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Summer #2.5
Max
Melanie Sheehan didn’t set out to be a liar, but her last lie landed her in big trouble. Now Mel must suffer a harsh consequence – she’s not allowed out of her father’s sight.
No friends, no parties, no life.
Since impeccably good behaviour is now all she’s about, her dad, renowned Ballan local ‘Bluey’ Sheehan, is about to finally cut Mel some slack. The catch? While he heads out of town on business, she has to stay at the Onslow Hotel, and he’s entrusting Max Henry, the eldest son of Bluey’s best mate, to look out for her.
He just doesn’t know it yet.
Max, the new head barman at the Onslow Hotel, is the one boy Mel has been crushing on since forever. At a time when Mel plans to go on the straight and narrow, she is about to tell the biggest lie of all. Will Max be able to handle the fiery farm girl or should he be considered the last boy in Onslow to trust?
Warning: sexual references, and occasional coarse language.
The Summer Series:
Book 1: The Boys of Summer
Book 2.5: Stan (Novella)
Book 2: An Endless Summer
Book 2.5: Max (Novella)
Book 3: That One Summer
Book 3.5: Ringer (Novella)
Book 4: Forever Summer
Authors Note: While each title can be read as a stand-alone story, you will likely enjoy taking the journey with these characters from the beginning.
No friends, no parties, no life.
Since impeccably good behaviour is now all she’s about, her dad, renowned Ballan local ‘Bluey’ Sheehan, is about to finally cut Mel some slack. The catch? While he heads out of town on business, she has to stay at the Onslow Hotel, and he’s entrusting Max Henry, the eldest son of Bluey’s best mate, to look out for her.
He just doesn’t know it yet.
Max, the new head barman at the Onslow Hotel, is the one boy Mel has been crushing on since forever. At a time when Mel plans to go on the straight and narrow, she is about to tell the biggest lie of all. Will Max be able to handle the fiery farm girl or should he be considered the last boy in Onslow to trust?
Warning: sexual references, and occasional coarse language.
The Summer Series:
Book 1: The Boys of Summer
Book 2.5: Stan (Novella)
Book 2: An Endless Summer
Book 2.5: Max (Novella)
Book 3: That One Summer
Book 3.5: Ringer (Novella)
Book 4: Forever Summer
Authors Note: While each title can be read as a stand-alone story, you will likely enjoy taking the journey with these characters from the beginning.
ebook
First published January 1, 2015
12 people are currently reading
443 people want to read
About the author
C.J. Duggan
29 books1,153 followersCJ Duggan is an internationally best-selling author of contemporary Young Adult and New Adult fiction. From small town dramas to big city dreamers, CJ’s coming-of-age tales are filled with hope and heart, and told by relatable protagonists with strong Australian voices.
A proud Yorta Yorta woman, CJ lives with her husband in a rural border town of New South Wales. When she is not writing you will usually find her rearranging knick-knacks in her home office, or plotting the next weekend escape.
If you love ceramic owls, dusty-pink decor and old typewriters, then CJ wants to be your new best friend.
Follow C.J on her website: www.cjdugganbooks.com
A proud Yorta Yorta woman, CJ lives with her husband in a rural border town of New South Wales. When she is not writing you will usually find her rearranging knick-knacks in her home office, or plotting the next weekend escape.
If you love ceramic owls, dusty-pink decor and old typewriters, then CJ wants to be your new best friend.
Follow C.J on her website: www.cjdugganbooks.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 32 reviews
February 15, 2015
Rating: 4.5/5
I've been given a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review
Well C.J strike again with an other amazing novella in the Summer series! Ok, i might be biased the woman could publish her grocery shopping list and i would like it! She truly has a way at writing hot summer romance and building a steamy relationship that will have you on the edge of your seat, unable to close the book. I stopped counting how many time Max made me swoon and Melanie made me laugh....let’s be honest here how many of us acted stupid because of a guy....i know i’m guilty! So reading all the mischief Mel (and Amy) got themselves into so she could try to make Max jealous was hilarious. I ended up with a goofy grin most of the time so i was glad to be reading this alone at home! Max has always been the most mysterious in the Onslow boys and i was ecstatic to finally shed some light on this mysterious and dreamy boy. I could have taken a whole novel just about him. I can’t believe we only have one more book left in this series, i’m not ready to say goodbye. If you still haven’t read a book from this incredible series what are you waiting for? Pick it up, you won’t regret it ;), you'll be dragged in a whirlwind romance in the hot Aussie summer.
I've been given a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review
Well C.J strike again with an other amazing novella in the Summer series! Ok, i might be biased the woman could publish her grocery shopping list and i would like it! She truly has a way at writing hot summer romance and building a steamy relationship that will have you on the edge of your seat, unable to close the book. I stopped counting how many time Max made me swoon and Melanie made me laugh....let’s be honest here how many of us acted stupid because of a guy....i know i’m guilty! So reading all the mischief Mel (and Amy) got themselves into so she could try to make Max jealous was hilarious. I ended up with a goofy grin most of the time so i was glad to be reading this alone at home! Max has always been the most mysterious in the Onslow boys and i was ecstatic to finally shed some light on this mysterious and dreamy boy. I could have taken a whole novel just about him. I can’t believe we only have one more book left in this series, i’m not ready to say goodbye. If you still haven’t read a book from this incredible series what are you waiting for? Pick it up, you won’t regret it ;), you'll be dragged in a whirlwind romance in the hot Aussie summer.
May 14, 2015
Not sure what happened to Duggan's writing, but this was awful. This needed so much editing and I couldn't for the life of me connect to anyone in this story, not even the characters that appeared from the previous installments that I loved so dearly. So disappointed. This would be a 1-star-rating if Sean and Ringer wouldn't have been in it, so it's 2 for them.
February 15, 2015
Of two things I am not ashamed to admit: 1) that CJ Duggan has become one of my favourite go-to authors (and why would I be ashamed of that anyway, she is the bomb diggity!), and 2) I dream of making my way to Onslow in an attempt to hopefully win the heart of one of the boys. So when I hear CJ has a new book coming out, I'm in absolute excitement overload until I get to devour every single morsel, and Max certainly did not disappoint!
Being the newest and least known of all the Onslow Boys, I wasn't sure what to expect of mystery man Max, but reading this felt like he had been there from day one. The comradery between the boys and Max, and even the way Mel was taken in, almost made me want to pack up and move to a small town. Almost!
Like all of CJ's books, I was transported back to the late 90s, when I too was a teenager, with simple mentions of songs or pop culture that left me feeling a little nostalgic. And there is nothing like reading a fantastic slow burn story to remind you of the incredible feeling of butterflies in your stomach, awkward moments and sheer embarrassment at the hands of your friends that go hand in hand with having a crush, no matter what age you are. CJ is my slow burn queen.
What I love so much about this novella, as with Ringer and Stan before it, is that it's on the longer side. There is more than enough time for scenes to be set, characters to be introduced and make us fall in love with them, fun to be had, drama to occur and everything to be wrapped up in a sexy Onslow Boy bow to leave us all feeling more than satisfied yet still craving more...oh look, I can continue with That One Summer ;-)
Now, can anyone give me the directions to Onslow? I have a pub to get to.
Being the newest and least known of all the Onslow Boys, I wasn't sure what to expect of mystery man Max, but reading this felt like he had been there from day one. The comradery between the boys and Max, and even the way Mel was taken in, almost made me want to pack up and move to a small town. Almost!
Like all of CJ's books, I was transported back to the late 90s, when I too was a teenager, with simple mentions of songs or pop culture that left me feeling a little nostalgic. And there is nothing like reading a fantastic slow burn story to remind you of the incredible feeling of butterflies in your stomach, awkward moments and sheer embarrassment at the hands of your friends that go hand in hand with having a crush, no matter what age you are. CJ is my slow burn queen.
What I love so much about this novella, as with Ringer and Stan before it, is that it's on the longer side. There is more than enough time for scenes to be set, characters to be introduced and make us fall in love with them, fun to be had, drama to occur and everything to be wrapped up in a sexy Onslow Boy bow to leave us all feeling more than satisfied yet still craving more...oh look, I can continue with That One Summer ;-)
Now, can anyone give me the directions to Onslow? I have a pub to get to.
August 15, 2015
Review also found at http://kristineandterri.blogspot.ca/2...
3.5 stars
I continue in my quest to complete this entire series, as previously mentioned going in the order in which they were published.
This brings us the story of Max who is one of the lesser featured Onslow boys. I really enjoyed the very brief glimpses I had of him prior to this story however I have to admit I feel like I have not spent enough time getting to know him. He is interesting enough that I feel he could have held together a full length story easily.
This story flew by for me. Due to its short length I didn't feel that anticipation that I have grown used to in Duggan's work. Instead it read like a fast rom-com, with even a reference as such in the story. Even so it did not lose its steamy factor when the time came.
All in all I have to admit this series has been a guilty pleasure for me. The biggest criticism thus far is that I wish all of the stories were full length instead of only some of them. Only two more to go until I am finished, I can't wait for the next one!
3.5 stars
I continue in my quest to complete this entire series, as previously mentioned going in the order in which they were published.
This brings us the story of Max who is one of the lesser featured Onslow boys. I really enjoyed the very brief glimpses I had of him prior to this story however I have to admit I feel like I have not spent enough time getting to know him. He is interesting enough that I feel he could have held together a full length story easily.
This story flew by for me. Due to its short length I didn't feel that anticipation that I have grown used to in Duggan's work. Instead it read like a fast rom-com, with even a reference as such in the story. Even so it did not lose its steamy factor when the time came.
All in all I have to admit this series has been a guilty pleasure for me. The biggest criticism thus far is that I wish all of the stories were full length instead of only some of them. Only two more to go until I am finished, I can't wait for the next one!
February 15, 2015
Love! Everytime I start a new book by C J Duggan I think it can't get better than the last and I have built up such high praise for her books that I think maybe I just imagined it but then I read the book and without a doubt I can say I love every single thing she writes. I never laugh and swoon as much as I do when I read one of her books and this book was no exception. The characters are so real and relatable that its so easy to fall in love with them. I was sitting there smiling like a dork all the while reading it and now I'm just in this happy little bubble with a goofy grin on my face. I'm so in love with this series, it makes me way too happy and I love it. Of course my only complaint when it comes to the summer series novellas is that they are too short! Even though they are bigger than any other novellas I have read before, I swear I could read a 500 page book on these characters and not get bored. I'm so in love with this series and as with every book in the series, it leaves me wanting an Onslow boy of my own...
April 2, 2015
What just happened? This was a five star book until 72% when it all went to hell.
July 7, 2015
review to come.
February 15, 2015
This review, and many others, can be found on my blog, Rolling with the Moments.
What is there to say about Max? Duggan delivered the goods again in this short and sweet novella. Back again are the wonderful (and hunky!) Onslow Boys, the simpler lifestyle of the 90's, and the great Aussie slang - what's not to love?
After reading Stan - the first introduction we have to Max - I couldn't wait for his book. I love how with her novellas, Duggan does a switching POV and you get to see the story from both perspectives - it almost makes up for them only being novellas and not novels. I felt Duggan robbed us a bit of a swoon worthy moment when there wasn't a scene involving Max and his guitar, but she more than makes up for it with the chemistry between Mel and him.
There are many great characters in this book, like Max in all his hunky glory, but I think my favourite, for this installment in the series, has to be Bluey. He just beautifully embodies the average Aussie bloke and reminds my fondly of my own dad - all gruff exterior, but a big softy at heart that just wants the best for his daughter. He also says my favourite line in the whole book, "They think I came down in the last shower." I lost it laughing when I read that.
The only real niggle that I have with the story is how Mel and Max end up playing games with one another. Games should never be played in matters dealing with the heart - it's not fair on anyone involved. However, I do understand the crucial role that it plays in the plot - that doesn't mean that I have to like it, though. This is the only thing that prevented me from giving Max a 5 out of 5 rating.
Max and the Summer series leave you longing for a summer romance to remember with a whole lot of spunk, wit, and cuteness. This book, along with the series, are some of my favourite books - so if you haven't read them yet, you better read them or I don't think we can be friends anymore.
What is there to say about Max? Duggan delivered the goods again in this short and sweet novella. Back again are the wonderful (and hunky!) Onslow Boys, the simpler lifestyle of the 90's, and the great Aussie slang - what's not to love?
After reading Stan - the first introduction we have to Max - I couldn't wait for his book. I love how with her novellas, Duggan does a switching POV and you get to see the story from both perspectives - it almost makes up for them only being novellas and not novels. I felt Duggan robbed us a bit of a swoon worthy moment when there wasn't a scene involving Max and his guitar, but she more than makes up for it with the chemistry between Mel and him.
There are many great characters in this book, like Max in all his hunky glory, but I think my favourite, for this installment in the series, has to be Bluey. He just beautifully embodies the average Aussie bloke and reminds my fondly of my own dad - all gruff exterior, but a big softy at heart that just wants the best for his daughter. He also says my favourite line in the whole book, "They think I came down in the last shower." I lost it laughing when I read that.
The only real niggle that I have with the story is how Mel and Max end up playing games with one another. Games should never be played in matters dealing with the heart - it's not fair on anyone involved. However, I do understand the crucial role that it plays in the plot - that doesn't mean that I have to like it, though. This is the only thing that prevented me from giving Max a 5 out of 5 rating.
Max and the Summer series leave you longing for a summer romance to remember with a whole lot of spunk, wit, and cuteness. This book, along with the series, are some of my favourite books - so if you haven't read them yet, you better read them or I don't think we can be friends anymore.
November 24, 2015
Melanie and Max
I'm not sure if I would have read this novella if I knew what the ending was going to be like. I truly feel the author made a huge mistake. The least she could have done was give us an epilogue. More on this later...
Melanie was in a bad car accident last year. The accident caused her dad so much worry that he wasn't allowing her out of his sight. She'd been grounded for life. On one of his business trips he stopped in Onslow to leave his daughter in Max's care for a week while he finished his journey. A week of freedom that Mel could only dream about. Mel had always had a crush on Max now all she needed to do was get him.
I really enjoyed the novella up until the abrupt ending. It still left me wondering if there was more. I needed more. Not to mention, will I ever read about what happened to them since there was no epilogue like the other Onslow Boys stories? WTF? I am VERY disappointed. I doubt we will be graced with a Ballan book. So so disappointed...
Other things... This book was essentially about Amy's games. It was super annoying in that it was unrealistic. A normal person would not go to such lengths. A psychotic person would. Mel didn't seem psychotic to me. I think Amy might have a few loose screws.
The editing is good. It's nicely in dual POV. I still can't figure out what RSL stands for or is. I looked it up and got no where. It's been mentioned in the other books too. Stupid American problems. ;)
I don't know if I've ever been this mad about the ending of a book. I'm just so pissed I can't stand it. Argh.
I'm not sure if I would have read this novella if I knew what the ending was going to be like. I truly feel the author made a huge mistake. The least she could have done was give us an epilogue. More on this later...
Melanie was in a bad car accident last year. The accident caused her dad so much worry that he wasn't allowing her out of his sight. She'd been grounded for life. On one of his business trips he stopped in Onslow to leave his daughter in Max's care for a week while he finished his journey. A week of freedom that Mel could only dream about. Mel had always had a crush on Max now all she needed to do was get him.
I really enjoyed the novella up until the abrupt ending. It still left me wondering if there was more. I needed more. Not to mention, will I ever read about what happened to them since there was no epilogue like the other Onslow Boys stories? WTF? I am VERY disappointed. I doubt we will be graced with a Ballan book. So so disappointed...
Other things... This book was essentially about Amy's games. It was super annoying in that it was unrealistic. A normal person would not go to such lengths. A psychotic person would. Mel didn't seem psychotic to me. I think Amy might have a few loose screws.
The editing is good. It's nicely in dual POV. I still can't figure out what RSL stands for or is. I looked it up and got no where. It's been mentioned in the other books too. Stupid American problems. ;)
I don't know if I've ever been this mad about the ending of a book. I'm just so pissed I can't stand it. Argh.
February 15, 2015
The boys of Onslow are guys I love reading about. I've been wanting Max's story for a long time. I'm so very glad it's finally here. I always wish the stories are longer, and we get more time with them, but C.J. Duggan has a way of making short stories feel long.
I first met Max in Ringer's story. I didn't learn much about him other than he wanted out of Ballan and didn't think highly of his sister. I thought Melanie was adorable. She's had a crush on Max since she was a child. I loved how she blushed around him. Even though she'd gotten into some adult trouble, she was still innocent at heart. I loved seeing Max realize Melanie was no longer the little girl he knew. He wanted to be around her but didn't know why. He also enjoyed teasing her, which I thought was adorable.
I wasn't a big fan of the charade Melanie and Amy carried off. I thought they took it too far, and I was worried it might ruin things for Max and Melanie. Luckily it didn't, although I have the feeling if it ever comes out some where down the line, it might make trouble. I liked seeing Bluey, Sean, and the boys I've read about in other books and novellas. I'm very excited Chris's story is next! Like I said, I can't get enough of the Onslow boys!
I first met Max in Ringer's story. I didn't learn much about him other than he wanted out of Ballan and didn't think highly of his sister. I thought Melanie was adorable. She's had a crush on Max since she was a child. I loved how she blushed around him. Even though she'd gotten into some adult trouble, she was still innocent at heart. I loved seeing Max realize Melanie was no longer the little girl he knew. He wanted to be around her but didn't know why. He also enjoyed teasing her, which I thought was adorable.
I wasn't a big fan of the charade Melanie and Amy carried off. I thought they took it too far, and I was worried it might ruin things for Max and Melanie. Luckily it didn't, although I have the feeling if it ever comes out some where down the line, it might make trouble. I liked seeing Bluey, Sean, and the boys I've read about in other books and novellas. I'm very excited Chris's story is next! Like I said, I can't get enough of the Onslow boys!
February 17, 2015
ahhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhh Mrs duggan you have me tied in knots. I want no I NEED an onslow boy.
I've always been dead set that Toby was my favourite followed by Stan but max has now managed to mix things up.
I loved max and mels story. I loved that we got to see our favourite onslow characters.
I am not going to write you the blurb of this book just tell you if you haven't read the summer series your missing out BIG TIME!!
I find max to be the middle Henderson boy lol. He's soo lovely and a really good guy like Chris but has a troublesome streak like Adam.
at first I wasn't too sure about Mel but I have to say I really liked her, Amy helped her come out of her shell more but we all know Amy and her match making lol.
another brilliant onslow book cannot wait for Adam and ellies story although I'm gutted it's the last one. I see a lot of re reading in the future :)
I've always been dead set that Toby was my favourite followed by Stan but max has now managed to mix things up.
I loved max and mels story. I loved that we got to see our favourite onslow characters.
I am not going to write you the blurb of this book just tell you if you haven't read the summer series your missing out BIG TIME!!
I find max to be the middle Henderson boy lol. He's soo lovely and a really good guy like Chris but has a troublesome streak like Adam.
at first I wasn't too sure about Mel but I have to say I really liked her, Amy helped her come out of her shell more but we all know Amy and her match making lol.
another brilliant onslow book cannot wait for Adam and ellies story although I'm gutted it's the last one. I see a lot of re reading in the future :)
February 14, 2015
Melanie she's not blind, "I'll stay," she said. "Just try not to look so unhappy about it." S***, so I was crap at hiding my emotions." Max he could be an a**, "take it easy tonight, yeah? I don't fancy having to carry you to bed for the third night in a row," I smirked." Being interrupted when with his girl is just not okay with Max, "Chris, get the eff out of here!" Max yelled, yanking the blankets over us as I screamed and moved to disappear under the sheet behind Max." I liked this book although I was a tad confused some of the 'men characters' didn't have their significant others like from the other novellas don't this books go in order? Anyway I loved max once the stick was removed from his butt.
November 7, 2017
I received this book as an ARC for an honest review. Honestly......this is the best novella I have read. The only downside I have is that I wish it didn't have to end. I could of just kept on reading about Max and Mel. This novella had me full on laughing out loud throughout, which had my husband looking at me each time like I was crazy, asking what was so funny. Once I started this book of Max and Mel, everything and everyone got neglected. I couldn't put it down. Full of wit, mischief, trickery and Max......another hot Onslow boy. Swoon! I loved Mel and Amy's friendship, such a hilarious duo together. With only one book left after this one, I don't want the summer series to come to an end. I'll miss these guys. Thank you for another great read Cj!
October 3, 2016
Another great Onslow boy novella.
September 4, 2017
This could have been so much better, I really enjoyed the other summer books but this one was just not good. There was no chemistry at all and nothing about the main characters that made them even a little bit likeable. I just found it slow and boring and like it was written without much thought put into it.
October 13, 2017
Rating: 4.5/5
February 13, 2021
I've read the whole series twice already years later. Just a fun read!
June 17, 2023
I just want to visit the Onslow Hotel once in my life.
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August 14, 2019This review and many more can be found on my blog: Feed Your Fiction Addiction
This novella was fun and I’m glad I read it, but the story didn’t quite entrance me the way the other books in the Summer series have. I loved the book at first, but the ending didn’t feel quite satisfying enough and I never quite felt a connection between the characters. I chalk this up to being one of those cases where a full-length book was needed to really build a relationship – the story just didn’t quite fit into a novella.
What I loved:
Melanie.
I really enjoyed Melanie’s character, and felt for her – she just wanted to move on with her life after her one big mistake and not feel so sheltered all the time. She also wanted Max to see her as something more than his little sister’s friend, but she found herself going about it in all the wrong ways and then kind of getting stuck, digging herself deeper and deeper in her lies. Her story was fun and I loved how Amy was tied into it so much!!
Max.
It was also nice to have Max’s perspective in this book. The fact that he was onto Melanie and Amy’s lies pretty much the whole time made the story that much more amusing and made me eager to see how it was all going to play out!
The negatives:
Not enough time to connect.
The reason that this book only got three stars from me is because I just never felt a real connection between Melanie and Max, at least on Max’s side of the equation. Melanie had been hung up on Max for years, so her interest made complete sense. But Max just seemed vaguely interested in Melanie (he thought she was hot) and there wasn’t enough interaction between the two of them to make me understand why he liked her (beyond the aforementioned hotness and the fact that he was a bit jealous of a possible boyfriend). I kept waiting for some meaningful moments between them, but I didn’t really see them. When we got to the end of the book, they just kind of jumped into bed together (which actually ended up to be a pretty amusing scene) and then Max was apparently completely hooked and cared about her. I just didn’t quite see it.
So, this book was cute and fun but it didn’t move me or thrill me the way that the rest of the Summer series has. I still recommend it to fans of the series who want to see how Max and Melanie came to be, but I definitely wouldn’t start with this book if you haven’t read others in the series. (But, if you haven’t read this series yet and you’re a fan of NA, you definitely need to get on that right away!!) I give this one 3/5 stars.
This novella was fun and I’m glad I read it, but the story didn’t quite entrance me the way the other books in the Summer series have. I loved the book at first, but the ending didn’t feel quite satisfying enough and I never quite felt a connection between the characters. I chalk this up to being one of those cases where a full-length book was needed to really build a relationship – the story just didn’t quite fit into a novella.
What I loved:
Melanie.
I really enjoyed Melanie’s character, and felt for her – she just wanted to move on with her life after her one big mistake and not feel so sheltered all the time. She also wanted Max to see her as something more than his little sister’s friend, but she found herself going about it in all the wrong ways and then kind of getting stuck, digging herself deeper and deeper in her lies. Her story was fun and I loved how Amy was tied into it so much!!
Max.
It was also nice to have Max’s perspective in this book. The fact that he was onto Melanie and Amy’s lies pretty much the whole time made the story that much more amusing and made me eager to see how it was all going to play out!
The negatives:
Not enough time to connect.
The reason that this book only got three stars from me is because I just never felt a real connection between Melanie and Max, at least on Max’s side of the equation. Melanie had been hung up on Max for years, so her interest made complete sense. But Max just seemed vaguely interested in Melanie (he thought she was hot) and there wasn’t enough interaction between the two of them to make me understand why he liked her (beyond the aforementioned hotness and the fact that he was a bit jealous of a possible boyfriend). I kept waiting for some meaningful moments between them, but I didn’t really see them. When we got to the end of the book, they just kind of jumped into bed together (which actually ended up to be a pretty amusing scene) and then Max was apparently completely hooked and cared about her. I just didn’t quite see it.
So, this book was cute and fun but it didn’t move me or thrill me the way that the rest of the Summer series has. I still recommend it to fans of the series who want to see how Max and Melanie came to be, but I definitely wouldn’t start with this book if you haven’t read others in the series. (But, if you haven’t read this series yet and you’re a fan of NA, you definitely need to get on that right away!!) I give this one 3/5 stars.
February 17, 2015
This is what I’m talking about! I loved that Max, unlike the other novellas in the series, truly captures the camaraderie between the Onslow boys and their girls, which in my opinion is the essence and heart of the whole series. Don’t get me wrong, I loved the other novellas too (actually I think of all the Onslow boys Ringer is my man!) but they were focused in the couple being formed rather than the group dynamics that is characteristic for the books in the series.
This wasn’t the case with Max. Even if we didn’t see much of the boys, as we do in the books, I loved to finally be back at the Hotel and see a little more of their banter and playfulness. I really loved that Amy took Mel under her wing and that they became fast friends. I think I like Amy even more now. If she were real, I’d love to have her on my side.
I really enjoyed seeing how Max has slowly entered the picture where the Onslow Boys are concerned and I’m dying to see them all together in the final book. Forever Summer can’t get here soon enough!
I loved how you can make the connection between what happens in this book with the other novellas in the series. In Stan you see Max arriving to town, and in Ringer you learn more about Max, his family and we even get to see Bluey and Mel again!
I liked Mel. I truly felt for her. Her dad’s punishment was surely harsh, and I can’t imagine how captive she must’ve felt, so it was awesome to see her finally catch a break in Onslow.
This book has some funny scenes in it and it made me laugh out loud. As all the books in the Summer Series, it was addictive. I was actually planning to read this novella in 2 days, but I simply couldn’t. I had to read until it was done which resulted in very few hours to sleep and a very long day after.
Overall, this was an excellent addition to the series. Pure C.J. quality and I would definitely recommend it to every fan of this series. You can’t miss this one! My only complaint is that I wanted more!
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Note: I was provided a free eARC of the book but it didn't affect my opinion in any way.
This wasn’t the case with Max. Even if we didn’t see much of the boys, as we do in the books, I loved to finally be back at the Hotel and see a little more of their banter and playfulness. I really loved that Amy took Mel under her wing and that they became fast friends. I think I like Amy even more now. If she were real, I’d love to have her on my side.
I really enjoyed seeing how Max has slowly entered the picture where the Onslow Boys are concerned and I’m dying to see them all together in the final book. Forever Summer can’t get here soon enough!
I loved how you can make the connection between what happens in this book with the other novellas in the series. In Stan you see Max arriving to town, and in Ringer you learn more about Max, his family and we even get to see Bluey and Mel again!
I liked Mel. I truly felt for her. Her dad’s punishment was surely harsh, and I can’t imagine how captive she must’ve felt, so it was awesome to see her finally catch a break in Onslow.
This book has some funny scenes in it and it made me laugh out loud. As all the books in the Summer Series, it was addictive. I was actually planning to read this novella in 2 days, but I simply couldn’t. I had to read until it was done which resulted in very few hours to sleep and a very long day after.
Overall, this was an excellent addition to the series. Pure C.J. quality and I would definitely recommend it to every fan of this series. You can’t miss this one! My only complaint is that I wanted more!
To read more visit my blog
Note: I was provided a free eARC of the book but it didn't affect my opinion in any way.
November 11, 2018
Well, I'd been curious about Max for a while now, since we really only got a glimpse or two of him in previous books, so of course I grabbed his book when I got the chance.
Melanie's at that age where she's too old to be a kid and too young to be an adult, that impossible time in our lives where we want so badly to make our own decisions, even though we haven't quite proved we can handle that responsibility. In Melanie's case, she's already done the opposite of that, proving to her father that she's not as grown up as she'd like to be, and he's had her under lock and key since her last mishap. Now he's going out of town for a bit, though, and since he obviously can't leave her to her own devices, he leaves her in the care of his best friend's son — the young man that Melanie's had a crush on since forever.
Max has no idea what he's supposed to do with Melanie, though a lot of things he shouldn't do keep running through his mind. But she says she has a boyfriend, and she's driving him crazy. Plus, her dad trusted him with her, and to cross any lines would just be wrong. Except the more he's around her, the more he realizes she's not being entirely honest with him.
I'm not really a fan of those stories in which characters pile lies on top of lies to make themselves look better or cooler or whatever. Especially when the other party finds out and starts messing with them for it. And that's exactly what happened in Max. However, Duggan's characters are so much fun, and I love the way she spins stories, so as much as I didn't want to fall for it, I liked it quite a bit. Granted, it wasn't the full length novel I've been dying for, but it was a nice taste of the Onslow boys in the interim and a very enjoyable read. I've said it before, but if you haven't read her Summer series, it's an absolute must!
February 19, 2015
Another good read in the Summer series!
I’ve enjoyed all the books in the Summer series so far and one of the things I like is how the novellas in the series tell their own complete stories, which are by necessity short, but also just as good as the full-length books. This novella follows Max and Melanie in dual perspective, two outsiders to Oslow who once knew each other from when they were neighbours in Ballan. After Mel’s dad unexpectedly leaves her with Max in Oslow while he is travelling, Mel is sure she can finally get him to see her as something more than his little sister’s best friend. Unfortunately, Max doesn’t seem as thrilled to be stuck with her. In order to fit in a bit and maybe make Max a bit jealous, Mel ends up lying to everyone and saying she has a boyfriend back home. Pretty soon the story escalates and one little lie turns into Mel skipping work, faking phone calls, sneaking out, and getting pre-arranged hickeys! All in the name of convincing Max she is all grown up and isn’t a pathological liar. Unfortunately for Mel, Max is on to her and begins to play his own game of deceit by lavishing attention on her. Fortunately for them both, the games become more and more real and lead them closer together.
Despite all the angst and secrets, the story was actually really funny and a very enjoyable read. I’d recommend it if you’ve read the rest of the Summer series and are looking for something to tide you over until the next full-length book comes out.
I’ve enjoyed all the books in the Summer series so far and one of the things I like is how the novellas in the series tell their own complete stories, which are by necessity short, but also just as good as the full-length books. This novella follows Max and Melanie in dual perspective, two outsiders to Oslow who once knew each other from when they were neighbours in Ballan. After Mel’s dad unexpectedly leaves her with Max in Oslow while he is travelling, Mel is sure she can finally get him to see her as something more than his little sister’s best friend. Unfortunately, Max doesn’t seem as thrilled to be stuck with her. In order to fit in a bit and maybe make Max a bit jealous, Mel ends up lying to everyone and saying she has a boyfriend back home. Pretty soon the story escalates and one little lie turns into Mel skipping work, faking phone calls, sneaking out, and getting pre-arranged hickeys! All in the name of convincing Max she is all grown up and isn’t a pathological liar. Unfortunately for Mel, Max is on to her and begins to play his own game of deceit by lavishing attention on her. Fortunately for them both, the games become more and more real and lead them closer together.
Despite all the angst and secrets, the story was actually really funny and a very enjoyable read. I’d recommend it if you’ve read the rest of the Summer series and are looking for something to tide you over until the next full-length book comes out.
February 23, 2015
I’m not sure why, but this story felt a little different from the rest of the Boys of Summer series. I didn’t enjoy it any less, but there was a feel of deception and game playing that I didn’t remember from the other books. As I was reading I couldn’t decide if I disliked the story or not for that reason. But then I realized that the girl in the story is only 18. That’s still a teenager and game playing is definitely something that would happen in real life. I ended up liking the story after all. The game playing finally ended and things were resolved, and it seriously left me wanting more! I’m going to give this one 4 stars because of my indecision on the game playing in this one.
December 1, 2016
Look, I love her books and her writing but they finish so abruptly. I love the fact that it never finishes on "and they lived happily ever after" that's so fantastic and refreshing. BUT, there are so many things just left, like the hickey? She never told him, and I don't know. It's a pattern I've been seeing in all of them (minus the hickey and more other stuff obviously). It kind of puts a damper on things. And I felt like this one just ended too quickly. They never even had a proper conversation. Eh.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 1, 2015
Absolutely LOVED Max just The Summer Series itself. C.J visualises the true meaning of an Aussie summer and what summer love is all about. You will get this with the HOT Onslow Boys and each of their antics. Each one brings something to the story and even the girls. Beside the love and summer, you will also get the true meaning of true friends. These friends are a little family and will be for the rest of their lives. That is something that I love about The Summer Series.
January 17, 2016
Max and Melanie what a lovely novella to read!! Melanie had loved Max for a very long time, so when her father pulls up to Onslow Pub, Max was the last person she expected to see, let alone babysat by even though she is eighteen!! Does Max our new Onslow Boy have feelings Melanie? Love this novella, it's a must read as part of the Summer Series.
February 20, 2015
Having only read Boys of summer I skipped over some of the story but I still loved Max. I loved how he was so worried about Mel even going as far as making sure she was always right.
Having read this I now want to go back and read the rest of the series
Having read this I now want to go back and read the rest of the series
November 8, 2016
So who is Max? well he comes in and stays at the caravan park where he meets Mel and lets just say as always it is hot, sweet, loving and hot you really need to read this series it so so so good I really cant get enough so do yourselves a favour get a copy and read it you wont be disappointed
December 9, 2016
Mel is so crazy, you just have to love her!
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