Reckless

by Holli True

When Hailey Covington arrived at the University of Oregon, her only goal was to survive her Freshman Year. But when she met Jonah Trabor, everything changed. Intrigued by the new mystery guy who understands her and makes her feel safe, Hailey soon finds herself tangled in a web of secrets and lies— with Jonah at the center of it all.

For Jonah, meeting Hailey is something he has waited a long time to do. Captivated by the beautiful girl who challenges him and makes him feel alive, Jonah knows he is playing with fire. But the more time he spends with her, the deeper he allows himself to fall into a world not meant for him— with Hailey at the center of it all.

Loving each other might be reckless, but they quickly learn that love isn’t hinged on a choice.

Genres: New Adult, Paranormal, Romance, Paranormal Romance

394 pages, Paperback

First published July 4, 2014

About the author

Holli True was born and raised in Eugene, Oregon. From the time she could write her own name, Holli has always dreamed of becoming a writer. With a passion and love for creating beauty, she became a full time professional photographer in 2010, while still pursuing her dream of writing.

Her debut novel, Reckless, which will be a four book series, chronicles the lives and love of Hailey & Jonah. RECKLESS released in July 2014.

Holli still resides in Eugene with her two children, Cole & Addisyn, and her husband, Jeff. They spend their days exploring the beautiful Northwest, watching Football, spending time with family and chasing dreams.

Reviews

[Natasha at Book Baristas · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a debut novel for Holli True and I think it had a lot of potential to be a great story.

Hailey and Jonah were really likable characters; they just fell in love too quickly for me.

I loved the secondary characters, Rebecca and Charlie, because their personalities were really fun to get to know and added more familiarity to the story. I could easily see myself being friends with them, which is so important to me when reading.

The writing did an exemplary job of depicting the scenes and made it feel like I was really in the characters’ world. Paranormal romance isn’t a genre I’m extremely familiar with so I didn’t really know what to expect with this story.

The plot was definitely suspenseful because I was dying to know what the heck was going on with Jonah the entire time, so I liked that the book had me hooked and interested to keep on reading.

If you want to feel a bit reckless and love love, definitely check out this debut novel!

P.S. I’m totally in love with the cover. So simple and beautiful!

[Kasey Jackson · Rating 4 out of 5]

"What beautiful thoughts must her mind create in her slumber? Humanity had unveiled a selfish side in me, as I hoped it was me she dreamed of. There was no doubt in my mind that if I were able to dream, every one of them would be centered around her. If only we could dream together."

I am not exactly one to read romance novels. I actually, to be completely candid, used to silently judge people that mostly read romance novels. Holli True changed my opinion about romance-centered novels completely.

Don't get me wrong,though, "Reckless" isn't JUST your typical romance novel. There is much more to it than that.

Usually, I would be really turned off by the idea of reading something with "paranormal" aspects, but, for some reason, Reckless felt right. I love how the supernatural characters in the story revolve around ideas that are actually widely accepted, even in every day life. I thought that it was extremely fresh to explore this concept in the way that True did. (I'm trying to be vague as to not include any spoilers. Anyone that has read the book will know the "beings" that I am speaking of.)

As a fellow first-time author, I know how hard it is to craft a first novel. There were moments in the book where I could sense the struggle that True was having trying to craft her thoughts effectively. I feel like these moments are very normal and actually quite lovely, but I am definitely approaching the book from a different perspective as most readers would. This is why I give the book 4 stars rather than 5. If you asked me "How many stars would you give this book as a first-time novel?" I would say 6 out of 5. :)

A few of the reviews of Reckless have stated that they didn't feel that the romance progressed organically. They said that it felt rushed. I, on the other hand, don't agree. I believe that our perception of the natural progression of a romance depends on our experiences with romance. I fell in love with my first love (now my husband) hard and fast, at the age of 17. So I related to the progression perfectly. Sometimes you just KNOW. And Hailey and Jonah just KNEW. You can't explain it. You just dive in!

Where some people saw the progression of the romance as a problem, I actually LOVED it. It reminded me so much of those first few months with my husband, and brought back so many beloved memories of falling in love--uncontrollable love that doesn't even make sense. "Reckless" definitely made me kiss my hubby a few more times than normal too, which was a wonderful side effect of this book.

I would say that Reckless is definitely PG-13, but it isn't vulgar or explicit or really, sexual in any way. Which I very much loved. It felt very human and real, and never dirty.

My only REAL thing that I would have changed about this book is the use of the words "butterflies in my tummy." Every time I saw the word tummy, I just pictured a 5 year old girl saying it. I just felt like it didn't fit Hailey. But that was easily something that I could overlook. ;)

I loved Hailey and Jonah. And I really loved this story. Many times during the story I would say "I'm just going to read one chapter" and I would end up skipping over the new chapter heading without even noticing it. Four chapters later, I would realize that I had been reading much longer than I had anticipated.

True did an EXCELLENT job with her debut novel, and I will definitely purchase and read everything that she writes.

[Sarah · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was provided with a copy of Reckless to read and review.

This is how you do a new adult book, I am utterly floored at just how enjoyable it was and by how much I've fallen for this story. I'm often a little dubious about picking up a new adult book of this kind to read, so often the synopsis for it has me hooked but then once I start getting in to it there just isn't enough oomph in it to keep me there and I'll be wishing the pages would go quicker. This book is the complete opposite of that and I am beyond happy that I took a gamble on this one because I’m totally in love.

Reckless is the story of Hailey, college student and book worm and of Jonah, man of mystery. Hailey is the kind of girl who would rather spend her time curled up reading on her sofa rather than out partying with her dorm mate, Shayne, and exactly the kind of girl that everyone wants as a friend. She's easy going, non judgemental and always supportive. She is easy to love and identify with.

When love is no longer hinged on a choice, there is nothing left to do but accept it. Because it wasn’t a decision that caused me to fall in love with her, it was simply being with her. Holding her. Knowing her.

Jonah comes in to Hailey's life after meeting at a frat party and they instantly seem to be two kindred spirits. Without wanting to give too much away about him and who he is all I will admit is that I couldn't stop myself from adoring him. Although he seemed to be too good to be true sometimes I also could never doubt that he was always being honest and truthful and I never worried that he was suddenly going to be hiding all sorts of dark and damaging secrets or deceptions.

This book has been a total gem to come across. I loved all the characters, especially Hailey’s mother but also the suitably skin crawling Matt and Ethan, and the way that the love story between Hailey and Jonah is played out. Yes they fall in to almost instant love but then because of the main heart of the story being that Jonah is just made for Hailey, it just works. The mystery of who and what exactly Jonah is thrilled me, I love trying to solve a puzzle of a character and I loved how it isn’t instantly just revealed too early on, there’s nothing as fun as trying to piece hints together and then waiting to see if you’re right. The only character that I ever had an issue with was Shayne. When she pushed Hailey to forgive Matt she never seemed to fathom that there was more to the situation that she knew. I would like to think that if my best friend has cause to not forgive someone for something then I would trust their judgement without needing them to explain why and certainly without nagging them.

I thoroughly enjoyed reading this and the excerpt for book two, Breathless, that is given at the end has got me so excited to read the continuation of Hailey and Jonahs story. A beautiful love story told with great tenderness and emotion, thank you so much to Holli True for allowing me a copy of this to read, I am eternally grateful to have discovered your work.


“If you aren’t ready to move on, then don’t. It doesn’t matter what anyone else thinks or if they understand the way you feel. Listen to what your heart is telling you, always lead with that.”

[Bit'N Book Tours · Rating 3 out of 5]

Reckless is a delightful novel, well written and incorporating skillfully crafted, vivid descriptions.

We meet Hailey, a girl just starting college, struggling to fill the emptiness inside her since her father died.

Meet Jonah, The watcher. The guardian, the one who knows all, yet nothing. The one who longs for what he cannot have - at least he shouldn't.

Sparks fly when Hailey and Jonah meet, it's a perfect love story fraught with passion, anger and distrust. It's about two people getting to know each other, sharing all that they are, knowing all there is to know about each other

It's about Hailey learning that its okay to love, and Jonah accepting that there's more to the world than what he's been told - there are senses, feelings, and no matter how indifferent he wants to be, he can't because that's what it is to be human.

Step by step, they learn to live, to love, to make mistakes, all while fighting against adversity from all sides.

Reckless is a really sweet, cosy romance, with few nasties which could potentially offend. It's about two people falling in love and learning to love each other, to respect each other, and to stay true to themselves, no matter who or what stands in their way.

[Ms. Hassel · Rating 5 out of 5]

“Reckless” by Holli True tells us the story of love with a twist – it is a real page-turner that is fascinating as a reader (this coming from a person who doesn’t LOVE reading unless it’s specifically what I’m looking for in a book). From the very beginning the author has us hooked…

The attention to detail and ability to understand how the characters feel will make you feel like you are inside the book with Hailey, Jonah, and the rest of the characters. There are many hidden details throughout the story that are brought to light as the story progresses (pay close attention), most events have significant details that will prove to be important later in the story.

The end is captivating and sucks us in by releasing a snippet from the next book in the series, yes people there will be MORE BOOKS!! She leaves us with many questions about what the next book will bring and I can hardly wait for it to be completed!!!

Just do it...buy your copy today!!

[Melissa · Rating 5 out of 5]

Reckless is a wonderful and intriguing love story, which I found to be very hard to put down. Holli's writing is so descriptive and really pulls you into the story. While reading it I felt as though I was actually there in the story and I felt really close to the characters, especially Hailey and Jonah. I loved how each chapter changed perspectives between the two main characters. If you enjoy a good love story, then there is no doubt you will enjoy this love story with a twist. I could really sense the love the two main characters, Hailey and Jonah, felt towards each other. Sometimes you can't help who you fall in love with. And sometimes it's reckless ;)
I laughed, I cried, and I think I even gasped out loud while reading the book. I CANNOT wait for the second book, Breathless.

[Naye · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received and ARC for my honest review..

I want to say thank you!! I really enjoyed this book, normally I am picky on the books I read, but this one had me at first sentence.. I really like the story of Hailey-- the human-- and Jonah --- her guardian..

It had me on the edge of my seat until the end.. Even at the end when she gave of a preview of breathless I was on the floor no lie!! I want to know what happens and I hope its not too bad for them..

I reallly don't want to say much because I feel I will tell the whole story , and what the fun in that??

Thank you again for letting us read and review!!!

[Melody Vincent · Rating 5 out of 5]

Holli True brings Jonah and Hailey to life from cover to cover. She draws you in not as a reader or a spectator but as a character fully involved in the plot. I fell in love with all of the characters.. even Matt and Ethan just a bit. Put on your comfy clothes and find your favorite reading spot and settle in because you're not going to be able to put this down and I cannot wait for the next one to see where Hailey and Jonah go next and how their relationship unravels. Holli True is on top of the world! Excellent read. Will recommend to everyone I know.

M

[Sarah Taylor · Rating 3 out of 5]

I was so excited to finally get this book and it didn't disappoint! The twist thrown in is interesting and unique to other stories I've read. For me the beginning of the story was less intriguing than the rest because I felt the romance brewing and the intense devotion to one another didn't make a lot of sense - I couldn't see why they were so drawn to each other versus anyone else. The twist that comes later helps explain that and the book really picked up for me after we learn Jonah's secret. I can't wait for the next installment!

[Shalini · Rating 3 out of 5]

Complimentary copy provided by the author Holli True in exchange for an honest review.

First of all,I want to praise the author on her debut. I loved Jonah and Hailey as well as the others.The story though was a bit lacking the depth of so many other paranormal books I have come across. the ending of the book left me somewhat morose. All things aside,I loved the plot of the book ,the downside being that it didn't live up to its potential.
I would still recommend the book to readers because it was likeable but a forgettable book.

[Medavis66 · Rating 4 out of 5]

I liked this book, but the first half or so frustrated the daylights out of me. I am sooooo glad I kept reading! From that point on it was 5 stars! I enjoyed all of Hailey throughout the story. I loved Jonah, too, I just wanted to strangle him for the first half of the read. I think the 2nd book will be awesome. Matt and Ethan are scary, so to find out what happens will keep me in anticipation of reading Breathless.

ARC provided in exchange for honest review.

[Jl Womack · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved the book. I read it in two days because I had a hard time putting it down. The characters were really introduced nicely so by the end of the story I felt as if I knew them. I enjoyed the twists of the story line as well and the fact that it was a love story but didn't get raunchy in the process. My only complaint is that I have to wait for book number 2, I cannot wait to see where the story goes! Bravo Holli true on your first book you made a great impression with me as a reader. =)

[Rachel · Rating 4 out of 5]

I got this book from a friend who told me how awesome it was. She was right!! I really, really liked this book and didn't see the twist coming. It was different from many of the other books I've read and I'm excited for the next one!

[Megan Gaffney · Rating 5 out of 5]

Amazing book that made it extremely hard to put down!! The love story is so great that you fall in love with the characters. The suspense of what was to come held you for the entire book. There was never a moment that I did not need to know what was going to happen next!!!

[Diana Reeves · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent

Leaves you to wonder if we truly have "guardians" watching our every move? Although Hailey and Jonah have gone against the guardian code, it will be interesting to see if Jonah can become a real human.

[Ashley · Rating 5 out of 5]

Really wonderful book! The book starts off a little slow but the more you read the more it grabs your attention and by the end of it you just can't put it down! So excited for the 2nd book!

[Audrey · Rating 5 out of 5]

Can't wait for the sequel!

[Michelle Tan · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love it from beggining 'til the end. Can't wait for the second book

[Suanne Laqueur · Rating 3 out of 5]

Romance is not typically my genre but I approached this with an open mind. I found the story was a good premise, but the delivery made me frustrated and here's why:

It wasn't until about page 250 that the author revealed what Jonah's "paranormal deal" is. In other words, who he is (which is not human, we knew that was coming). And by that time, I had gone past curious suspense into frustration, and just over the border into indifference.

It would have been one thing if the entire book were written from Hailey's point of view. Then the reader could be frustrated and clueless right along with her and completely dialed into her experience. But by switching chapters between Hailey's POV to Jonah's, continuing to hold back on this vital information irritated me.

Also, after Jonah revealed himself, I had a hard time with Hailey's sole question being, "How could you make me fall in love with you?" Personally I think someone in this situation would fire off a thousand questions along the lines of, "How were you born, where did you come from, why were you given to me, do you know God, is there a Heaven, have you seen my father?" And so forth. But then again, the characters are young. And when you're young, it's all about you :-)

I also agree with another reviewer who was horrified Hailey would salvage friendship with a guy who basically tried to rape her. Again, she's young. And needs Jonah to look after her, obviously. But good grief, I wanted to shake some sense in her (which is better than me not caring what happened to her, I guess).

The premise was good and this is a writer with a lot of talent and potential. I disagreed with some of the technical choices, but for lovers of this genre, I believe Ms. True certainly is a storyteller to keep your eye on.

[Jenna · Rating 2 out of 5]

I received a copy in exchange for an honest review.

Hailey is a college girl around 18 years old, when she meets Jonah (love that name) at a party.
Jonah is very secretive and sometimes behaves awkward. Jonah knows their love is not allowed but he can’t seem to stop himself from falling in love fast.

Hailey gets this feeling around Jonah, he makes her feel safe.

I did have some issues with this story: the love was instant, after 4 dates they love each other and when they stop seeing each other (after those 4 dates/meetings) they are both heartbroken.
I don’t see how you can love someone when you don’t even know them. How can you be heartbroken if you don’t know this person? Love needs to built, the chance of loving someone in a couple of hours is almost impossible.

I did not like Hailey, she is weak female character. She makes dumb decisions her friend Matt tries to rape her and still she tries to stay friends with him. Are you nuts? Why would you want to be friend with him?

Hailey goes out running in the middle of the night. What kind of woman would think that was good idea?

Jonah is a nice guy but he is so sappy, the dialog of how much he loves Hailey is just too much.
The story was missing character development and maybe a better plot. The dialog was getting boring (I love him, I love her) and took a great part of the book

[Jenna · Rating 3 out of 5]

This book was okay. The romance was pretty insta-love. I get that Jonah could have been in love that quickly because of his situation but she fell too fast for me. I really didn't know this book was going to turn the way it did. Jonah isn't quite normal and I was so confused for most of the book with what was going on with him. By the end though everything made sense and it ended up alright. This was really a romance novel with Jonah's twist to make the story more interesting. I'm not sure if I'll ever read the second book but I hope it has more of a plot.

[Holli True · Rating 5 out of 5]

[The Romance Book Disciple (Samantha) · Rating 2 out of 5]

I thought this was pretty predictable. I knew what he 'was' almost right away. So, I didn't feel this book added anything new to an already trite tale. I didn't particularly like either MC. I didn't dislike them or anything; I 'nothing' them I guess!