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Walk #1
Walk Me Down
Graduation night was the worst night of my life.
My heart was shattered, lives were lost, and permanent wounds formed.
I hate the color red. I hate my old shallow self. I hate life.
Stuck in my sister's town over the first summer since tragedy struck, I only have my crazy best friend to make life as normal as it can be.
Until...
One broken tooth
One hot stranger, Finn.
Makes me hate less and hope for more. This summer has the potential to save me, but only if I find the courage to let it. My name’s Tess and this is my story.
My heart was shattered, lives were lost, and permanent wounds formed.
I hate the color red. I hate my old shallow self. I hate life.
Stuck in my sister's town over the first summer since tragedy struck, I only have my crazy best friend to make life as normal as it can be.
Until...
One broken tooth
One hot stranger, Finn.
Makes me hate less and hope for more. This summer has the potential to save me, but only if I find the courage to let it. My name’s Tess and this is my story.
82 pages, Paperback
First published September 22, 2014
89 people are currently reading
749 people want to read
About the author
H.J. Bellus
98 books2,709 followersUSA Today Best Selling Author, HJ Bellus is a small town girl who loves the art of storytelling. When not making readers laugh or cry, she's a part-time livestock wrangler that can be found in the middle of Idaho, shot gunning a beer while listening to some Miranda Lambert on her Beats and rocking out in her boots.
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Email: hjbellus@gmail.com
GET FREE BOOKS FROM ME HERE!
Website: http://authorhjb.com/
Amazon: http://amzn.to/2tjmFtN
BookBub: http://bit.ly/2vE5GXP
YouTube: http://bit.ly/2tQTY9q
Facebook: http://bit.ly/1nCFZeM
Twitter: https://twitter.com/HJBellus
Instagram: http://bit.ly/2t7ymsu
Reader Group: http://bit.ly/1HYQgsk
Email: hjbellus@gmail.com
GET FREE BOOKS FROM ME HERE!
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 85 reviews
July 20, 2014
Received a complimentary copy for an honest review...So, this is one of THOSE books. I had to finish it in one sitting & I tossed & turned all night wondering what will happen next. I keep rolling over 2 ways this storyline will continue. And I absolutely cannot wait to read the next book in the series to find out what happens next. My favorite lines are: "Pretty sure I'm nailing a doped up clown right now, but hell, at least I'm alive", this is Tessa's "sexy" walk after leaving her dentist appointment. And the next one is: "Even sluts need a little lovin'". Just one of the comedic banters between, BFFs, Tess & Scarlett.
September 26, 2014
Cliffhanger!!!! WTF!
now my rant:
No one told me that had no end! Great story, but I'm avoiding serial books. I want a story with beginning, middle and end. Just saying.
now my rant:
No one told me that had no end! Great story, but I'm avoiding serial books. I want a story with beginning, middle and end. Just saying.
April 28, 2015
All I can say is that I NEED the next one NOW! And, Kara, you better what your little bitch ass. You need to be taken down.
December 18, 2014
Short & sweet young love that suffers tragedy of the worst kind. Story continues in Book Two.
February 13, 2016
Urgh, just no. Horrendous characters, bad story, horrendous language. Sorry I don't mind a few curses, but this was just horrendous, all the characters are cussing more than that they are talking normally. And then there is also the thing that I hate how everyone is either gorgeous or a slut or an asshole. It felt really weird.
Also (just my opinion here) but seriously she had sex with him instantly? Without a date before that. Just one time at the dentist, a dance and then bang, sex? What? Hold on, what? No. Just No. Eww and no.
I disliked Tess, seriously, I disliked her soooo much. In the beginning before everything went wrong she was a spoiled little princess. Demanding stuff left and right and getting them. And after stuff happened she is some kind of depressed, I don't care about life any more girl. At least that is how she seemed to me. Pissed, depressed, frustrated. Her attitude was horrendous. And sure, she has been through a lot, but it has been 4 years, I had hoped she would be a little less like this. More like that she found something else in her life and enjoys it. Instead she rants about everything.
I also don't understand why she and Scarlett are friends. They just don't seem to match much. Scarlett is, according to Tess, a slut (gee, you are soooo kind to your best friend *cough* not). There are various things that made me wonder how the hell they got together and ended up great friends.
She is seriously rude and urgh to people. She doesn't generally say it to their faces but she does think stuff like this (this happened when she was getting food, and the cashier was just asking how our main character's sister was): "If she tells me one more time how Tommie saved her fucking cat, I may be forced to poke myself in the eyes with needles. You'd think 'ol Tommie gave the cat mouth to mouth saving it from spending the rest of its eight lives in hell. No, she simply doctored it with antibiotics." Seriously girl what is wrong with you? That woman is just happy that her cat lives, no need to get rude and think such things.
Also seriously, how often do we need to get this sentence said: "I let Finn fuck me at the G spot the other night." We get it, he did that (and I skipped over that part where that happened), there is no need to rehash it to ever single person you see.
There were NO characters I liked. None at all. Finn is horrendous (and has a bad attitude), Kara was just jealous and horrendous, Scarlett was meh, Tommie was so-so. It has been some time since I truly disliked everyone in a book.
And what is so wrong if someone doesn't date? That doesn't mean they are turning into a lesbian. What the hell is wrong with these people?
Dear Lord that ending. I knew, I knew. Of course they couldn't do stuff without that. I do doubt the age of the characters. I would expect someone of her age to know how stuff works, but apparently not. *sighs*
And I strongly dislike how the book ended, it was all open-ended. It would have been better had the books been merged. Since I don't want to read book 2, but now I have the feeling I need to read it, because I want to know what happens..... URGH.
I was looking forward to this book. The blurb sounded fun and the cover is amazing. :( Too bad it wasn't meant to be.
Review first posted at http://twirlingbookprincess.com/
Also (just my opinion here) but seriously she had sex with him instantly? Without a date before that. Just one time at the dentist, a dance and then bang, sex? What? Hold on, what? No. Just No. Eww and no.
I disliked Tess, seriously, I disliked her soooo much. In the beginning before everything went wrong she was a spoiled little princess. Demanding stuff left and right and getting them. And after stuff happened she is some kind of depressed, I don't care about life any more girl. At least that is how she seemed to me. Pissed, depressed, frustrated. Her attitude was horrendous. And sure, she has been through a lot, but it has been 4 years, I had hoped she would be a little less like this. More like that she found something else in her life and enjoys it. Instead she rants about everything.
I also don't understand why she and Scarlett are friends. They just don't seem to match much. Scarlett is, according to Tess, a slut (gee, you are soooo kind to your best friend *cough* not). There are various things that made me wonder how the hell they got together and ended up great friends.
She is seriously rude and urgh to people. She doesn't generally say it to their faces but she does think stuff like this (this happened when she was getting food, and the cashier was just asking how our main character's sister was): "If she tells me one more time how Tommie saved her fucking cat, I may be forced to poke myself in the eyes with needles. You'd think 'ol Tommie gave the cat mouth to mouth saving it from spending the rest of its eight lives in hell. No, she simply doctored it with antibiotics." Seriously girl what is wrong with you? That woman is just happy that her cat lives, no need to get rude and think such things.
Also seriously, how often do we need to get this sentence said: "I let Finn fuck me at the G spot the other night." We get it, he did that (and I skipped over that part where that happened), there is no need to rehash it to ever single person you see.
There were NO characters I liked. None at all. Finn is horrendous (and has a bad attitude), Kara was just jealous and horrendous, Scarlett was meh, Tommie was so-so. It has been some time since I truly disliked everyone in a book.
And what is so wrong if someone doesn't date? That doesn't mean they are turning into a lesbian. What the hell is wrong with these people?
Dear Lord that ending. I knew, I knew. Of course they couldn't do stuff without that. I do doubt the age of the characters. I would expect someone of her age to know how stuff works, but apparently not. *sighs*
And I strongly dislike how the book ended, it was all open-ended. It would have been better had the books been merged. Since I don't want to read book 2, but now I have the feeling I need to read it, because I want to know what happens..... URGH.
I was looking forward to this book. The blurb sounded fun and the cover is amazing. :( Too bad it wasn't meant to be.
Review first posted at http://twirlingbookprincess.com/
December 17, 2014
OMG...what the hell. Why oh why did it end like that?? I hate cliffhanger.
Ok, Tess and Finn's story is beautiful and I love every bit of it. Tess is a strong but heartbroken woman trying to deal with the loss of love and family. Finn just wants to live his own life and no one else's. These two share a summer of living life to the fullest, love, hope and family. All the character's in this story are wonderful and you want more from them. I will be waiting for the next book because I am dying to know how all this plays out. Fingers are crossed for Tess and Finn.
Ok, Tess and Finn's story is beautiful and I love every bit of it. Tess is a strong but heartbroken woman trying to deal with the loss of love and family. Finn just wants to live his own life and no one else's. These two share a summer of living life to the fullest, love, hope and family. All the character's in this story are wonderful and you want more from them. I will be waiting for the next book because I am dying to know how all this plays out. Fingers are crossed for Tess and Finn.
September 23, 2014
*ARC recieved in exchange for honest review*
"Love isn't meant for me. Fairy Tales are lies and are only created to crush people."
Graduation Day. For most eighteen year olds, that's the day of saying goodbye to friends, giving hugs and looking forward to your freedom.
For Tessa Jones, it's the day her world stopped. How do you move forward when everything that was right in your world suddenly turned out all wrong?
I was silently sobbing by the end of the first chapter. By the second chapter, I was so sympathetic for Tessa. Everything just keeps getting worse and you wonder if she will ever come out of this dark place.
Four years later...
Cinnamon Jolly Ranchers. Who would have thought that that would be all it would take to find the one person she never knew she needed?!
Finn Evans is known around town for being nothing like his family. Instead of wanting to practically own the town, he would rather work with his grandfather on the family farm.
"If Finn wants you, he'll have you or fight like hell to have you. Be ready to accept it or fight it the rest of your life, Tess. You couldn't have picked a better man to be with."
Finn keeps making his appearance in every part of Tessa's life. And he's slowly making it into her heart.
"Why not just walk away from me? It would be a lot less painful, I can assure you that."
"I'm stubborn and I know what I want. I want a chance with you. That's all I'm asking. You've been on my mind since that first night together."
They were adorable together and their friendship was turning into love quickly, but not everything was on their side. Insecurites will always be with Tess. She can never get away from her past because she has to see it everyday. A familiar feeling she can't shake. Finn is dealing with his past and the future his father wants for him. It seems as if the world is stacked against them...but true love only comes once.
"I secretly wish for a chance of a future with Finn, with no drama and insecurites just love, freedom and opportunities to be free."
Can Tess and Finn move past everything in their way to get their happily ever after?
I absolutely loved this story by HJ!! Through tragedy comes second chances and it was written beautifully!
Finn and Tess were such a wonderfully complicated couple. They pulled from each other strengths and they comforted in their weaknesses.
I loved the secondary characters, too. Tessa's sister,Tommie, and her best friend, Scarlett, are amazing bookends for her. They know exactly what makes her tick. Her brother-in-law, Will, is the the epitome of a good man. He jumped into her life when she needed so much. I kind of wish he was a part of my family:)Plus, I loved Finn's brother, Wes. He was too funny!
I can't wait to hear what's next for this group!! A wonderful story!!
"Love isn't meant for me. Fairy Tales are lies and are only created to crush people."
Graduation Day. For most eighteen year olds, that's the day of saying goodbye to friends, giving hugs and looking forward to your freedom.
For Tessa Jones, it's the day her world stopped. How do you move forward when everything that was right in your world suddenly turned out all wrong?
I was silently sobbing by the end of the first chapter. By the second chapter, I was so sympathetic for Tessa. Everything just keeps getting worse and you wonder if she will ever come out of this dark place.
Four years later...
Cinnamon Jolly Ranchers. Who would have thought that that would be all it would take to find the one person she never knew she needed?!
Finn Evans is known around town for being nothing like his family. Instead of wanting to practically own the town, he would rather work with his grandfather on the family farm.
"If Finn wants you, he'll have you or fight like hell to have you. Be ready to accept it or fight it the rest of your life, Tess. You couldn't have picked a better man to be with."
Finn keeps making his appearance in every part of Tessa's life. And he's slowly making it into her heart.
"Why not just walk away from me? It would be a lot less painful, I can assure you that."
"I'm stubborn and I know what I want. I want a chance with you. That's all I'm asking. You've been on my mind since that first night together."
They were adorable together and their friendship was turning into love quickly, but not everything was on their side. Insecurites will always be with Tess. She can never get away from her past because she has to see it everyday. A familiar feeling she can't shake. Finn is dealing with his past and the future his father wants for him. It seems as if the world is stacked against them...but true love only comes once.
"I secretly wish for a chance of a future with Finn, with no drama and insecurites just love, freedom and opportunities to be free."
Can Tess and Finn move past everything in their way to get their happily ever after?
I absolutely loved this story by HJ!! Through tragedy comes second chances and it was written beautifully!
Finn and Tess were such a wonderfully complicated couple. They pulled from each other strengths and they comforted in their weaknesses.
I loved the secondary characters, too. Tessa's sister,Tommie, and her best friend, Scarlett, are amazing bookends for her. They know exactly what makes her tick. Her brother-in-law, Will, is the the epitome of a good man. He jumped into her life when she needed so much. I kind of wish he was a part of my family:)Plus, I loved Finn's brother, Wes. He was too funny!
I can't wait to hear what's next for this group!! A wonderful story!!
August 8, 2014
Walk Me Down
By: HJ BELLUS
My rating: ✩★✩★✩ 5 of 5 stars ✩★✩★✩
Reviewed by: Kathleen
ARC provided by an author in exchange for honest review
Reading this had me crying, laughing and it nearly broke my heart. The story is about Tessa, who lost a loved one from a car accident. When the accident happened, it changed her life and not only did she lose a loved one, but she also lost something very important to her. She blocked everything out, became a hermit, did not want to mingle with anyone. She was afraid to care so deeply for someone because eventually, she thinks that they will all end up leaving her anyway. As for Finn, his family is well known in their town. He's arranged to be married to his father's friend's daughter who is wealthy just like his father.
The attraction between Finn and Tessa was electrifying, it had me blushing while reading about Finn's seductive plays with Tessa. Eventually the more Tessa denied Finn, the more he pursued her. He made it his mission to make her fall in love with her. He did everything he could to prove to her that he isn't who she thinks he is. Sparks fly between them when they gave in to a relationship they are willing to give a shot at.
I snorted this book in one sitting. It totally engulfed me into another realm and just wanted to get to the bottom of the story. I loved it and I'm left wanting more. I can't wait for book two. Awesome job, HJ Bellus. I'll be back for more!!!
By: HJ BELLUS
My rating: ✩★✩★✩ 5 of 5 stars ✩★✩★✩
Reviewed by: Kathleen
ARC provided by an author in exchange for honest review
Reading this had me crying, laughing and it nearly broke my heart. The story is about Tessa, who lost a loved one from a car accident. When the accident happened, it changed her life and not only did she lose a loved one, but she also lost something very important to her. She blocked everything out, became a hermit, did not want to mingle with anyone. She was afraid to care so deeply for someone because eventually, she thinks that they will all end up leaving her anyway. As for Finn, his family is well known in their town. He's arranged to be married to his father's friend's daughter who is wealthy just like his father.
The attraction between Finn and Tessa was electrifying, it had me blushing while reading about Finn's seductive plays with Tessa. Eventually the more Tessa denied Finn, the more he pursued her. He made it his mission to make her fall in love with her. He did everything he could to prove to her that he isn't who she thinks he is. Sparks fly between them when they gave in to a relationship they are willing to give a shot at.
I snorted this book in one sitting. It totally engulfed me into another realm and just wanted to get to the bottom of the story. I loved it and I'm left wanting more. I can't wait for book two. Awesome job, HJ Bellus. I'll be back for more!!!
August 10, 2014
This is a non-stop, hilarious, emotional roller coaster. From the Tessa beginning the story to the ending that will have you wishing your device did NOT say 100%.
Although, Tess was a wild ordinary teenager, all that came to an end on what was supposed to be the beginning of her adult life. Now with the help of a best-friend, sister, and brother-in-law, Tess is asked to find the Tess they once knew and live her life and quit existing.
That life came in the form of a sexy Finn who had her pinned from her visit to the dentist. Never giving up on getting to know the woman that stole his heart, Finn never knew there were stronger forces playing with the puppet strings of their life, his father. I can't wait until winter so I could snuggle up and see what becomes of the explosive ending.
Damn, HJ Bellus with her leaving me half fed with my hunger of excitement and revenge plus a much NEED HEA..
Although, Tess was a wild ordinary teenager, all that came to an end on what was supposed to be the beginning of her adult life. Now with the help of a best-friend, sister, and brother-in-law, Tess is asked to find the Tess they once knew and live her life and quit existing.
That life came in the form of a sexy Finn who had her pinned from her visit to the dentist. Never giving up on getting to know the woman that stole his heart, Finn never knew there were stronger forces playing with the puppet strings of their life, his father. I can't wait until winter so I could snuggle up and see what becomes of the explosive ending.
Damn, HJ Bellus with her leaving me half fed with my hunger of excitement and revenge plus a much NEED HEA..
October 30, 2014
I have to give this three stars because
I couldn't stand the heroine. tests is everything I really cannot stand in an h, and really Finn didn't deserve her. for a brief moment I thought, hey she may work out after all, but then she did that same self sacrificing move that weak heroines seem to do and runs. when will it be figured out that strong characters are those who fight for love side by side with their love rather than cave to threats, lies, rumors, and evil exes.
then the cliffhanger. showing back up pregnant at Finn's grandpa's funeral. really I was thinking the HEA would be that she stayed away. I hate when a main character...the heroine...ruins what could be a good book by being bitchy and weak to the point you hope the H finds someone better
I couldn't stand the heroine. tests is everything I really cannot stand in an h, and really Finn didn't deserve her. for a brief moment I thought, hey she may work out after all, but then she did that same self sacrificing move that weak heroines seem to do and runs. when will it be figured out that strong characters are those who fight for love side by side with their love rather than cave to threats, lies, rumors, and evil exes.
then the cliffhanger. showing back up pregnant at Finn's grandpa's funeral. really I was thinking the HEA would be that she stayed away. I hate when a main character...the heroine...ruins what could be a good book by being bitchy and weak to the point you hope the H finds someone better
July 21, 2014
I was speechless by the end of this book, it was that good!!
Another HJ Bellus masterpiece!!
Throughout this whole book I had tears in my eyes, if they weren't tears of sadness the were tears from laughing!!
Tess and Finn are a match made in heaven and the rest of the characters in this book are so damn entertaining. I read this book straight through because I simply could not put it down. The ending was brilliant and I just cannot wait to see how the story continues in book 2..
Thanks HJ Bellus for another fantastically brilliant read!!
(p.s I received a complimentary copy of this book and was more than happy to write an honest review)
Another HJ Bellus masterpiece!!
Throughout this whole book I had tears in my eyes, if they weren't tears of sadness the were tears from laughing!!
Tess and Finn are a match made in heaven and the rest of the characters in this book are so damn entertaining. I read this book straight through because I simply could not put it down. The ending was brilliant and I just cannot wait to see how the story continues in book 2..
Thanks HJ Bellus for another fantastically brilliant read!!
(p.s I received a complimentary copy of this book and was more than happy to write an honest review)
July 22, 2014
The first thing this book had me thinking? You never know how truly blessed you are until you lose everything that matters! HJ BELLUS has always had the ability to take me from emotion to emotion like a rollercoaster ride. One second I'm laughing and the next I'm pissed and wanting to cyber slap a character (lol) To top it all off she has me in tears and I'm wondering when the hurt ends, IF it ends. She keeps me living in the world she creates with her characters. I definitely recommend this read.
July 21, 2014
I consumed this book in one sitting. It is that good.
From the beginning, I cried. It is so emotional and so real. It only takes a second for your life to change. And, Tess's life does just that. But, with the help of her sister, brother-in-law, and BFF she goes on. Then she meets and falls in love with Finn. Again, her life is perfect, until his dad interferes. I can't wait until book 2 in this series.
Again HJ Bellus has grabbed hold of my soul in this heart-wrenching book.
From the beginning, I cried. It is so emotional and so real. It only takes a second for your life to change. And, Tess's life does just that. But, with the help of her sister, brother-in-law, and BFF she goes on. Then she meets and falls in love with Finn. Again, her life is perfect, until his dad interferes. I can't wait until book 2 in this series.
Again HJ Bellus has grabbed hold of my soul in this heart-wrenching book.
March 11, 2016
she was a brat, then talks that kara is a fake girl with no brain and she was the same, every two sentences, she was cursing i dont care that but it was too much, i dont get the interaction of finn and his dad at first they get along (even if they said that the dad was angry because finn did not do what he wanted ) and then was like they were enemies,
August 17, 2014
Good story although I was not expecting a cliffhanger. Now I will patiently wait for the rest.
September 18, 2017
This is the perfect story of bay meets girl, girl falls for boy and boy do everything to make her see he is the perfect person for her. This is a very short but impactful story. Tessa was a very bright and spoil girl. She lost everything in the blink of an eye, including her leg. Right after graduation she was heading to dinner with her parents and was in a horrific accident that took her mother and father and she lost a leg. She ending up living with her sister and her husband ( Tommie, and Will). But little did she know she would be dumped by her boy friend, the love of her life at the same time. When she gave up on God and love she find the second man of her seams. Finn blew into her life at the dentist office. Which by the way is his fathers practice. They fall fast and hard. But little did he know his father
Is about to ruin it all for her and him. It ended with Tessa leaving without a word. See what happen in the next book "Walk Beside Me" for the shocking conclusion of Tessa and Finn's story.
Is about to ruin it all for her and him. It ended with Tessa leaving without a word. See what happen in the next book "Walk Beside Me" for the shocking conclusion of Tessa and Finn's story.
February 28, 2018
Tess and her long time boyfriend were graduating HS and then heading off to fulfill Rhett's dream. As Tess and her parents are heading to the graduation party a tragedy happens. When she finally wakes up in the hospital it's to find that Rhett went without her to fulfill his dream. If that wasn't enough she now how's to deal with the lose of many other things.
Many years go by and Tess finally meets someone she is willing to let see the whole her. Finn isn't what she expected and she is just waiting for the show to drop and him to leave her behind also.
What she didn't count on was others doing what they can to break them apart. As Tess leaves behind those she loves to protect them. 6 months go by and now Tess is back in town for the funeral of Finn's grandpa. Surpries will be revealed when she comes back to town. Will Finn forgive or has he moved on with Kara, the woman his father wants him to marry?
Many years go by and Tess finally meets someone she is willing to let see the whole her. Finn isn't what she expected and she is just waiting for the show to drop and him to leave her behind also.
What she didn't count on was others doing what they can to break them apart. As Tess leaves behind those she loves to protect them. 6 months go by and now Tess is back in town for the funeral of Finn's grandpa. Surpries will be revealed when she comes back to town. Will Finn forgive or has he moved on with Kara, the woman his father wants him to marry?
August 19, 2017
Omg.. What an Amazing Story
This is such a sweet and tender story. Tests being a woman who's been through a dramatic accident and being left by her only love. She is bitter and completely overwhelmed with anger. On a summer vacation after her graduation from College she meet a handsome stranger Finn. Around every corner she finds people trying to keep them apart...
Loved this book cannot wait for the second and final part!!
This is such a sweet and tender story. Tests being a woman who's been through a dramatic accident and being left by her only love. She is bitter and completely overwhelmed with anger. On a summer vacation after her graduation from College she meet a handsome stranger Finn. Around every corner she finds people trying to keep them apart...
Loved this book cannot wait for the second and final part!!
June 3, 2018
Amazingly beautiful!
I love everything I read by HJ Bellus, but this story has to rank even above the #1 spot. It's everything you could want in a story, it's heartbreaking, ugly cry, heartwarming and then back to heartbreaking. Tess is finally comfortable in her own skin, and finding her songs with the help of southern boy Finn. Circumstances cause Tess to flee and I can't wait to continue this love story.
I love everything I read by HJ Bellus, but this story has to rank even above the #1 spot. It's everything you could want in a story, it's heartbreaking, ugly cry, heartwarming and then back to heartbreaking. Tess is finally comfortable in her own skin, and finding her songs with the help of southern boy Finn. Circumstances cause Tess to flee and I can't wait to continue this love story.
March 26, 2018
A lovely quick read
A sweet love story that was very quick and easy to read.
I really liked Tessa. She's been through a lot and when she meets Finn things don't go quite according to plan. I look forward to reading more about Finn and Tessa in the next book
A sweet love story that was very quick and easy to read.
I really liked Tessa. She's been through a lot and when she meets Finn things don't go quite according to plan. I look forward to reading more about Finn and Tessa in the next book
January 2, 2018
Good story...cliffhanger ending on to book 2!!!
July 28, 2019
Intense, heartbreaking and a cliffhanger. Happy I can dive into book 2 immediately because I need answers and a HEA for this couple.
March 8, 2017
Actual Rating: 3.5 Stars
Ugh. Small town drama is the worst. It was a short quick read. Going to read book two (even though it probably could of been one book). Hope they get their shit together soon.
Ugh. Small town drama is the worst. It was a short quick read. Going to read book two (even though it probably could of been one book). Hope they get their shit together soon.
October 12, 2014
Walk Me Down (Walk, #1) by HJ Bellus
Released: September 22, 2014
$0.99 on Kindle. N/A on Nook
My synopsis:
New Adult, first person POV novella.
The story opens introducing you to Tess and Rhett.
Tessa is the valedictorian of her graduation class. She's the youngest child. She's momma's spoiled-rotten little pageant queen. Her boyfriend is the top high school quarterback in the nation and just received a full scholarship to Boise State. Together, they've been the Homecoming King & Queen every year. They've been each other's firsts in many things & they plan on leaving Tennessee in the morning for Idaho.
Tess comes off originally as a narcissistic skank. Prom and pageant queen extraordinaire with fake D cup implants. How she made valedictorian is beyond me. You can't help but be mildly disgusted by the personality traits she displays.
But then, in the blink of an eye, everything changes. Ev-er-y thing.
The quintessential jock wastes no time with his most expedient cut-and-run routine. Fast forward four-plus years later; it's summer. Tess just graduated from nursing school and is living in Iowa with her sister and brother-in-law, Tommie and Will, until she figures things out. Her best friend, Scarlett has come with and is interning as a CPA while Tess is working at Tommie's veterinary clinic.
An emergency trip to the dentists puts her in closer proximity with a gorgeous man than she's been in over four years. She's no longer that spoiled label-whore. Nowadays, she's insecure and more reclusive. It's here you begin to become emotionally invested in her.
Finn's dad may be the dentist, but that does not stop his impulsive behavior. He's not exactly what his dad envisioned. Refusing to go to college and take up one of the family owned businesses in town, he opted to work on his Granddaddy's farm. He also dowsed the illusions of an arranged marriage ever happening, preventing the two power house families from merging.
The 20-something year old Tessa and the rest of the cast are well-written. You've got a wide-spectrum of character personalities that create multifaceted entertainment. The plot is decent and moves along at a good pace. There's plenty of conflict, not all of which gets resolved. Minor plot points are predictable, but nothing so telling that it ruins the story.
** WARNING: **
This novella leaves off unfinished and with a sizable cliffhanger.
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Why I chose this book:
"Any $0.99 book" prize was gifted to me by "Just The Write Stuff" in a giveaway hosted by "A Closet Full of Books". I chose this one because I've been looking for more indie authors to read.
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Overall: 3.8
February 5, 2015
Probably 2.5 – The writing is kind of clunky, there are a lot of editing issues (grammar, missing or extra words, etc.), and there’s quite a lot of vulgar language. I also didn’t care for the insta-love () at the beginning and the interactions that didn’t ring true (). And I thought Tessa’s behavior was irritating--when she kept pushing Finn away for no good reason, jumping to conclusions, and not letting him explain anything--though he also bugged me by continuing to :( I was also incredibly confused by Finn’s dad’s power in the town (the town dentist wields that much power over everybody?! )--and their weird relationship (Finn and his father seemed fairly close when we first met them in the dentist office, so I was totally confused about the apparent serious, long-standing conflict between them later in the story).
BUT, I have to admit that I laughed out loud a few times while reading--particularly at the dialogue between the characters and at Tess’ internal monologue. And, I really liked the supporting characters--Tommie, Will, Scarlet, and Finn’s grandfather, in particular. And, I did find myself rooting for the couple--no matter how awkward their relationship and interactions seemed at times…
As mentioned, this book has a lot of vulgar, mature language, but, oddly, the sexual content is fairly tame--mostly not very detailed and fade-to-black. And this was a very quick read (maybe some of the problems I saw could have been solved if it had been longer?) and it did hold my interest, so I guess I’d say it’s a pretty okay read overall.
BUT, I have to admit that I laughed out loud a few times while reading--particularly at the dialogue between the characters and at Tess’ internal monologue. And, I really liked the supporting characters--Tommie, Will, Scarlet, and Finn’s grandfather, in particular. And, I did find myself rooting for the couple--no matter how awkward their relationship and interactions seemed at times…
As mentioned, this book has a lot of vulgar, mature language, but, oddly, the sexual content is fairly tame--mostly not very detailed and fade-to-black. And this was a very quick read (maybe some of the problems I saw could have been solved if it had been longer?) and it did hold my interest, so I guess I’d say it’s a pretty okay read overall.
October 11, 2014
Walk Me Down surprised me. I really wasn't expecting to love this novella so much because at start, Tess seemed really shallow to me and I kept rolling my eyes at some of the things she'd say. But then boom, a terrible accident occurs, and she loses everything, including a part of herself. After that, she became really closed-off and quite the pessimist. But her character from then on was funny and snarky. I liked her as the progressed, though it was fast. But yeah, it is a novella.
I liked her relationship with her sister and her brother-in-law. It was unique in a sense, but interesting to read about their closeness. I've never read such a thing in books before, and It's cool that she could talk to them about anything, or cry in their room in the wee hours at night. That was entertaining. All the characters were pretty straightforward and to the point. Well, except for Tess. She was bottling her emotions up until she met Finn.
Finn had me confused at first. He seemed like a sweet guy who really was interested in Tess, but then he just couldn't shake his ex off him. I'm glad that he finally was able to and even stood up to his father for what he wanted. It was sweet, how clear his feelings were for Tess, and how he accepted every single thing about her. Things she feared would turn him away, Finn had no problem with. He wanted to be with Tess no matter what.
So all in all, the only problem I have with Walk Me Down is the fact that it wasn't released as a full length novel, and the author left me with my mouth open after that shocking ending. But regardless, the story was very interesting. I absolutely cannot wait for the conclusion to Tess and Finn's story. Good job, H.J.
I liked her relationship with her sister and her brother-in-law. It was unique in a sense, but interesting to read about their closeness. I've never read such a thing in books before, and It's cool that she could talk to them about anything, or cry in their room in the wee hours at night. That was entertaining. All the characters were pretty straightforward and to the point. Well, except for Tess. She was bottling her emotions up until she met Finn.
Finn had me confused at first. He seemed like a sweet guy who really was interested in Tess, but then he just couldn't shake his ex off him. I'm glad that he finally was able to and even stood up to his father for what he wanted. It was sweet, how clear his feelings were for Tess, and how he accepted every single thing about her. Things she feared would turn him away, Finn had no problem with. He wanted to be with Tess no matter what.
So all in all, the only problem I have with Walk Me Down is the fact that it wasn't released as a full length novel, and the author left me with my mouth open after that shocking ending. But regardless, the story was very interesting. I absolutely cannot wait for the conclusion to Tess and Finn's story. Good job, H.J.
December 8, 2014
I wanted to read this book, thinking it was about a romance (see the cover) and it was; however, what I wasn't expecting was major tragedy to strike within the first few pages and to find myself crying.
The main character is Tess and as the book starts it is her day of high school graduation. After tragedy strikes her family , she goes to live with her sister in a little town and there she meets Finn. Their relationship is a roller coaster ride for sure, but he is a good guy, but I can't say what happens. His dad is a dentist and he has specific plans for Finn, none of which include Tess.
Recommendation: A very quick read for sure, some tragic events, some romance, some family suffocation. Just my kind of fluff book!
The main character is Tess and as the book starts it is her day of high school graduation. After tragedy strikes her family , she goes to live with her sister in a little town and there she meets Finn. Their relationship is a roller coaster ride for sure, but he is a good guy, but I can't say what happens. His dad is a dentist and he has specific plans for Finn, none of which include Tess.
Recommendation: A very quick read for sure, some tragic events, some romance, some family suffocation. Just my kind of fluff book!
August 10, 2014
HJ Bellus has done it again. I finished this book very enthusiastically and quickly. This story will break your heart, but repair it also. I cried and laughed so much through this book.
Tessa goes through a tragedy. She loses herself through it along with someone else she loved. Tessa shuts the world out, thinking that everyone else will leave her also.
Finn comes from a well-known and wealthy family. He is set to marry a family friend's daughter, until Tessa happens.
Tessa and Finn have an attraction that no one could deny. He pursues her through every denial she throws his way. Each one making him try even harder. He is bound and determined to make her fall in love with him and show her who he really is.
This book is addicting. You will fall in love and crave more after reading it. I certainly did.
Tessa goes through a tragedy. She loses herself through it along with someone else she loved. Tessa shuts the world out, thinking that everyone else will leave her also.
Finn comes from a well-known and wealthy family. He is set to marry a family friend's daughter, until Tessa happens.
Tessa and Finn have an attraction that no one could deny. He pursues her through every denial she throws his way. Each one making him try even harder. He is bound and determined to make her fall in love with him and show her who he really is.
This book is addicting. You will fall in love and crave more after reading it. I certainly did.
December 19, 2014
Well... here is the thing when you try and fit so much of a story in a novella it can come out forced. I found while reading I was lost and kept thinking how the hell can she be this in love so fast... the facts also did not add up. The accident happened on her graduation day from high school... you are 18 maybe 19 then all of sudden its a year later and she is a graduate of college for nursing that DOES NOT make sense... I'm a book freak I read all the time and can sit and finish a book fast and I love my book boyfriends but this was unrealistic and I know that sounds stupid when you read these indie novels and novellas but you have to at least get facts correct and so much cussing I mean my goodness I have a mouth like a filthy sailor but the author could have found a better way to describe things.
October 1, 2014
Heartwarming read but disappointed
Enjoyed the plot and the characters were captivating. The writing is pretty good but not crazy about the Cliffhanger ending. Disappointed that he goes back to his old girlfriend after only 6 months of Tess being gone. Of course that was the ending to drag the series along. Wish this was not a series since I enjoyed the story. It was a feel good plot but then bam the ending happened with no HEA. Not happy about that. I don't mind cliffhanger but I hate a 180 type of ending. The plot totally changed within t he last 5 pages of the book. Recommend this book but I won't be following the series. The next book will just be too predictable and redundant. I gave this 3 stars for the good plot except it had awful ending.
Enjoyed the plot and the characters were captivating. The writing is pretty good but not crazy about the Cliffhanger ending. Disappointed that he goes back to his old girlfriend after only 6 months of Tess being gone. Of course that was the ending to drag the series along. Wish this was not a series since I enjoyed the story. It was a feel good plot but then bam the ending happened with no HEA. Not happy about that. I don't mind cliffhanger but I hate a 180 type of ending. The plot totally changed within t he last 5 pages of the book. Recommend this book but I won't be following the series. The next book will just be too predictable and redundant. I gave this 3 stars for the good plot except it had awful ending.
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