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On the Verge #3
Life on the Level
Never gamble more than you can afford to lose.
River Thomas was born a wild card. Her father took one look at her and decided that his daughter would have the best poker face in the city.
But when he dies unexpectedly, River's already dangerous life is spiraling out of control. After six months without gambling—staying away from the tables where she makes and loses her fortune—she relapses, and soon must go on the run from a guy looking to settle a score.
She wants to be better, needs to be better, before she ends up like her dad. The road leads her to rehab in Sun Valley, Montana. But first, one last hurrah, and the beautiful stranger at the bar is just what the doctor ordered. She leaves before sunrise still thinking of his face. But her last hurrah with the guy of her dreams is also her counselor for the next ninety days...
Attraction, however, is too strong a lure to ignore, and soon River finds herself gambling with the one thing she never thought she would—her heart.
River Thomas was born a wild card. Her father took one look at her and decided that his daughter would have the best poker face in the city.
But when he dies unexpectedly, River's already dangerous life is spiraling out of control. After six months without gambling—staying away from the tables where she makes and loses her fortune—she relapses, and soon must go on the run from a guy looking to settle a score.
She wants to be better, needs to be better, before she ends up like her dad. The road leads her to rehab in Sun Valley, Montana. But first, one last hurrah, and the beautiful stranger at the bar is just what the doctor ordered. She leaves before sunrise still thinking of his face. But her last hurrah with the guy of her dreams is also her counselor for the next ninety days...
Attraction, however, is too strong a lure to ignore, and soon River finds herself gambling with the one thing she never thought she would—her heart.
Kindle Edition
First published February 23, 2016
606 people want to read
About the author
Zoraida Córdova
42 books4,786 followersZoraida Córdova is the author of many fantasy novels for kids and teens, including the award-winning Brooklyn Brujas series, Incendiary, and Star Wars: Galaxy's Edge: A Crash of Fate. Her short fiction has appeared in the New York Times bestselling anthology Star Wars: From a Certain Point of View, Star Wars The Clone Wars: Stories of Light and Dark, Come on In: 15 Stories About Immigration and Finding Home, and Toil & Trouble: 15 Tales of Women and Witchcraft. She is the co-editor of the bestselling anthology Vampires Never Get Old. Her debut middle grade novel is The Way to Rio Luna. She is the co-host of the podcast Deadline City with Dhonielle Clayton. Zoraida was born in Ecuador and raised in Queens, New York. When she isn’t working on her next novel, she’s planning a new adventure.
NOTE: Direct messages on this account may not be seen. Send her an email at zoraidabooks@gmail.com
NOTE: Direct messages on this account may not be seen. Send her an email at zoraidabooks@gmail.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 34 reviews
August 25, 2017
This review was originally posted at https://freadomlibrary.wordpress.com/
I received an e-ARC of this book from Diversion Books via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Critically
Plot – 4 out of 5 stars
This one is a lot more dramatic and angsty than the previous but considering the setting it makes a lot of sense. It’s emotional, dangerous, sexy (obviously), and powerful. Even with all the grief, there are funny and playful moments so it doesn’t bog the reader down at all. The only thing that bothered me was that things were a little bit too quickly resolved at the end.
Writing Style – 4 out of 5 stars
I usually always end up repeating myself in this section, but that’s okay! It’s simple yet descriptive and detailed. It’s honest and realistic. This time it also feels a lot more emotional and intense to help support how the plot moves. But it still has it’s funny laugh out loud moments that I love while still being powerful.
Characters – 4 out of 5 stars
I really liked the glimpses we got of River, the main character, in the second book but the reality of her wasn’t what I was expecting. I really enjoyed her character but she was tougher and maybe even colder than I thought she was going to be. She’s really rough around the edges but she’s also been through a lot and has a hard time connecting to new people. She’s really independent and smart, knows how to take care of herself for the most part but has really self-destructive habits. At first, she was kind of in denial about her issues which frustrated me and she was a little bit too stubborn and dense on things but I loved seeing her character development throughout the book. Although again I’ll say, the end was a bit too rushed and it should’ve been digested better. Chris Hutchinson aka Hutch, the male protagonist, sometimes feels a bit too good to be true. He’s sweet, open and honest. He’s really strong and steady and just what River needs. But I kind of wanted to see more of his flaws and I can’t remember seeing any. He’s very determined to be with River, no matter what but it kind of made him lose sight of his own goals and aspirations. I liked him but Hayden is my bae forever.
Emotionally
I received an e-ARC of this book from Diversion Books via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Critically
Plot – 4 out of 5 stars
This one is a lot more dramatic and angsty than the previous but considering the setting it makes a lot of sense. It’s emotional, dangerous, sexy (obviously), and powerful. Even with all the grief, there are funny and playful moments so it doesn’t bog the reader down at all. The only thing that bothered me was that things were a little bit too quickly resolved at the end.
Writing Style – 4 out of 5 stars
I usually always end up repeating myself in this section, but that’s okay! It’s simple yet descriptive and detailed. It’s honest and realistic. This time it also feels a lot more emotional and intense to help support how the plot moves. But it still has it’s funny laugh out loud moments that I love while still being powerful.
Characters – 4 out of 5 stars
I really liked the glimpses we got of River, the main character, in the second book but the reality of her wasn’t what I was expecting. I really enjoyed her character but she was tougher and maybe even colder than I thought she was going to be. She’s really rough around the edges but she’s also been through a lot and has a hard time connecting to new people. She’s really independent and smart, knows how to take care of herself for the most part but has really self-destructive habits. At first, she was kind of in denial about her issues which frustrated me and she was a little bit too stubborn and dense on things but I loved seeing her character development throughout the book. Although again I’ll say, the end was a bit too rushed and it should’ve been digested better. Chris Hutchinson aka Hutch, the male protagonist, sometimes feels a bit too good to be true. He’s sweet, open and honest. He’s really strong and steady and just what River needs. But I kind of wanted to see more of his flaws and I can’t remember seeing any. He’s very determined to be with River, no matter what but it kind of made him lose sight of his own goals and aspirations. I liked him but Hayden is my bae forever.
Emotionally
January 4, 2016
I've always wanted to write a book set in Montana. It's a book that's close to my heart. River and the whole cast are little tributes to people I know are struggling. Here's to Mr. Nice Guy.
Want to read
February 19, 2016There is still time to jump on the LIFE ON THE LEVEL Blog Tour!
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February 7, 2016
You can find my review on The Book Voyagers
Once again, Zoraida Córdova has made my heart go out of control. Her books are always so hot and at the same time, I can't help to laugh-out-loud and falling in love with the people that I'm reading about. Life on the Level was no different but I guess I really love these two characters a hella lot more? River and Hutch were sparks that wanted to explode from the first time and continued to be my absolute joy throughout the whole book.
River made me laugh and her friendship with Sky and Leti is what you want friendships between girls to be like. It's a breath of fresh air to see this in NA! Many of the times I read NAs they pit girls vs girls because of a boy or it's like girls can't be friends somehow? Which is 0 not true to be honest. Like why??? Life in the Level shows you that girls are masterminds and the best together. We have all the fun pleaseeee.
I cannot lie that at the end of the book some things were happening too fast like all the problems wanted to be resolved at once. It didn't bother me that much, because I enjoyed all the before-story. It just something that I felt like it was like that. Still I was really happy how the book ended and it's no secret I really enjoy my romance books.
I really, really like this book and I'm happy to see a fellow Latina write great books that have so much inside of them. You guys should read ON THE VERGE series - meet the jalapeño personalities of the MCs and their sweet yet dripping-hot heroes, all the shenanigans happening around them and the fun and laughs you will share while reading Zoraida's stories.
~
After finishing:
Once again, Zoraida Córdova has made my heart go out of control. Her books are always so hot and at the same time, really funny and so nice to read. Life on the Level was no different but I guess I really love these two characters a hella lot more? River and Hutch were sparks from the first time and continued to be my absolute joy throughout the whole book.
River made me laugh and her friendship with Sky and Leti is what you want friendships between girls to be like. It's a breath of fresh air to see this and I'm so happy because my VDay event in the blog is happening this week and I'm so definitely recommending Zoraida's book because IT HAS EVERYTHING.
Review to come soon to the blog!
Once again, Zoraida Córdova has made my heart go out of control. Her books are always so hot and at the same time, I can't help to laugh-out-loud and falling in love with the people that I'm reading about. Life on the Level was no different but I guess I really love these two characters a hella lot more? River and Hutch were sparks that wanted to explode from the first time and continued to be my absolute joy throughout the whole book.
River made me laugh and her friendship with Sky and Leti is what you want friendships between girls to be like. It's a breath of fresh air to see this in NA! Many of the times I read NAs they pit girls vs girls because of a boy or it's like girls can't be friends somehow? Which is 0 not true to be honest. Like why??? Life in the Level shows you that girls are masterminds and the best together. We have all the fun pleaseeee.
I cannot lie that at the end of the book some things were happening too fast like all the problems wanted to be resolved at once. It didn't bother me that much, because I enjoyed all the before-story. It just something that I felt like it was like that. Still I was really happy how the book ended and it's no secret I really enjoy my romance books.
I really, really like this book and I'm happy to see a fellow Latina write great books that have so much inside of them. You guys should read ON THE VERGE series - meet the jalapeño personalities of the MCs and their sweet yet dripping-hot heroes, all the shenanigans happening around them and the fun and laughs you will share while reading Zoraida's stories.
~
After finishing:
Once again, Zoraida Córdova has made my heart go out of control. Her books are always so hot and at the same time, really funny and so nice to read. Life on the Level was no different but I guess I really love these two characters a hella lot more? River and Hutch were sparks from the first time and continued to be my absolute joy throughout the whole book.
River made me laugh and her friendship with Sky and Leti is what you want friendships between girls to be like. It's a breath of fresh air to see this and I'm so happy because my VDay event in the blog is happening this week and I'm so definitely recommending Zoraida's book because IT HAS EVERYTHING.
Review to come soon to the blog!
June 7, 2016
Another great NA read with both new and familiar characters. The setting for each book is really different from the last and the stories are fresh and exciting. With mystery, danger, romance, looking back, and looking forward, River's journey is as original and enjoyable as Lucky's and Sky's. I'll miss this series!
dnf
May 30, 2016Chapters read: 12
Anything having to do with the ship was completely ridiculous. Quotes to come later when I'm not on my iPad if I'm not too lazy.
Anything that didn't have to do with the ship was boring me to tears, even though I'm generally into therapy fiction. I think much of my problem stems from not having liked River in Sky's book.
Anything having to do with the ship was completely ridiculous. Quotes to come later when I'm not on my iPad if I'm not too lazy.
Anything that didn't have to do with the ship was boring me to tears, even though I'm generally into therapy fiction. I think much of my problem stems from not having liked River in Sky's book.
March 29, 2016
I've been eagerly waiting for River's story and I'm soooo happy to have read it!! I absolutely loved River and Hutch!! They were both fantastic characters, but they were even better together!!! :D
Full review to come!!
Full review to come!!
October 11, 2020
SHE IS AN ADDICT AND HE IS HER COUNSELLOR. WTF.
They could not have waited 90 days to bang?! Patiently wait for the 90 day mark and then screwed their brains out AFTER she tries to get better? Jesus. It's all about the sex.
Also, she's AN ADDICT and this story is SET IN A REHAB CENTRE (ranch) and she's there TO GET BETTER, not to get nailed to the bed every night!! jesus! but when she's not getting her brains banged out, she's a proper Dora the Explorer, going around and snooping and searching for drugs, BUT NOT TO CONSUME, JUST FOR EVIDENCE! Cause she's not really an addict, not like the other addicts. She's better than them. GAAAAH.
So this is not a story about a woman who is trying to get clean and improve her life, she goes off to Montana to f*ck a cowboy one night, realize in the morning (as she is sneaking out of his house, not even knowing his name) that she likes him, crying over how she will never see him again (even though she literally picked him up in a bar and they went on to have sex and then she left without even knowing his first name!), and then she arrives at the rehab ... ranch, and bam! there he is. Drooling over her, and it's not just insta lust, it's INSTA LURWE! Isuse bože mili
so yeah, she's not focusing on becoming better as her brain is occupied with the lovely sex thoughts, so it's a wonder she even notices that something shady is happening there, and that people are getting stoned all over. But instead of alerting the staff, the professionals who know how to deal with things, she instead decides to save the day herself. And in the process becomes the resident slut, almost dies THREE TIMES, but that's not excitement enough for her, she also has to have hot monkey sex all the time and in all the places, even though their relationship is prohibited.
Let's also ignore how she tells the dude to go on a date with another woman to get the people off their scent, but then gets insanely jealous when he actually goes out with her. Isuse bože.
I can't even. I CAN'T EVEN!
This review is a mess, but so is the book.
I get that it's sexy for the reader, the sneaking around, the forbidden romance and all, but SHE'S AN ADDICT. HE IS HER COUNSELLOR. Come on. They could've kept their private bits inside their clothing for 90 days! And wouldn't it be sexier....? A slow burn? Saving the good stuff for AFTER SHE COMPLETES HER 90 DAY PROGRAM? And here they showed us that sex is the most important thing in the whole wide world, damn the consequences! That's not sexy to me. That's stupid. And juvenile.
So yeah, I had my issues with this. Like I have my issues with teacher/student romances (mainly high school). No matter how sexy the forbidden aspect of the relationship is - one person is the authority and the other is the underage student. Not only is it against the law, it is also disguisting. Also, what is sexy on a 17-year-old??! The only sexy thing on a 17 year-old would be a T-shirt with a picture of Colin Firth as Mr. Darcy on it!!!
Unbelievable.
They could not have waited 90 days to bang?! Patiently wait for the 90 day mark and then screwed their brains out AFTER she tries to get better? Jesus. It's all about the sex.
Also, she's AN ADDICT and this story is SET IN A REHAB CENTRE (ranch) and she's there TO GET BETTER, not to get nailed to the bed every night!! jesus! but when she's not getting her brains banged out, she's a proper Dora the Explorer, going around and snooping and searching for drugs, BUT NOT TO CONSUME, JUST FOR EVIDENCE! Cause she's not really an addict, not like the other addicts. She's better than them. GAAAAH.
So this is not a story about a woman who is trying to get clean and improve her life, she goes off to Montana to f*ck a cowboy one night, realize in the morning (as she is sneaking out of his house, not even knowing his name) that she likes him, crying over how she will never see him again (even though she literally picked him up in a bar and they went on to have sex and then she left without even knowing his first name!), and then she arrives at the rehab ... ranch, and bam! there he is. Drooling over her, and it's not just insta lust, it's INSTA LURWE! Isuse bože mili
so yeah, she's not focusing on becoming better as her brain is occupied with the lovely sex thoughts, so it's a wonder she even notices that something shady is happening there, and that people are getting stoned all over. But instead of alerting the staff, the professionals who know how to deal with things, she instead decides to save the day herself. And in the process becomes the resident slut, almost dies THREE TIMES, but that's not excitement enough for her, she also has to have hot monkey sex all the time and in all the places, even though their relationship is prohibited.
Let's also ignore how she tells the dude to go on a date with another woman to get the people off their scent, but then gets insanely jealous when he actually goes out with her. Isuse bože.
I can't even. I CAN'T EVEN!
This review is a mess, but so is the book.
I get that it's sexy for the reader, the sneaking around, the forbidden romance and all, but SHE'S AN ADDICT. HE IS HER COUNSELLOR. Come on. They could've kept their private bits inside their clothing for 90 days! And wouldn't it be sexier....? A slow burn? Saving the good stuff for AFTER SHE COMPLETES HER 90 DAY PROGRAM? And here they showed us that sex is the most important thing in the whole wide world, damn the consequences! That's not sexy to me. That's stupid. And juvenile.
So yeah, I had my issues with this. Like I have my issues with teacher/student romances (mainly high school). No matter how sexy the forbidden aspect of the relationship is - one person is the authority and the other is the underage student. Not only is it against the law, it is also disguisting. Also, what is sexy on a 17-year-old??! The only sexy thing on a 17 year-old would be a T-shirt with a picture of Colin Firth as Mr. Darcy on it!!!
Unbelievable.
October 5, 2020
2.75 Stars for me
The h was obstinate just to be difficult and it was really hard to get past how she treated the H. The H is a pure idiot as waiting 90 days is impossible? I did like how the story ended but the h makes it a difficult read. I will say that an addicted person may act this way but I am definitely not an expert! Writing is good and I wasn't going to stop.
The h was obstinate just to be difficult and it was really hard to get past how she treated the H. The H is a pure idiot as waiting 90 days is impossible? I did like how the story ended but the h makes it a difficult read. I will say that an addicted person may act this way but I am definitely not an expert! Writing is good and I wasn't going to stop.
July 19, 2018
Omg 😍😍😍😍
This was a difficult read in that it was heartbreaking. But River and Hutch are the best. I’m so swoony. I love everything about this book.
It might look like a romance, but it’s really about broken people and second chances and love against all odds. And oh my goodness. It’s the best.
This was a difficult read in that it was heartbreaking. But River and Hutch are the best. I’m so swoony. I love everything about this book.
It might look like a romance, but it’s really about broken people and second chances and love against all odds. And oh my goodness. It’s the best.
November 27, 2016
Our Rating:
The Verdict: We were introduced to River in the previous book, and she was fun, we didn’t really get to know her that well. Life on the Level clears that right up by giving us the insider’s view to a life that’s a lot more complicated than I really expected.
River’s got more than her fair share of problems, but while she may be a bit in denial –not to mention on the run from some serious trouble, she’s still doing the right thing and checking herself into rehab, hopefully the first step in turning her life around. But she’s not quite ready to stop having fun, so before she trades in her freedom for twelve steps and group sessions, she has one last wild night, complete with the requisite one-night-stand and the empty bed in the morning. And then she meets the counselor at the rehab center.
Like the previous books in this series, Life on the Level is nothing you expect and everything you want in a romance. River isn’t some cookie cutter romance heroine; she’s fun, troubled, and saddled with more than your usual set of problems. Her first meeting with Hutch is sizzling, and her second meeting… Well, it’s what I like to call the, “Hi. I’ve seen you naked, haven’t I?” situation. Not exactly ideal, but perfect to match her up with a guy she’s wickedly attracted to and who can actually bring some hope and healing to her life.
Normally, I wouldn’t pick up a book that centers on a bunch of people at a rehab center, but this one is definitely the exception. Filled with strong, complex, interesting, and realistic secondary characters, River’s time at the rehab center is well written and believable while maintaining that glossy fiction shine we turn to romance for in the first place. I have to admit that I was a bit worried as their relationship started out, being that all the drama they were mired in certainly couldn’t be good for River’s recovery. But soon enough, Hutch stepped aside and let another counselor take the official role, and things seemed a bit more feasible from there.
Hutch is pretty much everything River needs in a boyfriend. He’s good looking, kind, understanding, and patient. But he’s also well versed in the ways of an addict, and while River doesn’t always make things easy, he knows exactly how to support her in her journey to recovery. There is, of course, some hesitation on both their parts to cross the patient/counselor line, but while that slows down the physical side of the relationship for a while, it actually helps grow their connection. Through it all, River’s smart, snarky take on all things difficult makes an otherwise morose subject matter fun and interesting. Life on the Level by Zoraida Cordova is another winner in a fabulous new adult romance series, perfect for any reader who wants unique characters and a well-deserved happily ever after.
***FicCentral received a free copy of this book from Diversion Books (via NetGalley).***
April 5, 2016
If you've seen the movie 28 Days Later, you should have a pretty good idea of how this book reads. I happened to really enjoy 28 Days Later, so that worked out in my favor. As a whole, this was a quick and enjoyable read, with several aspects that I liked a lot. There were also a few things I found problematic, but overall, thumbs up from me.
I liked the relationships between the patients at the rehab center - they were largely supportive, but could also be fraught. That felt pretty real, since a group of adults going through a stressful transition won't always get along well. Plus, withdrawal. I also like the rehab center itself. There were a lot of outdoor activities built into the plot, like horseback riding and kayaking, which were pretty fun to read. The relationship between Hutch and River bordered on insta-love for me. It started out (before River checked in to rehab) as a purely physical connection, but before her 90 days are up, it's progressed to love. That's awfully fast for a relationship that has developed almost entirely in secret, and for very good reason. Which brings me to what I didn't love.
I realize that this book did a lot of things right. The relationship between the two characters began before their formal counselor/patient relationship, which helps address the power/transference issue. When they realize that they have a history, they arrange for River to have a different counselor. That's all good. But I could never quite get over the fact that they started this relationship while A) River was in rehab (not the most promising beginning for any relationship) B) Hutch was a counselor at her facility, and C) The entire beginning of their relationship was soaked in secrecy. An addict in such early stages of recovery being led into such deceptive behavior just doesn't seem right. I'm no counselor, but that's got to do some damage. And I'll be clear - it never felt like this was an uneven or opportunistic relationship. But isn't that the real problem? Because of the inherent difference in their standing and River's vulnerability as a recovering addict, it's impossible to be certain that it's not opportunistic?
I know, I know. It's a romance novel. But my brain has trouble shutting these kinds of thoughts out. Thus the 3 star rating. I enjoyed it, but my brain didn't shut up the whole time.
I liked the relationships between the patients at the rehab center - they were largely supportive, but could also be fraught. That felt pretty real, since a group of adults going through a stressful transition won't always get along well. Plus, withdrawal. I also like the rehab center itself. There were a lot of outdoor activities built into the plot, like horseback riding and kayaking, which were pretty fun to read. The relationship between Hutch and River bordered on insta-love for me. It started out (before River checked in to rehab) as a purely physical connection, but before her 90 days are up, it's progressed to love. That's awfully fast for a relationship that has developed almost entirely in secret, and for very good reason. Which brings me to what I didn't love.
I realize that this book did a lot of things right. The relationship between the two characters began before their formal counselor/patient relationship, which helps address the power/transference issue. When they realize that they have a history, they arrange for River to have a different counselor. That's all good. But I could never quite get over the fact that they started this relationship while A) River was in rehab (not the most promising beginning for any relationship) B) Hutch was a counselor at her facility, and C) The entire beginning of their relationship was soaked in secrecy. An addict in such early stages of recovery being led into such deceptive behavior just doesn't seem right. I'm no counselor, but that's got to do some damage. And I'll be clear - it never felt like this was an uneven or opportunistic relationship. But isn't that the real problem? Because of the inherent difference in their standing and River's vulnerability as a recovering addict, it's impossible to be certain that it's not opportunistic?
I know, I know. It's a romance novel. But my brain has trouble shutting these kinds of thoughts out. Thus the 3 star rating. I enjoyed it, but my brain didn't shut up the whole time.
May 24, 2016
River has decided to change her ways and stop her minor gambling and drinking issue, but first she has a one last fling, a night with an attractive stranger in a bar. Shockingly, River finds out that he just so happens to be her assigned counselor at the rehab facility she checked herself into. River and Hutch decide to keep their night together a secret and stay professional, but the two have a hard time staying away from each other. When danger comes to the center, Can River and Hutch keep it together?
I had wanted to read this series for a long time, so I jumped at the opportunity to read this book. This is the third book in the series, but each is a standalone based on different characters so it is not dire to read them in order. That being said, I loved River’s best friends (who are actually her family) and I can’t wait to read the books featuring them. I was pleasantly surprised by this book; I really enjoyed the depth of the characters and the plot. This was a cute romance about a flawed girl who is aware of the problems and wants to better herself not just for the other person, but for herself. I fully support that idea. Also, there was a mystery and some random danger thrown in to spice up the basic romance plot.
My biggest complaint with the story was how easily everything wrapped up. Seriously, there was multiple conflicts going on and within pages, everything was resolved in a neat little package full of unlikely coincidences. Don’t get me wrong, I like happy endings and this was one of those, but I felt like it should have taken more to get to the happy ending.
I enjoyed the progression of River’s character as someone on the run (for the most part) who hides at a rehab center in the middle of nowhere but doesn’t think she has a problem. Over the course of the book, her behaviors and crutches are revealed and she understands that she has an actual problem, just like she judges everyone else for having. I feel like there was a lot of real life crammed in this book, overcoming all sorts of addiction problems, and even at times not overcoming it.
Overall I really enjoyed this contemporary love story and can’t wait to read more from this author, be it her young adult or new adult books.
I received this title from the author in return for my honest review.
For more reviews visit my blog at http://smadasbooksmack.blogspot.com/
I had wanted to read this series for a long time, so I jumped at the opportunity to read this book. This is the third book in the series, but each is a standalone based on different characters so it is not dire to read them in order. That being said, I loved River’s best friends (who are actually her family) and I can’t wait to read the books featuring them. I was pleasantly surprised by this book; I really enjoyed the depth of the characters and the plot. This was a cute romance about a flawed girl who is aware of the problems and wants to better herself not just for the other person, but for herself. I fully support that idea. Also, there was a mystery and some random danger thrown in to spice up the basic romance plot.
My biggest complaint with the story was how easily everything wrapped up. Seriously, there was multiple conflicts going on and within pages, everything was resolved in a neat little package full of unlikely coincidences. Don’t get me wrong, I like happy endings and this was one of those, but I felt like it should have taken more to get to the happy ending.
I enjoyed the progression of River’s character as someone on the run (for the most part) who hides at a rehab center in the middle of nowhere but doesn’t think she has a problem. Over the course of the book, her behaviors and crutches are revealed and she understands that she has an actual problem, just like she judges everyone else for having. I feel like there was a lot of real life crammed in this book, overcoming all sorts of addiction problems, and even at times not overcoming it.
Overall I really enjoyed this contemporary love story and can’t wait to read more from this author, be it her young adult or new adult books.
I received this title from the author in return for my honest review.
For more reviews visit my blog at http://smadasbooksmack.blogspot.com/
February 19, 2016
ARC received in exchange for an honest review...
Let's kick this off with some blunt honesty. I've waited for this book ever since I finished the last page of the previous book (Love On The Ledge). My anticipation and expectation were probably at epic levels by the time I actually picked up my kindle and settled into the read. Walking into the read with such a high expectation could have backfired...
but it didn't.
Life on the Level is yet another stunning example of why I love this series so much. Cordova continues to seamlessly weave diversity into the tapestry of this series in a very much appreciated nod to real life. Her characters are beautifully flawed and her leading men are the best kind of book boyfriends out there.
The story picks up were LEDGE left us. River has said goodbye to her two best friends, the city she loves, and the lifestyle that has led to more than enough trouble for her. Now in the middle of nowhere Montana, she spends her last night of freedom in the arms and bed of the gorgeous stranger she set her sights on at the bar. No names, no relationship just a night...
But when she walks into her first meeting with her counselor and sees her beautiful stranger she realizes that her plans might be changing.
The desire and attraction is palpable and plays an amazing costar to the rehabilitation of River. For the first time in this series I found myself very emotional at times, a testimony to the well crafted story telling about a young woman who is reclaiming her strength and starting to rewrite her own life story. Even in the midst of the emotional rehabilitation, River never loses her sass, spunk, and holds ever fast to her truest sense of self.
A twist on a forbidden love story, Life on the Level kept me engaged and eager to turn the page as we get to know more about the fun band of misfits that surround River at rehab. They were a superb supporting cast of characters and each provided levity and/or gravity along the way.
Another five star addition to this series.
Let's kick this off with some blunt honesty. I've waited for this book ever since I finished the last page of the previous book (Love On The Ledge). My anticipation and expectation were probably at epic levels by the time I actually picked up my kindle and settled into the read. Walking into the read with such a high expectation could have backfired...
but it didn't.
Life on the Level is yet another stunning example of why I love this series so much. Cordova continues to seamlessly weave diversity into the tapestry of this series in a very much appreciated nod to real life. Her characters are beautifully flawed and her leading men are the best kind of book boyfriends out there.
The story picks up were LEDGE left us. River has said goodbye to her two best friends, the city she loves, and the lifestyle that has led to more than enough trouble for her. Now in the middle of nowhere Montana, she spends her last night of freedom in the arms and bed of the gorgeous stranger she set her sights on at the bar. No names, no relationship just a night...
But when she walks into her first meeting with her counselor and sees her beautiful stranger she realizes that her plans might be changing.
The desire and attraction is palpable and plays an amazing costar to the rehabilitation of River. For the first time in this series I found myself very emotional at times, a testimony to the well crafted story telling about a young woman who is reclaiming her strength and starting to rewrite her own life story. Even in the midst of the emotional rehabilitation, River never loses her sass, spunk, and holds ever fast to her truest sense of self.
A twist on a forbidden love story, Life on the Level kept me engaged and eager to turn the page as we get to know more about the fun band of misfits that surround River at rehab. They were a superb supporting cast of characters and each provided levity and/or gravity along the way.
Another five star addition to this series.
February 20, 2016
Your daddy was a Poker player and he taught you EVERYTHING he knows! You are from New York and you have the best poker face there was known to mans kind. You can beat everyone and anyone. Its how you were raised. You was raised in bars and 'rooms that doesn't exist' and to top it off your a female. Blonde headed at that. One of the prettiest blondes at that. oh and did i mention that its natural at that?!
Well that is River Thomas. Besides after Rivers dad dies everything crumples. She turns to Alcohol and finds her self in a very bad relationship. Everything seemed fine and then the worst happens, she gets thrown out of a window and theres a nasty scar because of the fall. And now she's running for her life, She escaped him, after she left one nasty scar on his face.
She finds her self in little ol Sun Valley, Montana where she checks into Rehab. But not before she Runs into a hottie that she never gets his name. She never tells him hers either. She has one last drink one last hoorah. Before she commits her self into Rehab. And then the unthinkable happens. Her last hoorah is well with her counselor and now she knows his name. HUTCH (His name even sounds hot doesn't it) And he knows hers, (River Thomas)
In this book there is so much drama that happens in this book. You fall in love with (most) of the characters and hate (some) of the characters. This book leaves no loose ends. Well maybe a few but i'm hoping some of them will find their way into a book somehow?! Maybe a update on River and Hutch :)
You will be like no way dude. And other times be like EWWW I HATE YOU! and then theres the point where your like ok i know your going to show up. go ahead and show upalready. and then theres the point where you think No River your BETTER then that! Don't do it!!! So yes theres ALOT of different emotions that goes thru this book. Theres ALOT of sweetness into it also.
Would i Reread this book?! ABSOLUTELY.
Would i Recommend this book?! YES. matter of fact i recommend this book to YOU! So go get it.
It releases On February 23, 2016.
Well that is River Thomas. Besides after Rivers dad dies everything crumples. She turns to Alcohol and finds her self in a very bad relationship. Everything seemed fine and then the worst happens, she gets thrown out of a window and theres a nasty scar because of the fall. And now she's running for her life, She escaped him, after she left one nasty scar on his face.
She finds her self in little ol Sun Valley, Montana where she checks into Rehab. But not before she Runs into a hottie that she never gets his name. She never tells him hers either. She has one last drink one last hoorah. Before she commits her self into Rehab. And then the unthinkable happens. Her last hoorah is well with her counselor and now she knows his name. HUTCH (His name even sounds hot doesn't it) And he knows hers, (River Thomas)
In this book there is so much drama that happens in this book. You fall in love with (most) of the characters and hate (some) of the characters. This book leaves no loose ends. Well maybe a few but i'm hoping some of them will find their way into a book somehow?! Maybe a update on River and Hutch :)
You will be like no way dude. And other times be like EWWW I HATE YOU! and then theres the point where your like ok i know your going to show up. go ahead and show upalready. and then theres the point where you think No River your BETTER then that! Don't do it!!! So yes theres ALOT of different emotions that goes thru this book. Theres ALOT of sweetness into it also.
Would i Reread this book?! ABSOLUTELY.
Would i Recommend this book?! YES. matter of fact i recommend this book to YOU! So go get it.
It releases On February 23, 2016.
February 23, 2016
Reviewed by Amy W
Book provided by the author for review
Originally posted at Romancing the Book
If there is one characteristic I have come to expect from Zoraida Cordova’s On the Verge series, it is that the female main character has plenty of dynamite.
Readers expecting a wishy-washy type woman unable to speak her own mind or incapable of handling life’s challenges will certainly be surprised by River Thomas, the focus of Life on the Level, Cordova’s third installment in this series. River is a little bit on the snarky side, already having dealt with more than her share of life’s disappointments. Nothing quite prepares her for what was supposed to be a one-night stand…and ends up popping back up in the most unexpected place like her rehab center.
Chris Hutcherson is the type of man who wants to help others out of the difficult spots they have worked themselves into, particularly when it comes to substance abuse. The fact that he finally knows the identity of the woman who shared a drunken evening of passion just complicates matters to the extreme. In order for River to accept his help, she’s going to have to not only swallow her pride, but toss some of her stubbornness to the wayside.
This is a story that is filled with hope in the midst of trying to fight the cycle of addiction. While that part of the storyline is playing out, the author has several other plot twists to keep the reader interested. It’s kind of ironic that River can actually get herself into trouble without needing anyone else’s help. One of the most significant quotes comes during a conversation with Chris: “I’m the thing that you get when a train and a semitruck collide. I am who I am, and, you know what? Maybe that’s not so bad.”
Together, with the help of an interesting case of characters, River and Chris deal with the ups and downs of the rehab journey. Full of bumps and detours, it proved to be an enjoyable experience. As the third book in the series, this can be read as a standalone.
Book provided by the author for review
Originally posted at Romancing the Book
If there is one characteristic I have come to expect from Zoraida Cordova’s On the Verge series, it is that the female main character has plenty of dynamite.
Readers expecting a wishy-washy type woman unable to speak her own mind or incapable of handling life’s challenges will certainly be surprised by River Thomas, the focus of Life on the Level, Cordova’s third installment in this series. River is a little bit on the snarky side, already having dealt with more than her share of life’s disappointments. Nothing quite prepares her for what was supposed to be a one-night stand…and ends up popping back up in the most unexpected place like her rehab center.
Chris Hutcherson is the type of man who wants to help others out of the difficult spots they have worked themselves into, particularly when it comes to substance abuse. The fact that he finally knows the identity of the woman who shared a drunken evening of passion just complicates matters to the extreme. In order for River to accept his help, she’s going to have to not only swallow her pride, but toss some of her stubbornness to the wayside.
This is a story that is filled with hope in the midst of trying to fight the cycle of addiction. While that part of the storyline is playing out, the author has several other plot twists to keep the reader interested. It’s kind of ironic that River can actually get herself into trouble without needing anyone else’s help. One of the most significant quotes comes during a conversation with Chris: “I’m the thing that you get when a train and a semitruck collide. I am who I am, and, you know what? Maybe that’s not so bad.”
Together, with the help of an interesting case of characters, River and Chris deal with the ups and downs of the rehab journey. Full of bumps and detours, it proved to be an enjoyable experience. As the third book in the series, this can be read as a standalone.
February 26, 2016
River is heading off to rehab in the morning so she plans to have one last wild night before checking in. Alcohol and sex with a handsome stranger is all she bargained for. Regret, hesitation and longing--not so much.
What I enjoyed the most about this story was River's voice. It's rare for me to connect to a heroine as easily as I did with River. She was hard edged, sarcastic and painfully honest, but underneath that tough exterior she was loyal, protective and hiding a great amount of hurt. I appreciated Zoraida Cordova's efforts to allow me to get to know River well for it helped draw me in deeper into the story.
It also helped that I was eager to see Hutch and River together. Having them being apart initially as well as seeing River adapting to sober life, served to up my interest as well. The author did a fantastic job of making the reader feel River's frustrations, fears and insecurities while also letting us experience the growth she was undergoing while at rehab.
Of course, Hutch and River had great chemistry and a wonderful connection which the author highlighted and brought to the surface as the story progressed. Both of these elements are essential for me in a romance and I appreciated the way the author brought them forth while still adding the conflict and emotions that rounded up the story.
Keep in mind that although this is the third book in the series, it can be read as a stand alone. I enjoyed Leti and Sky's visit, but was glad to see the story focused solely on River and her journey. All in all, a fantastic read.
What I enjoyed the most about this story was River's voice. It's rare for me to connect to a heroine as easily as I did with River. She was hard edged, sarcastic and painfully honest, but underneath that tough exterior she was loyal, protective and hiding a great amount of hurt. I appreciated Zoraida Cordova's efforts to allow me to get to know River well for it helped draw me in deeper into the story.
It also helped that I was eager to see Hutch and River together. Having them being apart initially as well as seeing River adapting to sober life, served to up my interest as well. The author did a fantastic job of making the reader feel River's frustrations, fears and insecurities while also letting us experience the growth she was undergoing while at rehab.
Of course, Hutch and River had great chemistry and a wonderful connection which the author highlighted and brought to the surface as the story progressed. Both of these elements are essential for me in a romance and I appreciated the way the author brought them forth while still adding the conflict and emotions that rounded up the story.
Keep in mind that although this is the third book in the series, it can be read as a stand alone. I enjoyed Leti and Sky's visit, but was glad to see the story focused solely on River and her journey. All in all, a fantastic read.
February 28, 2016
Oh, my goodness! The fun I had reading Life on the Level... Fabulous! To be honest, I had a bit of a weird experience while I was reading this book. It didn't feel as if I was simply reading it. Instead, it almost felt as if it was more than a book, like I was watching everything happen rather than reading it. Zoraida's writing was so smooth and effortless that it felt as if the pages of the book were coming to life in front of me. The characters were phenomenal, especially River. I loved her snarky and sarcastic personality. She's a character I connected with almost immediately because she knows that she has screwed up her life and now she's ready to get clean, even if her last hurrah gets her in a bit of a jam... Hutch was swoon-worthy to the max. Not only is he sexy, he also has such a caring soul. The two of them together was magically. While their relationship started with a bang (heh, pun intended), the connection between them quickly develops into so much more as they get to know each other. And of course, as they spend more and more time together, the sparks continue to fly until they can no longer resist each other.
I flipping adored Life on the Level. I simply could not put it down for more than 5 minutes. I was tethered to it for the whole day. Everything from the writing to the amazing characters rocked. Now I must pick up the previous books in the series...
I received a copy in exchange for a honest review.
I flipping adored Life on the Level. I simply could not put it down for more than 5 minutes. I was tethered to it for the whole day. Everything from the writing to the amazing characters rocked. Now I must pick up the previous books in the series...
I received a copy in exchange for a honest review.
February 19, 2016
3.5 stars
Life on the Level is the story of River, an addict from New York that has decided to have a last wild night before she checks in rehab in Montana. The guy she picks up is Mr. Nice Guy Hutch who also happens to be the counselor that is assigned to her. They have their night but are shocked to run into each other the next day.
While these two obviously shouldn’t have hooked up while she is trying to heal they can’t stay away from each other. I do think the author did a decent job with this. They manage to build a friendship and some trust and keep their hands off of each other for a while. They eventually give in, but I did like them together.
There is also strange things happening within the rehab and River is trying to stay out of it but is threatened. She is also dealing with an outside threat in the form of her ex who keeps sending her ominous notes. I thought all of this wrapped up way too fast, kind of like the author was in a hurry to end the book. I think with more development I would have given this a higher rating. All said I did like her writing style and I will check out the other books in the series.
copy provided in exchange for review
Life on the Level is the story of River, an addict from New York that has decided to have a last wild night before she checks in rehab in Montana. The guy she picks up is Mr. Nice Guy Hutch who also happens to be the counselor that is assigned to her. They have their night but are shocked to run into each other the next day.
While these two obviously shouldn’t have hooked up while she is trying to heal they can’t stay away from each other. I do think the author did a decent job with this. They manage to build a friendship and some trust and keep their hands off of each other for a while. They eventually give in, but I did like them together.
There is also strange things happening within the rehab and River is trying to stay out of it but is threatened. She is also dealing with an outside threat in the form of her ex who keeps sending her ominous notes. I thought all of this wrapped up way too fast, kind of like the author was in a hurry to end the book. I think with more development I would have given this a higher rating. All said I did like her writing style and I will check out the other books in the series.
copy provided in exchange for review
August 25, 2016
Of the three On the Verge books, this was my favorite one. I knew I loved River when she was introduced in Love on the Ledge, and this story just made me love her more. River is a mess. She's troubled and destructive, but she's tough, and extremely likable despite it. The author creates enough sympathy and realism in the character that we never hate River for what she does, even when the choices are bad and reckless. We love her for the way she tries to hold on when things slip through her fingertips, or pushes away to avoid pain. Her love interest, Hutch, is solid, dependable, and really REALLY shouldn't be hooking up with River. Still his solid personality balances with River's wildness. Never does the reader feel as though these two were forced together by an author's whim. The backdrop of this story, a rehab center where River has gone to set her life straight, introduces a whole host of minor characters that feel real. Add to that an intriguing set of complications and a beautifully describe setting, and I'm kinda in love with this book. :) I'll miss the On the Verge girls.
May 12, 2016
"Life on the Level" (On The Verge #3) was this month's Book Club choice. I hadn't read anything from Zoraida before, so I didn't know what to expect, but I was pleasantly surprised. What captured my attention was the tone of the book. It was easy for me to sink into to storyline and connect with the characters. I actually cared about what happened to them, especially the heroine, River Thomas, and that's what I hope for when reading a book by an author for the first time. There are two other books that are part of the "On The Verge" series and I look forward to reading them as well.
February 19, 2016
I received a copy of this book through Net Galley.
I've read previous novels by this author and think this is her best to date. There are some serious boundary issues and a mental health professional may want to bang his/her head while reading the book (ethical violations, anyone?), but I still liked it. There's a somewhat slowly developing love story with a main character that you can't help but like. I struggled to put this book down.
I've read previous novels by this author and think this is her best to date. There are some serious boundary issues and a mental health professional may want to bang his/her head while reading the book (ethical violations, anyone?), but I still liked it. There's a somewhat slowly developing love story with a main character that you can't help but like. I struggled to put this book down.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 21, 2016
River Thomas (I liked the name) goes to Sun Valley Montana and checks herself into rehab, however before she goes in she picks up a hot guy in a bar the night before. Turns out Mr. Hot Guy is a counselor there-LOL. I definitely enjoyed how the story picked up from there, a few surprises you won't be expecting.
September 13, 2016
River's story was never going to be simple. Even when she is trying her best to be good, shit goes down and messes crop up and love is a constant complication. She is her own worst enemy most of the time except when nature's trying to kill her. (Or so it seems.) But she learns, eventually, and by the time we reach the end, she's earned it and owns it.
In other words, Recommended.
In other words, Recommended.
March 26, 2016
I love stories wherever the side characters get to become more exciting within the sequels, it breaks the monotony and it conjointly offers a way of a way higher developed world. The characters on this book are always a bit too good to be true.
August 13, 2016
“For everyone starting over, struggling, or just trying to get through this funny thing called life. And finally, for the angry, broken, lost girls. You are not alone.”
This book did feel like it was for us, and I'm grateful for it.
This book did feel like it was for us, and I'm grateful for it.
July 20, 2019
It’s been awhile since I read the book and forgot to write a review. But I have to say It’s a must read series! I personally have met the author as well and I just love all of her books I’ve read so far!!!!
August 20, 2019
There's an update on River and Hutch in Zoey Castile's new book Flashed! (Her other pen name) other characters from this series pop up also at the end.
Want to read
February 5, 2016 **I received a copy through Netgalley in exchange for an honest review**
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