What do you think?
Rate this book
Stubborn #1
Stubborn
Seventeen-year-old Avery Ross is unwittingly tossed out of the frying pan and into the fire when she's sent from New York to the vast nowhere land of western North Dakota, with a train ticket, a bad attitude, and an unfortunate scribbling of obscenities across her forehead. When a hazel-eyed boy with a sultry Texan accent comes to her defense against a train passenger, she has no clue that their chance encounter will lead her into a stormy summer, full of temptation and loss where she ends up imparting sweet revenge on her parents and trying to win the boy of her dreams.
While under the impression she's being sentenced to punishment working at her aunt's boardinghouse outside of Williston, Avery recognizes a connection between her aunt and the striking boy's family. He and his nearly identical brothers are seeking revenge for the wrongful death of their oldest sibling and Avery becomes entangled in their vengeful battle over oil rights, loyalty and love. She falls for the brooding Gabriel Halden, the youngest of the brothers, against her aunt's forewarnings, and unfolds more tribulation than any of them can anticipate.
While under the impression she's being sentenced to punishment working at her aunt's boardinghouse outside of Williston, Avery recognizes a connection between her aunt and the striking boy's family. He and his nearly identical brothers are seeking revenge for the wrongful death of their oldest sibling and Avery becomes entangled in their vengeful battle over oil rights, loyalty and love. She falls for the brooding Gabriel Halden, the youngest of the brothers, against her aunt's forewarnings, and unfolds more tribulation than any of them can anticipate.
342 pages, Paperback
First published January 5, 2014
40 people are currently reading
412 people want to read
About the author
Jeanne Arnold
8 books198 followersJeanne Arnold is the author of the STUBBORN series, STUBBORN (2014), JUST AS STUBBORN (2014), STUBBORN TRUTH (2015), THE LUXURY OF BEING STUBBORN (2016), PRIDE AND STUBBORNNESS (2018), CRAZY STUBBORN LOVE (2021) and FOREVER STUBBORN (2021). Jeanne lives with her family in Central New York.
This young adult romance series is meant to be read in order.
Connect with me @
My website: www.jeannearnoldbooks.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jeannesbooks/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jeannesbooks
Find my books here:
STUBBORN: http://www.amazon.com/Stubborn-Book-1...
JUST AS STUBBORN: http://www.amazon.com/Just-Stubborn-B...
STUBBORN TRUTH: http://www.amazon.com/Stubborn-Truth-...
THE LUXURY OF BEING STUBBORN:https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01M5E61VP/
PRIDE AND STUBBORNNESS:https://www.amazon.com/Pride-Stubborn...
CRAZY STUBBORN LOVE:https://www.amazon.com/Crazy-Stubborn...
FOREVER STUBBORN:https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B09...
This young adult romance series is meant to be read in order.
Connect with me @
My website: www.jeannearnoldbooks.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jeannesbooks/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jeannesbooks
Find my books here:
STUBBORN: http://www.amazon.com/Stubborn-Book-1...
JUST AS STUBBORN: http://www.amazon.com/Just-Stubborn-B...
STUBBORN TRUTH: http://www.amazon.com/Stubborn-Truth-...
THE LUXURY OF BEING STUBBORN:https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01M5E61VP/
PRIDE AND STUBBORNNESS:https://www.amazon.com/Pride-Stubborn...
CRAZY STUBBORN LOVE:https://www.amazon.com/Crazy-Stubborn...
FOREVER STUBBORN:https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B09...
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 31 reviews
July 21, 2019
Great young adult book
I found this coming of age book to be well written, I enjoyed this Authors writing style. It completely kept my interest throughout and had no low points, where I lost my interest.
The main characters are young, either heading to college age, in college, or just out of college. None of the love scenes get heated, they stay PG.
There are some unexpected relationships that we find out about. Young love at it’s best and we all know how intense young love is. Of course we have the bad guy, who has done some truly horrible things in the course of trying to get what he wants. The things he’s done, have truly hurt a family deeply, causing one of the characters to become an introvert and avoid others. He holds a lot of anger and resentment inside. It’s not easy trying too break through the wall he’s built around himself.
It’ll be interesting to see if the new girl in town can wiggle her way into his heart? She gets sent to her aunts, because of an incident that she wears for quite a while lol. Also, to help her aunt out in oil country, where she boards men while they work the oil rigs. Auntie has secrets of her own, that can’t be kept secret.
Definitely worth the read. There are, I think 4 books in this series. I’m not sure if they can be read individually at different times or not. It seemed like it’s a possibility, going on how this book ended. However, I’m not sure. I have to skim the next book and find out.
I think this would be a great book for teens about 14 and up, but that’s just my opinion.
I found this coming of age book to be well written, I enjoyed this Authors writing style. It completely kept my interest throughout and had no low points, where I lost my interest.
The main characters are young, either heading to college age, in college, or just out of college. None of the love scenes get heated, they stay PG.
There are some unexpected relationships that we find out about. Young love at it’s best and we all know how intense young love is. Of course we have the bad guy, who has done some truly horrible things in the course of trying to get what he wants. The things he’s done, have truly hurt a family deeply, causing one of the characters to become an introvert and avoid others. He holds a lot of anger and resentment inside. It’s not easy trying too break through the wall he’s built around himself.
It’ll be interesting to see if the new girl in town can wiggle her way into his heart? She gets sent to her aunts, because of an incident that she wears for quite a while lol. Also, to help her aunt out in oil country, where she boards men while they work the oil rigs. Auntie has secrets of her own, that can’t be kept secret.
Definitely worth the read. There are, I think 4 books in this series. I’m not sure if they can be read individually at different times or not. It seemed like it’s a possibility, going on how this book ended. However, I’m not sure. I have to skim the next book and find out.
I think this would be a great book for teens about 14 and up, but that’s just my opinion.
May 21, 2014
Three and a half stars, rounded up.
This book has a lot going for it. My personal favorite aspect was the setting. It's set in the oil fields of North Dakota. Now, I'm from the Midwest, but I'm from theurban Midwest. Things like oil, mining, and farming communities are fascinating to me because I've never been around it. My own neck of the woods is home to steel mills and railways. I really like the depth with which Jeanne Arnold wrote about the oiling lifestyle. I've got no idea how accurate it is but it makes for a really unique setting that I've never read about before, in fiction or otherwise.
I also really liked the set of three Halden brothers that Avery meets, namely the youngest romantic interest Gabe. He's dark and broody and a cowboyish Texan complete with a twang in his accent. Where may I sign up to receive one, please? He was not overtly moody without reason, and I liked the way Avery got to know him over the course of the novel. That being said, I didn't really care too much for Avery herself. I often questioned her decisions and I didn't really "click" with her so to speak. I just kind of felt like she wasn't as well written as some of the other characters.
While there is a lot of action in this book that keeps it moving along at a fast pace, things like murder and revenge and romance, I felt some things were too glossed over, namely abuse. I felt that it didn't necessary get the respect and delicacy it deserves in this book.
All in all this is a solid book with swoon worthy southern, hard-working male characters, and I would definitely consider reading the next book in this series. I received this book in exchange for an honest review. This review can also be found on my blog, Bitches n Prose.
This book has a lot going for it. My personal favorite aspect was the setting. It's set in the oil fields of North Dakota. Now, I'm from the Midwest, but I'm from theurban Midwest. Things like oil, mining, and farming communities are fascinating to me because I've never been around it. My own neck of the woods is home to steel mills and railways. I really like the depth with which Jeanne Arnold wrote about the oiling lifestyle. I've got no idea how accurate it is but it makes for a really unique setting that I've never read about before, in fiction or otherwise.
I also really liked the set of three Halden brothers that Avery meets, namely the youngest romantic interest Gabe. He's dark and broody and a cowboyish Texan complete with a twang in his accent. Where may I sign up to receive one, please? He was not overtly moody without reason, and I liked the way Avery got to know him over the course of the novel. That being said, I didn't really care too much for Avery herself. I often questioned her decisions and I didn't really "click" with her so to speak. I just kind of felt like she wasn't as well written as some of the other characters.
While there is a lot of action in this book that keeps it moving along at a fast pace, things like murder and revenge and romance, I felt some things were too glossed over, namely abuse. I felt that it didn't necessary get the respect and delicacy it deserves in this book.
All in all this is a solid book with swoon worthy southern, hard-working male characters, and I would definitely consider reading the next book in this series. I received this book in exchange for an honest review. This review can also be found on my blog, Bitches n Prose.
May 21, 2014
It wasn't her fault, yet Avery had to suffer not only embarrassment of the awful prank, but the total disruption of her life because of it!
At the beginning of the summer preceding her Senior year of High School, Avery had to travel from New York, by train, to "Podunk" Dakota and spend her Summer Vacation there, helping her aunt run a boarding house. Further torture was having to give up her cell phone as well. She was "cut off" from her friends and civilization! Little did she know what awaited her in the weeks and months to come.
From a boring mundane beginning, the action and adventures soon began to develop. Unexpected developments began to multiply to the point of no return...Her life would never be the same!
Jeanne Arnold did terrific job in her character development. Some of them were easy to love and other caused mixed emotions. The variety of characters were very real and the reader experienced various emotions portrayed by the characters.. In addition, the author created a picturesque description of supporting background scenes and events.
Although the title was too simplistic and dull to attract a"browser's" attention, it still fit the story. The book cover was slightly more effective and may have attracted a few more readers.
Occasionally the "flow" of the tale seemed to be broken abruptly or felt incomplete before going into the next scene.
I cannot recommend this to YA under 18 because of totally unnecessary language.
My review of this book gives it a Four Stars rating.
At the beginning of the summer preceding her Senior year of High School, Avery had to travel from New York, by train, to "Podunk" Dakota and spend her Summer Vacation there, helping her aunt run a boarding house. Further torture was having to give up her cell phone as well. She was "cut off" from her friends and civilization! Little did she know what awaited her in the weeks and months to come.
From a boring mundane beginning, the action and adventures soon began to develop. Unexpected developments began to multiply to the point of no return...Her life would never be the same!
Jeanne Arnold did terrific job in her character development. Some of them were easy to love and other caused mixed emotions. The variety of characters were very real and the reader experienced various emotions portrayed by the characters.. In addition, the author created a picturesque description of supporting background scenes and events.
Although the title was too simplistic and dull to attract a"browser's" attention, it still fit the story. The book cover was slightly more effective and may have attracted a few more readers.
Occasionally the "flow" of the tale seemed to be broken abruptly or felt incomplete before going into the next scene.
I cannot recommend this to YA under 18 because of totally unnecessary language.
My review of this book gives it a Four Stars rating.
May 20, 2014
Teen readers will like this story about a 17 yr old sent to live with her Aunt in N Dakota. She's expecting a boring summer but ends up meeting three gorgeous brothers. I personally liked the peek into the oil mining culture. Pretty well written as well though I didn't always like the actions of the main characters.
November 7, 2014
I absolutely loved this book and the characters and I really want more RIGHT NOW! I can't wait until the next book it out, it will be a must read for sure.
November 21, 2020
Second time I’ve read this book! I absolutely love it. If you’re all about romance, exciting characters, witty hot guys then this is for you. Cannot wait to read the rest ♥️
May 21, 2014
Avery has been sent to oil field rich North Dakota after getting in trouble at home. Summer with her Aunt Meggie isn't something she's expecting to be very interesting. After all, she's not there to have fun. Then she meets the Halden brothers and they totally turn her life upside down...especially the youngest one, Gabriel. But the boys are still recovering from the death of their older brother Eli, especially Gabriel who it hit the hardest. Gabe is also still trying to take down Hunt, the guy he holds responsible for the drunk driving accident that killed Eli - and the guy that stole his girlfriend Jordan, who was also in the car. Avery has her own issues and Gabe definitely isn't looking for a girlfriend, and flat out tells her so. But they keep being drawn together, inexplicably and sparks are flying. Now if only it didn't seem like his brothers (epsecially suggestive, flirtatious Caleb), her Aunt Meggie, and the whole universe were conspiring to keep them apart! Can Avery get through to Gabe before it's too late, or will he just let her slip through his fingers?
I kind of fell in love with this book. The summary doesn't really do it all that much justice! I loved Avery as a heroine so much! She's just a regular, smart-mouther, tough as nails girl - but she definitely has a vulnerable side that she tries to hide from everyone. I loved the reasons for the swear words on her forehead! She consistently made me laugh out loud and her banter with Gabe and his brothers, Caleb and Lane (Caleb especially), was hilarious. I loved the complexity to these characters, and how even when Gabe was pulling away he'd have moments that completely melted your heart. And Caleb was a lascivious asshole, who kept hitting on Avery but Jeanne still managed to make me like him! Probably my least favorite thing was how Jordan was portrayed as a complete and total moron, and like she could've left Hunt's abusive ass at any time. Anyone who's ever suffered abuse of any type knows that its never that easy. As one of my favorite T.V. characters ever once said, "We accept the love that we think we deserve." It is extremely true, not to mention she was motivated by a fear for her own life as well. Not that I liked the character (she was a sometimes underhanded, bitch in my opinion). But the abuse storyline could have been played out better.
Aunt Meggie was wonderful and I loved the subplot involving her own romantic life and I loved Avery's cousin Josh (maybe a book about him in the future?), who was typical teenage boy, but loyal to a fault. And you could tell he really loved his Mom and his cousin. The characters and situations were just SO REAL in this book! Getting caught making out in the car by a family member, climbing in bedroom windows, and no one was a "damaged drug-addict/rock star/billionaire that needed saving (I don't count Gabe, because its his Dad's money not his). This was a New Adult book that I could be proud to recommend to a friend and it definitely stands out from the crowd. Never once did I feel like I was reading a Mary Sue, written in by the author trying to live through her character. This book exemplifies what I love about romance and the reality that sometimes teenagers are stupid and do stupid things - that doesn't mean that they can't surprise us. I highly recommend this one!
VERDICT: 4.5/5 Stars
**I received an ARC from the author and tour host for the purpose of this blog tour. No money or favors were exchanged for this review. This book was published January 6th, 2014.**
I kind of fell in love with this book. The summary doesn't really do it all that much justice! I loved Avery as a heroine so much! She's just a regular, smart-mouther, tough as nails girl - but she definitely has a vulnerable side that she tries to hide from everyone. I loved the reasons for the swear words on her forehead! She consistently made me laugh out loud and her banter with Gabe and his brothers, Caleb and Lane (Caleb especially), was hilarious. I loved the complexity to these characters, and how even when Gabe was pulling away he'd have moments that completely melted your heart. And Caleb was a lascivious asshole, who kept hitting on Avery but Jeanne still managed to make me like him! Probably my least favorite thing was how Jordan was portrayed as a complete and total moron, and like she could've left Hunt's abusive ass at any time. Anyone who's ever suffered abuse of any type knows that its never that easy. As one of my favorite T.V. characters ever once said, "We accept the love that we think we deserve." It is extremely true, not to mention she was motivated by a fear for her own life as well. Not that I liked the character (she was a sometimes underhanded, bitch in my opinion). But the abuse storyline could have been played out better.
Aunt Meggie was wonderful and I loved the subplot involving her own romantic life and I loved Avery's cousin Josh (maybe a book about him in the future?), who was typical teenage boy, but loyal to a fault. And you could tell he really loved his Mom and his cousin. The characters and situations were just SO REAL in this book! Getting caught making out in the car by a family member, climbing in bedroom windows, and no one was a "damaged drug-addict/rock star/billionaire that needed saving (I don't count Gabe, because its his Dad's money not his). This was a New Adult book that I could be proud to recommend to a friend and it definitely stands out from the crowd. Never once did I feel like I was reading a Mary Sue, written in by the author trying to live through her character. This book exemplifies what I love about romance and the reality that sometimes teenagers are stupid and do stupid things - that doesn't mean that they can't surprise us. I highly recommend this one!
VERDICT: 4.5/5 Stars
**I received an ARC from the author and tour host for the purpose of this blog tour. No money or favors were exchanged for this review. This book was published January 6th, 2014.**
May 20, 2014
Avery Ross is sent off on a train from her home in New York to the oil field region of North Dakota, and she is not at all happy about it. Sure, she loves her Aunt Meggie, but she really doesn't want to spend a summer working at her boarding house with all of the rough-around-the-edges oil men. Then, however she meets Gabriel Halden, well technically all the Haldens. Gabriel, however, just might change her mind about, well, everything.
I really loved this book! I mean, I thought I was going to like it but it's a bit different than the synopsis led me to believe. I expected Avery to be some sort of spoiled brat or something along those lines. She's actually pretty level-headed, for the most part at least. She's really quite smart, but it seems she's not smart in that annoying better-than-thou way.
Then, there's Gabriel. Gabriel is... complicated. He has all of these layers, and this sort of hot and cold attitude. I really didn't know what to think of him. Yet, somehow, he has become one of my favorite fictional characters ever. This does not have anything to do with his awesome southernness and accent(okay, only partially!). I just, don't really know how to explain Gabriel to y'all. I feel like he really didn't want to like(and definitely not love) Avery, and yet I also feel like he liked her almost from the beginning. At only 19, he's been through a lot in his life, and I feel like Jeanne Arnold portrayed his character perfectly.
To be honest, I even loved everyone else in the story(almost everyone--no spoilers!). Meggie was an amazing aunt and parental figure to Avery, a whole heck of a lot better than her parents seem to be for her. She's made some... interesting decisions in her life, but I feel like she is way stronger and more level-headed than anyone even gives her credit for. She is loved and respected by pretty much everyone, and no one messes with her. Then those other Halden brothers-- there is got to be some more of a story there! I even really loved the setting of the story, I've heard a lot about the oil fields 'out west' lately.
All I'm going to say is if you love a really amazing book that dances the line between young adult and new adult contemporary, then I recommend you check Stubborn out. For me, I know that I will be reading any Jeanne Arnold book I come across. Definitely a new favorite author is this genre!
*I received this book for review from the author, but this in no way affected my thoughts as expressed in this review*
I really loved this book! I mean, I thought I was going to like it but it's a bit different than the synopsis led me to believe. I expected Avery to be some sort of spoiled brat or something along those lines. She's actually pretty level-headed, for the most part at least. She's really quite smart, but it seems she's not smart in that annoying better-than-thou way.
Then, there's Gabriel. Gabriel is... complicated. He has all of these layers, and this sort of hot and cold attitude. I really didn't know what to think of him. Yet, somehow, he has become one of my favorite fictional characters ever. This does not have anything to do with his awesome southernness and accent(okay, only partially!). I just, don't really know how to explain Gabriel to y'all. I feel like he really didn't want to like(and definitely not love) Avery, and yet I also feel like he liked her almost from the beginning. At only 19, he's been through a lot in his life, and I feel like Jeanne Arnold portrayed his character perfectly.
To be honest, I even loved everyone else in the story(almost everyone--no spoilers!). Meggie was an amazing aunt and parental figure to Avery, a whole heck of a lot better than her parents seem to be for her. She's made some... interesting decisions in her life, but I feel like she is way stronger and more level-headed than anyone even gives her credit for. She is loved and respected by pretty much everyone, and no one messes with her. Then those other Halden brothers-- there is got to be some more of a story there! I even really loved the setting of the story, I've heard a lot about the oil fields 'out west' lately.
All I'm going to say is if you love a really amazing book that dances the line between young adult and new adult contemporary, then I recommend you check Stubborn out. For me, I know that I will be reading any Jeanne Arnold book I come across. Definitely a new favorite author is this genre!
*I received this book for review from the author, but this in no way affected my thoughts as expressed in this review*
July 24, 2014
Book review by Nicole McCurdy for Bex 'n' Books.
4.5 Stars.
Disclosure: This ebook was provided by the author in exchange for an HONEST and not necessarily positive review.
This book reminded me of a plot for a really great teen drama that the WB would run with a cast of truly beautiful people and a snappy dialogue a la Dawson’s Creek, although without the need for a pocket dictionary or thesaurus to understand the lingo. The really great thing about Stubborn was I wasn’t just enamoured with our male and female lead in the book but the various characters that make up the cast of Stubborn as well, each bringing a vital element of drama or angst to the story and often a good dose of humour. It is by no means a complex or heavy read but a perfect book for the beach. Stubborn is able to straddle the line of YA/NA appealing to both the younger reader’s and the other camp that are similar to my age- just slightly older than, er… 25. The book just reads like a really good soap opera.
Avery our leading lady is the unlucky soul who woke up one fateful morning with obscenities scrawled on her forehead by a rejected would-be boyfriend only to be shipped off by her parents to the wilds of Dakota to her former-military aunt Meggie’s home. Once there Avery becomes entangled in the lives of the Halden men, three handsome brother’s each with their own individual personalities but are weighted down by a lifetime of emotional baggage due to a devastating accident having occurred in the family relatively recently.
Stubborn mostly centres round Avery and Gabe Halden and tells their tale of growing-up, opening-up their hearts to each other, dealing with family crises and working their way to a HEA but not before a few obstacles are threw in their way- namely their own obstinate views on things and learning that not everything is so black and white (hence the books’ title) and the drama-rama that comes from a rival oil tycoon’s son and Gabe’s playboy brother Caleb. A thoroughly enjoyable and well written book, Stubborn had a healthy mix of everything drama, romance and engaging character’s that you’ll either love or love to hate. I honestly hope there is another episode in this saga- I mean book- to give Caleb and Lane their time to shine and tell their stories.
4.5 Stars.
Disclosure: This ebook was provided by the author in exchange for an HONEST and not necessarily positive review.
This book reminded me of a plot for a really great teen drama that the WB would run with a cast of truly beautiful people and a snappy dialogue a la Dawson’s Creek, although without the need for a pocket dictionary or thesaurus to understand the lingo. The really great thing about Stubborn was I wasn’t just enamoured with our male and female lead in the book but the various characters that make up the cast of Stubborn as well, each bringing a vital element of drama or angst to the story and often a good dose of humour. It is by no means a complex or heavy read but a perfect book for the beach. Stubborn is able to straddle the line of YA/NA appealing to both the younger reader’s and the other camp that are similar to my age- just slightly older than, er… 25. The book just reads like a really good soap opera.
Avery our leading lady is the unlucky soul who woke up one fateful morning with obscenities scrawled on her forehead by a rejected would-be boyfriend only to be shipped off by her parents to the wilds of Dakota to her former-military aunt Meggie’s home. Once there Avery becomes entangled in the lives of the Halden men, three handsome brother’s each with their own individual personalities but are weighted down by a lifetime of emotional baggage due to a devastating accident having occurred in the family relatively recently.
Stubborn mostly centres round Avery and Gabe Halden and tells their tale of growing-up, opening-up their hearts to each other, dealing with family crises and working their way to a HEA but not before a few obstacles are threw in their way- namely their own obstinate views on things and learning that not everything is so black and white (hence the books’ title) and the drama-rama that comes from a rival oil tycoon’s son and Gabe’s playboy brother Caleb. A thoroughly enjoyable and well written book, Stubborn had a healthy mix of everything drama, romance and engaging character’s that you’ll either love or love to hate. I honestly hope there is another episode in this saga- I mean book- to give Caleb and Lane their time to shine and tell their stories.
June 18, 2014
I received a free copy in exchange of an honest review (We Love Y.A. Books).
It was a good read. But I have mixed feelings about the characters. I didn't like much Avery half the time. And I found myself doing face palms and rolling my eyes at some of the things she did or said or even thought. The other half of the time I kind of felt connected to her and could feel her anger, her heartache, her hurt.
I don't get what's all the fuss over Gabe. I didn't like him one bit most of the time. He was an ass and a jerk. I hated how he treated Avery most times. Especially at one point with Jordan wrapped all over him when all hell broke loose.
And it blew my mind how she could bear him and his mood changes. There's just so much gloom and brood that a girl can take before getting tired and send the guy packing. At least that's how my mind works. Love him all you want, but when he pisses me off, there'll be hell to pay. And that's what I couldn't bear about Avery. It took one smile from him and she was all starry eyed and stupid.
So, yeah I was no fan of Gabe. That's damn sure.
I kind of liked Caleb at first.....but then he just got annoying and creepy. Very creepy.
I also thought I'd like Lane...and I liked him some times......but then realized he was just a womanizer like his other brothers.
Well, okay, maybe Gabe wasn't a womanizer. But still, he acted like a jerk.
I didn't like Molly. Needless to say I didn't like Jordan.
Josh wasn't so bad. But we didn't really get to know him well.
Aunt Meggie was kind of annoying. And an hypocrit.
Joel (the brothers' father) wasn't so bad. He was even nice when his sons didn't drive him mad.
The end left me disappointed because I didn't agree with Avery's actions. I'd have done differently. Most probably.
All in all, a good read.
It was a good read. But I have mixed feelings about the characters. I didn't like much Avery half the time. And I found myself doing face palms and rolling my eyes at some of the things she did or said or even thought. The other half of the time I kind of felt connected to her and could feel her anger, her heartache, her hurt.
I don't get what's all the fuss over Gabe. I didn't like him one bit most of the time. He was an ass and a jerk. I hated how he treated Avery most times. Especially at one point with Jordan wrapped all over him when all hell broke loose.
And it blew my mind how she could bear him and his mood changes. There's just so much gloom and brood that a girl can take before getting tired and send the guy packing. At least that's how my mind works. Love him all you want, but when he pisses me off, there'll be hell to pay. And that's what I couldn't bear about Avery. It took one smile from him and she was all starry eyed and stupid.
So, yeah I was no fan of Gabe. That's damn sure.
I kind of liked Caleb at first.....but then he just got annoying and creepy. Very creepy.
I also thought I'd like Lane...and I liked him some times......but then realized he was just a womanizer like his other brothers.
Well, okay, maybe Gabe wasn't a womanizer. But still, he acted like a jerk.
I didn't like Molly. Needless to say I didn't like Jordan.
Josh wasn't so bad. But we didn't really get to know him well.
Aunt Meggie was kind of annoying. And an hypocrit.
Joel (the brothers' father) wasn't so bad. He was even nice when his sons didn't drive him mad.
The end left me disappointed because I didn't agree with Avery's actions. I'd have done differently. Most probably.
All in all, a good read.
August 24, 2016
Avery is sent to the middle of nowhere to live with her aunt for the summer. Even on the way there she gets a taste of what it's like to live among oil workers; a sleezeball guy tries to feel her up, but a handsome one helps her out. This is a great preface to the rest of her summer trip.
Gabe Halden, an oil worker who boards with Avery's aunt, looks just like the guy who helped her out on the train, but he never makes any mention of it. He's moody, irritating, and extremely like-able. The back-and-forth between these two is fun and often intense; he's hung up on an old girlfriend, and she's got a swearword written across her forehead. Lots to find out here.
What I liked about the book: Great story-line. I admire authors that can tell stories with flair, make characters interesting, and keep you entertained. Everyone likes love that isn't too easy - that's real life. I like Avery's character; she doesn't take crap from anybody and she holds her own against guys with one thing on their minds. Gabe is the perfect complex character. He's been dumped by a gorgeous girl, lost his brother, and is the youngest of four brothers. Good stuff.
What I didn't like: And this is why I didn't give the book four stars. You might. You might love it and give it five stars. But the amount of sensual material and sex going on (not necessarily Avery, but everyone else it seems) is a little much for me. I found myself skimming through some of that stuff; don't need it, really. The love story is a little predictable, but also great considering the things blocking their paths.
Overall: I liked it. A fun end-of-summer read, and I think there are many others that will enjoy this book.
Gabe Halden, an oil worker who boards with Avery's aunt, looks just like the guy who helped her out on the train, but he never makes any mention of it. He's moody, irritating, and extremely like-able. The back-and-forth between these two is fun and often intense; he's hung up on an old girlfriend, and she's got a swearword written across her forehead. Lots to find out here.
What I liked about the book: Great story-line. I admire authors that can tell stories with flair, make characters interesting, and keep you entertained. Everyone likes love that isn't too easy - that's real life. I like Avery's character; she doesn't take crap from anybody and she holds her own against guys with one thing on their minds. Gabe is the perfect complex character. He's been dumped by a gorgeous girl, lost his brother, and is the youngest of four brothers. Good stuff.
What I didn't like: And this is why I didn't give the book four stars. You might. You might love it and give it five stars. But the amount of sensual material and sex going on (not necessarily Avery, but everyone else it seems) is a little much for me. I found myself skimming through some of that stuff; don't need it, really. The love story is a little predictable, but also great considering the things blocking their paths.
Overall: I liked it. A fun end-of-summer read, and I think there are many others that will enjoy this book.
November 1, 2014
I really really liked the blurb of this book so I was eager to start reading it. I liked how the story opened up with Avery being shipped off to her Aunt Meggie and from there, she had a whirlwind of a life with the Haldens. It started off really good, but somehow as the story progressed, I had mixed feelings with the story.
The characters were easy to follow, although Gabe Halden is a tough one because of his occassional mood swings. I actually liked Caleb’s character in the beginning but as the story went on, his true color showed and I really just wanted to kick him in the ass. Lane Halden is a completely different story. I liked him so much. He’s like the brother I’ve always wanted. Josh is pretty cool too.
Avery, the main character, she’s my gal. She’s a strong one, but I quite liked her being vulnerable when it comes to Gabe. However, I didn’t quite like how fast she forgave Gabe in the end. The man had a shit ton of things to prove, to be honest.
I liked the conflict with Hunt but I felt like it kind of lacked in terms of closure. I was looking for a stronger resolution for that.
Like I said, I have mixed feelings on the book but I would recommend this to anyone who’s looking for an easy, kinda cheesy summer read.
The characters were easy to follow, although Gabe Halden is a tough one because of his occassional mood swings. I actually liked Caleb’s character in the beginning but as the story went on, his true color showed and I really just wanted to kick him in the ass. Lane Halden is a completely different story. I liked him so much. He’s like the brother I’ve always wanted. Josh is pretty cool too.
Avery, the main character, she’s my gal. She’s a strong one, but I quite liked her being vulnerable when it comes to Gabe. However, I didn’t quite like how fast she forgave Gabe in the end. The man had a shit ton of things to prove, to be honest.
I liked the conflict with Hunt but I felt like it kind of lacked in terms of closure. I was looking for a stronger resolution for that.
Like I said, I have mixed feelings on the book but I would recommend this to anyone who’s looking for an easy, kinda cheesy summer read.
June 10, 2014
***I received a copy from the author in exchange for an honest review***
I give it 3.5 stars
This book was interesting. This book is about a girl named Avery whose parents send her to live with her aunt Meggie, because she gets involved in a prank she had nothing to do with. There she meets Gabe, both have intense feelings for each other but every time they try to be with each other there is always someone trying to come between them. Gabe himself tries to keep a distance from Avery due to his past but they are always drawn to each other. The overall story was nice but there were parts where I would get frustrated, like when Gabe can't seem to keep his shirt on when they are alone, or when his mood changes so fast because sometimes he is so moody and the next minute he is cheery. I liked how strong Avery was but would get annoyed when she wouldn't tell Caleb to buzz off when he hit on her. Caleb was especially exasperating when he wouldn't listen to Avery and take the hint that she liked his brother instead of him. I liked Aunt Meggie and Lane as well. I liked Gabe and Avery together. I enjoyed this book and would recommend it to anyone who likes romance.
I give it 3.5 stars
This book was interesting. This book is about a girl named Avery whose parents send her to live with her aunt Meggie, because she gets involved in a prank she had nothing to do with. There she meets Gabe, both have intense feelings for each other but every time they try to be with each other there is always someone trying to come between them. Gabe himself tries to keep a distance from Avery due to his past but they are always drawn to each other. The overall story was nice but there were parts where I would get frustrated, like when Gabe can't seem to keep his shirt on when they are alone, or when his mood changes so fast because sometimes he is so moody and the next minute he is cheery. I liked how strong Avery was but would get annoyed when she wouldn't tell Caleb to buzz off when he hit on her. Caleb was especially exasperating when he wouldn't listen to Avery and take the hint that she liked his brother instead of him. I liked Aunt Meggie and Lane as well. I liked Gabe and Avery together. I enjoyed this book and would recommend it to anyone who likes romance.
May 23, 2014
The story line really grabbed my attention from the start. It was a fast read due to the adventure and the drama that was happening between Avery and the rest of the characters. Their whole story line made the book move in a fast pace. I loved the romance between Gabe and Avery :) It was really cute and it takes you back to what it feels like when you are still a teenager.
I don’t really know that much about the oil industry and the culture so it was really interesting to read about it and what kind of impact it has on people. Also, the family secrets and the family drama kept me reading until the end. There is just something that pulls you in when there is that kind of conflict. One thing I didn't really like was the portrayal of the abuse victim. That was a hard section of the book to read. I know that abuse exists and I have seen it but it always makes me feel vulnerable and out of place because I know there is nothing that can be done from my end.
For a first book that I have read by this author, it has a lot going for it. Definitely going to be checking out her other books.
I don’t really know that much about the oil industry and the culture so it was really interesting to read about it and what kind of impact it has on people. Also, the family secrets and the family drama kept me reading until the end. There is just something that pulls you in when there is that kind of conflict. One thing I didn't really like was the portrayal of the abuse victim. That was a hard section of the book to read. I know that abuse exists and I have seen it but it always makes me feel vulnerable and out of place because I know there is nothing that can be done from my end.
For a first book that I have read by this author, it has a lot going for it. Definitely going to be checking out her other books.
July 29, 2016
Oh the angst and everything-must-be-done-my-way life of a teenager. The drama that Avery, Gabe, and the whole crew of characters went through had me rolling my eyes, snickering, chuckling, encouraging, and saying “awww.” The story kept me on my toe, never knowing where the author would take it. Ms. Arnold is not a woman of straight paths when it comes to storytelling. Love is the ultimate in their world and she did a fantastic job of bringing that out.
Gabe’s moody ways drove me nuts. Were some of his actions understandable? Yes. Others? Not in the least bit. And yet I liked this handsome green eyed Texan with his gentle, and when pushed with a feather, rowdy ways. I loved Avery. A spunky, smart assed, tough girl who didn’t take crap from anyone, except Gabe sometimes. Her sense of humor made me laugh. Stubborn is the perfect title for the book.
A wonderful novel that was easy to get into and kept me excited until I hit the last page.
Gabe’s moody ways drove me nuts. Were some of his actions understandable? Yes. Others? Not in the least bit. And yet I liked this handsome green eyed Texan with his gentle, and when pushed with a feather, rowdy ways. I loved Avery. A spunky, smart assed, tough girl who didn’t take crap from anyone, except Gabe sometimes. Her sense of humor made me laugh. Stubborn is the perfect title for the book.
A wonderful novel that was easy to get into and kept me excited until I hit the last page.
March 5, 2014
I must confess that I love this genre and Jeanne Arnold definitely knows how to write young adult novels. I read this engrossing book in a matter of days. Stubborn is a fast and fascinating tale that had me smiling from ear to ear. The teenage voice is right on and I loved the main character. Like a typical teen, Avery's obstacles are overwhelming. She feels abandoned and misunderstood. As a punishment, her parents cart her off for the summer to live with her aunt in North Dakota. Please read the blurb to learn more.
I was totally wrapped up in Avery's tale, especially when the gorgeous Halden boys came into the mix. The description of these Texas boys left me breathless. And Stubborn will leave you wanting more as you read the subtle play of physical emotions and life learning experiences. I am so looking forward to Jeanne's second book in this series, Just as Stubborn.
I was totally wrapped up in Avery's tale, especially when the gorgeous Halden boys came into the mix. The description of these Texas boys left me breathless. And Stubborn will leave you wanting more as you read the subtle play of physical emotions and life learning experiences. I am so looking forward to Jeanne's second book in this series, Just as Stubborn.
February 12, 2014
It's been a while since I've read a YA novel that didn't have paranormal activity or some sort of fantasy elements. Stubborn is an everyday life YA novel about a young girl who falls in love (unexpectedly) over the summer during what she believes will be a horrible trip to the middle of nowhere.
Arnold's characters are real, dynamic, funny, and I think I fell in love with more than one of the Halden men. Arnold has a phenomenal grasp on what it's like to be a teenager and a teenage girl in love. All the emotions, the moods, the hopes, the black holes of despair—they're all realistic and crafted so well. Plus, this book is full of humor.
I would suggest this book to anyone who enjoys YA novels that are well written and actually have a plot outside of the romance (which is still important!). I am looking forward to reading more books by this author.
Arnold's characters are real, dynamic, funny, and I think I fell in love with more than one of the Halden men. Arnold has a phenomenal grasp on what it's like to be a teenager and a teenage girl in love. All the emotions, the moods, the hopes, the black holes of despair—they're all realistic and crafted so well. Plus, this book is full of humor.
I would suggest this book to anyone who enjoys YA novels that are well written and actually have a plot outside of the romance (which is still important!). I am looking forward to reading more books by this author.
November 5, 2014
This book was such a quick read, not because it was short but because it was so good and easy to get into! I loved Avery, she is really just typical seventeen year old. You know the type, well they are all the same lol. Avery has a ticket to the middle of nowhere, for the summer. What she doesn't expect is to find action adventure and romance.
I love the romance between Gabe and Avery. If you are older this story will take you back in that aspect. I had butterflies in my stomach reading this one. If you enjoy young adult, I would recommend this book to you, it is very good. It has a little bit of everything, and it does not just revolve around romance. Which was a nice change to me from what I normally read.
This was my first time to read a book by Jeanne Arnold and I cannot wait to read more, she sure knows how reach out grab you and pull you inside her books!
I love the romance between Gabe and Avery. If you are older this story will take you back in that aspect. I had butterflies in my stomach reading this one. If you enjoy young adult, I would recommend this book to you, it is very good. It has a little bit of everything, and it does not just revolve around romance. Which was a nice change to me from what I normally read.
This was my first time to read a book by Jeanne Arnold and I cannot wait to read more, she sure knows how reach out grab you and pull you inside her books!
May 22, 2014
Tiffany's Review:
The title of this one really says it all...Stubborn. Many times people can be so stubborn that they do not realize how much it can make them miss in life. Avery was so mad at her parents for sending her off to the middle of nowhere North Dakota for the summer that she was not open to having a good time. That quickly changed when she started running into these 3 brothers that all had amazing good looks and killer hazel eyes!!!!
Avery has trouble telling them apart and it takes her a while to figure them out. Gabe is the one she WANTS but will he let her into his life?! His brother Caleb is definitely willing....he freaked me out a little with his willingness! This story really goes deep and I loved the way the author gave little hints along the way. I would recommend this book if you like young love mixed with lots of family DRAMA!
I give it 4 stars!
The title of this one really says it all...Stubborn. Many times people can be so stubborn that they do not realize how much it can make them miss in life. Avery was so mad at her parents for sending her off to the middle of nowhere North Dakota for the summer that she was not open to having a good time. That quickly changed when she started running into these 3 brothers that all had amazing good looks and killer hazel eyes!!!!
Avery has trouble telling them apart and it takes her a while to figure them out. Gabe is the one she WANTS but will he let her into his life?! His brother Caleb is definitely willing....he freaked me out a little with his willingness! This story really goes deep and I loved the way the author gave little hints along the way. I would recommend this book if you like young love mixed with lots of family DRAMA!
I give it 4 stars!
March 22, 2014
You can also see my review here: http://wp.me/p40KXd-9u
I liked this book! It's been a long time since I've read a book that didn't have a fantasy aspect to it and it was a nice change. I know this isn't the most important thing in a story but I loved the character's names...I thought they fit the story really well. I loved how I never knew where the author was going to take the story next. It wasn't a predictable contemporary romance at all, which I loved. I also liked how there was a plot outside of the romance part of the story, so it wasn't just focused on the romance. With the characteristics of Gabe and especially Avery, I think Stubborn is the perfect title for this book and I'm looking forward to the next one.
I liked this book! It's been a long time since I've read a book that didn't have a fantasy aspect to it and it was a nice change. I know this isn't the most important thing in a story but I loved the character's names...I thought they fit the story really well. I loved how I never knew where the author was going to take the story next. It wasn't a predictable contemporary romance at all, which I loved. I also liked how there was a plot outside of the romance part of the story, so it wasn't just focused on the romance. With the characteristics of Gabe and especially Avery, I think Stubborn is the perfect title for this book and I'm looking forward to the next one.
January 9, 2014
Stubborn is a great read, I had trouble putting it down. This well-written story is filled with nail-biting, edge-of-your-seat suspense and action not to mention an intense romance. The character development is particularly good and that is sometimes difficult when a story is written in the first person. The author captures the characters' angst extremely well. I am older but many of Avery’s internal thoughts took me right back to those years. Well done Ms. Arnold. If you enjoy YA romance, this is a must read!
February 8, 2014
Stubborn is young adult fiction. I like the story line and it did keep my attention. I felt the writer had a good grasp of the direction she wanted to go with her story, but sometimes was a little choppy in getting there. However, this did not by any means make me want to put the book down. The author understands how to maintain the readers attention and kept mine. I look forward to reading more from this author.
June 12, 2014
*Received a copy of this book for an honest review*
I can't really find any negatives so it must have been a good book! It was quite enjoyable, the characters were good and the pace was perfect. I quite liked the plot too. I wouldn't describe this book as a must-read but if you're interested then I'd encourage you to try it. It's a fabulous summer contemporary novel so if that's what you're looking for then this could be a book for you! :)
I can't really find any negatives so it must have been a good book! It was quite enjoyable, the characters were good and the pace was perfect. I quite liked the plot too. I wouldn't describe this book as a must-read but if you're interested then I'd encourage you to try it. It's a fabulous summer contemporary novel so if that's what you're looking for then this could be a book for you! :)
August 6, 2014
I received a free copy in exchange of a review (We Love Y.A. Books).
I found this book to be a very interesting story. The plot flowed well and I found myself very attached to the characters. Although, I did get confused in the climax of the story it was a easy fun read for the summer. I recommend this book for anyone looking for a gripping tail that will have you vouching for the characters all the way until the end.
I found this book to be a very interesting story. The plot flowed well and I found myself very attached to the characters. Although, I did get confused in the climax of the story it was a easy fun read for the summer. I recommend this book for anyone looking for a gripping tail that will have you vouching for the characters all the way until the end.
January 27, 2014
Loved, loved, loved it. Great YA romance.
February 24, 2014
I loved this book, though I'm not a YA. I couldn't put it down. I enjoyed the characters. The story made me remember what 17 was like.
April 24, 2014
I haven't read many YA books, but this one was great!! I instantly fell in love with the characters and I read it in a day and a half because I couldn't put it down!! Read it!!!
July 2, 2016
Had to give up
All those brothers who look alike and were the same character, just too confusing for me. Liked the heroine. Wonder how it ended.
All those brothers who look alike and were the same character, just too confusing for me. Liked the heroine. Wonder how it ended.
August 13, 2016
Great book
Really good book enjoyed every minute from The beginning to the end it made you want to keep turning the page and keep reading who doesn't like that kind of book
Really good book enjoyed every minute from The beginning to the end it made you want to keep turning the page and keep reading who doesn't like that kind of book
November 30, 2014
Fun young adult read
Displaying 1 - 30 of 31 reviews