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Carved Hearts #1
Good Wood
"It’s the sign of a true artisan when he can create beauty from what others consider trash. It takes heart to use a twisted bit of scrap and make something from it as if it were good wood.”
Somehow Joe survived the unlivable, and now he's just going through the motions. An endless string of one night stands does little to dull the ache from all he's lost. Even though he distracts himself daily with back-breaking work, his violent rage still simmers just under the surface.
Then along comes Molly, the feisty baby sister of his two best friends. Joe hasn’t seen her in years, and he's unprepared for his reaction to her when she falls out of the food truck and into his arms. Molly is still as mouthy as ever, and now she's as delicious as the food she's serving up. It's totally against "The Bro Code", but he just can't seem to keep his hands off of her.
Molly has come back home to Austin to mend fences and feed a whole new crowd. Dealing with Joe's demons doesn't figure into her business model. Something is very different about him and she craves the ‘Old Joe’ she used to have a crush on.
Still, the broody carpenter's swagger is damn near irresistible. And all work and no play makes Molly a cranky girl.
Somehow Joe survived the unlivable, and now he's just going through the motions. An endless string of one night stands does little to dull the ache from all he's lost. Even though he distracts himself daily with back-breaking work, his violent rage still simmers just under the surface.
Then along comes Molly, the feisty baby sister of his two best friends. Joe hasn’t seen her in years, and he's unprepared for his reaction to her when she falls out of the food truck and into his arms. Molly is still as mouthy as ever, and now she's as delicious as the food she's serving up. It's totally against "The Bro Code", but he just can't seem to keep his hands off of her.
Molly has come back home to Austin to mend fences and feed a whole new crowd. Dealing with Joe's demons doesn't figure into her business model. Something is very different about him and she craves the ‘Old Joe’ she used to have a crush on.
Still, the broody carpenter's swagger is damn near irresistible. And all work and no play makes Molly a cranky girl.
288 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 19, 2014
45 people are currently reading
1062 people want to read
About the author
L.G. Pace III
12 books65 followersL.G.Pace III has spent several decades pouring creative energy into other things besides writing. He began his current journey by telling his two daughters bedtime stories about a magical realm and a hero named Terel. Though that story is still sitting unfinished in the electronic universe he has managed to bring many other stories out of the dark maelstrom of his mind for others to enjoy.
He dwells in the great state of Texas with his wife, novelist Michelle Pace and their children.
He dwells in the great state of Texas with his wife, novelist Michelle Pace and their children.
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April 6, 2015Kindle Freebie!
http://www.amazon.com/gp/homepage.htm...
Blurb...
Somehow Joe survived the unlivable, and now he's just going through the motions. An endless string of one night stands does little to dull the ache from all he's lost. Even though he distracts himself daily with back-breaking work, his violent rage still simmers just under the surface.
Then along comes Molly, the feisty baby sister of his two best friends. Joe hasn’t seen her in years, and he's unprepared for his reaction to her when she falls out of the food truck and into his arms. Molly is still as mouthy as ever, and now she's as delicious as the food she's serving up. It's totally against "The Bro Code", but he just can't seem to keep his hands off of her.
Molly has come back home to Austin to mend fences and feed a whole new crowd. Dealing with Joe's demons doesn't figure into her business model. Something is very different about him and she craves the ‘Old Joe’ she used to have a crush on.
Still, the broody carpenter's swagger is damn near irresistible. And all work and no play makes Molly a cranky girl.
http://www.amazon.com/gp/homepage.htm...
Blurb...
Somehow Joe survived the unlivable, and now he's just going through the motions. An endless string of one night stands does little to dull the ache from all he's lost. Even though he distracts himself daily with back-breaking work, his violent rage still simmers just under the surface.
Then along comes Molly, the feisty baby sister of his two best friends. Joe hasn’t seen her in years, and he's unprepared for his reaction to her when she falls out of the food truck and into his arms. Molly is still as mouthy as ever, and now she's as delicious as the food she's serving up. It's totally against "The Bro Code", but he just can't seem to keep his hands off of her.
Molly has come back home to Austin to mend fences and feed a whole new crowd. Dealing with Joe's demons doesn't figure into her business model. Something is very different about him and she craves the ‘Old Joe’ she used to have a crush on.
Still, the broody carpenter's swagger is damn near irresistible. And all work and no play makes Molly a cranky girl.
May 17, 2015
An emotional 5 star ride that was sweet, beautiful and heartbreaking
*I received this copy of Good Wood for an honest review*
Wow. What a story!!! The first chapter had me crying into my pillow. I had to stop because I had this sneaky suspicion I was gonna cry a lot and I wasn't wrong. What I was wrong about was that this one made me giggle a lot too. It was a perfect blend of the funny and heartbreak.
We meet Joe on a heartbreaking night and his story is going to stomp on your heart and leave you unable to breathe. Writing about the first chapter is making me choke up. So I am going to move on to Molly. Holy Batman in heaven!!! This gal is a force to reckon with. She's sassy, she's funny and she's fearless, well at least that's how it seemed but there were deeper waters that we needed to dive into. I loved her. I honestly wanted to eat her food. Oh yeah. She is a CHEF. God I wish some of the recipes were available online for this book. I cried and wanted to hug her when her past was revealed a little at a time I feel more in love with her. I felt her pain and her sorrow and her anguish and her feeling of helplessness. And I honestly wanted to pulverize one particular character. Douche-bag really need to go dive off into the deepest end of the ocean and be fish bait.
Back to Joe, because if I start talking about all the things I wanna do to douche-bag!!! Joe was to die for. He's officially one of my top book boyfriends even with all his hang-ups and anger issues. Boy, does he have anger issues. Can't really blame a man who's lost something so precious that it's a wonder that he survived the tragedy. From the first chapter I had wondered about Jess and slowly it was revealed. The truth was hard to swallow but Joe couldn't really do anything about it. Death is easy, it's the living that is hard.
So Joe and Molly meet after a long hiatus so to speak and both have had a hard life and this was their story. They both struggled with their past and tried to fight their attraction and longing. Their chemistry fairly sizzled the screen, I really loved how Joe felt about her. That in turn made me fall in love with him. But the journey isn't straight forward, nothing in life is. But fate is both a cruel and amazing thing. You cannot fight it.
Last but not least, I love Molly's family, especially her brothers. They were a hoot and I totally loved Tamryn. I wish everyone on earth had a sister or brother like her. I won't say much more than this.
This story is beautifully written, it's sweet and heartbreaking and for me it was a solid 5 star. If you wanna know if sweet and sassy Molly get's her sexy and hot creator of awesome wood, Joe. All you gotta do is buy is beauty.
*I received this copy of Good Wood for an honest review*
Wow. What a story!!! The first chapter had me crying into my pillow. I had to stop because I had this sneaky suspicion I was gonna cry a lot and I wasn't wrong. What I was wrong about was that this one made me giggle a lot too. It was a perfect blend of the funny and heartbreak.
We meet Joe on a heartbreaking night and his story is going to stomp on your heart and leave you unable to breathe. Writing about the first chapter is making me choke up. So I am going to move on to Molly. Holy Batman in heaven!!! This gal is a force to reckon with. She's sassy, she's funny and she's fearless, well at least that's how it seemed but there were deeper waters that we needed to dive into. I loved her. I honestly wanted to eat her food. Oh yeah. She is a CHEF. God I wish some of the recipes were available online for this book. I cried and wanted to hug her when her past was revealed a little at a time I feel more in love with her. I felt her pain and her sorrow and her anguish and her feeling of helplessness. And I honestly wanted to pulverize one particular character. Douche-bag really need to go dive off into the deepest end of the ocean and be fish bait.
Back to Joe, because if I start talking about all the things I wanna do to douche-bag!!! Joe was to die for. He's officially one of my top book boyfriends even with all his hang-ups and anger issues. Boy, does he have anger issues. Can't really blame a man who's lost something so precious that it's a wonder that he survived the tragedy. From the first chapter I had wondered about Jess and slowly it was revealed. The truth was hard to swallow but Joe couldn't really do anything about it. Death is easy, it's the living that is hard.
So Joe and Molly meet after a long hiatus so to speak and both have had a hard life and this was their story. They both struggled with their past and tried to fight their attraction and longing. Their chemistry fairly sizzled the screen, I really loved how Joe felt about her. That in turn made me fall in love with him. But the journey isn't straight forward, nothing in life is. But fate is both a cruel and amazing thing. You cannot fight it.
Last but not least, I love Molly's family, especially her brothers. They were a hoot and I totally loved Tamryn. I wish everyone on earth had a sister or brother like her. I won't say much more than this.
This story is beautifully written, it's sweet and heartbreaking and for me it was a solid 5 star. If you wanna know if sweet and sassy Molly get's her sexy and hot creator of awesome wood, Joe. All you gotta do is buy is beauty.
June 24, 2014
4.5 SOLID STARS - But we authors round up.
There are quotes from the book in this review - So that may mean *spoilers* but I never give share details after I turn the page.
Starting with the less- I hate this part but I get it out of the way and then it's done. 1/4 of a star was based on the sexual scenes. I wanted more. Molly and Joe are hot, hot, hot. I needed to be in the bed with them. Seriously. Nonetheless, Pace(X2) did a fabulous job with the descriptions of their foreplay. The other 1/4 star went to the ending. I had to read and reread the last line a few times to get the joke. It was a bit abrupt and left me wanting more. But I hear a sequel might be in the works. So...I am holding my breath for sure.
Ok so that it done. (Sigh)
Pace does a phenomenal job accurately portraying Austin, Texas. Applause, please. This book is one you need to sip like a fine wine and read EVERY descriptive word and every laughable jab at the city we Texans call weird. The food trucks, 6th street, Zilker Park, and so many more places. Thank you for that. This was flawless.
The characters are hard not to love. Joe, a very troubled man (and rightfully so), comes of age in this beautiful story of learning to trust and move on with loads of baggage. Molly is sassy and fabulous and yet she is the girl next door that you want to hug and talk shit with. Her own demons are heartbreaking and what Pace does with these characters is so different from other authors these days. We learn about them moving forward all the while learning about their treacherous past relationships. That is a very hard technique to pull off and it was brilliant.
Pace is another quotable author. Lines that made me read and reread for the pure brilliance in their meaning.
"Time dulls your memory. But the pain increases with the guilt of forgetting details that were once so precious to you." (Loc 352)
"It takes heart to take the most twisted bit of scrap and make something from it as if it were good wood." (Loc 895)
These quotes stuck out for me and while I enjoyed the truly entertaining story of Molly and Joe (and the twins -love them), there is lessons and true forms of compassion in this work that makes it a solid story. Coupled with the intimate therapy sessions, Pace pulls off the way a Texan man honestly deals in anger, blame, and shame. This is not just a read through the night and you got your romance kick for the day. It leaves you with thoughts and reflection so savor it. Bravo to the Pace duo for writing an endearing love story. You nailed it.
There are quotes from the book in this review - So that may mean *spoilers* but I never give share details after I turn the page.
Starting with the less- I hate this part but I get it out of the way and then it's done. 1/4 of a star was based on the sexual scenes. I wanted more. Molly and Joe are hot, hot, hot. I needed to be in the bed with them. Seriously. Nonetheless, Pace(X2) did a fabulous job with the descriptions of their foreplay. The other 1/4 star went to the ending. I had to read and reread the last line a few times to get the joke. It was a bit abrupt and left me wanting more. But I hear a sequel might be in the works. So...I am holding my breath for sure.
Ok so that it done. (Sigh)
Pace does a phenomenal job accurately portraying Austin, Texas. Applause, please. This book is one you need to sip like a fine wine and read EVERY descriptive word and every laughable jab at the city we Texans call weird. The food trucks, 6th street, Zilker Park, and so many more places. Thank you for that. This was flawless.
The characters are hard not to love. Joe, a very troubled man (and rightfully so), comes of age in this beautiful story of learning to trust and move on with loads of baggage. Molly is sassy and fabulous and yet she is the girl next door that you want to hug and talk shit with. Her own demons are heartbreaking and what Pace does with these characters is so different from other authors these days. We learn about them moving forward all the while learning about their treacherous past relationships. That is a very hard technique to pull off and it was brilliant.
Pace is another quotable author. Lines that made me read and reread for the pure brilliance in their meaning.
"Time dulls your memory. But the pain increases with the guilt of forgetting details that were once so precious to you." (Loc 352)
"It takes heart to take the most twisted bit of scrap and make something from it as if it were good wood." (Loc 895)
These quotes stuck out for me and while I enjoyed the truly entertaining story of Molly and Joe (and the twins -love them), there is lessons and true forms of compassion in this work that makes it a solid story. Coupled with the intimate therapy sessions, Pace pulls off the way a Texan man honestly deals in anger, blame, and shame. This is not just a read through the night and you got your romance kick for the day. It leaves you with thoughts and reflection so savor it. Bravo to the Pace duo for writing an endearing love story. You nailed it.
July 22, 2014
I mean come on with a title like Good Wood....can you really go wrong?! This was a great contemporary romance. The first novel in what looks to be a very promising series! One of the things I enjoyed the most was how both of the main characters were dealing with a their own individual, and very serious, issues. Joe dealing with an unimaginable loss, and Molly just leaving a very rough marriage. They were both, in different ways, running away from things that went wrong in their lives and just so happened to run into each other.
These characters were so rich, their stories grabbed me from the first page, and didn't let go even after the end! Lets start with Molly, she was such a great leading lady! I absolutely loved her strength, and her back story was so much better for it! So many times when I read stories where abuse is involved, it seems like the victim is portrayed as this broken, fearful, timid kind of person, while that makes sense SOMETIMES, it's not always the case. Even the strongest and best of us can get caught up in a situation like Molly's. I was so glad that really came through in this story. She didn't take a lot of crap from people and had a temper, which made for some hilarious outbursts, mostly involving her older brothers. She was also talented, ambitious, kind, funny and completely her own person. She was hands down my favorite character in this book, and that's saying something because even the secondary characters were fantastic in Good Wood!
Joe was almost as terrific as Molly....almost. His story was one of the saddest I have read in awhile. My heart instantly broke for his terrible loss. I have to say here too just how well done his dealing with his issues was done, well when he actually started trying to heal that is. I wasn't a huge fan of his man whoring ways, I think that element could have been left out and he still had enough other issues to deal with that would have been more than enough to keep his story interesting. I feel like this is such a typical thing in contemporary romance/ NA now a days, that quite honestly I'm tired of. But that's just my opinion on it. I really liked seeing Joe start living his life again, and I like that while Molly might have been a catalyst for this, SHE didn't fix him. He worked on his issues, he wanted to be better for her, and for himself, and all his loved ones. I so appreciated that this wasn't yet another co-dependent type relationship where he completely changed all his wicked ways for his one true love whom he just can't live without. He wasn't perfect, but either was she, and they weren't all completely transformed into perfect people in the end. It just made me want more and more of their story! And the chemistry between these two....WOW!
Good Wood dealt with some serious issues, but still managed to be light and fun, and quite funny at times. This was the first book I've read by these authors, but I know it won't be my last! I'll definitely be here waiting for book 2 in the Carved Hearts series!
This ARC was provided by the author in exchange for an honest review
Anyone interested in purchasing this....the ebook is on sale right now for only 1.99 @
Amazon....http://amzn.to/1riZw6a and
Barnes and Noble...http://bit.ly/UmCtKu
August 18, 2014
This book is good. Really good. It is one of those books I’m just going to tell you to go out and buy. It’s totally worth putting down whatever you’re reading right now and starting. Add it to the top of your TBR.
It’s the story about 2 people falling in love after tragedy. It had me tearing up in the first chapter when you learn about Joe and his tragedy. I couldn’t help but feel for this man. His life was not only ripped apart but he learned that it wasn’t what he thought it was. And throughout the book you see him starting to live again. And work through his issues. And I can’t say I blame him for having issues in the first place. When you find out about his heartbreak, honestly I don’t know if I could come back from something like that.
And then you have Molly. Her tragedy is different from Joe’s. But her situation is still a tragedy. And you see her building herself back up. Moving forward. Picking up the pieces that her life was and putting those pieces back together in a totally different way. But it’s a way that works for her and where she is now in life.
You see these 2 characters healing each other at just the right time. They come together so naturally. Nowhere in this book did I feel they were being pushed together. The characters didn’t push it. The authors truly did it in a very natural manner.
One thing I learned from this book is sex sells. And it’s all in the name.
~Katie
It’s the story about 2 people falling in love after tragedy. It had me tearing up in the first chapter when you learn about Joe and his tragedy. I couldn’t help but feel for this man. His life was not only ripped apart but he learned that it wasn’t what he thought it was. And throughout the book you see him starting to live again. And work through his issues. And I can’t say I blame him for having issues in the first place. When you find out about his heartbreak, honestly I don’t know if I could come back from something like that.
And then you have Molly. Her tragedy is different from Joe’s. But her situation is still a tragedy. And you see her building herself back up. Moving forward. Picking up the pieces that her life was and putting those pieces back together in a totally different way. But it’s a way that works for her and where she is now in life.
You see these 2 characters healing each other at just the right time. They come together so naturally. Nowhere in this book did I feel they were being pushed together. The characters didn’t push it. The authors truly did it in a very natural manner.
One thing I learned from this book is sex sells. And it’s all in the name.
~Katie
April 19, 2015
3 STARS
I really liked this one. The characters and storyline were very enjoyable. My heart broke for Joe. I was actually loving it until the end. I didn't like how it ended at all. I didn't realize that there were two more books after this one. It didn't end with a cliffhanger which was a plus but I didn't think this couple's story needed two more books. Of course, I won't be reading the next two, I'll just leave it like it is. This was free on Amazon and is worth the read. I'll be checking out more by this author.
August 22, 2014
What a wonderful story! Joe and Molly are really believable characters and so heartwarming and sweet. I hear there's a sequel in process, and I cannot wait to get my hands on it!! Definitely would recommend to any/ all friends!!
February 11, 2016
***5 I loved it stars***
Ok, so I'll just say the fact that I stayed up past 2am (on a school night no less!!) goes to show how much I loved this book lol
I was totally glued to this story, I loved all the characters, and can't wait to read the other books in this series.
Ok, so I'll just say the fact that I stayed up past 2am (on a school night no less!!) goes to show how much I loved this book lol
I was totally glued to this story, I loved all the characters, and can't wait to read the other books in this series.
July 21, 2014
Perhaps it’s not the done thing, but I am the first to admit that I judge books by their covers and by their titles. In the case of Good Wood, I felt the need to read it because it had a humorously dirty title and I assumed the book would be much the same. The blurb warned me that Joe Jensen had “survived the unlivable” but even so I wasn’t truly prepared for a book with a punny title to affect me so deeply, to make me cry and mourn, to make me smile and laugh, to make me ache. But it did. And it was better than good.
Joe Jensen is a master at his craft – an artisan – but since his whole world ended, he hasn’t had the fire in him to carve. He’s not the man he once was and he survives the days working hard, drinking harder and having meaningless sex night after night.
Molly Hildebrandt is back home in Austin, trying to put her life and her family back together. Her new food truck brings her face-to-face with the man she’s loved for years – her twin brothers’ best friend, Joe but he’s not the same smiling, carefree guy he once was. Molly isn’t home to fix Joe and to heal the pain of his past but she can’t seem to resist him.
Joe knows that he’s broken and Molly is strictly off-limits but he can’t stay away. Together they can make something new and beautiful out of the scraps of the past, but if only they’re willing to take the chance.
This book completely took me by surprise in the best possible way. It was beautifully written – every passage felt like it had purpose, every action and reaction blended together to create characters and events that were real and raw and heart-breaking. The alternating POV was the perfect way to tell this story because it allowed both Joe and Molly a chance to make themselves heard. Neither of them was lost to the other, the pain of their pasts, their hopes for the future and their fears in the present were given equal weight and importance.
Good Wood was written by two authors – Michelle Pace and L.G Pace III - but the story was seamless. There was no change in tone or style that made me wonder who had written which passage or paragraph or chapter. It flowed perfectly, with the right amount of angst and sorrow balanced by moments of levity, building to an interesting and rewarding finish that promises more in the future for the carpenter and the chef.
I loved the friends and family that surrounded and supported Joe and Molly and I found myself mentally checking off which characters I would like to see get their own stories first. I couldn’t be happier that I decided to judge this book by it’s title and take a chance on it, even if (especially because) it was radically different to the book I pictured in my mind. Good Wood exceeded the claim of it’s title – it wasn’t just good, it was great.
Good Wood is the first book in the Carved Hearts series and can be read as a standalone. No cliffhanger.
~ Beth, 5 stars
I must admit I went into this book completely blind. I never read the blurb but was intrigued by the title, Good Wood. I figured I'd be in for a fun and lighthearted romance. Boy, was I wrong.
Good Wood is written by a husband and wife team, it was so flawlessly put together, you'd never know that it wasn't written by just one person. I LOVED that Joe and Molly were, for lack of better words, average Joe's. They were regular down to earth people that didn't drive flashy cars, that weren't billionaires, famous etc. It was refreshing to read about people that seemed more realistic and relatable.
Joe and Molly are such a great match for each other. Both trying to heal and move on from traumatic pasts, they fit and just make sense together. They're two broken souls that just mesh.
Good Wood is a gem of a read. A thoroughly well rounded romance that made me laugh, made me a bit teary eyed and left me feeling great when I flipped that last page.
~ Erin, 5 stars
Joe Jensen is a master at his craft – an artisan – but since his whole world ended, he hasn’t had the fire in him to carve. He’s not the man he once was and he survives the days working hard, drinking harder and having meaningless sex night after night.
Molly Hildebrandt is back home in Austin, trying to put her life and her family back together. Her new food truck brings her face-to-face with the man she’s loved for years – her twin brothers’ best friend, Joe but he’s not the same smiling, carefree guy he once was. Molly isn’t home to fix Joe and to heal the pain of his past but she can’t seem to resist him.
Joe knows that he’s broken and Molly is strictly off-limits but he can’t stay away. Together they can make something new and beautiful out of the scraps of the past, but if only they’re willing to take the chance.
This book completely took me by surprise in the best possible way. It was beautifully written – every passage felt like it had purpose, every action and reaction blended together to create characters and events that were real and raw and heart-breaking. The alternating POV was the perfect way to tell this story because it allowed both Joe and Molly a chance to make themselves heard. Neither of them was lost to the other, the pain of their pasts, their hopes for the future and their fears in the present were given equal weight and importance.
Good Wood was written by two authors – Michelle Pace and L.G Pace III - but the story was seamless. There was no change in tone or style that made me wonder who had written which passage or paragraph or chapter. It flowed perfectly, with the right amount of angst and sorrow balanced by moments of levity, building to an interesting and rewarding finish that promises more in the future for the carpenter and the chef.
I loved the friends and family that surrounded and supported Joe and Molly and I found myself mentally checking off which characters I would like to see get their own stories first. I couldn’t be happier that I decided to judge this book by it’s title and take a chance on it, even if (especially because) it was radically different to the book I pictured in my mind. Good Wood exceeded the claim of it’s title – it wasn’t just good, it was great.
Good Wood is the first book in the Carved Hearts series and can be read as a standalone. No cliffhanger.
~ Beth, 5 stars
I must admit I went into this book completely blind. I never read the blurb but was intrigued by the title, Good Wood. I figured I'd be in for a fun and lighthearted romance. Boy, was I wrong.
Good Wood is written by a husband and wife team, it was so flawlessly put together, you'd never know that it wasn't written by just one person. I LOVED that Joe and Molly were, for lack of better words, average Joe's. They were regular down to earth people that didn't drive flashy cars, that weren't billionaires, famous etc. It was refreshing to read about people that seemed more realistic and relatable.
Joe and Molly are such a great match for each other. Both trying to heal and move on from traumatic pasts, they fit and just make sense together. They're two broken souls that just mesh.
Good Wood is a gem of a read. A thoroughly well rounded romance that made me laugh, made me a bit teary eyed and left me feeling great when I flipped that last page.
~ Erin, 5 stars
August 11, 2014
Note: I received this review copy of Good Wood (Carved Hearts #1) by L.G. Pace & Michelle Pace for free from the authors in return for an honest review. The opinions and thoughts I share in this review are my own.
When I first answered an ad for reviewing ARC copies of Good Wood I didn’t have much of a clue what the book was all about. I didn’t have a clue about genre or length etc, I was just drawn in by the gorgeous cover. I was then unfortunately overwhelmed with life which is why it’s taken me such a disgustingly long amount of time to read and review this book. My apologies to the authors.
I’m told by Amazon it’s 262 pages long although I can’t be sure as my Kindle version didn’t contain page numbers – I would guess that is an accurate number. It didn’t fully twig in my mind until the end that it wasn’t written by one person but a writing duo. The flow of the books was perfect and I saw no gaps or errors in that. The only error being a few extra or missing letters every now and again which didn’t take away anything during reading. I would say that Good Wood is a Contemporary Romance book but one that was much cleaner than many I’ve read. Sexual activity was mentioned but mainly hinted at activities/positions and wasn’t (to me) overt. This did not at all detract from the book but actually made it rather enjoyable in its differences.
Good Wood starts with the view point of Joe. Joe is a wood worker, living with his very pregnant wife Jess. Jess goes out one night however and is involved in a car accident. In the hospital as the health or his wife deteriorates further, Joe is forced to make difficult decisions regarding the life of his wife and unborn child. Fast-forward 3 years and Joe has changed completely. He trawls tourist bars looking for an easy lay, someone to spend a night with and nothing more. Names mean nothing and the woman is lucky if he remembers during the act, let alone afterwards. At the building site where he is at that time working, a new food truck comes along, owned, worked and manned by the younger sister of his two best friends; Molly. For years Molly had a massive crush on Joe but after moving away and eloping has come home, fleeing from her ex-husband and has no knowledge of Joe’s marriage and the outcome of that. Joe not recognising Molly isn’t the best way to a good first impression either. Molly and Joe are both flawed characters with secrets and massive problems which threaten to keep them apart. Are they able to accept and move on from their painful pasts and make a new life together?
It didn’t take me long at all to get into this book – a few pages and I was hooked. At one point I looked up and discovered I was 89% through and it was suddenly 11pm having last looked at a clock around 5pm! I did end up reading this book in a single day as I just didn’t want to put it down. I found the characters to be well thought-out and written. I may not have agreed with everything they did but I found myself understanding why they ended up the way they were. There was a lot of growth for the characters, they learnt and moved forwards and I loved the interaction between Joe and Molly and their friends and family. Along with all this came excitement too in the form of vengeful ex-husbands, misunderstandings and family rifts. So real and well written! The language used in the book was very descriptive; fantastic with a wood worker and a chef! The descriptions of food from Molly the chef did end up making me feel rather ravenous at times – rather a few kitchen raids did end up happening. I would have loved to see some of the work done by Joe as he begins to carve and make wooden things again, my mind was only so good at picturing some of the objects.
Overall though a great read and one that grabs hold and doesn’t let go.
When I first answered an ad for reviewing ARC copies of Good Wood I didn’t have much of a clue what the book was all about. I didn’t have a clue about genre or length etc, I was just drawn in by the gorgeous cover. I was then unfortunately overwhelmed with life which is why it’s taken me such a disgustingly long amount of time to read and review this book. My apologies to the authors.
I’m told by Amazon it’s 262 pages long although I can’t be sure as my Kindle version didn’t contain page numbers – I would guess that is an accurate number. It didn’t fully twig in my mind until the end that it wasn’t written by one person but a writing duo. The flow of the books was perfect and I saw no gaps or errors in that. The only error being a few extra or missing letters every now and again which didn’t take away anything during reading. I would say that Good Wood is a Contemporary Romance book but one that was much cleaner than many I’ve read. Sexual activity was mentioned but mainly hinted at activities/positions and wasn’t (to me) overt. This did not at all detract from the book but actually made it rather enjoyable in its differences.
Good Wood starts with the view point of Joe. Joe is a wood worker, living with his very pregnant wife Jess. Jess goes out one night however and is involved in a car accident. In the hospital as the health or his wife deteriorates further, Joe is forced to make difficult decisions regarding the life of his wife and unborn child. Fast-forward 3 years and Joe has changed completely. He trawls tourist bars looking for an easy lay, someone to spend a night with and nothing more. Names mean nothing and the woman is lucky if he remembers during the act, let alone afterwards. At the building site where he is at that time working, a new food truck comes along, owned, worked and manned by the younger sister of his two best friends; Molly. For years Molly had a massive crush on Joe but after moving away and eloping has come home, fleeing from her ex-husband and has no knowledge of Joe’s marriage and the outcome of that. Joe not recognising Molly isn’t the best way to a good first impression either. Molly and Joe are both flawed characters with secrets and massive problems which threaten to keep them apart. Are they able to accept and move on from their painful pasts and make a new life together?
It didn’t take me long at all to get into this book – a few pages and I was hooked. At one point I looked up and discovered I was 89% through and it was suddenly 11pm having last looked at a clock around 5pm! I did end up reading this book in a single day as I just didn’t want to put it down. I found the characters to be well thought-out and written. I may not have agreed with everything they did but I found myself understanding why they ended up the way they were. There was a lot of growth for the characters, they learnt and moved forwards and I loved the interaction between Joe and Molly and their friends and family. Along with all this came excitement too in the form of vengeful ex-husbands, misunderstandings and family rifts. So real and well written! The language used in the book was very descriptive; fantastic with a wood worker and a chef! The descriptions of food from Molly the chef did end up making me feel rather ravenous at times – rather a few kitchen raids did end up happening. I would have loved to see some of the work done by Joe as he begins to carve and make wooden things again, my mind was only so good at picturing some of the objects.
Overall though a great read and one that grabs hold and doesn’t let go.
July 21, 2014
5 Stars!!! More if possible
Best of the best 2014! The prologue to this book had me in tears. I knew it was going to be a roller coaster from there. I was not wrong. This book took me on an amazing roller coaster ride of emotions that wrapped my heart in a warm embrace. I could not put this book down and finished in the wee hours of the morning. It was so worth it!
Joe, oh my sweet Joe. I wanted to wrap him so tight in a hug and soothe all the hurt away. Molly does this quite well by the way. Molly was a spark plug that renewed Joe’s hope and love. They are a couple that will be on my favorite list for a very long time.
This story was such an amazing example of healing, second chance love, overcoming tragedy, loss and grief. In the dark there was light. And in the light we find joy. I was an emotional wreck reading some of the pages of this book (tears and running nose) but on the other hand I laughed out loud on the next sentence. I love books like this! The sex was very subtle but written so tasteful we had to use our good ole’ imagination. What a refreshing complex.
The secondary characters in this story are wonderful and play such a crucial role in this couples relationship. I love that we are getting more of this story because the important stuff is still to come. I can feel it. I will be waiting patiently until fall to get more important stuff!
L.G. and Michelle did an amazing job and making this story feel so real. The descriptiveness was perfect; I felt like a fly on the wall. They took this story transformed it into a work of art that will be tattooed on my heart. Well Done!
I loved the cover. It’s so different than what we are seeing with many other covers. I can’t wait to see the next one.
I would highly recommend this book to everyone! It was the best start to a series I have read in a while. I am so excited for more.
My Favorite Quotes:
The prodigal daughter had come home to the loving embrace of the “I-told-you-so” clan. – Molly
I don’t know who it was that said that time heals all wounds, but they were full of s***. Time dulls your memory. But the pain increases with the guilt of forgetting details that were once so precious to you. – Joe
I was a suicidal man afraid to complete the task. – Joe
Her smile lit the darkness in me like a full moon on a cloudless night. – Joe
“I can’t keep my hands off of you. If you aren’t my type, little girl, I sure as h*** don’t know what is.” – Joe
If I could have bottled the virile look he gave me. I could’ve ruled all womankind. – Molly
“Life is short, baby girl. I don’t want to waste another minute without you.” - Joe
July 22, 2014
So I had to take a step back when I first seen the cover to make sure it was a husband and wife teaming up in a romance book.First thought that came to my mind was that is just nuts will it be in any good??!! Seriously can a married couple bring it together and make me Melt?
Well my questions were answered when I cracked open this baby! It was flat out best book I have read by a duo I think ever!! Especially a husband and wife! The prologue grabbed me and held on tight and didn't let go for as long as the book went on! I cried tears, laughed a little to loud and even made a few snorts toward the jokes in the book!
I loved Joe his story was just absolutely insanely crazy written so well I honestly felt his emotions come off the page! He was Gorgeous,smart,talented,funny and kind the total package a total keeper!! Hunk hunk of burning love!! His story will tear you apart and you will hold your breath! I just could g believe what happened it was a devastating heartbreak. I gave this book a 5 star just after reading the prologue!!
Molly was such a unique charchter I sorta had her seen her as the pin up model type not to skinny but curvey in all the right places. She had the dont mess with me additude,but when you go to know her she was the "little girl" at heart. She mad me laugh espeically at the come backs he had for her brothers they are twins Mason and Mac they were over the top protective of her but she didnt back down from them one bit. I loved that about her she could hold her own.
Joe and Molly have some serious drama filles passed and Joe has been friends with Mason and Mac for a long time and knew Molly when she was younger. Loved how the family had M names great job there Les. and Michelle! I keep wondering if your kids have names with the same first letter?
Well anyways Joe hasnt seen Molly in years and has no idea what a hottie she has turned out to be. He is in no way ready for a relationship but cant keep his feeling for Molly hidden.Molly on the other hand has has a major crush on Joe since like well forever and who wouldnt he is the hot older best friend of her brother I would be all over that too..
They finally relize they needa do something about it and they do but will the passion lead to more ? Can they overcome the obstacles of the past?
I will leave it up to you to find out because it is a must read!
You will love it I was so hooked I had a lazy Monday reading this thank gosh I had purchsed Rio 2 a color book and markers this weekend for the kiddo to go nuts with. It was perfect because I just could not but this book down for the life of me today it was just that good!
5 Stars all the way if I could give it more I would I loved it that much!!
Get more at
www.morningbooksandcoffee.com
Well my questions were answered when I cracked open this baby! It was flat out best book I have read by a duo I think ever!! Especially a husband and wife! The prologue grabbed me and held on tight and didn't let go for as long as the book went on! I cried tears, laughed a little to loud and even made a few snorts toward the jokes in the book!
I loved Joe his story was just absolutely insanely crazy written so well I honestly felt his emotions come off the page! He was Gorgeous,smart,talented,funny and kind the total package a total keeper!! Hunk hunk of burning love!! His story will tear you apart and you will hold your breath! I just could g believe what happened it was a devastating heartbreak. I gave this book a 5 star just after reading the prologue!!
Molly was such a unique charchter I sorta had her seen her as the pin up model type not to skinny but curvey in all the right places. She had the dont mess with me additude,but when you go to know her she was the "little girl" at heart. She mad me laugh espeically at the come backs he had for her brothers they are twins Mason and Mac they were over the top protective of her but she didnt back down from them one bit. I loved that about her she could hold her own.
Joe and Molly have some serious drama filles passed and Joe has been friends with Mason and Mac for a long time and knew Molly when she was younger. Loved how the family had M names great job there Les. and Michelle! I keep wondering if your kids have names with the same first letter?
Well anyways Joe hasnt seen Molly in years and has no idea what a hottie she has turned out to be. He is in no way ready for a relationship but cant keep his feeling for Molly hidden.Molly on the other hand has has a major crush on Joe since like well forever and who wouldnt he is the hot older best friend of her brother I would be all over that too..
They finally relize they needa do something about it and they do but will the passion lead to more ? Can they overcome the obstacles of the past?
I will leave it up to you to find out because it is a must read!
You will love it I was so hooked I had a lazy Monday reading this thank gosh I had purchsed Rio 2 a color book and markers this weekend for the kiddo to go nuts with. It was perfect because I just could not but this book down for the life of me today it was just that good!
5 Stars all the way if I could give it more I would I loved it that much!!
Get more at
www.morningbooksandcoffee.com
December 31, 2016
GOOD WOOD by LG and Michelle Pace
*was given a copy by the author in exchange for an honest review
GOOD WOOD by LG and Michelle Pace is an amazing standalone that will leave you wanting a little more. I have devoured everything Michelle Pace has written and I love that she can merge her style with a partner and still have a great book. I love that a husband and wife team wrote this book. It was great fun and a CLEAN read. My daughter is getting to the age that she wants to read a good romance book and I want to share what I read with her. I can always count on Michelle to deliver.
Molly and Joe are childhood friends that go their separate ways and wind up after years and lots of life happenings hanging out and hooking up. Molly is an amazing Rockabilly, sad life lessons learned, hottie and Joe is broken and trying. Oh how I love them both. They are funny and witty and people that you know. LG and Michelle bring these two characters and their family so true to life, that it feels like they are friends of mine and I am just spying on the inner happenings of their lives.
Austin, Texas is its own character. On a personal note, I lived and called Austin home for many years. Austin was alive among the pages of GOOD WOOD. It made me homesick. Austin is just one of those unique places and LG and Michelle talk about the quirkiness and love of the city like no other. It was fun walking through the streets of Austin and hanging in the park.
GOOD WOOD is a story of love and healing and the city where it all takes place. I would strongly recommend this book to anyone seeking a great read.
GOOD WOOD by LG and Michelle Pace receives 5 out of 5 Platypires!!!
TEXAS HUGS and HAPPY READING!!!
SIDE NOTE:I just want to clarify...when I say "clean" read...this book is still a NA NOT a YA...My daughter is extremely mature for her age and you should always use your own judgement with your children. :)
*was given a copy by the author in exchange for an honest review
GOOD WOOD by LG and Michelle Pace is an amazing standalone that will leave you wanting a little more. I have devoured everything Michelle Pace has written and I love that she can merge her style with a partner and still have a great book. I love that a husband and wife team wrote this book. It was great fun and a CLEAN read. My daughter is getting to the age that she wants to read a good romance book and I want to share what I read with her. I can always count on Michelle to deliver.
Molly and Joe are childhood friends that go their separate ways and wind up after years and lots of life happenings hanging out and hooking up. Molly is an amazing Rockabilly, sad life lessons learned, hottie and Joe is broken and trying. Oh how I love them both. They are funny and witty and people that you know. LG and Michelle bring these two characters and their family so true to life, that it feels like they are friends of mine and I am just spying on the inner happenings of their lives.
Austin, Texas is its own character. On a personal note, I lived and called Austin home for many years. Austin was alive among the pages of GOOD WOOD. It made me homesick. Austin is just one of those unique places and LG and Michelle talk about the quirkiness and love of the city like no other. It was fun walking through the streets of Austin and hanging in the park.
GOOD WOOD is a story of love and healing and the city where it all takes place. I would strongly recommend this book to anyone seeking a great read.
GOOD WOOD by LG and Michelle Pace receives 5 out of 5 Platypires!!!
TEXAS HUGS and HAPPY READING!!!
SIDE NOTE:I just want to clarify...when I say "clean" read...this book is still a NA NOT a YA...My daughter is extremely mature for her age and you should always use your own judgement with your children. :)
August 25, 2014
This isn't the first book I have read by Michelle Pace, and it certainly won't be the last. Love this author.
First off, being a native Texan, I love all of the correct Texas references, and not having the stereotypical redneck characters on horseback. I also loved the fact that the main characters were older, as in not in high school or college, but have actual life experience before they met.
This book made me laugh and cry and I could not put it down. I loved Joe and he broke my heart. He was so raw and emotional. His open and honest therapy sessions could be brutal, but you saw the real Joe, his heartbreak, his daily struggles and the demons he was fighting. But, on the outside, he was still hot stuff with a hammer and green eyes. And from what I know of Michelle Pace, he looks like Jensen Ackles, so it is a win win.
I loved Molly. She was a real woman, not some wide eyed virgin who could not believe the hero chose her. She was a strong character, dealing with her own issues with her head held high and never played the victim card. I loved her interactions with Joe, and the flashbacks to when she was a teenager with a crush on the more mature Joe. I loved her interactions with her two brothers and the people she worked with in her food truck. Michelle made you really root for these two.
I loved how they came together and didn't try to fix each other, they were just there for each other like true partners. The alternating POVs was a great way to let the reader into the thoughts of Joe and Molly.
I can't wait for the next book in the series, and hoping some of the secondary characters, hint, hint, get some juicy stories too.
First off, being a native Texan, I love all of the correct Texas references, and not having the stereotypical redneck characters on horseback. I also loved the fact that the main characters were older, as in not in high school or college, but have actual life experience before they met.
This book made me laugh and cry and I could not put it down. I loved Joe and he broke my heart. He was so raw and emotional. His open and honest therapy sessions could be brutal, but you saw the real Joe, his heartbreak, his daily struggles and the demons he was fighting. But, on the outside, he was still hot stuff with a hammer and green eyes. And from what I know of Michelle Pace, he looks like Jensen Ackles, so it is a win win.
I loved Molly. She was a real woman, not some wide eyed virgin who could not believe the hero chose her. She was a strong character, dealing with her own issues with her head held high and never played the victim card. I loved her interactions with Joe, and the flashbacks to when she was a teenager with a crush on the more mature Joe. I loved her interactions with her two brothers and the people she worked with in her food truck. Michelle made you really root for these two.
I loved how they came together and didn't try to fix each other, they were just there for each other like true partners. The alternating POVs was a great way to let the reader into the thoughts of Joe and Molly.
I can't wait for the next book in the series, and hoping some of the secondary characters, hint, hint, get some juicy stories too.
July 22, 2014
Oh where do I begin? Good Wood is the story of Joe, who in one evening, has his whole world ripped apart. In one moment he finds himself making supper for his very pregnant wife...enjoying and loving life...and then suddenly all that is ripped from him...not only his wife but his unborn baby. As one would suspect, this sends Joe into a tailspin that culminates with him essentially becoming a major man-whore...sleeping with pretty much anything with two legs and a set of tits.
When his best friends younger sister shows back up in the picture, suddenly Joe starts to change ...he eases back into his carving workshop...he's not out whoring ...he starts actually participating with his therapist instead of just sitting there...it's obvious that both parties, Joe and Molly, are totally into each other. But can they get past all they have been through to make a go of it?
Good Wood is chock full of fantastic sexual innuendos that will leave you giggling and maybe even blushing, twists and turns, fantastic characters, and just really breathtaking story telling.
Hands down, a must read!!!
When his best friends younger sister shows back up in the picture, suddenly Joe starts to change ...he eases back into his carving workshop...he's not out whoring ...he starts actually participating with his therapist instead of just sitting there...it's obvious that both parties, Joe and Molly, are totally into each other. But can they get past all they have been through to make a go of it?
Good Wood is chock full of fantastic sexual innuendos that will leave you giggling and maybe even blushing, twists and turns, fantastic characters, and just really breathtaking story telling.
Hands down, a must read!!!
July 24, 2014
I can't even begin to say just how much I was emotionally built up for this book. I am friends with Michelle on Facebook and for over a month, I've seen the cover, the teasers, and the Release Party event invite. I already felt a strong connection with the characters. I could see them in my mind.
This book, a joint effort from a husband-wife team, had me hooked from the very beginning. The book flowed so well, if I hadn't known, I would have sworn there was only one author.
I couldn't put this book down. I felt the need to know what was going to happen next and I was so invested even before the halfway point that I felt that I was there with them.
This is a must read and I can't wait for the next book, coming this fall!
This book, a joint effort from a husband-wife team, had me hooked from the very beginning. The book flowed so well, if I hadn't known, I would have sworn there was only one author.
I couldn't put this book down. I felt the need to know what was going to happen next and I was so invested even before the halfway point that I felt that I was there with them.
This is a must read and I can't wait for the next book, coming this fall!
July 17, 2014
Good gosh Miss Molly, I loved her, even in her drunken stupors, "more." I demanded like a petulant child, my wrists slipping around his neck. It was my birthday, dammit. Drunk and selfish, I wanted to fulfill the first item I'd ever had on a bucket list. I wanted Joe Jensen in my bed." I thought Joe's warnings were really cute, even though I don't think they were warnings at all, "I slipped my hands back into Joe's fly and he groaned, his breath becoming raspy. "Careful, little girl..." He moaned against my lips and I shut him up by closing my mouth on his." At times I felt the story was a little slow, but I liked how Joe and Molly's relationship developed and I liked how Molly wasn't a woman in need of a man to save her. I can't wait to see what else this author has to offer.
August 14, 2014
Love Love this book! I could not put it down once I picked it up and then when I finished I didn't want it to end. I laughed and cried. There are few books that can truly pull the tears from me but Good Wood did just that and so much more. If you love a book that is emotionally packed this is one you are going to want to read!
I love Molly she is strong but broken. She pulls herself up no matter what is thrown in her path. She is quick witted and just all around fun. Joe is amazing he has his faults but don't we all. With all that has been thrown at Joe it amazing he still has any fight left in him. So many struggles that the both face and how strong they end up being just blows you away!
I love Molly she is strong but broken. She pulls herself up no matter what is thrown in her path. She is quick witted and just all around fun. Joe is amazing he has his faults but don't we all. With all that has been thrown at Joe it amazing he still has any fight left in him. So many struggles that the both face and how strong they end up being just blows you away!
July 25, 2014
By far my favorite book of 2014! Joe and Molly will win your heart in no time. The closeness of the families is something I just love to read in books. Families should stick together. You will laugh, possibly even snort, and you will cry. Joe is broken, and has changed in so many ways. Molly, who is recently divorced, moves backs to Austin, and runs in to Joe, who she had a childhood crush on, and well, yeah you guessed it, they can't keep their hands off each other!! Les and Michelle Pace did an amazing job writing this book, and I am so happy to give them 5 stars! I'd do 10 stars, if it was possible!
July 30, 2014
As I sit here and think of how to start my review it’s actually easy because reading “Good Wood” was as easy as breathing. I was immediately hooked on this book. I needed to know what happened to these two beautifully broken people.
The authors' writing is so cohesive that I never once had the feeling that I was reading a book that was co-written. Their minds harmonized a story that touched my heart, made me laugh, and at times made my heart feel physical pain but most importantly kept me turning the pages with enjoyment.
I won’t spoil the story for you, but I will say this is a must read.
#TheWorldNeedsMorePace
The authors' writing is so cohesive that I never once had the feeling that I was reading a book that was co-written. Their minds harmonized a story that touched my heart, made me laugh, and at times made my heart feel physical pain but most importantly kept me turning the pages with enjoyment.
I won’t spoil the story for you, but I will say this is a must read.
#TheWorldNeedsMorePace
April 3, 2018
This was such a great story. Loved it. Was very original and a very interesting storyline that was told well. It was one that I couldn't put down and when I had to, I couldn't wait to get back to reading it. Can't wait to see where the storyline continues!! Two of my favorite lines from this book are: "I'd already given myself over to him, not a piece at a time like I had with Drae, but all at once. Shoving myself at him like a stack of poker chips. All in." and "I spent all of my time just existing. Moving from one day to the next like a ghost. Until that day I ran into you."
July 27, 2014
I was given the opportunity to read this AMAZING book by the equally AMAZING Authors! Ok so on to the book...A tattooed, great cook female lead...a semi emotionally hardened, HOT lead male= One steamy awesome book! Through out the book I wanted to go into the book and get something at Molly's food truck! You will have a few sad moments, some heart racing moments and a ton of laughing moments! Do yourself a favor and get this book and start reading!!! Happy Reading Friends!!!!
April 18, 2015
I'm seriously in love with both Molly AND Joe! This is a beautiful story about two people finding love after heartbreak and tragedy. I really enjoyed the book, and would have rated it higher if the proofreading had been better. It's tough to read a story when you have to read sentences twice because of spelling, punctuation, and grammatical errors. Overall, I loved the characters and the story. I will read the next book to see where their story progresses!
July 31, 2014
I really loved this book and the history/relationship with Joe and Molly!! I am always a sucker for young love brought together later on and this was a great one! I felt for Molly and the hell she went through with her ex and the terror that Joe lived through with what happened to his wife and child. I love that they seemed to heal each other! Will definitely read the next one!
July 26, 2014
No ... didn't really do it for me.
While this is a sweet enough romantic story, it didn't connect with me. I skipped quite a bit of the story as I couldn't engage with it. I'm sure many other readers will find this story just fine. I guess I need something more intense and emotionally challenging.
While this is a sweet enough romantic story, it didn't connect with me. I skipped quite a bit of the story as I couldn't engage with it. I'm sure many other readers will find this story just fine. I guess I need something more intense and emotionally challenging.
June 16, 2014
Phenomenal <3 Review to follow closer to release date.
July 22, 2014
I fell in love instantly with Molly and Joe. Thank you Michelle and Les! You both did a kickass job with Good Wood. I can't wait for Molly Wood and others in the Carved Hearts series.
May 28, 2019
Love rereading this series!
June 11, 2015
3.5 stars
August 14, 2014
When the prologue of a book brings tears to your eyes, you know it’s going to be good. But this book was so much better than good, it was great. If you enjoy reading about second chance love and the journey to happily ever after, this is the story for you.
Good Wood had many of the elements I love in a book starting with likeable well developed characters. I want to read about characters I can relate to and Molly and Joe were perfectly imperfect. Each carried baggage from a past relationship and while two wounded souls may not seem likely to work, they were perfectly suited for each other.
Beyond likeable characters, I enjoy books where the relationship is predicated upon something deeper than physical attraction. So many books are written with insta-love and I simply need more. Molly and Joe’s relationship began when they were younger. He was her childhood crush and happened to be the best friend of her brother. While there was most definitely chemistry between them, they also have a history to substantiate the attraction they share in the present setting. I found it cute that Joe was completely oblivious to Molly’s crush when they were younger…such a typical male.
The story is told in alternating POV from each character’s perspective which enables you to experience the story in the mind of both Molly and Joe. Dual POV is my favorite and unique to this story, Molly was written by Michelle and Joe was “mostly written” by L.G. The transition between the alternating POV was relatively seamless given it had been written by two different authors. There was minimal overlapping with each POV change and it kept the story progressing forward rather than rehashing the scene that had just happened.
I love when a story makes me feel the gamut of emotions and Good Wood did so effortlessly. There was plenty of drama to keep me engaged and the snarky humor was an added bonus. I absolutely loved Molly’s character and the interaction with her brothers brought back memories of my own childhood where I crushed on my older brother’s friends. I could not help but fall in love with Joe and his broken soul. The healing nature of their relationship touched my heart and left me feeling content.
Overall, I thoroughly enjoyed this story. There was some unresolved conflict at the conclusion of Good Wood which I hope the sequel, Mollywood, will wrap up. There were a few quirky things that transpired in the story, but I attributed it to remaining true to the spirit of Austin and the famous slogan “Keep Austin Weird”. While this was my first book from these authors, it will not be my last. I am definitely looking forward to reading Mollywood.
Overall Rating 4-4.5 Stars
I was provided a complimentary copy in exchange for an honest review.
Good Wood had many of the elements I love in a book starting with likeable well developed characters. I want to read about characters I can relate to and Molly and Joe were perfectly imperfect. Each carried baggage from a past relationship and while two wounded souls may not seem likely to work, they were perfectly suited for each other.
Beyond likeable characters, I enjoy books where the relationship is predicated upon something deeper than physical attraction. So many books are written with insta-love and I simply need more. Molly and Joe’s relationship began when they were younger. He was her childhood crush and happened to be the best friend of her brother. While there was most definitely chemistry between them, they also have a history to substantiate the attraction they share in the present setting. I found it cute that Joe was completely oblivious to Molly’s crush when they were younger…such a typical male.
The story is told in alternating POV from each character’s perspective which enables you to experience the story in the mind of both Molly and Joe. Dual POV is my favorite and unique to this story, Molly was written by Michelle and Joe was “mostly written” by L.G. The transition between the alternating POV was relatively seamless given it had been written by two different authors. There was minimal overlapping with each POV change and it kept the story progressing forward rather than rehashing the scene that had just happened.
I love when a story makes me feel the gamut of emotions and Good Wood did so effortlessly. There was plenty of drama to keep me engaged and the snarky humor was an added bonus. I absolutely loved Molly’s character and the interaction with her brothers brought back memories of my own childhood where I crushed on my older brother’s friends. I could not help but fall in love with Joe and his broken soul. The healing nature of their relationship touched my heart and left me feeling content.
Overall, I thoroughly enjoyed this story. There was some unresolved conflict at the conclusion of Good Wood which I hope the sequel, Mollywood, will wrap up. There were a few quirky things that transpired in the story, but I attributed it to remaining true to the spirit of Austin and the famous slogan “Keep Austin Weird”. While this was my first book from these authors, it will not be my last. I am definitely looking forward to reading Mollywood.
Overall Rating 4-4.5 Stars
I was provided a complimentary copy in exchange for an honest review.
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