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The Love Lies Bleeding Series #1
Finding Jordie
Jordie Spagnato was content raising her daughter on her own, and running a successful New York City hot spot. Enter Nathan Harper: tall, handsome, full of charisma and there to lend a hand when a drunken brawl almost lands Jordie in jail.
Late night walks, rooftop visits and breakfast quickly become their routine until Nathan’s future and Jordie’s past threaten to ruin their lives.
Late night walks, rooftop visits and breakfast quickly become their routine until Nathan’s future and Jordie’s past threaten to ruin their lives.
252 pages, Kindle Edition
First published February 1, 2013
14 people are currently reading
846 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 100 reviews
January 11, 2015
3.5 stars
This book was kind of silly, kind of OTT but still cute and enjoyable. With the direction this went in the last 10% I definitely want to read the next book.
This book was kind of silly, kind of OTT but still cute and enjoyable. With the direction this went in the last 10% I definitely want to read the next book.
May 1, 2013
First off, let me say, coming from a thirty-one year old from New York, I was CRACKING UP at all the references to my teenage years, NSYNC and Backstreet Boys...now If H.J. would have talked about NEW KIDS ON THE BLOCK...that would have been extra points. BUT....she does reference my BF, Zach Morris....so A+ to that!! LURVE me some Mark Paul Gossilar.
Jordie ROCKED! I liked her from page one, her abrasive nature (being from NY/NJ), her hard-working mind set and the way she cared about her daughter, friends and family. I just felt sad for her that something was missing, she was just meandering through her life, not really living...and in walks NATHAN....in the words of Rachel Ray....YUMMMMMMMO!!
When the shit (yes, there is A LOT of cursing in this romance, but funny enough, it felt like HOME) hits the fan, and I won't give away Nate's little (BIG) secret just yet, but Jordie is put into a tough situation, but they come out on top, until both of their lives get rocked...and WHERE DID THAT COME FROM..I was like NOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!!
The ending was bittersweet, as I wanted to smack some sense into Jordie, and maybe slap Nathan around a little bit too...and I didn't want it to end...I hope HJ plans to write a story for Rachel, maybe more on her and a certain singer..hummmmmm!!
By the time I was finished reading FINDING JORDIE, everyone felt like family. I could see myself working behind the bar, joking around with Mike and Carlos, talking "Boy Band Wars" with Rach and Jordie. Maybe hitting on Frank..haha! It was that REAL, you feel like you belong there.
H.J., thank you for taking me on a wonderful trip back home to New York, I swear I could smell the nasty hot dog trucks!! haha! I highly recommend FINDING JORDIE to my readers and I hope they will give it a read.
Jordie ROCKED! I liked her from page one, her abrasive nature (being from NY/NJ), her hard-working mind set and the way she cared about her daughter, friends and family. I just felt sad for her that something was missing, she was just meandering through her life, not really living...and in walks NATHAN....in the words of Rachel Ray....YUMMMMMMMO!!
When the shit (yes, there is A LOT of cursing in this romance, but funny enough, it felt like HOME) hits the fan, and I won't give away Nate's little (BIG) secret just yet, but Jordie is put into a tough situation, but they come out on top, until both of their lives get rocked...and WHERE DID THAT COME FROM..I was like NOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!!
The ending was bittersweet, as I wanted to smack some sense into Jordie, and maybe slap Nathan around a little bit too...and I didn't want it to end...I hope HJ plans to write a story for Rachel, maybe more on her and a certain singer..hummmmmm!!
By the time I was finished reading FINDING JORDIE, everyone felt like family. I could see myself working behind the bar, joking around with Mike and Carlos, talking "Boy Band Wars" with Rach and Jordie. Maybe hitting on Frank..haha! It was that REAL, you feel like you belong there.
H.J., thank you for taking me on a wonderful trip back home to New York, I swear I could smell the nasty hot dog trucks!! haha! I highly recommend FINDING JORDIE to my readers and I hope they will give it a read.
May 17, 2015
☆☆☆ 3.5 STARS ☆☆☆
H.J. Harley gives us romance, mystery, and raw emotions in Finding Jordie, the first book in the Love Lies Bleeding Series.
Jordie is tenacious, feisty and bold. Having suffered a major loss eight years ago she holds a lot of vulnerability inside. Not only owning, but running a bar in NYC her only other focus is her daughter Emma.
Everything that comes out of her daughter's mouth is priceless, at times a little too sassy. But, hey! Kids are sassy these days, mine is, so it made her character seem very real. The banter between her and her best friend, Rachel is full of hilarity and though bawdy at times, it's relatable.
She's just cruising through live, working, taking care of Emma and laughing it up with Rachel until Nathan walks in and saves her like the knight in shining armor he is.
Nathan is sweet, full of emotion and an all around good guy... but he has his little secret which eventually comes to light faster than he would have liked. I did have an issue with the details surrounding his secret but it did not deter me from this story.
Everything seems to be going in the right direction until Jordie and Nathan realize that there is a stalker lurking in the backgrounds. Once that tidbit comes to light... BOOM, BAM, POW we are hit with the unexpected and a million questions run wild in our minds.
This is a fast paced novel where the connection between the h/H happens from the very first interaction. It's quick, insta love at it's best and the way that H.J. Harley delivers their instant chemistry makes you believe in a love like theirs.
H.J. Harley gives us romance, mystery, and raw emotions in Finding Jordie, the first book in the Love Lies Bleeding Series.
Jordie is tenacious, feisty and bold. Having suffered a major loss eight years ago she holds a lot of vulnerability inside. Not only owning, but running a bar in NYC her only other focus is her daughter Emma.
Everything that comes out of her daughter's mouth is priceless, at times a little too sassy. But, hey! Kids are sassy these days, mine is, so it made her character seem very real. The banter between her and her best friend, Rachel is full of hilarity and though bawdy at times, it's relatable.
She's just cruising through live, working, taking care of Emma and laughing it up with Rachel until Nathan walks in and saves her like the knight in shining armor he is.
Nathan is sweet, full of emotion and an all around good guy... but he has his little secret which eventually comes to light faster than he would have liked. I did have an issue with the details surrounding his secret but it did not deter me from this story.
Everything seems to be going in the right direction until Jordie and Nathan realize that there is a stalker lurking in the backgrounds. Once that tidbit comes to light... BOOM, BAM, POW we are hit with the unexpected and a million questions run wild in our minds.
This is a fast paced novel where the connection between the h/H happens from the very first interaction. It's quick, insta love at it's best and the way that H.J. Harley delivers their instant chemistry makes you believe in a love like theirs.
March 26, 2013
OMG!!! OH EM GEE!!! This book was amazing! It has all the great characteristics I love: intrigue, mystery, love, and friendships. This book took me along the emotional rollercoaster and left me feeling anxious and relieved among many other emotions. When I finished this book I was clapping my hands together.
Harley takes you along a fantastic journey of struggle, triumph, love, sadness. The characters are easy to relate to and fall in love with. Throughout the first part of the book, I was thinking “Pretty Woman” in modern day. But then Harley throws you for that intrigue and puts enough twist in the story to suck you right in. I couldn’t put the book down. I was talking to myself all day while grocery shopping wondering who was doing what. I laughed out loud at the banter between best friends (Rachel and Jordie) and cried during Jordie’s struggles. I love how Harley writes “Jordie” as a kick-ass, strong woman. I admire her throughout the entire book.
I will definitely look for more books by H.J. Harley. “Finding Jordie” is a must add to your libraries. Be prepared to follow into this awesome journey.
Harley takes you along a fantastic journey of struggle, triumph, love, sadness. The characters are easy to relate to and fall in love with. Throughout the first part of the book, I was thinking “Pretty Woman” in modern day. But then Harley throws you for that intrigue and puts enough twist in the story to suck you right in. I couldn’t put the book down. I was talking to myself all day while grocery shopping wondering who was doing what. I laughed out loud at the banter between best friends (Rachel and Jordie) and cried during Jordie’s struggles. I love how Harley writes “Jordie” as a kick-ass, strong woman. I admire her throughout the entire book.
I will definitely look for more books by H.J. Harley. “Finding Jordie” is a must add to your libraries. Be prepared to follow into this awesome journey.
October 28, 2014
Title: Finding Jordie
Author: H.J. Harley
Series: Yes
Release Date: October 4, 2014
Rating: 4.50 - 5 stars
Cliffhanger: No
Spoiler-free review
Hidden Gem Alert –If you like celebrity/ordinary girl romances....look no further. Finding Jordie by H.J Harley is perfect. Finding Jordie is a fairytale love story that will tear your heart in two. I cried a few ugly tears until I reached an emotion packed Hollywood-style HEA. I loved everything about this book – the plot, dialogue, angst…and especially Jordie. She is one tough and smart heroine. Then there is Nathan... I still cannot believe this is the writer’s first book. There is no cliffhanger but this book is part of a series. I hope that Jordie’s best friend gets her own book. She was an absolute RIOT. Holler…biotch (read it and you will understand:). I’m officially a fan of this incredible writer and this book. Go one click this one.
Thank you Heidi McLaughlin for suggesting this book to me. I am a huge fan of Heidi’s and trust her book suggestions. I wouldn’t have uncovered this hidden gem without her!
This review appears on www.kindlecrack.net,www.facebook.com/..., Goodreads, Amazon, Google+, Pinterest and Twitter. A review copy of this book was kindly provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.
Author: H.J. Harley
Series: Yes
Release Date: October 4, 2014
Rating: 4.50 - 5 stars
Cliffhanger: No
Spoiler-free review
Hidden Gem Alert –If you like celebrity/ordinary girl romances....look no further. Finding Jordie by H.J Harley is perfect. Finding Jordie is a fairytale love story that will tear your heart in two. I cried a few ugly tears until I reached an emotion packed Hollywood-style HEA. I loved everything about this book – the plot, dialogue, angst…and especially Jordie. She is one tough and smart heroine. Then there is Nathan... I still cannot believe this is the writer’s first book. There is no cliffhanger but this book is part of a series. I hope that Jordie’s best friend gets her own book. She was an absolute RIOT. Holler…biotch (read it and you will understand:). I’m officially a fan of this incredible writer and this book. Go one click this one.
Thank you Heidi McLaughlin for suggesting this book to me. I am a huge fan of Heidi’s and trust her book suggestions. I wouldn’t have uncovered this hidden gem without her!
This review appears on www.kindlecrack.net,www.facebook.com/..., Goodreads, Amazon, Google+, Pinterest and Twitter. A review copy of this book was kindly provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.
January 31, 2013
I thoroughly enjoyed Finding Jordie. The heroine had this gritty, tough exterior hiding a tender vulnerability on the inside. Her life wasn't ideal, but it was hers. Devoted to her daughter, fiercely loyal to her friends, she'd learned how to pick herself up and brush herself off. Jordie endured and her heart was perfectly safe for years - until the right man came along.
Nathan has his own trust issues and protective barricades, but those collapse when they meet and he feels genuine sparks for the first time. Their attraction is real, raw, and reassuring to them both.
Too bad their whirlwind romance isn't all their own. They've got more eyes following them than they'd like, and not all of them friendly.
I loved how deftly Ms. Harley wove the threat into the story. It kept me reading, kept me guessing, all the way to the satisfying end.
Nathan has his own trust issues and protective barricades, but those collapse when they meet and he feels genuine sparks for the first time. Their attraction is real, raw, and reassuring to them both.
Too bad their whirlwind romance isn't all their own. They've got more eyes following them than they'd like, and not all of them friendly.
I loved how deftly Ms. Harley wove the threat into the story. It kept me reading, kept me guessing, all the way to the satisfying end.
January 6, 2013
OMG – can I give this book six stars…please??? I loved this book! Fast-paced, funny, sweet, full of tension, smart – did I mention I loved the heroine, Jordie? Sassy, smart, full of piss-n-vinegar and strong as the day is long. Makes me want to go to NYC for a girl’s night out with her and her BFF, Rachel - now that would be a fun night! Holler! And then there was Nathan – purely scrumptious! Ms. Harley has hit this one out of the ball park! I’m jealous of all those who are just about to pick it up and read it for the first time. Take yourself off to a quiet place, take some food (you won’t want to be disturbed by such mundane stuff once you’ve begun), and have fun! Bravo! Very well done!
This reviewer received an ARC from the author in return for an honest review, which is given as a professional courtesy and without monetary compensation.
This reviewer received an ARC from the author in return for an honest review, which is given as a professional courtesy and without monetary compensation.
May 23, 2015
Three words to describe this book- Love, Humor and Heat. This book is just too fun and will make you laugh and laugh. Jordie is so sassy and so funny, she is a single mom widowed who owns a bar in New York. Nate is a mystery man who steals her heart. These two together equal lots of heart and heat, they also embark on some crazy antics and situations that will keep you reading and you won't be able to put the book down! The dialogue in this book is simply brilliant humor at its best. 5 star book and you will fall in love with Jordie and Nate.
For more indie book reviews: Myindieauthorfix.com
For more indie book reviews: Myindieauthorfix.com
February 10, 2013
FINDING JORDIE is a wonderfully well-written story about a woman who finds love, when she least expects, in a man whom she has no idea who he truly is until she's totally unable to resist him. Nathan Harper is a good man who has feared letting anyone get too close because of trust issues, but opens himself up completely to Jordie and her daughter. He then finds himself in the unexpected role of lover, protector, friend, and father figure. The secondary characters are equally stars in this contemporary romance that features an adorably, intelligent and grown-up daughter named Emma, a quirky yet lovable best friend named Rachel, and a bodyguard named Frank that I just wanted to hug all the time for being so wonderful to Jordie and Emma. The characters are real. They act like normal people, they react like normal people, and they live normal lives even under unusual circumstances.
Ms. Harley is a talented writer who has taken a first person work and made it work so well, you forget it's in first person. We quickly step into the character of Jordie and live in her skin as she falls in love, worries about her daughter, her friends, her bar - and Nathan. A mystery begins to unfold, putting everyone she loves in danger, and nearly costs her everything.
I normally refer to the steaminess of a novel in minimal terms but I will tell you that if I had to give this story a rating, I'd say it was PG for sex, R for language, and R for violence but it all works so amazingly. I do wish that the ending had been a bit more expanded because, for me, it felt as if it had been either cut short or added on. All of that aside, FINDING JORDIE by H.J. Harley is an extraordinary romance well worth reading and I'm looking forward to more wonderful things to come from this debut author.
I highly recommend FINDING JORDIE by H.J. Harley if you love a fast-paced, sweet and tender, emotional and endearing, passionate without blatant sex scenes, love story with a touch of tension, danger, angst, and some moments when you fear it's all coming apart for Jordie but that culminates in a sweet, loving happily-ever-after.
***eARC provided by author in exchange for an honest and unscripted review.
Ms. Harley is a talented writer who has taken a first person work and made it work so well, you forget it's in first person. We quickly step into the character of Jordie and live in her skin as she falls in love, worries about her daughter, her friends, her bar - and Nathan. A mystery begins to unfold, putting everyone she loves in danger, and nearly costs her everything.
I normally refer to the steaminess of a novel in minimal terms but I will tell you that if I had to give this story a rating, I'd say it was PG for sex, R for language, and R for violence but it all works so amazingly. I do wish that the ending had been a bit more expanded because, for me, it felt as if it had been either cut short or added on. All of that aside, FINDING JORDIE by H.J. Harley is an extraordinary romance well worth reading and I'm looking forward to more wonderful things to come from this debut author.
I highly recommend FINDING JORDIE by H.J. Harley if you love a fast-paced, sweet and tender, emotional and endearing, passionate without blatant sex scenes, love story with a touch of tension, danger, angst, and some moments when you fear it's all coming apart for Jordie but that culminates in a sweet, loving happily-ever-after.
***eARC provided by author in exchange for an honest and unscripted review.
February 20, 2013
What a ride!!! The characters are so real you can almost touch them on the pages. The narration is told to the reader, Jordie is telling you her story, as if over coffee or, better yet, a drink at The Post! Conversations flow off the pages with such fluidity... I became involved with the entire cast, with the entire story, and Nathan... oh my!!! These two had more sex than gerbils under a full moon! Real, believable sex, the kind you have when you are just starting in a relationship and can't get your hands off each other... yeah, that good! H.J. Harley's 1st book is a definite show stopper!!! Hats off to you!
December 14, 2014
A friend of mine recommended this book to me after her book club read it. She is not a romantic suspense fan at all but she said this one was so different she was glued to it for 10 hours. So naturally, I had to pick it up. My husband had asked me if I was having hormonal issues while I was reading this book because I wasn't just emotional I was all over the place emotional. One minute I'd be laughing, the next sobbing. A real roller coaster ride that I enjoyed very much. I hope Ms. Harley 'has more to come because the way she sucked me into Jordie and Nathan's world was amazing. It was if she was telling me the story, not as if I was reading it. Well done. I'll even read this again.
November 4, 2014
Jordie was getting by with her daughter and she thought she didn't need anyone else in her life. Until one night, a bar fight happens in her bar. While taking care of the hateful guys, she is hit and when she goes back to take up for herself, she is grabbed out of the way by Nathan. Nathan enters her life and her whole world is turned upside down. In this story, we have so many twist and turns that you will be wondering what is going to happen to everyone next. Can their love withstand all that they have to go through? Love they way this story takes you on a wild ride.
January 4, 2013
I was lucky enough to be able to pre read Finding Jordie before it is published. Its a great book for a first time author. Jordie is a strong female character that despite all the trials in her life she still pushes forward. Nathan is so swoony I wanted to be Jordie at moments. The turn it takes in plot totally caught me off guard. I could not read fast enough.
January 4, 2013
Incredibly well written story that draws you in from the first page. Unusual mix of romance with serious issues and themes, all deftly handled by the author. If you are someone who saves your non-work/non-mom related reading until bedtime, be prepared to exist on a less sleep while you are reading it becasue you won't want to put it down!
January 16, 2013
Not my usual genre, but I can honestly say I enjoyed this book. I read it from cover to cover in one sitting, not something I do unless I am really into the story.
Jordie was a very real and believable character and the author did an excellent job of putting you into Jordie's thoughts and life. The twist at the end made the "happily ever after" so much more satisfying.
Jordie was a very real and believable character and the author did an excellent job of putting you into Jordie's thoughts and life. The twist at the end made the "happily ever after" so much more satisfying.
February 14, 2013
This was an amazing read. I laughed a lot and was sobbing at the end. The journey that H.J. takes you on is a bunch of twists and turns but in the end you feel the love that these two characters share. The mystery that is intertwined with the love story makes it so you don't want to put it down.
This is a book is a keeper and I can't wait to see what H.J. has for us next.
This is a book is a keeper and I can't wait to see what H.J. has for us next.
February 12, 2013
I could NOT put this book down!! Once I started it, I didn't sleep until it was finished. It had a very original plot line with characters that I instantly made a connection with. I laughed, cried, and laughed some more throughout the entire book. I can't wait to see what's next for H.J.!!
March 22, 2013
4.5 stars! LOVED this book. Couldn't put it down.
March 8, 2016
This was fun and heart wrenching! And Nathan - swoon.
Full review to come!
Full review to come!
February 24, 2018
DNF
For some reason, I just couldn’t get into this book. I can’t really put my finger on it.
For some reason, I just couldn’t get into this book. I can’t really put my finger on it.
February 8, 2013
H.J. Harley’s debut novel was one I enjoyed from beginning to end. Jordie, though fierce, is a complex character who has dealt with her life by being an extraordinary mother, business owner and friend.
Single mother, Jordie, has had to grow up fast and take care of the things that are the most important to her. Taking a huge back burner is her love life until she meets Nathan, who happens to be a movie star. Not that Jordie knows this because she doesn’t have a smart phone and she hardly ever watches tv. Being thrust into the limelight brings challenges that her and her daughter have never experienced. It also brings a deadly stalker right to her doorstep and threatens everything she holds dear.
As a first novel from any author, there are things that I both loved and things I felt needed some work. I was impressed with the writing of Ms. Harley and thought she executed the novel fairly well. Jordie and Nathan work well together. Nathan finds Jordie a breath of fresh air because she had no idea who he was and so she certainly wasn’t out for his money. He takes such awesome care of her and her daughter that you just had to love him. Nathan goes out of his way to insure the protection of Jordie, but more importantly, her daughter. Though it was a bit odd that Jordie could afford the prestedious school her daughter already attended, once informed of danger lurking, from paparazzi and later, a stalker, Nathan doesn’t hesitate to close ranks and offer them both all the security at his disposal.
I enjoyed Jordie’s character and felt her emotions were real to those of any average everyday woman. She was nervous of Nathan’s involvement in her life and fought hard to maintain she was independent even in ties when she needed to step back. Having come from an abusive relationship and closing herself off for years she was naturally reluctant to let him in. Watching her blossom was simply good reading. Jordie spends a lot of time thinking about her pitter-pattering heart and that part did get a bit repetitious. I was like…ok, I get it…do it! But you know me, I like to get to the sexing.
My biggest gripe comes from the very last section of the book. I don’t want to give anything away so sorry for my vagueness. Sometimes an author thinks there needs to be a shock value. Sometimes authors go a bit overboard in trying to create that shock value. The climax of the book in which the stalker is shown is really really great. Except that’s not the end. There is an entire section after that just kinda ticked me off. It felt out of place. Thrown in to perhaps keep the book going and reach a word count. Then everything is all tidy and hunky dory with the snap of my fingers. It just felt out of place and I wished the author would have just stopped after the stalker and tied things up there.
Overall, I really liked this book! H.J. Harley has a strong voice that integrates humor and emotion seamlessly. This is definitely one reader who will be on the lookout for more!
I give Finding Jordie by H.J. Harley 4 stars!
Single mother, Jordie, has had to grow up fast and take care of the things that are the most important to her. Taking a huge back burner is her love life until she meets Nathan, who happens to be a movie star. Not that Jordie knows this because she doesn’t have a smart phone and she hardly ever watches tv. Being thrust into the limelight brings challenges that her and her daughter have never experienced. It also brings a deadly stalker right to her doorstep and threatens everything she holds dear.
As a first novel from any author, there are things that I both loved and things I felt needed some work. I was impressed with the writing of Ms. Harley and thought she executed the novel fairly well. Jordie and Nathan work well together. Nathan finds Jordie a breath of fresh air because she had no idea who he was and so she certainly wasn’t out for his money. He takes such awesome care of her and her daughter that you just had to love him. Nathan goes out of his way to insure the protection of Jordie, but more importantly, her daughter. Though it was a bit odd that Jordie could afford the prestedious school her daughter already attended, once informed of danger lurking, from paparazzi and later, a stalker, Nathan doesn’t hesitate to close ranks and offer them both all the security at his disposal.
I enjoyed Jordie’s character and felt her emotions were real to those of any average everyday woman. She was nervous of Nathan’s involvement in her life and fought hard to maintain she was independent even in ties when she needed to step back. Having come from an abusive relationship and closing herself off for years she was naturally reluctant to let him in. Watching her blossom was simply good reading. Jordie spends a lot of time thinking about her pitter-pattering heart and that part did get a bit repetitious. I was like…ok, I get it…do it! But you know me, I like to get to the sexing.
My biggest gripe comes from the very last section of the book. I don’t want to give anything away so sorry for my vagueness. Sometimes an author thinks there needs to be a shock value. Sometimes authors go a bit overboard in trying to create that shock value. The climax of the book in which the stalker is shown is really really great. Except that’s not the end. There is an entire section after that just kinda ticked me off. It felt out of place. Thrown in to perhaps keep the book going and reach a word count. Then everything is all tidy and hunky dory with the snap of my fingers. It just felt out of place and I wished the author would have just stopped after the stalker and tied things up there.
Overall, I really liked this book! H.J. Harley has a strong voice that integrates humor and emotion seamlessly. This is definitely one reader who will be on the lookout for more!
I give Finding Jordie by H.J. Harley 4 stars!
July 22, 2014
Don’t you just love it when you stumble on a new author and good book?
While I was attending The Tennessee Valley Author Event , a very well known author pulled me aside. She said, “There is a book I want you to read. I want you to promise not to look at the cover. Just read the book. It’s very good.”
How could I not read this book. My curiosity was piqued.
When I opened this book, I tried very hard not to look at the cover. From the very first paragraph I was drawn into the book. I could not put this book down. This book has everything a reader looks for in a good book. The story is fast paced, loaded with humor, full of red-hot chemistry and sexual tension, romantic, and hair raising suspense. And as a bonus the author created delightful, quirky characters that wiggle their way into your heart the moment they are introduced.
When I finished this book I was very satisfied with the time I had invested in it. I was heading straight to Amazon to one click the second book in this series. Finding Jordie did not end on a cliffhanger that forced me to buy the next book. I just wanted more of these characters and more of their happily ever after story.
Jordie Spagnato is a strong woman. She is a business woman, tough bar owner, single mother, and widow. She keeps her friends close to heart and loves fiercely. She has learned to be tough when necessary, compassionate towards others, insightful to people’s needs, and gives her heart in full measures. She doesn’t let the past drag her down. She moves forward in life and makes the best of it. When she meets Nathan Harper her world she created for herself is tilted on it’s axis. Before she knows what has hit her, she is head over heels in love with the sexiest man she ever met. When she finds out that man is the hottest Hollywood star, it doesn’t change her opinion of him.
Nathan Harper is enthralled with Jordie Spagnato. She looks at him as a man and not a superstar. She treats him like she treats her friends and loved ones. How could he not fall in love with her?
Just as they are about to take the next step in their relationship a nasty stalker makes his presence known. The danger is just beginning. The suspense will escalate and keep you on the edge of your seat.
This book had every element I look for in a book. It is well written and fast paced. H.J. Harley is a new author that is going to make her mark in the romance world.
Read this book!
October 3, 2014
***I was given a copy in exchange for an honest review.***
Jordan “Jordie” Spagnato is a single mother who is a true survivor. After losing her husband years ago in Iraq, she picked herself up and made a life for herself and her daughter Emma. She has a great apartment and is the owner of a bar that is considered a “hot spot” in NYC. She has a wonderful sister and brother-in-law who help out with Emma so she can run the bar, and she has a loyal, snarky, wonderful best friend, Rachel, who is a great support to her. Despite all her success, family, and friends, she has sealed herself off from truly “living” life. She’s afraid of feeling any emotions for a man again after suffering such a devastating loss. But, all that changes when she meets “Nathan,” the mystery man that comes to her rescue after she is confronted outside her bar by two drunk men she had thrown out earlier. She feels things she never has felt before, and it scares her at first. But, Nathan is good at breaking down those walls she has erected. As in all good love stories, each character has secrets that affect their relationship. As Jordie and Nathan reveal these secrets to each other, will they be able to keep this new relationship on course? But those secrets take a back seat once Jordie’s life is threatened by an unknown stalker.
Finding Jordie was a 5 for me just because of Jordie herself. While I loved the development and pacing of the story, I found that Jordie was one of my favorite aspects of the story. She is a well-developed and multi-faceted character. She comes across as this sarcastic and very confident woman, yet inside, she is just trying to hold herself together, especially for her daughter, Emma. There is a scene that is especially poignant when she falls apart not long after meeting Nathan. The emotions were so real and raw; I could literally feel everything she felt. In addition, I liked all the other characters as well. Of course, Nathan was sexy and a sweetheart. Not only was he attracted to Jordie because he found her beautiful, but he respected her tenacity to survive. Plus, he accepted and loved Emma as a part of Jordie. Rachel, OMG, this woman was hilarious! I see that she is getting her own book, so I can’t wait to read that one.
While this book is a romance, it doesn’t go into graphic sexual detail, which was fine with me. I love graphic sex scenes, but I didn’t feel like it was needed in this book. If you haven’t discovered H.J. Harley, I would suggest you give her a try. I don’t think you will be disappointed. I have already put her other books on my TBR list!
***This review was done for Devilishly Delicious Book Reviews.***
Jordan “Jordie” Spagnato is a single mother who is a true survivor. After losing her husband years ago in Iraq, she picked herself up and made a life for herself and her daughter Emma. She has a great apartment and is the owner of a bar that is considered a “hot spot” in NYC. She has a wonderful sister and brother-in-law who help out with Emma so she can run the bar, and she has a loyal, snarky, wonderful best friend, Rachel, who is a great support to her. Despite all her success, family, and friends, she has sealed herself off from truly “living” life. She’s afraid of feeling any emotions for a man again after suffering such a devastating loss. But, all that changes when she meets “Nathan,” the mystery man that comes to her rescue after she is confronted outside her bar by two drunk men she had thrown out earlier. She feels things she never has felt before, and it scares her at first. But, Nathan is good at breaking down those walls she has erected. As in all good love stories, each character has secrets that affect their relationship. As Jordie and Nathan reveal these secrets to each other, will they be able to keep this new relationship on course? But those secrets take a back seat once Jordie’s life is threatened by an unknown stalker.
Finding Jordie was a 5 for me just because of Jordie herself. While I loved the development and pacing of the story, I found that Jordie was one of my favorite aspects of the story. She is a well-developed and multi-faceted character. She comes across as this sarcastic and very confident woman, yet inside, she is just trying to hold herself together, especially for her daughter, Emma. There is a scene that is especially poignant when she falls apart not long after meeting Nathan. The emotions were so real and raw; I could literally feel everything she felt. In addition, I liked all the other characters as well. Of course, Nathan was sexy and a sweetheart. Not only was he attracted to Jordie because he found her beautiful, but he respected her tenacity to survive. Plus, he accepted and loved Emma as a part of Jordie. Rachel, OMG, this woman was hilarious! I see that she is getting her own book, so I can’t wait to read that one.
While this book is a romance, it doesn’t go into graphic sexual detail, which was fine with me. I love graphic sex scenes, but I didn’t feel like it was needed in this book. If you haven’t discovered H.J. Harley, I would suggest you give her a try. I don’t think you will be disappointed. I have already put her other books on my TBR list!
***This review was done for Devilishly Delicious Book Reviews.***
March 22, 2016
Review originally posted at Ramblings From This Chick
I really enjoyed this book! Finding Jordie was so good, and I will definitely be reading more by H.J. Harley in the future. This book was well written and entertaining, and I didn't want to put it down. I can't wait to read the next book in this series and get more of these amazing characters.
After losing her husband, Jordie Spagnato returned home to New York to raise her daughter alone. She bought a bar and has turned it into a successful hot spot. One night she meets Nathan Harper and he helps her out when she gets into an incident with some drunks in her bar. Nathan and Jordie start to get to know one another and soon they are feeling things they have never felt before. But Nathan has things that he hasn't shared with Jordie that could change everything. What happens when the truth comes out and when Jordie's past suddenly returns?
Nathan was amazing. Super sweet and funny, and I loved how strong his feelings were. He had no problem admitting things to Jordie when it came to what he was feeling and he was genuinely interested in her and her daughter. He wanted to take care of them and he was just a really great guy. Jordie was strong and independent, and I loved her relationship with her daughter. They were so real and I loved that they had so much fun together. Emma was so cute, and I loved that she was so much more mature than her age. She took instantly to Nathan, and just wanted her mom to be happy. Things between Nathan and Jordie happened fast, but it was so natural. You could really see the connection and chemistry between them, and they were perfect together.
I really loved this story and I thought that it was so great because of the characters. They were so easy to like and root for, and I loved that their personalities were so unique and different. These characters were true to themselves and they were not the typical cookie cutter types that are so often found in romance stories. I loved that this book a romantic suspense story, but that the romance wasn't overshadowed by the suspense. I don't often read romantic suspense because I find that usually the relationship isn't the heart of the book and that is what I read romance for. But with Finding Jordie that was not the case at all. The love and relationship was really the star of the story and that was what kept me turning the pages. I can't wait to get more of these characters and from H.J. Harley in the future.
**Review Copy Provided by Inkslinger PR**
I really enjoyed this book! Finding Jordie was so good, and I will definitely be reading more by H.J. Harley in the future. This book was well written and entertaining, and I didn't want to put it down. I can't wait to read the next book in this series and get more of these amazing characters.
After losing her husband, Jordie Spagnato returned home to New York to raise her daughter alone. She bought a bar and has turned it into a successful hot spot. One night she meets Nathan Harper and he helps her out when she gets into an incident with some drunks in her bar. Nathan and Jordie start to get to know one another and soon they are feeling things they have never felt before. But Nathan has things that he hasn't shared with Jordie that could change everything. What happens when the truth comes out and when Jordie's past suddenly returns?
Nathan was amazing. Super sweet and funny, and I loved how strong his feelings were. He had no problem admitting things to Jordie when it came to what he was feeling and he was genuinely interested in her and her daughter. He wanted to take care of them and he was just a really great guy. Jordie was strong and independent, and I loved her relationship with her daughter. They were so real and I loved that they had so much fun together. Emma was so cute, and I loved that she was so much more mature than her age. She took instantly to Nathan, and just wanted her mom to be happy. Things between Nathan and Jordie happened fast, but it was so natural. You could really see the connection and chemistry between them, and they were perfect together.
I really loved this story and I thought that it was so great because of the characters. They were so easy to like and root for, and I loved that their personalities were so unique and different. These characters were true to themselves and they were not the typical cookie cutter types that are so often found in romance stories. I loved that this book a romantic suspense story, but that the romance wasn't overshadowed by the suspense. I don't often read romantic suspense because I find that usually the relationship isn't the heart of the book and that is what I read romance for. But with Finding Jordie that was not the case at all. The love and relationship was really the star of the story and that was what kept me turning the pages. I can't wait to get more of these characters and from H.J. Harley in the future.
**Review Copy Provided by Inkslinger PR**
October 10, 2013
3.5 stars
really great read, and great job for a first time author.
I really loved how this book started out, had me laughing my ass off, right away I knew I was going to like Jordie . Loved the setting of NYC, I may be biased for my city! This is one of those books that are really hard to put down, it moved at such a good pace and had a lot of twist and turns, and great characters. I loved jordie and Nathan together. Nathon's character reminded me a lot of Rob Pattinson, shy, endearing a bit closed off yet in the spotlight. Emma was one awesome too smart for her age kid. And how can you not love Frank, and his man purse?
I did have a few hang ups. Some things seemed a bit far fetched, maybe it's because I work in entertainment and know a bit about that world, maybe I'm being too critical....
I loved Jordie and Rachel's friendship, but sometimes the way they talked with each other was a bit much for me. I know we all do that with our girlfriends but not so much all of the time.
This book has a very crazy ending full of suspense which I loved! But there was one thing for me that really threw it a bit off in the very last section of the book. Not to give anything away, I think sometimes authors think there needs to be a lot of shock value. Sometimes authors go a bit overboard in trying to create that shock value. And so often I will be loving a book and then hit a point where I'm just like ah why did it have too go this far? The climax of the book is really really great! But that wasn't the end. There is a section after that just had me thrown, I saw it coming right before it happened and was wishing I was wrong, It felt forced just to throw in some extra shock value and I would have loved this so much more had it not been in there. For me it was really the main reason I didn't give a higher rating, it felt so far fetched to me.
That aside I really did thoroughly enjoy this book, and I know I will be reading the sequel.
I had seen this book on goodreads a long time ago but couldn't find the book, the author was nice enough to keep me posted as to when it was re released. I think she wrote a really good first book, maybe just reel in the shock value a notch, sometime less is more :)
really great read, and great job for a first time author.
I really loved how this book started out, had me laughing my ass off, right away I knew I was going to like Jordie . Loved the setting of NYC, I may be biased for my city! This is one of those books that are really hard to put down, it moved at such a good pace and had a lot of twist and turns, and great characters. I loved jordie and Nathan together. Nathon's character reminded me a lot of Rob Pattinson, shy, endearing a bit closed off yet in the spotlight. Emma was one awesome too smart for her age kid. And how can you not love Frank, and his man purse?
I did have a few hang ups. Some things seemed a bit far fetched, maybe it's because I work in entertainment and know a bit about that world, maybe I'm being too critical....
I loved Jordie and Rachel's friendship, but sometimes the way they talked with each other was a bit much for me. I know we all do that with our girlfriends but not so much all of the time.
This book has a very crazy ending full of suspense which I loved! But there was one thing for me that really threw it a bit off in the very last section of the book. Not to give anything away, I think sometimes authors think there needs to be a lot of shock value. Sometimes authors go a bit overboard in trying to create that shock value. And so often I will be loving a book and then hit a point where I'm just like ah why did it have too go this far? The climax of the book is really really great! But that wasn't the end. There is a section after that just had me thrown, I saw it coming right before it happened and was wishing I was wrong, It felt forced just to throw in some extra shock value and I would have loved this so much more had it not been in there. For me it was really the main reason I didn't give a higher rating, it felt so far fetched to me.
That aside I really did thoroughly enjoy this book, and I know I will be reading the sequel.
I had seen this book on goodreads a long time ago but couldn't find the book, the author was nice enough to keep me posted as to when it was re released. I think she wrote a really good first book, maybe just reel in the shock value a notch, sometime less is more :)
May 26, 2013
I quite liked this book. It had love at first sight, soul mates, suspense, hilarious friendships, family and lots of drama.
Normally I complain that a lot of relationships in books go to fast to really feel their connection and even though this relationship went at light speed it still just felt right between them.
I loved Nathan and Jordie together right from the start. Even though it was really fast their connection and comfortability just kept getting stronger and stronger. Nathan's instant liking to her daughter and friends was also super sweet.
Favorite parts of this book : The friendship with Rachel, the love of Nathan, the loyalty of Frank
Least favorite parts: "Holler" got on my nerves sometimes but I still loved everything about Rach and Jordie's friendship.
There were elements of predictability mixed in with a few twists which kept me on my toes. And oh my the twist near the end nearly gutted me as I was reading it I was chanting to myself "no, no, no, no" the whole time and thankfully my heart settled back into my chest.
Overall I really did enjoy this book and story.
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Live Read and Breathe
Normally I complain that a lot of relationships in books go to fast to really feel their connection and even though this relationship went at light speed it still just felt right between them.
I loved Nathan and Jordie together right from the start. Even though it was really fast their connection and comfortability just kept getting stronger and stronger. Nathan's instant liking to her daughter and friends was also super sweet.
Favorite parts of this book : The friendship with Rachel, the love of Nathan, the loyalty of Frank
Least favorite parts: "Holler" got on my nerves sometimes but I still loved everything about Rach and Jordie's friendship.
There were elements of predictability mixed in with a few twists which kept me on my toes. And oh my the twist near the end nearly gutted me as I was reading it I was chanting to myself "no, no, no, no" the whole time and thankfully my heart settled back into my chest.
Overall I really did enjoy this book and story.
You can also find me on:
Live Read and Breathe Facebook
Live Read and Breathe Twitter
For more of my reviews:
Live Read and Breathe
April 24, 2013
Okay, you guys, Finding Jordie was so much fun! The story centers around tough-as-nails bar owner, Jordie and her sidekick Rachel. For years, these two girls have been living life on their terms, and they have been raising Jordie's daughter Emma. These girls are exactly how I like my romance heroines, brash, bold and strong, but with enough vulnerability to make them seem real. Rachel and Jordie are the kinds of girls you want to be your best friends.
Jordie is a study in contradictions. While she runs one of New York's hotspots and holds nothing back with Rachel or Emma, she cannot even fathom a relationship. Since her husband's combat death 8 years before, Jordie has not even looked at a man. Enter: Nathan.
At first, Nathan is just this uber-sweet guy, in awe of Jordie. As the two heat up, we learn that he is really one of Hollywood's leading men. But, have no fear, good-guy lovers, Nathan is pure to the core. He is the kind of guy we all want to fall in love with.
Despite their hot and heavy romance, life isn't all peaches and cream for Nathan and Jordie. As time goes on, it becomes very clear that Jordie has a stalker. One that is becoming increasingly unstable. It all culminates in a page-turning, fast read that had me on the edge of my seat.
Finding Jordie is masterfully written. H.J. Harley manages to weave the mystery and thrilling aspects of the stalker storyline directly into the romance. At times, the book becomes just a bit predictable, but the characters are so much fun, I did not really mind. I definitely wanted to pop into The Post for a drink and head up Jordie's roof for some girl talk.
Isn't that the sign of a book you want to read? One that makes you wish you could hang out with its characters?
Disclaimer: I was given a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
Jordie is a study in contradictions. While she runs one of New York's hotspots and holds nothing back with Rachel or Emma, she cannot even fathom a relationship. Since her husband's combat death 8 years before, Jordie has not even looked at a man. Enter: Nathan.
At first, Nathan is just this uber-sweet guy, in awe of Jordie. As the two heat up, we learn that he is really one of Hollywood's leading men. But, have no fear, good-guy lovers, Nathan is pure to the core. He is the kind of guy we all want to fall in love with.
Despite their hot and heavy romance, life isn't all peaches and cream for Nathan and Jordie. As time goes on, it becomes very clear that Jordie has a stalker. One that is becoming increasingly unstable. It all culminates in a page-turning, fast read that had me on the edge of my seat.
Finding Jordie is masterfully written. H.J. Harley manages to weave the mystery and thrilling aspects of the stalker storyline directly into the romance. At times, the book becomes just a bit predictable, but the characters are so much fun, I did not really mind. I definitely wanted to pop into The Post for a drink and head up Jordie's roof for some girl talk.
Isn't that the sign of a book you want to read? One that makes you wish you could hang out with its characters?
Disclaimer: I was given a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
November 3, 2014
4.5 stars
I absolutely enjoyed this book. The writing was fantastic; the story was intriguing and the characters were likeable and some loveable.
Jordie Spagnato has been a widow for over 8 years, just going through the motion of life but not really living. She is a successful business owner and mom to a bright young girl, Emma. Jordie needs to learn to let go of the past and move on with her life. She needs to open her heart up and love again.
Enter Nathan Harper, sexy as hell man that tries to be her hero one night after a bar fight. But once he has his arms around Jordie, just that simple touch, does something to her and Nathan too. But Jordie tries to fight this feeling. What exactly is going on? How can this strange make her feel things that she has not in years?
Nathan continues to come to the bar looking for Jordie. He has a secret of his own that he is trying to hide away from. But getting to know more about this spit fire woman is top priority to him. Nathan is able to work his way through Jordie’s tough exterior. He is trying to come to terms with the feeling that he has for her in just a couple of days. Jordie also is fighting with this. How can she already feel more for a man that she has know less than a week than she did for her deceased husband?
As their relationship takes off like a rocket ship to the moon, they both realize that this is what love is. This is how love should be; all consuming; not be able to breath without the other. But when strange things start to happen, can they continue on with their relationship? Will they be safe?
The plots in this book were a refreshing twist. There was love lose, heartache, tears, fighting to come out on top, forgiveness but in the end, the heart knows exactly where home is.
I absolutely enjoyed this book. The writing was fantastic; the story was intriguing and the characters were likeable and some loveable.
Jordie Spagnato has been a widow for over 8 years, just going through the motion of life but not really living. She is a successful business owner and mom to a bright young girl, Emma. Jordie needs to learn to let go of the past and move on with her life. She needs to open her heart up and love again.
Enter Nathan Harper, sexy as hell man that tries to be her hero one night after a bar fight. But once he has his arms around Jordie, just that simple touch, does something to her and Nathan too. But Jordie tries to fight this feeling. What exactly is going on? How can this strange make her feel things that she has not in years?
Nathan continues to come to the bar looking for Jordie. He has a secret of his own that he is trying to hide away from. But getting to know more about this spit fire woman is top priority to him. Nathan is able to work his way through Jordie’s tough exterior. He is trying to come to terms with the feeling that he has for her in just a couple of days. Jordie also is fighting with this. How can she already feel more for a man that she has know less than a week than she did for her deceased husband?
As their relationship takes off like a rocket ship to the moon, they both realize that this is what love is. This is how love should be; all consuming; not be able to breath without the other. But when strange things start to happen, can they continue on with their relationship? Will they be safe?
The plots in this book were a refreshing twist. There was love lose, heartache, tears, fighting to come out on top, forgiveness but in the end, the heart knows exactly where home is.
January 20, 2017
Best book of 2017, so far ... I can say that hands down. YOU GOTTA read this one. MUST READ!! (not yelling, just saying with so much happiness and love for a great work of art.) This is my 1st book read, written by HJ Harley, and will certainly not be the last. I am not so not kidding about that. HJ Harley was so awesome, This book had a meaning, a backbone too it, It's like saying we all have meaning & we don't go totally by the face of a person to why or now we fall in love. So true.
A few favorite points or sayings throughout the book that I so so loved & made me giggle or made me feel like reliving my childhood, I still remember when "Cheesy" become real or a saying that every one did say: "Cheesy, yet efficient. I smiled". (and) "Holler". (and) "All right, Annie Oakley, don't shoot".
I love Jordie's best friend Rachel ... love how they have each other's back, I love Jordie's past and how she came to be a huge character in the story. All Jordie's bar friends ...they have such character and could so run off on into other books, I see how there are 2 more books in this series, I see those being read very very soon. Can't wait!! Must reads indeed!! So many mentions of boy bands. Hanging out on the roof top. Does every one hang out in bars? Bar fights? A lot of books I do find or have read lately, are all around or about a bar? I love the post it notes throughout, makes the book, almost like you are standing there reading the post it notes yourself, great idea!! I love the names, Nathan Miles Harper. Jordan Marie Spaghato "Jordie". Such a great read, I loved it!! Must read. Such a fan. I will be reading many more very very soon. Like always when my TBR list allows or I can find the time. Never a dull reading moment for me. ( ;
A few favorite points or sayings throughout the book that I so so loved & made me giggle or made me feel like reliving my childhood, I still remember when "Cheesy" become real or a saying that every one did say: "Cheesy, yet efficient. I smiled". (and) "Holler". (and) "All right, Annie Oakley, don't shoot".
I love Jordie's best friend Rachel ... love how they have each other's back, I love Jordie's past and how she came to be a huge character in the story. All Jordie's bar friends ...they have such character and could so run off on into other books, I see how there are 2 more books in this series, I see those being read very very soon. Can't wait!! Must reads indeed!! So many mentions of boy bands. Hanging out on the roof top. Does every one hang out in bars? Bar fights? A lot of books I do find or have read lately, are all around or about a bar? I love the post it notes throughout, makes the book, almost like you are standing there reading the post it notes yourself, great idea!! I love the names, Nathan Miles Harper. Jordan Marie Spaghato "Jordie". Such a great read, I loved it!! Must read. Such a fan. I will be reading many more very very soon. Like always when my TBR list allows or I can find the time. Never a dull reading moment for me. ( ;
August 18, 2014
This is one of those, don’t judge a book by its cover. Because what I saw on the cover is not the story that was told. Not saying anything negative about either, just that this book completely surprised me.
This book was great. I really fell in love with the characters. H.J. Harley did an excellent job giving the characters an identity and developing them. I knew what was going on with Jordie all the time and could actually start predicting her reactions to things that were happening. Not because it was repetitive but because I felt like I knew the character. Like I had met her and became BFFs immediately.
I love how Jordie said whatever. She just said whatever was on her mind. I love her relationships with her friends. I love the way she mothers her daughter, Emma. And I loved the way she fell in love with Nathan. It took her by surprise but she went with it. She didn’t fight it. It was quick but it was easy. They were made for each other.
And Nathan. He fell hard and he fell fast for Jordie. But once again with him, it felt very natural. He fell in love with Emma just as quick. Jordie having a daughter didn’t scare him at all. He embraced their relationship and worked himself into it. Not by pushing. Just very naturally.
This story also had my mouth drop open. That twist in the story was amazing. I had a slight idea what was going to happen but never did I expect all of that to happen.
Book 2 of the series is also currently out and I can’t wait to jump into it. I can’t wait to see where their lives go.
~Katie
This book was great. I really fell in love with the characters. H.J. Harley did an excellent job giving the characters an identity and developing them. I knew what was going on with Jordie all the time and could actually start predicting her reactions to things that were happening. Not because it was repetitive but because I felt like I knew the character. Like I had met her and became BFFs immediately.
I love how Jordie said whatever. She just said whatever was on her mind. I love her relationships with her friends. I love the way she mothers her daughter, Emma. And I loved the way she fell in love with Nathan. It took her by surprise but she went with it. She didn’t fight it. It was quick but it was easy. They were made for each other.
And Nathan. He fell hard and he fell fast for Jordie. But once again with him, it felt very natural. He fell in love with Emma just as quick. Jordie having a daughter didn’t scare him at all. He embraced their relationship and worked himself into it. Not by pushing. Just very naturally.
This story also had my mouth drop open. That twist in the story was amazing. I had a slight idea what was going to happen but never did I expect all of that to happen.
Book 2 of the series is also currently out and I can’t wait to jump into it. I can’t wait to see where their lives go.
~Katie
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