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Bittersweet
Sparks fly between a sexy stranger and a small-town waitress in this steamy new contemporary romance…
When new teen TV series 'Bittersweet' begins shooting in Dogwood, Virginia, the small town is abuzz with excitement. But local waitress Cathy Johnson has too much on her plate to waste time being star-struck. To Cathy, "bittersweet" is just the word that sums up her love-life after her high school romance ended in disaster. Since then she’s hardly had time to brush her hair, let alone think about relationships. Certainly not the kind being played out in front of the cameras by impossibly beautiful actors posing as teenagers…
But all that changes when tall, dark, blue-eyed stranger Greg Moran arrives in Dogwood along with the 'Bittersweet' cast and crew. Cathy and the devastatingly sexy New Yorker have instant chemistry. But Greg blows hot (STEAMING hot) and cold with her romantically, leaving Cathy’s head in a spin. She has a feeling he’s keeping something from her… If Cathy is willing to drop her emotional walls, why is Greg still so intense and mysterious? What is it in his past – or present – that means he’s keeping Cathy at arm’s length? How badly has his heart really been broken before?
Cathy and Greg are magnetically drawn to one another, but they’ll have to fight to keep their relationship from turning sour. Will they make it? If it’s hard to let go of the past, falling in love can be BITTERSWEET…
When new teen TV series 'Bittersweet' begins shooting in Dogwood, Virginia, the small town is abuzz with excitement. But local waitress Cathy Johnson has too much on her plate to waste time being star-struck. To Cathy, "bittersweet" is just the word that sums up her love-life after her high school romance ended in disaster. Since then she’s hardly had time to brush her hair, let alone think about relationships. Certainly not the kind being played out in front of the cameras by impossibly beautiful actors posing as teenagers…
But all that changes when tall, dark, blue-eyed stranger Greg Moran arrives in Dogwood along with the 'Bittersweet' cast and crew. Cathy and the devastatingly sexy New Yorker have instant chemistry. But Greg blows hot (STEAMING hot) and cold with her romantically, leaving Cathy’s head in a spin. She has a feeling he’s keeping something from her… If Cathy is willing to drop her emotional walls, why is Greg still so intense and mysterious? What is it in his past – or present – that means he’s keeping Cathy at arm’s length? How badly has his heart really been broken before?
Cathy and Greg are magnetically drawn to one another, but they’ll have to fight to keep their relationship from turning sour. Will they make it? If it’s hard to let go of the past, falling in love can be BITTERSWEET…
300 pages, ebook
First published October 1, 2014
2 people are currently reading
103 people want to read
About the author
Sunday James
3 books7 followersSunday James is the pen name of author Sareeta Domingo, when writing the New Adult contemporary romance series that begins with BITTERSWEET. She lives in London and works as an editor at creative book packager Hothouse Fiction, squeezing writing into her mornings, evenings and weekends – but promises she has a life…
She loves all things American – literature, history, popular culture – so much so that she even lived and studied in California, but somehow missed out on being swept off her feet by a devastatingly handsome but mysterious actor while she was there. Luckily, writing BITTERSWEET has allowed her to live that dream.
She loves all things American – literature, history, popular culture – so much so that she even lived and studied in California, but somehow missed out on being swept off her feet by a devastatingly handsome but mysterious actor while she was there. Luckily, writing BITTERSWEET has allowed her to live that dream.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 39 reviews
November 4, 2014
3.5 Stars
I enjoyed Bittersweet by Sunday James. The story line was different and I really like the main character Cathy Johnson; she was a strong independent girl. Just how I like the leading ladies to be.
Bittersweet is the story of Cathy Johnson, small town waitress working at her family's diner. Everything in her little town changes when a teen TV show is planning to start filming their show in her town. That’s when she meets extremely good looking Greg Moran. Cathy is very attracted to Greg but he keeps putting her at arm’s length and then bringing her back in again. In my opinion giving the poor some hard core mixed signals.
The reason I gave Bittersweet 3.5 stars is because I became a little annoyed with Greg, how he could be hot and cold towards Cathy and how cryptic he could be about some things. I just thought she deserved better than what he was giving her at the times.
Bittersweet does end in a to be continued way, so I’m definitely looking forward to how Cathy and Greg’s story will continue.
Arc provided by the author for an honest review.
I enjoyed Bittersweet by Sunday James. The story line was different and I really like the main character Cathy Johnson; she was a strong independent girl. Just how I like the leading ladies to be.
Bittersweet is the story of Cathy Johnson, small town waitress working at her family's diner. Everything in her little town changes when a teen TV show is planning to start filming their show in her town. That’s when she meets extremely good looking Greg Moran. Cathy is very attracted to Greg but he keeps putting her at arm’s length and then bringing her back in again. In my opinion giving the poor some hard core mixed signals.
The reason I gave Bittersweet 3.5 stars is because I became a little annoyed with Greg, how he could be hot and cold towards Cathy and how cryptic he could be about some things. I just thought she deserved better than what he was giving her at the times.
Bittersweet does end in a to be continued way, so I’m definitely looking forward to how Cathy and Greg’s story will continue.
Arc provided by the author for an honest review.
August 4, 2015
**Originally posted on Bookish Wanderlove.**
Opening Lines
There was obvious chemistry between Cathy and Greg that just seemed to get hotter and hotter as the story progressed. I really enjoyed the writing style and how descriptive Sunday James was. I felt like I was really seeing Dogwood and it made me love the small town atmosphere more.
What kept Bittersweet from getting 5 stars?
As much as Bittersweet was an interesting read and had good characters I couldn't connect with any of them. There wasn't really anything about them that made me love them or hate them. I felt like there was so much we weren't told about Greg's character. We learned about his past but I still felt there was a lot missing. Also, this book was told completely from Cathy's POV. I would have probably enjoyed this more if there was at least a view chapters from Greg's POV, this would allot for the readers to really get inside his mind and to better understand him. Another issue I had with Bittersweet was I found there was just too many things taking place! It's was like the sub plot had a sub plot and made it very hard for me to follow he story at times.
Overall, Bittersweet was a cute read! As much as I had some issues with it, I did find it to be a pretty good debut novel for Sunday James. Will I be continuing with this series? Maybe, I'll need to read the synopsis first to see where she plans to take the story.
Opening Lines
“As the sun finally begins to sink lower in the sky, I stare at the piles of trash neatly stacked up in the dumpster with a smile on my face, drawing in a last breath of the warm summer air before I head back inside.”Bittersweet was a good New Adult read, I found that it flowed well and had a cute small town appreciation. I had some problems being able to connect with the characters but I really loved how Greg wasn't the typical New Adult jerk-character that seems to be in almost every book. He was genuine and so sweet! And Cathy, as much as she had plans to get out of town she said to take care of her father and you can see how much she loves her family.
There was obvious chemistry between Cathy and Greg that just seemed to get hotter and hotter as the story progressed. I really enjoyed the writing style and how descriptive Sunday James was. I felt like I was really seeing Dogwood and it made me love the small town atmosphere more.
What kept Bittersweet from getting 5 stars?
As much as Bittersweet was an interesting read and had good characters I couldn't connect with any of them. There wasn't really anything about them that made me love them or hate them. I felt like there was so much we weren't told about Greg's character. We learned about his past but I still felt there was a lot missing. Also, this book was told completely from Cathy's POV. I would have probably enjoyed this more if there was at least a view chapters from Greg's POV, this would allot for the readers to really get inside his mind and to better understand him. Another issue I had with Bittersweet was I found there was just too many things taking place! It's was like the sub plot had a sub plot and made it very hard for me to follow he story at times.
Overall, Bittersweet was a cute read! As much as I had some issues with it, I did find it to be a pretty good debut novel for Sunday James. Will I be continuing with this series? Maybe, I'll need to read the synopsis first to see where she plans to take the story.
February 3, 2015
Ok, first let me just start by saying I read this book under my perfect circumstances, all through the night with nothing else to think about, it was great. Now on to the book, I couldn’t put it down; it was expertly written to make you fall in love with the characters. It was a book that I very much enjoyed and I will defiantly be reading more by this author again.
The main characters are Greg and Cathy; Cathy is a waitress in her father’s restaurant when the producers of a new TV show come to her home town. Greg is a part of the cast of this new TV show and is hoping to become a success so that he doesn’t have to go and face his troubles back at home. When the two main characters meet numerous times they both feel they have a connection and when a one night stand between the two of them happen it’s like sparks have blown. These two characters radiated towards each other in a way that it felt believable and despite the issues going on in their lives they fall in love.
The secondary characters I felt most noteworthy include Max and Bethany; Max is Cathy’s best friend, she’s a straight talking honest to a fault that we all think we are or want in a best friend. Bethany is the girl who wants Greg too much; she almost ruins the relationship between Greg and Cathy.
The pacing was great leaving it up until the very last minute to let us know the outcome of the relationship between the two main characters. I really do want to read more about these two characters and the problems they face.
The storyline was original playing on many people’s fantasy of meeting your favourite TV star and becoming involved in an elicit relationship.
I really enjoyed this story and will defiantly try other books by the author as well as the rest of this series 4 stars.
The main characters are Greg and Cathy; Cathy is a waitress in her father’s restaurant when the producers of a new TV show come to her home town. Greg is a part of the cast of this new TV show and is hoping to become a success so that he doesn’t have to go and face his troubles back at home. When the two main characters meet numerous times they both feel they have a connection and when a one night stand between the two of them happen it’s like sparks have blown. These two characters radiated towards each other in a way that it felt believable and despite the issues going on in their lives they fall in love.
The secondary characters I felt most noteworthy include Max and Bethany; Max is Cathy’s best friend, she’s a straight talking honest to a fault that we all think we are or want in a best friend. Bethany is the girl who wants Greg too much; she almost ruins the relationship between Greg and Cathy.
The pacing was great leaving it up until the very last minute to let us know the outcome of the relationship between the two main characters. I really do want to read more about these two characters and the problems they face.
The storyline was original playing on many people’s fantasy of meeting your favourite TV star and becoming involved in an elicit relationship.
I really enjoyed this story and will defiantly try other books by the author as well as the rest of this series 4 stars.
November 21, 2014
***A gifted copy was provided in exchange for an honest review.***
~*Review by Lo*~
What can I say other than I absolutely LOVED this book! I was drawn in from the very first page and felt like I was connected with each and every character. I honestly felt like I should be friends with these people and hang out where they hang out and work where they work. That is when you know you have a good read!
I rated Bittersweet with FIVE LEAVES! It's been a long time since I've had so much fun reading book. I was cheering on the characters from the start.
Cathy works at her Dad's diner in their small town. She has her best friend, Maxine to hang out with and keep her company in town. Even though they are both 21 years old, they haven't left the good ole' town of Dogwood. When even the littlest thing out of the ordinary happens in Dogwood, the whole town gets excited. That is why the entire town is ecstatic when they learn the news that a TV show is set to come to town and shoot a series!
Read more reviews by Lo and the Fallers at http://fallinginfall.blogspot.com
~*Review by Lo*~
What can I say other than I absolutely LOVED this book! I was drawn in from the very first page and felt like I was connected with each and every character. I honestly felt like I should be friends with these people and hang out where they hang out and work where they work. That is when you know you have a good read!
I rated Bittersweet with FIVE LEAVES! It's been a long time since I've had so much fun reading book. I was cheering on the characters from the start.
Cathy works at her Dad's diner in their small town. She has her best friend, Maxine to hang out with and keep her company in town. Even though they are both 21 years old, they haven't left the good ole' town of Dogwood. When even the littlest thing out of the ordinary happens in Dogwood, the whole town gets excited. That is why the entire town is ecstatic when they learn the news that a TV show is set to come to town and shoot a series!
Read more reviews by Lo and the Fallers at http://fallinginfall.blogspot.com
January 27, 2015
This book was a pleasant surprise for me.
The storyline was good, even though this has been done before, a small town girl falling for a TV star. But it still felt fresh and in some ways original.
I connected right away with the story. The characters were very likable and their relationship built up nicely. Craig was giving a lot of mixed signals for some time and I was starting to think that I would be reading that throughout the book, but when his issues came out, it was understandable.
There is a cliffhanger, but not a major one.
A good romance story.
The storyline was good, even though this has been done before, a small town girl falling for a TV star. But it still felt fresh and in some ways original.
I connected right away with the story. The characters were very likable and their relationship built up nicely. Craig was giving a lot of mixed signals for some time and I was starting to think that I would be reading that throughout the book, but when his issues came out, it was understandable.
There is a cliffhanger, but not a major one.
A good romance story.
November 7, 2014
Bittersweet by Sunday James
Source: Author
My Rating: 3/5 stars
My Review:
Cathy Johnson is in her early twenties and her life is pretty much the way it always has been and always will be. She lives in the small town of Dogwood, Virginia and since her mother abandoned the family when Cathy was just a kid, Cathy has cared for her father and younger brother. Cathy waitresses in her dad’s diner, lives with her best friend Maxine and, has a dating pool that consists of the same local boys she has known her whole life. While most twenty-somethings would be all but dying to get out of town, Cathy is perfectly content with her life in Dogwood and can’t ever imagine being anywhere else. If only the dating pool would get a little deeper . . .
Greg Moran is a Broadway actor who has recently been tapped to star in the new TV series, Bittersweet. Though he was born and raised in New York, Greg is all but dying to get out of town and move on to something different. His arrival in Dogwood, Virginia is smooth and easy with no fanfare, no grand reception and, very little hospitality thanks to Cathy Johnson. Greg’s intention is to keep his head down, work hard and, make sure Bittersweet is a success. Consequently, Greg decides it is in best interest to keep to himself, only mingle with the locals when he has too and, above all else, protect his recently broken heart. Greg’s plans seem to backfire the minute he steps off the train from New York. His first encounter in Dogwood is with a very surly Cathy who leaves him both a bit confused and more than a bit interested.
For Cathy, the filming of Bittersweet in her hometown is nothing more than an inconvenience. The only bonus as far as she can see is the increased income her dad’s diner stands to make thanks to the increased population. Her first meeting with Greg rubs her the wrong way and though she absolutely doesn’t want to like him, she can’t deny her attraction to him. In the coming days, it seems like every place Cathy goes or looks, Greg is there. He’s polite, charming, definitely sexy and, seems totally into Cathy . . .sometimes. Nearly every encounter with Greg leaves Cathy desperate for more and totally confused. Half the time the sexual tension is as thick as a dense fog and the other half the environment is frigid and bordering on Arctic. Greg is clearly struggling with something (OK, a lot of somethings) and rather than dealing with those somethings he ignores them and takes his anxiety out on Cathy. When Cathy and Greg are in synch, they are good together and happy to be in each other’s company but when they fall out of synch, both are fairly miserable and tough to be around.
The Bottom Line: Bittersweet is one of those reads that started out really well for me but fell flat in the end. I like the concept of the TV show being filmed in the small town, I like the idea of the big-time actors mixing with the locals and, of course, I like the idea of a good, steamy romance. I like Cathy, Greg’s not bad and, the minor characters that make frequent appearances are fine too. In all, everything is OK. The back and forth between Greg and Cathy is kind of fun in the beginning but as it wears on to rounds three and four and so on, it becomes a bit repetitive and you want to choke the life out of one or both of the characters. The big reveal related to Greg and his issues isn’t nearly as big I would have liked for it to be after all the secret-keeping and, the issues aren’t even resolved by the end of the read. For me, the book just went on a bit too long and I found myself looking forward to the end. To be completely fair, I never considered DNFing this read because I just felt like it was going to pick up at any time and things were really going to get exciting. With all of the build up about Greg’s past and his secrets, this should have been far more exciting than it turns out to be. I feel like there were some lost opportunities for some real excitement with this read which left feeling like Bittersweet is just an OK read.
Source: Author
My Rating: 3/5 stars
My Review:
Cathy Johnson is in her early twenties and her life is pretty much the way it always has been and always will be. She lives in the small town of Dogwood, Virginia and since her mother abandoned the family when Cathy was just a kid, Cathy has cared for her father and younger brother. Cathy waitresses in her dad’s diner, lives with her best friend Maxine and, has a dating pool that consists of the same local boys she has known her whole life. While most twenty-somethings would be all but dying to get out of town, Cathy is perfectly content with her life in Dogwood and can’t ever imagine being anywhere else. If only the dating pool would get a little deeper . . .
Greg Moran is a Broadway actor who has recently been tapped to star in the new TV series, Bittersweet. Though he was born and raised in New York, Greg is all but dying to get out of town and move on to something different. His arrival in Dogwood, Virginia is smooth and easy with no fanfare, no grand reception and, very little hospitality thanks to Cathy Johnson. Greg’s intention is to keep his head down, work hard and, make sure Bittersweet is a success. Consequently, Greg decides it is in best interest to keep to himself, only mingle with the locals when he has too and, above all else, protect his recently broken heart. Greg’s plans seem to backfire the minute he steps off the train from New York. His first encounter in Dogwood is with a very surly Cathy who leaves him both a bit confused and more than a bit interested.
For Cathy, the filming of Bittersweet in her hometown is nothing more than an inconvenience. The only bonus as far as she can see is the increased income her dad’s diner stands to make thanks to the increased population. Her first meeting with Greg rubs her the wrong way and though she absolutely doesn’t want to like him, she can’t deny her attraction to him. In the coming days, it seems like every place Cathy goes or looks, Greg is there. He’s polite, charming, definitely sexy and, seems totally into Cathy . . .sometimes. Nearly every encounter with Greg leaves Cathy desperate for more and totally confused. Half the time the sexual tension is as thick as a dense fog and the other half the environment is frigid and bordering on Arctic. Greg is clearly struggling with something (OK, a lot of somethings) and rather than dealing with those somethings he ignores them and takes his anxiety out on Cathy. When Cathy and Greg are in synch, they are good together and happy to be in each other’s company but when they fall out of synch, both are fairly miserable and tough to be around.
The Bottom Line: Bittersweet is one of those reads that started out really well for me but fell flat in the end. I like the concept of the TV show being filmed in the small town, I like the idea of the big-time actors mixing with the locals and, of course, I like the idea of a good, steamy romance. I like Cathy, Greg’s not bad and, the minor characters that make frequent appearances are fine too. In all, everything is OK. The back and forth between Greg and Cathy is kind of fun in the beginning but as it wears on to rounds three and four and so on, it becomes a bit repetitive and you want to choke the life out of one or both of the characters. The big reveal related to Greg and his issues isn’t nearly as big I would have liked for it to be after all the secret-keeping and, the issues aren’t even resolved by the end of the read. For me, the book just went on a bit too long and I found myself looking forward to the end. To be completely fair, I never considered DNFing this read because I just felt like it was going to pick up at any time and things were really going to get exciting. With all of the build up about Greg’s past and his secrets, this should have been far more exciting than it turns out to be. I feel like there were some lost opportunities for some real excitement with this read which left feeling like Bittersweet is just an OK read.
December 2, 2015
www.bookworm221.tumblr.com
Thank you to the New Adult Book Club on Goodreads and also the author Sunday James for providing me with a copy of Bittersweet in exchange for an honest review.
Cathy is a waitress at her Dad’s diner in a little town called Dogwood, when nothing extraordinary happens, until one day a TV production company arrives and soon after a new TV show starts filming in their town. Among the actors of the show is Broadway transfer Greg Moran.
From the moment they meet it’s evident that there’s something between Cathy and Greg, a estrange pull towards each other that they try to deny specially Greg, but when a night out on the town finishes with them on Greg’s hotel room it’s evident that they can’t deny it anymore.
Despite the fact that they have amazing chemistry Greg keeps pulling away from Cathy, even going as far as to warn her off, he explains that he has a past and he’s not quite ready to move on.
I liked Cathy very much, she is an independent young woman who is trying to better the family business, and she is comfortable living in a small town and is happy to have had the same friends since she was younger. Greg on the other hand is running away from home, we don’t quite know why he is running but is evident that he has issues back home.
The relationship between Cathy and Greg runs hot and cold for most of the book and that got sort of repetitive, I understood the characters were dealing with personal issues that made it hard for them to fully commit but I still feel that some of the time Greg pulled away felt a little forced.
The novel ends in a cliffhanger, things seem to be ok for the time being but there are many things in play still. I look forward to reading the next book Lovestruck. I definitely want to know more about Greg and Cathy and how they overcome (hopefully together) the problems that life has for them.
Keep Calm and Read On
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January 16, 2015
3 'Bittersweet' stars
Hot, up and coming celebrity falls for small town waitress while in town shooting a new show. Usually I adore these type of books but something was lacking in this particular one.
Now, because this isn't the most original storyline, I think the characters needed to be the selling point; the feature that stood this one above all the other similar books. Unfortunately, I think the characters fell short; specifically the leading male.
Greg was all over the place. He was hot one minute, then cold the next. His hot/cold flushes were annoying to say the least, but I held off making judgement until his reasonings were revealed. When we did find out I was disappointed. To be honest I didn't think his reasons justified his actions and I still didn't like him.
Not only that, and this may sound a little bit contradictory, but he was just too nice! Maybe this is a case of 'it's not you it's me' because I prefer my leading males to have a bit of a rough edge to them. One who'll take the bag of crap he's been dealt and turn it into a raw, irresistible, broody sexiness. I like an alpha male, dirty talker, someone who's a little filthy in the sack...something... Anything lust worthy to grab onto. I got nada.
Greg was emotional, quiet and sensitive. He was a prick, but he was nice about it?! He would avoid Cathy for days, apologise profusely, kiss, declare his 'like', frown in confusion, take off... Then repeat! It went on for far too long and was way to repetitive.
Had the characters been a bit stronger, more likeable and less indecisive I may have enjoyed this one more. This may have just been preference... Like I said, I like a stronger leading male. But if you like a nice, troubled but gentlemanly male and a celebrity story with a bit of drama, you may enjoy this.
This is the first book in a series; Cathy and Greg's story continuing in Lovestruck. Things were left in an 'okay' place, although I can see them having a rough road ahead in their relationship. There are a lot of loose ends: a law suit, a co-star with the hots for Greg, a few ex's, family and much more I'm sure.
Hot, up and coming celebrity falls for small town waitress while in town shooting a new show. Usually I adore these type of books but something was lacking in this particular one.
Now, because this isn't the most original storyline, I think the characters needed to be the selling point; the feature that stood this one above all the other similar books. Unfortunately, I think the characters fell short; specifically the leading male.
Greg was all over the place. He was hot one minute, then cold the next. His hot/cold flushes were annoying to say the least, but I held off making judgement until his reasonings were revealed. When we did find out I was disappointed. To be honest I didn't think his reasons justified his actions and I still didn't like him.
Not only that, and this may sound a little bit contradictory, but he was just too nice! Maybe this is a case of 'it's not you it's me' because I prefer my leading males to have a bit of a rough edge to them. One who'll take the bag of crap he's been dealt and turn it into a raw, irresistible, broody sexiness. I like an alpha male, dirty talker, someone who's a little filthy in the sack...something... Anything lust worthy to grab onto. I got nada.
Greg was emotional, quiet and sensitive. He was a prick, but he was nice about it?! He would avoid Cathy for days, apologise profusely, kiss, declare his 'like', frown in confusion, take off... Then repeat! It went on for far too long and was way to repetitive.
Had the characters been a bit stronger, more likeable and less indecisive I may have enjoyed this one more. This may have just been preference... Like I said, I like a stronger leading male. But if you like a nice, troubled but gentlemanly male and a celebrity story with a bit of drama, you may enjoy this.
This is the first book in a series; Cathy and Greg's story continuing in Lovestruck. Things were left in an 'okay' place, although I can see them having a rough road ahead in their relationship. There are a lot of loose ends: a law suit, a co-star with the hots for Greg, a few ex's, family and much more I'm sure.
November 3, 2014
I’m very excited I had the opportunity to review this debut novel by Sunday James. The book’s description grabbed my attention and I knew I wanted to read it.
I really liked the plot. It’s sort of a Hollywood romance, but it doesn’t take place in Hollywood. The setting is the small town of Dogwood, VA. Cathy has lived in Dogwood her entire life helping run her father’s restaurant and caring for her younger brother. Hollywood executives have decided to film a new TV show in her hometown and that’s how she meets the mysterious and handsome Greg. He’s a New Yorker and running from a past filled with baggage.
“… Everyone’s got baggage; ours isn’t special. It’s just … ours.”
I enjoyed the author’s writing very much. The story held my attention and I was never bored. (Obviously, since I finished the book in one day.) I definitely connected with Cathy. I felt all of her emotions. I also swooned over Greg. I like mysterious guys that I can’t quite figure out.
I think what I felt the most was frustration. Greg was so wishy washy; hot and cold. One day he would pull Cathy close and the next he would push her away. I definitely understood Cathy’s anger, but I also got frustrated with her because no matter how Greg would brush her off she would always accept him back when she should have given him the middle finger! Cathy’s wasn’t necessarily a pushover, but she becomes close to one a few times.
“I just wasn’t ready for you. I never expected you,” he whispers. “I was done. I came here thinking I forget all about that stuff, about … having my heart broken. I’d focus on work; I’d leave it all behind.” His voice waivers and it’s all I can do not to pull him to me. “And just like that, you.”
The book ends with a Happily For Now ending, not a major cliffhanger. Do I want to read the next book in Cathy and Greg’s love story? Yes, I do. I absolutely recommend Bittersweet to New Adult and contemporary readers, and Bittersweet is more than worth the $0.99 price tag.
I really liked the plot. It’s sort of a Hollywood romance, but it doesn’t take place in Hollywood. The setting is the small town of Dogwood, VA. Cathy has lived in Dogwood her entire life helping run her father’s restaurant and caring for her younger brother. Hollywood executives have decided to film a new TV show in her hometown and that’s how she meets the mysterious and handsome Greg. He’s a New Yorker and running from a past filled with baggage.
“… Everyone’s got baggage; ours isn’t special. It’s just … ours.”
I enjoyed the author’s writing very much. The story held my attention and I was never bored. (Obviously, since I finished the book in one day.) I definitely connected with Cathy. I felt all of her emotions. I also swooned over Greg. I like mysterious guys that I can’t quite figure out.
I think what I felt the most was frustration. Greg was so wishy washy; hot and cold. One day he would pull Cathy close and the next he would push her away. I definitely understood Cathy’s anger, but I also got frustrated with her because no matter how Greg would brush her off she would always accept him back when she should have given him the middle finger! Cathy’s wasn’t necessarily a pushover, but she becomes close to one a few times.
“I just wasn’t ready for you. I never expected you,” he whispers. “I was done. I came here thinking I forget all about that stuff, about … having my heart broken. I’d focus on work; I’d leave it all behind.” His voice waivers and it’s all I can do not to pull him to me. “And just like that, you.”
The book ends with a Happily For Now ending, not a major cliffhanger. Do I want to read the next book in Cathy and Greg’s love story? Yes, I do. I absolutely recommend Bittersweet to New Adult and contemporary readers, and Bittersweet is more than worth the $0.99 price tag.
November 6, 2014
Bittersweet is a tension and angst-filled new adult romance, the debut work of author Sunday James. I have to say-for a debut, this story is pretty well done. The writing flows well and the characters were very well written, feeling like they could have been people I would know.
The main female lead, Cathy, is a strong and independent young woman and the main male lead, Greg, is sexy but has a shadowed side that has him bouncing back and forth from hot and feisty to aloof and detached. This leads to some stress in their developing relationship that exists for most of the story.
I love the secondary character of Maxine, Cathy's best friend-she's funny and supportive, if a bit star-struck and fan-girly at times.
There were some spots in the book that did drag a bit for me, seeming like those areas were just filler, but for the most part everything moved along nicely. I don't want to give away anything, and it feels like anything I could say about particular areas of the book would do that. Suffice to say, Bittersweet is a good story that will keep your interest and have you hooked to read the next up in the series so you can see where Cathy and Greg's journey goes from here.
I wavered between 3.5 and 4 stars, so I'll split it to 3.75...and I'd recommend this for all NA romance fans 18+. A great job for a debut story!
The main female lead, Cathy, is a strong and independent young woman and the main male lead, Greg, is sexy but has a shadowed side that has him bouncing back and forth from hot and feisty to aloof and detached. This leads to some stress in their developing relationship that exists for most of the story.
I love the secondary character of Maxine, Cathy's best friend-she's funny and supportive, if a bit star-struck and fan-girly at times.
There were some spots in the book that did drag a bit for me, seeming like those areas were just filler, but for the most part everything moved along nicely. I don't want to give away anything, and it feels like anything I could say about particular areas of the book would do that. Suffice to say, Bittersweet is a good story that will keep your interest and have you hooked to read the next up in the series so you can see where Cathy and Greg's journey goes from here.
I wavered between 3.5 and 4 stars, so I'll split it to 3.75...and I'd recommend this for all NA romance fans 18+. A great job for a debut story!
November 3, 2014
This is an entertaining and sweet read that kept me interested. It's always fun when you have the nobody girl who pulls the eyes of the big star. I liked that Cathy had an everyday girl feel to her that was relatable. So many times with these types of book, the main character is supposed to be normal and average, but then there are men falling at her feet at every turn. This is not the case with Cathy. She's likeable with loyal friends and a good heart.
The relationship had its ups and downs for me. I loved their banter with one another. They were cute, and although it started out intense with loads of chemistry, things between them fizzled a bit as the story progressed. My connection to them wasn't as strong as I would have liked, and although problems arose I never felt like their was any real conflict they were up against. Their story seemed too easy, but lacked the chemistry for them to get away with it.
Overall, it was an enjoyable read and I think fans of New Adult will like it. This book doesn't end in a cliffhanger, but there is a follow up book coming that I will most likely pick up.
The relationship had its ups and downs for me. I loved their banter with one another. They were cute, and although it started out intense with loads of chemistry, things between them fizzled a bit as the story progressed. My connection to them wasn't as strong as I would have liked, and although problems arose I never felt like their was any real conflict they were up against. Their story seemed too easy, but lacked the chemistry for them to get away with it.
Overall, it was an enjoyable read and I think fans of New Adult will like it. This book doesn't end in a cliffhanger, but there is a follow up book coming that I will most likely pick up.
November 12, 2014
I absolutely loved this contemporary romance story. There was just something about Cathy that drew me in. I just wanted her to have her HEA.
Cathy grew up in a small town, waitressing at her father's diner and helping raise her little brother. It's a typical small town, where everyone knows everyone else business. Nothing exciting happens ... ever.
Until there is a new TV show being filmed in town.
Greg comes to town as part of the show. Greg and Cathy meet...sparks fly... she thinks things are moving in the right direction... and then.. BAM! He backs off. There were so many times I wanted to smack him. You could tell he felt something for Cathy, but something was holding him back from exploring that. He was so hot and cold it drove me nuts. You could tell there was something holding him back. I had to keep reading until I figured out exactly what that was.
While he's trying to figure himself out, poor Cathy is so confused. She has no idea what to think. The emotional roller coaster he had her on was frustrating to me, but it was fun to read about at the same time.
I look forward to reading more about Cathy and Greg.
Cathy grew up in a small town, waitressing at her father's diner and helping raise her little brother. It's a typical small town, where everyone knows everyone else business. Nothing exciting happens ... ever.
Until there is a new TV show being filmed in town.
Greg comes to town as part of the show. Greg and Cathy meet...sparks fly... she thinks things are moving in the right direction... and then.. BAM! He backs off. There were so many times I wanted to smack him. You could tell he felt something for Cathy, but something was holding him back from exploring that. He was so hot and cold it drove me nuts. You could tell there was something holding him back. I had to keep reading until I figured out exactly what that was.
While he's trying to figure himself out, poor Cathy is so confused. She has no idea what to think. The emotional roller coaster he had her on was frustrating to me, but it was fun to read about at the same time.
I look forward to reading more about Cathy and Greg.
November 10, 2014
Cathy Johnson lives a simple life, as a single mom and waitress at her Dad's restaurant she has learned to not expect too much out of life. When a television series begins taping in Dogwood, Virginia Cathy is barely paying attention until she meets Greg Moran. Cathy doesn't know how he is affiliated with the show but something about him has Cathy interested. After one night together neither seem to be able to forget about it. Can they learn to trust one another or is their rocky beginning doomed to fail?
If your a fan of Actor stories, this is one for you. I liked that Cathy is just a woman, she is a normal fun woman. I thought Greg was intriguing, he has an air of mystery and hesitancy to him. Looks like the next book will be another must read.
If your a fan of Actor stories, this is one for you. I liked that Cathy is just a woman, she is a normal fun woman. I thought Greg was intriguing, he has an air of mystery and hesitancy to him. Looks like the next book will be another must read.
January 25, 2015
This was a freebie .....it took me a few chapters to get into the story, it was slow moving. I liked the main character Cathy, she was loyal to her family, growing up in a small town where you go to high school and work with people you've known you whole life. She has a difficult time trusting people, but she does learn to trust Greg. I liked the character Greg. It was a little slow, it just read like a nice sweet romance.
Thanks for the free copy, and I look forward to reading the 2nd book in the series
Thanks for the free copy, and I look forward to reading the 2nd book in the series
March 14, 2019
**Book Received in exchange for an honest review**
This is the first book I've ready by Sunday James and I so want to continue with Cathy and Greg's story.
Greg shows up in town and Cathy believes he's crew for the TV series that's being filmed in their quaint little town, but finds out that he's actually one of the actors.
There are a couple of issues that envelope Greg from the start, 1 being back home and 2 his co star.
They're both major daggers to him and Cathy.
Just when you think you're breaking down his wall and finding a little more about him though, something happens and the wall gets rebuilt.
The way he blows hot and cold with Cathy though is completely readable... I don't think i've ever read and hot and cold character like Greg before... he's worse than a British Summer.
When issue one comes to light you can already tell it's far from over (will have to get the next to find this out though,) and we've not even started on issue 2!
The book leaves you on a hopeful high that just like their love life, will more than likely come crashing down... a bloody lot!
This is the first book I've ready by Sunday James and I so want to continue with Cathy and Greg's story.
Greg shows up in town and Cathy believes he's crew for the TV series that's being filmed in their quaint little town, but finds out that he's actually one of the actors.
There are a couple of issues that envelope Greg from the start, 1 being back home and 2 his co star.
They're both major daggers to him and Cathy.
Just when you think you're breaking down his wall and finding a little more about him though, something happens and the wall gets rebuilt.
The way he blows hot and cold with Cathy though is completely readable... I don't think i've ever read and hot and cold character like Greg before... he's worse than a British Summer.
When issue one comes to light you can already tell it's far from over (will have to get the next to find this out though,) and we've not even started on issue 2!
The book leaves you on a hopeful high that just like their love life, will more than likely come crashing down... a bloody lot!
November 4, 2014
**You can see this full review and more at Book Briefs: http://bookbriefs.net**
Bittersweet is a standalone New Adult contemporary Romance from Sunday James. It was an interesting read. At times I felt like there was too much going on for me to really start loving the story, but I did end up liking the overall flow of the storyline. It was a quick read that worked well as a standalone. I loved the small town setting. The writing was very atmospheric and rich with detail. The setting and the quaint feelings that the descriptions of the town of dogwood evoked were my favorite part of Bittersweet.
Cathy was great. I liked how wonderful she was to her dad and brother, and I loved that she loved her town so much. Sure, she had plans to get out and go away to college, but her father's health kept her in town and kept her helping out the family business. I liked Greg well enough, but Cathy was the real star of the book for me. I don't know if I just related to her more, or if it was because the book was told entirely by her point of view. I also really liked Cathy's best friend and roommate, Max. That girl is a true friend. And feisty as heck! She needs her own story.
Greg was a nice guy. He actually had these moments of such sweetness. I loved the start of the story, when he kept seeing all these things Cathy and him had in common, and he was almost in disbelief. He would say things to that effect and get so embarrassed. It was super cute. But my problem with Greg was that he held his cards so close to his chest all the time. I could never tell where his head was at. He was hot and then cold. And when he was cold or angry he was very angry. And that extreme anger never really got addressed the way I wanted it to. We did learn some things about him and his past, I just felt like we 90% of the way with him and didn't get a chance to connect that last little 10%.
I liked the tv filming aspect of the story too. It was cool to see the way filming was done on a location, and the whole Bethany aspect added intrigue to the story. Bittersweet will appeal to fans of standalone contemporary romances. It is an interesting story that you can knock out in one afternoon, and while I had a few issues with it, I did enjoy Bittersweet. Fans of small town atmospheres will love Dogwood.
This review was originally posted on Book Briefs
Bittersweet is a standalone New Adult contemporary Romance from Sunday James. It was an interesting read. At times I felt like there was too much going on for me to really start loving the story, but I did end up liking the overall flow of the storyline. It was a quick read that worked well as a standalone. I loved the small town setting. The writing was very atmospheric and rich with detail. The setting and the quaint feelings that the descriptions of the town of dogwood evoked were my favorite part of Bittersweet.
Cathy was great. I liked how wonderful she was to her dad and brother, and I loved that she loved her town so much. Sure, she had plans to get out and go away to college, but her father's health kept her in town and kept her helping out the family business. I liked Greg well enough, but Cathy was the real star of the book for me. I don't know if I just related to her more, or if it was because the book was told entirely by her point of view. I also really liked Cathy's best friend and roommate, Max. That girl is a true friend. And feisty as heck! She needs her own story.
Greg was a nice guy. He actually had these moments of such sweetness. I loved the start of the story, when he kept seeing all these things Cathy and him had in common, and he was almost in disbelief. He would say things to that effect and get so embarrassed. It was super cute. But my problem with Greg was that he held his cards so close to his chest all the time. I could never tell where his head was at. He was hot and then cold. And when he was cold or angry he was very angry. And that extreme anger never really got addressed the way I wanted it to. We did learn some things about him and his past, I just felt like we 90% of the way with him and didn't get a chance to connect that last little 10%.
I liked the tv filming aspect of the story too. It was cool to see the way filming was done on a location, and the whole Bethany aspect added intrigue to the story. Bittersweet will appeal to fans of standalone contemporary romances. It is an interesting story that you can knock out in one afternoon, and while I had a few issues with it, I did enjoy Bittersweet. Fans of small town atmospheres will love Dogwood.
This review was originally posted on Book Briefs
November 17, 2014
Bittersweet by Sunday James has the recipe for a good romance a rainy day. You cuddle in and get comfortable under a warm blanket and read until you fall asleep and then wake up and read some more. Perfect day, in my opinion. I felt while reading Bittersweet that I was going to be pleasantly satisfied all around, and for the most part I was, but the second half of the book failed to hold my interest when the real conflict didn't seem to have the steam it should have had.
Cathy is a single women working for her dad in a small town. She feels tied to her family as it's caregiver, it's a job she is very willing to take on and own. But she's searching like many of these types of characters all do. Enter in a mysterious man who rocks her world. Greg is new to town and it's assumed he's here for the new TV production that is taking place there. Cathy and Greg have an instant attraction. One that turns hot and cold with a very clever amount of sexual tension. When you think they are going to be together, Greg leaves Cathy high and dry. She's frustrated, used, and not willing to give him a second chance. Their relationship is very dynamic in that way. It's the I-hate-you-but-love-you aspect that really keeps the reader interested. Greg has these demons that we don't see until later, and Cathy is learning to love and trust. She's very insecure in her feelings about men and relationships since she's been hurt in the past.
All this is great. The build up is good, the sexual tension is hot, the way they come back together is nice. But when the real conflict is revealed...I was left thinking, that's it? Something so mundane could have been discussed so much earlier and avoided all the internal conflict of Cathy if Greg would have just opened his mouth about his past. I could see if his past was like illegal or something more severe but what he revealed to her at the arc of the book, I just couldn't understand the urgency.
Oh well. What I see may not be what another reader sees. It was a good book. I read it pretty quickly. It has it's very good moments and I think anyone would enjoy it. So I do recommend it. I will say that the London based author did capture American culture very well. I would have never known it wasn't an American writing the book.
Cathy is a single women working for her dad in a small town. She feels tied to her family as it's caregiver, it's a job she is very willing to take on and own. But she's searching like many of these types of characters all do. Enter in a mysterious man who rocks her world. Greg is new to town and it's assumed he's here for the new TV production that is taking place there. Cathy and Greg have an instant attraction. One that turns hot and cold with a very clever amount of sexual tension. When you think they are going to be together, Greg leaves Cathy high and dry. She's frustrated, used, and not willing to give him a second chance. Their relationship is very dynamic in that way. It's the I-hate-you-but-love-you aspect that really keeps the reader interested. Greg has these demons that we don't see until later, and Cathy is learning to love and trust. She's very insecure in her feelings about men and relationships since she's been hurt in the past.
All this is great. The build up is good, the sexual tension is hot, the way they come back together is nice. But when the real conflict is revealed...I was left thinking, that's it? Something so mundane could have been discussed so much earlier and avoided all the internal conflict of Cathy if Greg would have just opened his mouth about his past. I could see if his past was like illegal or something more severe but what he revealed to her at the arc of the book, I just couldn't understand the urgency.
Oh well. What I see may not be what another reader sees. It was a good book. I read it pretty quickly. It has it's very good moments and I think anyone would enjoy it. So I do recommend it. I will say that the London based author did capture American culture very well. I would have never known it wasn't an American writing the book.
November 12, 2014
Cathy Johnson was busy helping out the family restaurant and trying out new things to add to the menu to think about the TV production that is coming to their small town in Virginia. The whole town seemed to be pretty much excited except her. Her heart has been broken by her high school sweetheart, a relationship that ended in a disaster. The last thing she needs was to become star struck.
Until she crossed path with the sexy and charming Greg Moran who arrives in Dogwood together with the rest of the cast and crew of Bittersweet. They had this crazy connection together, but if Cathy was careful to get her emotions in tangle, Greg can be pretty much fickle minded. He can be all in, and then all of a sudden, he was nowhere in sight. He can be interested now, and then appear disinterested the next time. He had some secrets of his own, that I wanted to know. I would have loved it more if he gets his own POV. But I was stuck with Cathy, and her thoughts weren’t that bad. There were a lot of bumps before their happy ever after – and there were times when you’d just wanted to ask Greg if he really wants Cathy, or if both of them wanted this to work…
There were times when I got frustrated with the hot-then-cold Greg – just about everything seems to be perfect, suddenly they’d be back to square one, but still I found this book romantic and endearing. I love Cathy, and her friend Max and Hal – they were a great bunch, and both of her friends are there to catch her every time she falls. Greg was hard to love, but you couldn’t resist his charms, so please don’t blame Cathy.
This is my first Sunday James read, and it was okay. I look forward for the next book in the series and can’t wait to read what’s next for this two!
•Complimentary Copy was given in exchange for an honest review.•
More of my reviews at http://reviewsofabookmaniac.blogspot.com
Until she crossed path with the sexy and charming Greg Moran who arrives in Dogwood together with the rest of the cast and crew of Bittersweet. They had this crazy connection together, but if Cathy was careful to get her emotions in tangle, Greg can be pretty much fickle minded. He can be all in, and then all of a sudden, he was nowhere in sight. He can be interested now, and then appear disinterested the next time. He had some secrets of his own, that I wanted to know. I would have loved it more if he gets his own POV. But I was stuck with Cathy, and her thoughts weren’t that bad. There were a lot of bumps before their happy ever after – and there were times when you’d just wanted to ask Greg if he really wants Cathy, or if both of them wanted this to work…
There were times when I got frustrated with the hot-then-cold Greg – just about everything seems to be perfect, suddenly they’d be back to square one, but still I found this book romantic and endearing. I love Cathy, and her friend Max and Hal – they were a great bunch, and both of her friends are there to catch her every time she falls. Greg was hard to love, but you couldn’t resist his charms, so please don’t blame Cathy.
This is my first Sunday James read, and it was okay. I look forward for the next book in the series and can’t wait to read what’s next for this two!
•Complimentary Copy was given in exchange for an honest review.•
More of my reviews at http://reviewsofabookmaniac.blogspot.com
January 22, 2015
I received a free copy of Bittersweet by Sunday James in exchange for an honest review.
Bittersweet is about a small-town girl whose bigger-town dreams are curtailed by her fathers illness. Her family owns a small restaurant in a small town, but when Cathy, our main character, stays home to help with the business instead of pursuing her dreams of a college degree, she also loses some of herself. She also loses her high-school sweetheart to the struggles of a long distance romance. We find her somewhat adrift, not sure what she wants to do but sure it isn't what she's doing.
Soon, the town is turns upside down by the news that a new TV show will be produced in their hometown. It's described as a Dawson's creek meets Stephen King. As cast and crew start assembling in the town, Cathy runs into a tall drink of water named Greg. He is with the show and seems to be as attracted to her as she is to him, yet something is holding him back. As Cathy spends more time with him, and more time thinking about him, she starts to see him more as Jeckyll and Hyde, sometimes warm and kind and other times aloof. She doesn't know why he is so taciturn, but she can't seem to stay away. Is he really dating his co star? Does he or doesn't he have feelings for her?
I stayed up into the wee hours of the morning to finish this book. Ms. James thoughtfully weaves a story of small town life, big dreams, and what is truly important in life: love, family and friends. She develops the characters well, paints a vivid picture of small town American life while not letting it come across as corny. Instead, the people and the setting are warm, welcoming and hard working. My only complaint was that we were left hanging a bit with the ending. But, it will just keep me on my toes waiting for the next installment. Overall, well done.
Bittersweet is about a small-town girl whose bigger-town dreams are curtailed by her fathers illness. Her family owns a small restaurant in a small town, but when Cathy, our main character, stays home to help with the business instead of pursuing her dreams of a college degree, she also loses some of herself. She also loses her high-school sweetheart to the struggles of a long distance romance. We find her somewhat adrift, not sure what she wants to do but sure it isn't what she's doing.
Soon, the town is turns upside down by the news that a new TV show will be produced in their hometown. It's described as a Dawson's creek meets Stephen King. As cast and crew start assembling in the town, Cathy runs into a tall drink of water named Greg. He is with the show and seems to be as attracted to her as she is to him, yet something is holding him back. As Cathy spends more time with him, and more time thinking about him, she starts to see him more as Jeckyll and Hyde, sometimes warm and kind and other times aloof. She doesn't know why he is so taciturn, but she can't seem to stay away. Is he really dating his co star? Does he or doesn't he have feelings for her?
I stayed up into the wee hours of the morning to finish this book. Ms. James thoughtfully weaves a story of small town life, big dreams, and what is truly important in life: love, family and friends. She develops the characters well, paints a vivid picture of small town American life while not letting it come across as corny. Instead, the people and the setting are warm, welcoming and hard working. My only complaint was that we were left hanging a bit with the ending. But, it will just keep me on my toes waiting for the next installment. Overall, well done.
November 15, 2014
This book took me a little bit to get into but once I was into it, there was no putting it down. I love how Cathy's character is out on her own but still works with her father and takes care of her little brother despite the rough times she has endured in her life. Cathy is a carefree character that you immediately fall in love with. The way that she takes care of her dad and helps him run his hometown restaurant gives you the feeling that she is a good person. She lives with her best friend and you can tell that she is liked by everyone. I knew that when she happened to run into Greg the very first time that something was going to spark between them. You could just tell the way that things were going. Of course, it wasn't a relationship without its trials, both Greg and Cathy had past's that played a major role in their future relationships.
Greg is a likable guy as well from the moment we meet him in the story. He is not an arrogant actor that is there to film the new show but is a new actor looking for his first hit. I love the way that Greg wants to treat Cathy like a woman and respect her. He doesn't want to get into things too quickly. The way that Cathy and Greg fall in love with each other gives you the sense that it is going to last and that they really care for each other. There is romance in this book, but not a lot of steamy scenes. It gives you enough to make you want to keep reading. This was a very well written story and I am anxious to see where Sunday James takes Greg and Cathy in the next book!! Thanks for a good read Sunday!
January 4, 2015
Review posted at: http://bookcrushbookreviews.com/2014/...
Rating: 3 stars
From the first page of this novel, I was able to picture myself hovering over the scenes watching it play out live with Cathy as my narrator. Cathy is from a small town and works at her family restaurant owned by her father. Cathy's mother ran away from their family when Cathy was younger, resulting in trust issues for her. A soon-to-be TV show comes to town to film and this is where we meet Greg. Greg gets mysterious phone calls, deflects attention from himself, and puts up a wall making others not broach personal topics with Greg. Things heat up quickly between Cathy and Greg, and this novel is the first part of their journey. I was frustrated at times that the characters' wants were predictable and that the push and pull dragged on as it did. I was spiced up in the beginning of the novel and this spice dulled for me in the middle, where I like things to get more tense or make me think more as I continue reading. The predictability took away from this angst and excitement for me. The characters stayed true to their personalities and I respect Sunday's ability in pulling me in from the first page of her novel. Cathy and Greg's story will continue, with the second novel "Lovestruck" as Bittersweet ended with a mild cliffhanger. Give this a try and find your next book crush!
Rating: 3 stars
From the first page of this novel, I was able to picture myself hovering over the scenes watching it play out live with Cathy as my narrator. Cathy is from a small town and works at her family restaurant owned by her father. Cathy's mother ran away from their family when Cathy was younger, resulting in trust issues for her. A soon-to-be TV show comes to town to film and this is where we meet Greg. Greg gets mysterious phone calls, deflects attention from himself, and puts up a wall making others not broach personal topics with Greg. Things heat up quickly between Cathy and Greg, and this novel is the first part of their journey. I was frustrated at times that the characters' wants were predictable and that the push and pull dragged on as it did. I was spiced up in the beginning of the novel and this spice dulled for me in the middle, where I like things to get more tense or make me think more as I continue reading. The predictability took away from this angst and excitement for me. The characters stayed true to their personalities and I respect Sunday's ability in pulling me in from the first page of her novel. Cathy and Greg's story will continue, with the second novel "Lovestruck" as Bittersweet ended with a mild cliffhanger. Give this a try and find your next book crush!
November 3, 2014
Bittersweet is the debut by author Sunday James was a little bittersweet to me. The story was sweet, the plot was sure to provide a bit of angst and I love stories of the secret star and regular girl. The bitter was the mild tension and character development.
Cathy and Greg’s story is mild to medium heat from the beginning but felt like it fizzled out by the middle of the book. This is normally where I would expect the angst and drama to become more heightened, and intensify, but I felt like it was unnatural or perhaps obligatory. Too many roadblocks got in the way which didn’t feel authentic. The storyline was fairly predictable so it lost some of the impact I felt at the beginning. Unfortunately, I didn’t connect with the characters with any depth. I didn’t get the feeling of investment in their story that I would have liked. Although I did feel like I could visualize the story as it played out on the pages.
Sunday James’ writing was good. I found Bittersweet to be a good New Adult novel. But I felt, for me, the characters didn’t jump off the pages or have any of that extra something special that hooks me in and captivates me. I am interested to see how the story develops and hope to see the sparks fan into some flames.
Give this a try and find out if it’s your next book crush. 3.0 – 3.5 stars
Cathy and Greg’s story is mild to medium heat from the beginning but felt like it fizzled out by the middle of the book. This is normally where I would expect the angst and drama to become more heightened, and intensify, but I felt like it was unnatural or perhaps obligatory. Too many roadblocks got in the way which didn’t feel authentic. The storyline was fairly predictable so it lost some of the impact I felt at the beginning. Unfortunately, I didn’t connect with the characters with any depth. I didn’t get the feeling of investment in their story that I would have liked. Although I did feel like I could visualize the story as it played out on the pages.
Sunday James’ writing was good. I found Bittersweet to be a good New Adult novel. But I felt, for me, the characters didn’t jump off the pages or have any of that extra something special that hooks me in and captivates me. I am interested to see how the story develops and hope to see the sparks fan into some flames.
Give this a try and find out if it’s your next book crush. 3.0 – 3.5 stars
November 9, 2014
***Obsessed by books arc given in exchange for an honest review***
4 star read for this gentle and comfortable contempary romance. Hollywood comes to a small town, forever changing Cathy's life. She is a well rounded, likeable character with some trust issues that have built walls around her heart. A home girl at heart she has helped raise her brother and keep the family business going whilst her dad has struggled with health issues. Cathy is a straight talking sassy character with good friends, a lovely family and a strong head on her shoulders.
Greg is an actor running from his home and his past hoping to make it big with his role in the new soap opera. He chooses his career before anything else, blowing hot and cold throughout the book as he listens to his head rather than the broken pieces of his heart. Their romance is a slow burner and the bedroom antics are not a main feature in the novel. This doesn't detract from the passion they feel for one another but emphasizes their deep mistrust due to previous events.
"You know when someone falls hard?...I fell. I'm still broken on the rocks from the last time."
This doubt filled, will they won't they page turner has many possibilities and I have high hopes for the next one in the series. I think there will be more revelations and heart breaks along the way...love never comes easy!
4 star read for this gentle and comfortable contempary romance. Hollywood comes to a small town, forever changing Cathy's life. She is a well rounded, likeable character with some trust issues that have built walls around her heart. A home girl at heart she has helped raise her brother and keep the family business going whilst her dad has struggled with health issues. Cathy is a straight talking sassy character with good friends, a lovely family and a strong head on her shoulders.
Greg is an actor running from his home and his past hoping to make it big with his role in the new soap opera. He chooses his career before anything else, blowing hot and cold throughout the book as he listens to his head rather than the broken pieces of his heart. Their romance is a slow burner and the bedroom antics are not a main feature in the novel. This doesn't detract from the passion they feel for one another but emphasizes their deep mistrust due to previous events.
"You know when someone falls hard?...I fell. I'm still broken on the rocks from the last time."
This doubt filled, will they won't they page turner has many possibilities and I have high hopes for the next one in the series. I think there will be more revelations and heart breaks along the way...love never comes easy!
June 10, 2015
3 1/2 stars ***
** I was given this book for an honest review **
Bittersweet was an easy flowing story, I was drawn to it the minute I started reading.
The main character Cathy was a strong person with great potential, I only felt that the actual story line was a little drawn out, slow to get to the point. The male main character Greg had me slightly annoyed, I liked his character and yes he has a "past" but when we got to his "reasons" for being hot and cold towards Cathy, I felt that it wasn't enough of a reason to be the way he was.
Maxine - Cathy's best friend is a favourite of mine in the story, she had me in giggles in parts of the book. She is the typical protective "best friend"!
One thing I found was I felt for Hal - Cathy and Maxine's other best mate. Even though he was happy to "not settle down" He clearly cares for Cathy more than she really knows.
I have been searching to find out about book two "LOVESTRUCK" but I am having troubles finding out when this will be released. I am looking forward to reading how both Cathy and Greg end up :)
** I was given this book for an honest review **
Bittersweet was an easy flowing story, I was drawn to it the minute I started reading.
The main character Cathy was a strong person with great potential, I only felt that the actual story line was a little drawn out, slow to get to the point. The male main character Greg had me slightly annoyed, I liked his character and yes he has a "past" but when we got to his "reasons" for being hot and cold towards Cathy, I felt that it wasn't enough of a reason to be the way he was.
Maxine - Cathy's best friend is a favourite of mine in the story, she had me in giggles in parts of the book. She is the typical protective "best friend"!
One thing I found was I felt for Hal - Cathy and Maxine's other best mate. Even though he was happy to "not settle down" He clearly cares for Cathy more than she really knows.
I have been searching to find out about book two "LOVESTRUCK" but I am having troubles finding out when this will be released. I am looking forward to reading how both Cathy and Greg end up :)
March 16, 2015
Full Review at www.chapterfive.wix.com/chapter5
My Thoughts:
I received a copy of Bittersweet in exchange of an honest review.
This is the debut work from author Sunday James and I very happy to have the opportunity to read her work. For a debut work I have to said it's pretty well done. The character in this story are well writter and you get that feeling that make them so real. Is amazing how hook up you'll be once you start it.
Cathy is a very independt girl that lover her town and her friends, a very good lead character. Greg is really sexy and really down to earth with a shadowed past that keeps him deciding if he should go for Cathy or not.
He's that romantic type of guy and I really love this alpha male characters with humor sense and sweetness, and I have to said that is so nice to finally see that they don't rush into sex because he wanted to be special and he is such a gentle man and the sex scene are very tasteful.
My Thoughts:
I received a copy of Bittersweet in exchange of an honest review.
This is the debut work from author Sunday James and I very happy to have the opportunity to read her work. For a debut work I have to said it's pretty well done. The character in this story are well writter and you get that feeling that make them so real. Is amazing how hook up you'll be once you start it.
Cathy is a very independt girl that lover her town and her friends, a very good lead character. Greg is really sexy and really down to earth with a shadowed past that keeps him deciding if he should go for Cathy or not.
He's that romantic type of guy and I really love this alpha male characters with humor sense and sweetness, and I have to said that is so nice to finally see that they don't rush into sex because he wanted to be special and he is such a gentle man and the sex scene are very tasteful.
November 4, 2014
* A review copy was provided by the author for the Blog Tour *
Amazon Buy Link---->> Bittersweet
~~ 4 Bittersweet Stars ~~
Review to come for Blog Tour….
Follow Us at :: Book Bitches Blog | Facebook | Twitter
Amazon Buy Link---->> Bittersweet
~~ 4 Bittersweet Stars ~~
Review to come for Blog Tour….
Follow Us at :: Book Bitches Blog | Facebook | Twitter
January 28, 2015
I received a copy in exchange for my honest opinion.
I would give this book 3.5/4 stars.
After reading the synopsis I really wanted to read this book, and after reading it I can say I enjoyed the plot. The TV show aspect was interesting, and added another dimension to the usual NA books.
I liked Cathy and Greg as characters but I didn't love them. I would have preferred Cathy to have a bit more self assurance and with a bit more spark, at times she came across as a door mat (just my opinion).
I enjoyed their romance, it took a long time to build and was very sweet, but I'd have liked a little more passion from them.
I look forward to reading book two and will look out for its publication
Thanks for the opportunity to read this book
I would give this book 3.5/4 stars.
After reading the synopsis I really wanted to read this book, and after reading it I can say I enjoyed the plot. The TV show aspect was interesting, and added another dimension to the usual NA books.
I liked Cathy and Greg as characters but I didn't love them. I would have preferred Cathy to have a bit more self assurance and with a bit more spark, at times she came across as a door mat (just my opinion).
I enjoyed their romance, it took a long time to build and was very sweet, but I'd have liked a little more passion from them.
I look forward to reading book two and will look out for its publication
Thanks for the opportunity to read this book
November 11, 2015
Normally it takes me approx. half a days for reading books of this lengh. This one took me one week.
Greg is very annoying with his back and forth. I waited the whole time for Cathy telling him to get lost. But she was so weak, no matter what he did, he apologized and everything was okay again
I think I finished this book only because of Gregs secrets. I really wanted to know what it is. Maybe a good explanation for his behaviour?
Nope, I was so disappointed!
And the sexscenes? Boring.
After the "The End" the author wrote "If you enjoyed Bittersweet..." I cannot confirm and I wouldnt recommend this for reading.
And I will not read the rest of the series, thats for sure.
Greg is very annoying with his back and forth. I waited the whole time for Cathy telling him to get lost. But she was so weak, no matter what he did, he apologized and everything was okay again
I think I finished this book only because of Gregs secrets. I really wanted to know what it is. Maybe a good explanation for his behaviour?
Nope, I was so disappointed!
And the sexscenes? Boring.
After the "The End" the author wrote "If you enjoyed Bittersweet..." I cannot confirm and I wouldnt recommend this for reading.
And I will not read the rest of the series, thats for sure.
February 23, 2015
This novel made me feel so many emotions. I definitely could relate to the feeling of uncertainty in a relationship prior to the relationship even starting. The ups and downs with crushes is something anyone can relate to.
Throw in a hunky TV star and a waitress and that sums up Bittersweet- on top of cute banter and supporting characters that make this a great book to get into.
I recommend this novel to anyone who has never had an easy time with a crush but when it all works out it seemed like it was all worth it.
I received this novel in exchange for an honest review
Throw in a hunky TV star and a waitress and that sums up Bittersweet- on top of cute banter and supporting characters that make this a great book to get into.
I recommend this novel to anyone who has never had an easy time with a crush but when it all works out it seemed like it was all worth it.
I received this novel in exchange for an honest review
January 27, 2015
I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Bittersweet is a fun and enjoyable read. The characters are Likeable, albeit a little frustrating, it was a quick read for me however, I found myself fully engaged with what was happening with Cathy and Greg. The only thing that I think would have made it a stronger story for me would have been meatier drama. All of the drama that met Cathy and Greg wasn't important to me and didn't sway me, I like my drama big. Overall I did enjoy the story and thought that it was sweet overall.
I look forward to reading book 2
Bittersweet is a fun and enjoyable read. The characters are Likeable, albeit a little frustrating, it was a quick read for me however, I found myself fully engaged with what was happening with Cathy and Greg. The only thing that I think would have made it a stronger story for me would have been meatier drama. All of the drama that met Cathy and Greg wasn't important to me and didn't sway me, I like my drama big. Overall I did enjoy the story and thought that it was sweet overall.
I look forward to reading book 2
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