read more from this author.
I received a free copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review.
May 25, 2015
My rating: 4/5 stars
What I liked:
Going into this book I really didn’t know much about it, as I do with most books I read. Being a fan of books with bad boys in it, Ryder definitely got my attention when he was introduced. Brinley was someone I related to in some way. She didn’t just want to be the nice, adorable girl everyone saw her as. Sometimes you just want to be noticed as that girl a guy wants to know more about, and not be the girl he wants to sleep with. So when Ryder showed up again after a few years, she couldn’t help but relive those feelings again. He made her feel beautiful and special, despite him being the “bad boy” though I truly believed he wasn’t. His past gave him a hard exterior, and Brinley brought out the best in him. Knowing that scares Ryder, he believes she’s too perfect for him.
I also really enjoyed how much these characters grew together. They brought out the best in each other, even though their lives were very complicated.
What I disliked:
In the first half of the book, I honestly really disliked their relationship. I felt she was changing for the worse around him, and I started to disconnect with both of them. Especially Brinley, I didn’t feel like I was inside her head.
Final Thoughts:
Overall, I really enjoyed this book. Even though I had problems with it in the beginning, the rest really made up for it. By the time it was over, I wanted more of Brinley and Ryder! If you’re looking for a good new adult novel with character development, great romance and steamy love scenes (well written by the way), then I would definitely recommend this book!
What I liked:
Going into this book I really didn’t know much about it, as I do with most books I read. Being a fan of books with bad boys in it, Ryder definitely got my attention when he was introduced. Brinley was someone I related to in some way. She didn’t just want to be the nice, adorable girl everyone saw her as. Sometimes you just want to be noticed as that girl a guy wants to know more about, and not be the girl he wants to sleep with. So when Ryder showed up again after a few years, she couldn’t help but relive those feelings again. He made her feel beautiful and special, despite him being the “bad boy” though I truly believed he wasn’t. His past gave him a hard exterior, and Brinley brought out the best in him. Knowing that scares Ryder, he believes she’s too perfect for him.
I also really enjoyed how much these characters grew together. They brought out the best in each other, even though their lives were very complicated.
What I disliked:
In the first half of the book, I honestly really disliked their relationship. I felt she was changing for the worse around him, and I started to disconnect with both of them. Especially Brinley, I didn’t feel like I was inside her head.
Final Thoughts:
Overall, I really enjoyed this book. Even though I had problems with it in the beginning, the rest really made up for it. By the time it was over, I wanted more of Brinley and Ryder! If you’re looking for a good new adult novel with character development, great romance and steamy love scenes (well written by the way), then I would definitely recommend this book!
September 12, 2014
Book Summary
Published by - Loveswept a Random House imprint
Release Date - 21st October 2014
Pages - 242
My Rating - 5 Stars
Review
Simple and utter perfection!!! If you spent your teen years watching The OC and Gossip Girl like me, then you are going to freaking love this book. It is not only beautifully written, but it is so damn enjoyable that it consumes you and before you know it, it's all over and you're left wanting more. Even the angst and the drama isn't over the top. It is done tastefully without leaving you feeling like you're reading a soap opera. It's fun, seriously flirty, intriguing and sexy with a capital S. I managed to read this book in about two and a half hours and as I said before, I wanted more. I could've enjoyed another 250 pages easily as the characters and their stories are that enjoyable. For lovers of New Adult romance, pick it up and give it a try, you will not be disappointed!!!
Renita Pizzitola
August 15, 2014
To be honest with you, I picked this book out randomly on netgalley and that was mostly because I was in the mood for a new adult read. And I'm really glad that I did because this book was really, really good, and surprisingly . . . it was a really an enjoyable read as well.
While the storyline was predictable at times (at least the romance part of the story and how it would all end by the end of this book), however that didn't matter to me at all because it was the characters that stood out to me compared to the storyline itself, and I found that incredibly refreshing for a new adult read. Now not only were the two main leads very written but they were also very realistic too, which I appreciated most of all. So overall, it was the characters that made this book stand out and I'm looking forward to reading more from this author - that is, because she did such a great job with this book!
* Thanks to the publisher on netgalley for providing me with a review copy of this book!
4.5 stars!
While the storyline was predictable at times (at least the romance part of the story and how it would all end by the end of this book), however that didn't matter to me at all because it was the characters that stood out to me compared to the storyline itself, and I found that incredibly refreshing for a new adult read. Now not only were the two main leads very written but they were also very realistic too, which I appreciated most of all. So overall, it was the characters that made this book stand out and I'm looking forward to reading more from this author - that is, because she did such a great job with this book!
* Thanks to the publisher on netgalley for providing me with a review copy of this book!
4.5 stars!
January 22, 2017
Standalone/Cliffhanger: Standalone but part of a series
Ages of H and h: 19/20?
Multi-Luv'n/Ménages:
Was There Descriptive Sex:
Descriptive Sex &/Or Drama Between H/h With OW/OM:
>>If So, Before or After H/h Hookup:
Contains Cheating:
Amount of Sex In The Book:
HEA/HFN/etc Ending:
Will This Meet My 'Safety Gang' Buddies' Approval:
Any Triggers/Warnings: Yes
>>Detail: No cheating, but there is a website where the male students rate the women they sleep with, the website is exposed and Brinley is upset when she finds out she's on it and that Ryder is the top 'contributor?'
Do You Recommend This Book: Yes.
Will You Re-read This Book: No
Would You Read More Books By This Author: Maybe.
Ages of H and h: 19/20?
Multi-Luv'n/Ménages:
Was There Descriptive Sex:
Descriptive Sex &/Or Drama Between H/h With OW/OM:
>>If So, Before or After H/h Hookup:
Contains Cheating:
Amount of Sex In The Book:
HEA/HFN/etc Ending:
Will This Meet My 'Safety Gang' Buddies' Approval:
Any Triggers/Warnings: Yes
>>Detail: No cheating, but there is a website where the male students rate the women they sleep with, the website is exposed and Brinley is upset when she finds out she's on it and that Ryder is the top 'contributor?'
Do You Recommend This Book: Yes.
Will You Re-read This Book: No
Would You Read More Books By This Author: Maybe.
October 21, 2014
A really great read. Brinley is a good girl. No drinking, no partying, no sex. She just wants to get through her first year of college and have a little fun. When she meets Ryder, campus man whore, things get complicated. Their chemistry is off the charts but there is something mysterious and a little scarey about Ryder.
The book is really well written and all the characters are fantastic. I am hoping to see some of the secondary characters in future books. Overall this is a recommend read.
The book is really well written and all the characters are fantastic. I am hoping to see some of the secondary characters in future books. Overall this is a recommend read.
April 26, 2015
3,75 stars
It's sweet.
It's cliche.
But it works big time for me.
New adult general theme where college hot bad boy meets an innocent virgin good girl seems too generic but something about this author's writing makes me love this book. This is my first book from Renita Pizzitola and it won't be the last. Looking forward to read her other works.
It's sweet.
It's cliche.
But it works big time for me.
New adult general theme where college hot bad boy meets an innocent virgin good girl seems too generic but something about this author's writing makes me love this book. This is my first book from Renita Pizzitola and it won't be the last. Looking forward to read her other works.
August 16, 2014
I loved the main characters and the plot although it was a little predictable at times. Both are haunted by their parents' pasts and through love find absolution. This book was my first by Renita and I loved every minute of it. I read all night long. It was such an easy read and look forward to more books by Renita.
For more reviews, go to my blog bbsbookreviews.com
For more reviews, go to my blog bbsbookreviews.com
Displaying 1 - 30 of 339 reviews