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FireNine #1
Who He Is
Eliza Smith has never been the one to seek a relationship. She's never dated a guy in her life, never even hugged a man (outside of her father/manager of the hot and popular rock band, FireNine) but when she decides to spend her summer on tour with FireNine, it all changes. Eliza really gets to meet Gage Grendel - her former crush from high school and the lead singer of FireNine - and witness sides to him to which she'll begin to truly despise.
She'll ignore him, she'll dislike his ways, she'll do anything to try and stay away from him until Gage finally gets her to slip up and give in. She agrees on a casual fling with Gage, but soon they'll both see how the fling will blur into something they can't control and when it's finally time for Eliza to go and accomplish her own dreams, she'll know there's more she took from Gage than she ever thought possible.
She'll ignore him, she'll dislike his ways, she'll do anything to try and stay away from him until Gage finally gets her to slip up and give in. She agrees on a casual fling with Gage, but soon they'll both see how the fling will blur into something they can't control and when it's finally time for Eliza to go and accomplish her own dreams, she'll know there's more she took from Gage than she ever thought possible.
Audible Audio
First published July 17, 2013
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December 31, 2015
Where do I even start with this one? If you're looking for an angsty story that will leave you feeling like you have emotional whiplash, this one is just that type of story. My emotions were all over the place while reading this one. I was appalled at times, furious at others, and just plain frustrated for most of this story.
I have never met a hero and heroine that I wanted to shake/slap as frequently as these two. Gage, the hero, is a manwhore and a rock star. He shows zero consideration for the feelings of the heroine, Eliza, 90% of the time. He often flaunts his sexual conquests in front of her, only to get all jealous when she pays the slightest bit of attention to any other male. Meanwhile, Eliza doesn't have the self-respect to quit chasing after this douchebag, despite his lack of regard for her.
On the flip side, who doesn't love a guy that is a complete asshole? I admit it. It's a guilty pleasure of mine. For that reason, I'm glad that Eliza was masochistic and insecure enough to keep chasing after Gage and whatever crumbs he threw her way. The back and forth between these two was a bit redundant, but was mostly, good, entertaining fun.
In many ways, Gage was very reminiscent of Kellan Kyle when he was going through his super slutty, asshole phase after Denny had moved back to Seattle. (Sorry if you haven't read that one. ) The main difference being that Gage never really seemed to grow out of this phase.
Essentially, the story goes something like this: Innocent Eliza likes bad-boy rocker Gage, Gage flaunts his sexual escapades (numerous) in front of Eliza, Eliza is jealous/angry but pretends not to be, Gage flirts or makes out with Eliza. Rinse. Repeat. Over and over this cycle plays out. Again, it's a guilty pleasure, but it did get tedious even for me and I'm a real glutton for punishment.
Ultimately, they do begin a quasi-relationship. Gage tries to keep it in his pants and Eliza tries to have some self-respect for a change. Unfortunately, their ability to finally get it together also leads to their downfall. Eliza goes from doormat to strong-willed independent woman overnight, while Gage goes from manwhore to monogamous boyfriend in the blink of an eye and it f#@ks everything up! We're left with a cliffhanger ending that will make you want to pull your hair out.
All in all, I did enjoy most of the story. The ending pissed me off and the constant back and forth between Gage and Eliza would be a bit much for many readers. I love the drama and angsty interactions, even cheating at times, so this was plenty dramatic to keep my attention. I'll probably get to the next book in the series at some point, but will be really upset if things end as horribly as they did this time around.
As a side note, I listened to the Audible version and the narration was great! So, if audiobooks are your preferred format, this is a good one.
I have never met a hero and heroine that I wanted to shake/slap as frequently as these two. Gage, the hero, is a manwhore and a rock star. He shows zero consideration for the feelings of the heroine, Eliza, 90% of the time. He often flaunts his sexual conquests in front of her, only to get all jealous when she pays the slightest bit of attention to any other male. Meanwhile, Eliza doesn't have the self-respect to quit chasing after this douchebag, despite his lack of regard for her.
On the flip side, who doesn't love a guy that is a complete asshole? I admit it. It's a guilty pleasure of mine. For that reason, I'm glad that Eliza was masochistic and insecure enough to keep chasing after Gage and whatever crumbs he threw her way. The back and forth between these two was a bit redundant, but was mostly, good, entertaining fun.
In many ways, Gage was very reminiscent of Kellan Kyle when he was going through his super slutty, asshole phase after Denny had moved back to Seattle. (Sorry if you haven't read that one. ) The main difference being that Gage never really seemed to grow out of this phase.
Essentially, the story goes something like this: Innocent Eliza likes bad-boy rocker Gage, Gage flaunts his sexual escapades (numerous) in front of Eliza, Eliza is jealous/angry but pretends not to be, Gage flirts or makes out with Eliza. Rinse. Repeat. Over and over this cycle plays out. Again, it's a guilty pleasure, but it did get tedious even for me and I'm a real glutton for punishment.
Ultimately, they do begin a quasi-relationship. Gage tries to keep it in his pants and Eliza tries to have some self-respect for a change. Unfortunately, their ability to finally get it together also leads to their downfall. Eliza goes from doormat to strong-willed independent woman overnight, while Gage goes from manwhore to monogamous boyfriend in the blink of an eye and it f#@ks everything up! We're left with a cliffhanger ending that will make you want to pull your hair out.
All in all, I did enjoy most of the story. The ending pissed me off and the constant back and forth between Gage and Eliza would be a bit much for many readers. I love the drama and angsty interactions, even cheating at times, so this was plenty dramatic to keep my attention. I'll probably get to the next book in the series at some point, but will be really upset if things end as horribly as they did this time around.
As a side note, I listened to the Audible version and the narration was great! So, if audiobooks are your preferred format, this is a good one.
July 25, 2013
I found this book to be very frustrating.
Eliza and Gage spend the first 50% of the book sniping at each other, using other people to make each other jealous, and generally behaving with the maturity I would have expected from the high school crowd. I didn’t find it cute, or endearing. It didn’t make me anxious for them to admit their feelings and get together; it just annoyed me and made me hope Eliza would pack her bags and head home.
Because of this, I found myself focusing on things other than just the story. I’ll be the first to admit that when I’m into a book, I can be totally blind to things like the need for editing, and even some less than realistic developments. Unfortunately, that was not the case this time.
There were a bunch really odd use of words and phrases.
The story is told from Eliza’s POV, but it often felt flat and emotionless at points where I would have expected some serious depth of feeling. One time, Eliza is reflecting on how her mom let her step dad beat the crap out of her and just watched.
This is her reaction:
“ “It sucked knowing what she’d done to me, but oh well. I couldn’t do much about it.”
Really? “It sucked”, but “oh well” huh? The chick PTSD from the experience, but “oh well.”
Then there were some just weird exchanges between Gage and Eliza – like one time when she jokes with him about his “single lifestyle”:
“Oh Ellie,” . . . “So impudent, aren’t you?” “Actually, I can be really coy”
What? Impudent? Coy? Really?
Then there were just some odd use of words from Eliza like:
“ “Careless broads like her were why rockers ran over every girl that crossed their paths.” Broads?
“He was about to deflower me and make me into a real woman.” Deflower?
And then there was the smirking. Everyone was smirking, all of the time. Even at times when smirking seemed like a really inappropriate response. I never knew there could be so many kinds of smirks – casual smirks, soft smirks, wholehearted smirks, warm smirks, charismatic smirks. It drove me batty. (and really what is a wholehearted smirk, or a warm smirk ??)
Then there were some plot issues. I know this was a “good girl meets bad boy” theme, but really. We have a 21 year old who has never been kissed – and in fact has never held hands with or hugged a man except for her father. I find this to be seriously unlikely. I’m assuming this was supposedly because of the past abuse – but then she had no problem dirty dancing and getting all affectionate with Gage, and Montana, and Cal. I just found it bizarre that her issues were so deep she couldn’t touch anyone, but that all gets put aside with basically no issue once she goes on tour.
There were several timeline issue, and issues with *impossible* scenarios
Then there was the whole issue of the ending (yes it’s a cliffy). It was totally over to top (for no real reason) and just left me completely cold.
Eliza and Gage spend the first 50% of the book sniping at each other, using other people to make each other jealous, and generally behaving with the maturity I would have expected from the high school crowd. I didn’t find it cute, or endearing. It didn’t make me anxious for them to admit their feelings and get together; it just annoyed me and made me hope Eliza would pack her bags and head home.
Because of this, I found myself focusing on things other than just the story. I’ll be the first to admit that when I’m into a book, I can be totally blind to things like the need for editing, and even some less than realistic developments. Unfortunately, that was not the case this time.
There were a bunch really odd use of words and phrases.
The story is told from Eliza’s POV, but it often felt flat and emotionless at points where I would have expected some serious depth of feeling. One time, Eliza is reflecting on how her mom let her step dad beat the crap out of her and just watched.
This is her reaction:
“ “It sucked knowing what she’d done to me, but oh well. I couldn’t do much about it.”
Really? “It sucked”, but “oh well” huh? The chick PTSD from the experience, but “oh well.”
Then there were some just weird exchanges between Gage and Eliza – like one time when she jokes with him about his “single lifestyle”:
“Oh Ellie,” . . . “So impudent, aren’t you?” “Actually, I can be really coy”
What? Impudent? Coy? Really?
Then there were just some odd use of words from Eliza like:
“ “Careless broads like her were why rockers ran over every girl that crossed their paths.” Broads?
“He was about to deflower me and make me into a real woman.” Deflower?
And then there was the smirking. Everyone was smirking, all of the time. Even at times when smirking seemed like a really inappropriate response. I never knew there could be so many kinds of smirks – casual smirks, soft smirks, wholehearted smirks, warm smirks, charismatic smirks. It drove me batty. (and really what is a wholehearted smirk, or a warm smirk ??)
Then there were some plot issues. I know this was a “good girl meets bad boy” theme, but really. We have a 21 year old who has never been kissed – and in fact has never held hands with or hugged a man except for her father. I find this to be seriously unlikely. I’m assuming this was supposedly because of the past abuse – but then she had no problem dirty dancing and getting all affectionate with Gage, and Montana, and Cal. I just found it bizarre that her issues were so deep she couldn’t touch anyone, but that all gets put aside with basically no issue once she goes on tour.
There were several timeline issue, and issues with *impossible* scenarios
Then there was the whole issue of the ending (yes it’s a cliffy). It was totally over to top (for no real reason) and just left me completely cold.
July 18, 2013
Who He Is
Now Available!!
Amazon US: http://www.amazon.com/Who-He-FireNine...
Amazon UK: http://www.amazon.co.uk/Who-He-FireNi...
B&N: http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/who-h...
When I sat down and wrote this book, I remember it was late, raining, and I had no clue where to start. I didn't start with the dark prologue - no, I wrote that when I was done with the whole book. I started with chapter one which starts off as "Gage Grendel..." I had a few plots and major events, but I had no clue how I was going to make these characters. I didn't know if I was going to make them crazy, outgoing, rude, wild, quiet... nothing. Even the other band members... I had no clue. And I admit I reversed a lot of scenes in this book for better and realistic characters.
This book is something new for me. Why, you ask?
Well, because Gage Grendel is one of the hottest, sexiest characters I've ever made and I'm not being cocky or overly-confident about it. In my opinion, Gage is my best character yet. Like, if he were real and I saw him, I'd tackle that man and marry him on the spot!
And Eliza Smith, my leading lady... she's the chillest girl I've ever created. I love her 'cause she's just like me. She's shy, reserved, but knows how to have a good time when necessary. She's unique, strong and confident in herself. She has dreams, goals, and I think it's why I can relate to her so much. Because I know how it feels to work hard for what you want. I know how it feels to want the very best for yourself. I've been striving for my dream since I was a kid and to see it happening slowly but surely means so much to me. I never thought I'd see the day people enjoyed my books.
Any who... Who He Is is a book I can't wait to release. I've worked hard on it for months, I've taken advice from plenty of people on it, and although it's a rockstar romance, I'm hoping I made it unique enough to keep the readers attention.
I love this book. I love Gage Grendel. I love Eliza Smith. This book has touched me in so many ways and I hope people fall in love with it just as much as I have.
Cover reveal will be in June!
Release date is still the same - July 18th! :)
Now Available!!
Amazon US: http://www.amazon.com/Who-He-FireNine...
Amazon UK: http://www.amazon.co.uk/Who-He-FireNi...
B&N: http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/who-h...
When I sat down and wrote this book, I remember it was late, raining, and I had no clue where to start. I didn't start with the dark prologue - no, I wrote that when I was done with the whole book. I started with chapter one which starts off as "Gage Grendel..." I had a few plots and major events, but I had no clue how I was going to make these characters. I didn't know if I was going to make them crazy, outgoing, rude, wild, quiet... nothing. Even the other band members... I had no clue. And I admit I reversed a lot of scenes in this book for better and realistic characters.
This book is something new for me. Why, you ask?
Well, because Gage Grendel is one of the hottest, sexiest characters I've ever made and I'm not being cocky or overly-confident about it. In my opinion, Gage is my best character yet. Like, if he were real and I saw him, I'd tackle that man and marry him on the spot!
And Eliza Smith, my leading lady... she's the chillest girl I've ever created. I love her 'cause she's just like me. She's shy, reserved, but knows how to have a good time when necessary. She's unique, strong and confident in herself. She has dreams, goals, and I think it's why I can relate to her so much. Because I know how it feels to work hard for what you want. I know how it feels to want the very best for yourself. I've been striving for my dream since I was a kid and to see it happening slowly but surely means so much to me. I never thought I'd see the day people enjoyed my books.
Any who... Who He Is is a book I can't wait to release. I've worked hard on it for months, I've taken advice from plenty of people on it, and although it's a rockstar romance, I'm hoping I made it unique enough to keep the readers attention.
I love this book. I love Gage Grendel. I love Eliza Smith. This book has touched me in so many ways and I hope people fall in love with it just as much as I have.
Cover reveal will be in June!
Release date is still the same - July 18th! :)
November 16, 2014
**ARC provided by an author in exchange for honest review**
Rock Star Romance! Squee!!
AFTER READING
Rating: 4.5
This review will be also posted on Smokin' Hot Book Blog on 16th July.
Who he is by S. Williams is another swoon worthy rock star romance that will turn us girls (and maybe few guys also) into reckless FireNine groupies with wicked case of wet panties. For me, all it took was the blurb to coax me into loving this sexy book. I was hooked from the first chapter and turn on almost instantly after my first encounter with Gage Grendel.
Eliza Smith is twenty one year old with terrible and abusive childhood, now suffering from PTSD she hides in her bedroom, behind painting and reading. When her father, manager of FireNine forces her into going on tour with the band Eliza knows it won’t end well. Especially because the lead singer is her old high school crush.Eliza knows very well relationship with man slut is out of grabs. She despise everything about Gage’s way and there is no way that she’ll lose her mind for him, right?
Can she, shy and cautions handle two months in bus with rock stars, groupies, after parties, alcohol and sex? Probably not.
Gage Grendel, sexy and sensual lead singer of FireNine is the boy Eliza has secretly crushed in high school. Cocky, confident and charming he makes hearts beat faster. Around him girls mysteriously lose their bras and panties as well as their minds, and unfortunately innocent Eliza is no exception…
S. Williams tells exciting story of innocent and virginal Ellie and her journey into world of rock and roll. Her novel is filled with great, amusing characters, spectacular band and her members, as well as romance and sexual tension so thick it’s hard to focus on anything else. Reading about Gage and Eliza’s encounters makes girlie parts tingle in the happy way.
Author also found a great way to mix enjoyable part of the book with deeper and darker part. I enjoyed almost every part of Williams’ novel. I had a blast meeting every band member of FireNine and I wish I would take a lick of every one of them. Especially Roy. Great characters make this book a lot of better.
In nutshell, Who He Is is deliciously passionate and steamy read. I highly recommend this book for Rock Stars fans who aren’t bored with bad boy meets good girl scheme as well as for those who enjoy sexual tension and steaminess.
Rock Star Romance! Squee!!
AFTER READING
Rating: 4.5
This review will be also posted on Smokin' Hot Book Blog on 16th July.
Who he is by S. Williams is another swoon worthy rock star romance that will turn us girls (and maybe few guys also) into reckless FireNine groupies with wicked case of wet panties. For me, all it took was the blurb to coax me into loving this sexy book. I was hooked from the first chapter and turn on almost instantly after my first encounter with Gage Grendel.
“You can’t stop this, Eliza,” he said, kissing my thigh. “I need it.”
Eliza Smith is twenty one year old with terrible and abusive childhood, now suffering from PTSD she hides in her bedroom, behind painting and reading. When her father, manager of FireNine forces her into going on tour with the band Eliza knows it won’t end well. Especially because the lead singer is her old high school crush.Eliza knows very well relationship with man slut is out of grabs. She despise everything about Gage’s way and there is no way that she’ll lose her mind for him, right?
Can she, shy and cautions handle two months in bus with rock stars, groupies, after parties, alcohol and sex? Probably not.
Gage Grendel, sexy and sensual lead singer of FireNine is the boy Eliza has secretly crushed in high school. Cocky, confident and charming he makes hearts beat faster. Around him girls mysteriously lose their bras and panties as well as their minds, and unfortunately innocent Eliza is no exception…
S. Williams tells exciting story of innocent and virginal Ellie and her journey into world of rock and roll. Her novel is filled with great, amusing characters, spectacular band and her members, as well as romance and sexual tension so thick it’s hard to focus on anything else. Reading about Gage and Eliza’s encounters makes girlie parts tingle in the happy way.
“Do you want me?” he asked.
I nodded, pressing my hand against his chest and squirming to get him as close to me as possible.
“You’re sure? You want me?”
I nodded eagerly, moaning as his lips barely brushed mine.
“How much?” he asked.
“I want all of you, Gage,” I whispered.
“All of me?” Before I could nod, he shoved his cock deep inside me. I sucked in a breath through my teeth as he hissed. “That’s all of me, Eliza. Want me to go slow on you? Want me to make love to you?”
Author also found a great way to mix enjoyable part of the book with deeper and darker part. I enjoyed almost every part of Williams’ novel. I had a blast meeting every band member of FireNine and I wish I would take a lick of every one of them. Especially Roy. Great characters make this book a lot of better.
In nutshell, Who He Is is deliciously passionate and steamy read. I highly recommend this book for Rock Stars fans who aren’t bored with bad boy meets good girl scheme as well as for those who enjoy sexual tension and steaminess.
December 6, 2013
♥♥♥ 4 STARS ♥♥♥
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“Sometimes it's the ones closest to us who can destroy us the most. Sometimes it's friends... family. It's not always a romantic relationship that can leave us with a broken heart.
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When I first started this book, I was excited because I love stories about wild rockstars that fall in love. This one kind of hooked me in from the beginning, I instantly loved the chemistry bewteen Eliza and Gage. I was addicted to the sexual tension between these two. But soon after, I was getting frustrated with them. Some parts felt like it was dragged on a bit. Then other parts were just really good.
Eliza has had a tough childhood, if you can even call it a childhood. Her mother never cared about her, and let her get physically abused, but not in the sexual sense. Eliza isolated herself, not letting anyone in. She wanted normal, and to feel safe. She finally moved in with her homosexual father Ben, who happens to be the manager of FireNine, a rockband. Ben tries to get her to come out of her shell. He invites her on to go on tour with them before heading to school. She reluctantly agrees, eventhough she doesn't want to be near Gage. A guy she has had a crush on for the longest time. Now, he seems to be interested in her. She tries not to fall for him. He insists on pursuing her. And so, the cat and mouse chase begins.
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"I know you love me, Eliza," he whispered. "I love you. I'm in love with you. And tonight I wanna prove it."
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I liked Eliza at first. I thought she was kind and quiet, but an overall good person. Her past has affected how she handles things. She has changed and doesn't want to be that angry person she once was. But she did annoy me at times. She would be so immature, and childish. She would do things or say things without thinking about the other persons feelings. Then, there were times, she was just plain awesome, understanding and really smart. I liked that she made Gage work to get her. So I liked her, then I didn't, then I did, then I didn't. It kept changing throughout the book. But for the most part, I did actually enjoy her and her passion for her art.
Gage is the lead singer, guitarist and lyric writer from FireNine. He has also had a troubled upbringing. One he tries to hide from everyone. He covers up his pain in music, booze, and women. That is the only thing the numbs he feelings. Then he meets Eliza, his manager's daughter and he instantly wants to know her. She is different from any other girl. She makes him feel again. He relentlessly tries to have her, no matter how many times she pushes him away to just be friends. He knows he isn't good enough for her, but he still tries anyways.
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"Just think about it, Eliza. I know you're scared I might hurt you and forget about you, but I promise I'm trying. I promise I won't. I know I can give you the world and more if you want it. I'll work hard to keep you happy."
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At first, Gage confused me. He would go after Eliza, which I really enjoyed, and then when anything sexual would start to happen, he didn't want to go any further. I didn't get it or what exactly it was he wanted from Eliza. They later agreed to just have a fling and nothing more. But he slowly started falling in love with her. He made my heart ache, and swoon so bad. He could be so freaking romantic. But my goodness, how he pissed me off too, when it came to this chick named Penelope. I loved him and got annoyed by him. Just like with Eliza, my feelings about him kept changing throughout the book.
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"You don't understand how much I need you around me. I need your smile, your grace... your love. I need everything about you in order to be happy (...) Please. Follow your heart, Eliza. You love me! Don't let this go."
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Then there was the ending... Oh. My. God. That freaking ending! I never thought I would see Gage that way. It hurt me so bad. And even though I understood Eliza's reasons, I didn't get why things ended that way. That cliffhanger killed me. I wanted to hug and kiss Gage, and for Eliza to do something. The last few percents of the book was full of drama and angst. It was like everything really exciting got crammed into that ending. Which, wasn't a bad thing, but I would have liked it throughout the book instead because it felt a little rushed. But it left me wanting more. I really want to know what happens next for these two. I can't wait to dive into the next one.
April 12, 2015
I'm left wondering if I read the same book as everyone else? This pretty much read as a "how to be a doormat and let a hot guy string you along" story.
SPOILERS SPOILERS SPOILERS SPOILERS SPOILERS
Gage is a guitarist in an up-and-coming rock band. Eliza is the band manager's daughter. Eliza's ad talks her into going on tour with the band so she can live a little.
The "hero" was awful - Gage is a grade-A jerk. He's a man-slut who constantly cheats on his girlfriend, and he's hitting all over Eliza. Eliza's attracted to him (for the life of me I can't figure out why) and even though she says no he keeps telling her yes. When they decide to get together, HE'S STILL GOT A GIRLFRIEND. The reason Gage won't break up with the GF is ridiculous and Gage and Eliza are planning to be together all the while knowing Gage has a GF he "can't get rid of", and then Eliza is surprised when he leaves her to spend time with the GF.
Eliza's dad was pushing this relationship with only nuggets like "watch out for your heart", meanwhile his sort-of boyfriend is beating the stuffing out of one of the bandmembers.
I forced myself to finish this, hoping that it would somehow redeem itself at the end. I will not be continuing this trilogy.
SPOILERS SPOILERS SPOILERS SPOILERS SPOILERS
Gage is a guitarist in an up-and-coming rock band. Eliza is the band manager's daughter. Eliza's ad talks her into going on tour with the band so she can live a little.
The "hero" was awful - Gage is a grade-A jerk. He's a man-slut who constantly cheats on his girlfriend, and he's hitting all over Eliza. Eliza's attracted to him (for the life of me I can't figure out why) and even though she says no he keeps telling her yes. When they decide to get together, HE'S STILL GOT A GIRLFRIEND. The reason Gage won't break up with the GF is ridiculous and Gage and Eliza are planning to be together all the while knowing Gage has a GF he "can't get rid of", and then Eliza is surprised when he leaves her to spend time with the GF.
Eliza's dad was pushing this relationship with only nuggets like "watch out for your heart", meanwhile his sort-of boyfriend is beating the stuffing out of one of the bandmembers.
I forced myself to finish this, hoping that it would somehow redeem itself at the end. I will not be continuing this trilogy.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 29, 2014
2 – 2.5 I-Pulled-All-My-Hair-Out STARS
Who He Is was a VERY difficult book to read. There was a lot of drama, roller coaster of emotions and a lot of I-WANT-TO-SLAP moments
Summary
Eliza has never done anything. She’s a good girl. She likes to read, paint and parties are not her thing. Her dad is the manager of a band and Gage is the lead singer. Eliza has two months off before she has to go back to college in the fall and after a lot of begging, she agrees to go on tour with her father.
My version of what happens…
- Scared Eliza doesn’t do anything, but sexy Gage flirts with Eliza
- Eliza shows interest in Gage
- Gage acts like a total man whore and turns Eliza off
- Gage flirts with Eliza
- Eliza shows interest in Gage
- Gage acts like a total man whore and turns Eliza off
Rinse, repeat, rinse again, repeat again and make that times ten and there you have this story.
Eliza
I WANTED TO SLAP ELIZA SO MANY TIMES
I never found a more annoying character than I did with Eliza. She GIGGLES TOO MUCH!!!!! Eliza is twenty-one, but she acts like she is sixteen. She’s really immature and I sometimes question her self-worth. Why in the world would she be interested in someone who just had sex in the bathroom with a random girl? I just did not understand her. I don’t care how cute Gage is. There was NOTHING great about Gage. NOTHING.
Gage
Gage is a Hero? More like a slutty selfish prick
Gage has a girlfriend Penelope, he has sex with Penelope in the same bus as Eliza and when Gage asked if bothered Eliza, Eliza says no? She always lies! She has no self-respect. Just tell him, you don’t like it when he flirts with other girls. Gage would have sex many times with girls, in front of Eliza’s face and then hours later flirt with Eliza and Eliza is okay with it. How does this make for a story? I do not know. I couldn’t figure out Gage, sure he has some “past”, but when I find out what it is, I was like, THAT’S it?
Overall
Who He Is did not work for me…. At all. I think at times towards the middle end I was enjoying it, but when I got the cliffy ending, I wanted to throw my tablet across the room and just say, I WASTED HOW MANY HOURS READING THIS?!!!!!!
The whole book is about Gage chasing Eliza, but Gage isn’t even a great catch! Eliza is hot and cold, just like Gage, I was getting a headache of which character annoyed me the most. I am sure this book works out for some people, but for me, I couldn’t take it.
Who He Is was a VERY difficult book to read. There was a lot of drama, roller coaster of emotions and a lot of I-WANT-TO-SLAP moments
Summary
Eliza has never done anything. She’s a good girl. She likes to read, paint and parties are not her thing. Her dad is the manager of a band and Gage is the lead singer. Eliza has two months off before she has to go back to college in the fall and after a lot of begging, she agrees to go on tour with her father.
My version of what happens…
- Scared Eliza doesn’t do anything, but sexy Gage flirts with Eliza
- Eliza shows interest in Gage
- Gage acts like a total man whore and turns Eliza off
- Gage flirts with Eliza
- Eliza shows interest in Gage
- Gage acts like a total man whore and turns Eliza off
Rinse, repeat, rinse again, repeat again and make that times ten and there you have this story.
Eliza
I WANTED TO SLAP ELIZA SO MANY TIMES
I never found a more annoying character than I did with Eliza. She GIGGLES TOO MUCH!!!!! Eliza is twenty-one, but she acts like she is sixteen. She’s really immature and I sometimes question her self-worth. Why in the world would she be interested in someone who just had sex in the bathroom with a random girl? I just did not understand her. I don’t care how cute Gage is. There was NOTHING great about Gage. NOTHING.
Gage
Gage is a Hero? More like a slutty selfish prick
Gage has a girlfriend Penelope, he has sex with Penelope in the same bus as Eliza and when Gage asked if bothered Eliza, Eliza says no? She always lies! She has no self-respect. Just tell him, you don’t like it when he flirts with other girls. Gage would have sex many times with girls, in front of Eliza’s face and then hours later flirt with Eliza and Eliza is okay with it. How does this make for a story? I do not know. I couldn’t figure out Gage, sure he has some “past”, but when I find out what it is, I was like, THAT’S it?
Overall
Who He Is did not work for me…. At all. I think at times towards the middle end I was enjoying it, but when I got the cliffy ending, I wanted to throw my tablet across the room and just say, I WASTED HOW MANY HOURS READING THIS?!!!!!!
The whole book is about Gage chasing Eliza, but Gage isn’t even a great catch! Eliza is hot and cold, just like Gage, I was getting a headache of which character annoyed me the most. I am sure this book works out for some people, but for me, I couldn’t take it.
August 8, 2013
*An eARC was provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.
To be perfectly honest, I found this rather boring. I went into this book a little apprehensive, considering that rock star romances are quite popular, and the friends with benefits plot sometimes overused. I thought Who He Is was lacking realness. It was lacking a good plot and strong character development.
To start it off, the book is in Eliza's POV. But she described everything in an almost monotonic voice. What I mean by that is that it was sort of clipped and emotionless. I thought it was missing realness and genuineness. Here's a girl who gets to spend her summer touring with an up-and-coming hot rock band. Instead, she's whining and complaining about it. Not to mention, she's annoyingly naive about everything, and she makes assumptions about the other characters and about certain situations. The short little snippets about her past did leave me intrigued to find out what really happened to her. Although, it was really easy to figure out.
I wasn't a fan of Gage's and Eliza's relationship. For the first half of the book they acted like complete children toward each other. Using innocent people to make each other jealous. Hiding their feelings and acting like they don't care. They were one step away from sticking their tongues out at each other and using the insult: "I know you are but what am I?" I was very annoyed with both characters, especially when they continuously played these silly games.
Like, screw Gage. I want Montana. That dude is hilarious. And hot. And just plain awesome. He also had a lot more personality than the lead singer himself. I might be biased, because I honestly hate Gage. His actions and the way he acted just turned me off. The author tried to portray him as a bad boy with a good heart. But instead he just came off as the biggest douchebag. Even near the end, when he starts to fall in love with Eliza, my perspective of him didn't really change.
I thought the romance was very steamy, and the sexual tension in the book was thick. But their relationship still didn't really feel real to me. I'm not convinced of them as a couple. Their conversations never went deep, until literally the very end, where we FINALLY got to hear about their pasts and how they came to be who they are now. If anything, the bits and pieces of those puzzles could have been slowly unraveled throughout the whole book. And when they are finally revealed, they are just kind of glossed over, like whatever happened was easy to forget and leave behind.
When Eliza's time is up, and she's ready to leave, her and Gage have this huge blowout. He's pouring his soul and heart out to her, asking her to stay. Her reason? She has to go. She needs to finish school and live her own life. So she's going to give up the love she has for Gage because she doesn't want to give up her dreams? He's not asking her to give up her dreams; he's asking her to stay. They could have done a long-distance relationship. If they really loved each other, they would. But there's only one reason why Eliza is throwing this away: it's because she doesn't trust Gage. I'm not kidding. When she started this fling, she was all cool with it. But the moment he starts flirting with other women, she goes on a rampage. And she always thought about his past ways and that if she were to go, he'd just go back to hooking up with countless women. Trust is very important to a relationship, and they don't even have that!
And when I hit the ending, I was like: "Are you kidding me? That was it?" Okay, then. Not to mention, it's going to continue Gage's and Eliza's story. I was actually hoping for books with all of the band members, because the band's relationship was the only part of this book I liked. They've known each other a long time, and their friendship is strong. I want more of FireNine's members!
Oh, and can I just mention the overuse of the word "smirking"? There are other ways to write how someone smiles, and half the time the word didn't even fit into the conversation. It didn't always make sense when I was reading.
Eh, I think I'm in the minority here when I say that I didn't like the book. I thought it was okay, but it was just so boring to me. The conversations didn't really flow, and the way Eliza described everything was sort of clipped. There wasn't much to the story or the relationship. Even when pasts are revealed, it still didn't strike me as interesting.
This is one rock star romance that didn't strike a harmonious chord with me.
To be perfectly honest, I found this rather boring. I went into this book a little apprehensive, considering that rock star romances are quite popular, and the friends with benefits plot sometimes overused. I thought Who He Is was lacking realness. It was lacking a good plot and strong character development.
To start it off, the book is in Eliza's POV. But she described everything in an almost monotonic voice. What I mean by that is that it was sort of clipped and emotionless. I thought it was missing realness and genuineness. Here's a girl who gets to spend her summer touring with an up-and-coming hot rock band. Instead, she's whining and complaining about it. Not to mention, she's annoyingly naive about everything, and she makes assumptions about the other characters and about certain situations. The short little snippets about her past did leave me intrigued to find out what really happened to her. Although, it was really easy to figure out.
I wasn't a fan of Gage's and Eliza's relationship. For the first half of the book they acted like complete children toward each other. Using innocent people to make each other jealous. Hiding their feelings and acting like they don't care. They were one step away from sticking their tongues out at each other and using the insult: "I know you are but what am I?" I was very annoyed with both characters, especially when they continuously played these silly games.
Like, screw Gage. I want Montana. That dude is hilarious. And hot. And just plain awesome. He also had a lot more personality than the lead singer himself. I might be biased, because I honestly hate Gage. His actions and the way he acted just turned me off. The author tried to portray him as a bad boy with a good heart. But instead he just came off as the biggest douchebag. Even near the end, when he starts to fall in love with Eliza, my perspective of him didn't really change.
I thought the romance was very steamy, and the sexual tension in the book was thick. But their relationship still didn't really feel real to me. I'm not convinced of them as a couple. Their conversations never went deep, until literally the very end, where we FINALLY got to hear about their pasts and how they came to be who they are now. If anything, the bits and pieces of those puzzles could have been slowly unraveled throughout the whole book. And when they are finally revealed, they are just kind of glossed over, like whatever happened was easy to forget and leave behind.
When Eliza's time is up, and she's ready to leave, her and Gage have this huge blowout. He's pouring his soul and heart out to her, asking her to stay. Her reason? She has to go. She needs to finish school and live her own life. So she's going to give up the love she has for Gage because she doesn't want to give up her dreams? He's not asking her to give up her dreams; he's asking her to stay. They could have done a long-distance relationship. If they really loved each other, they would. But there's only one reason why Eliza is throwing this away: it's because she doesn't trust Gage. I'm not kidding. When she started this fling, she was all cool with it. But the moment he starts flirting with other women, she goes on a rampage. And she always thought about his past ways and that if she were to go, he'd just go back to hooking up with countless women. Trust is very important to a relationship, and they don't even have that!
And when I hit the ending, I was like: "Are you kidding me? That was it?" Okay, then. Not to mention, it's going to continue Gage's and Eliza's story. I was actually hoping for books with all of the band members, because the band's relationship was the only part of this book I liked. They've known each other a long time, and their friendship is strong. I want more of FireNine's members!
Oh, and can I just mention the overuse of the word "smirking"? There are other ways to write how someone smiles, and half the time the word didn't even fit into the conversation. It didn't always make sense when I was reading.
Eh, I think I'm in the minority here when I say that I didn't like the book. I thought it was okay, but it was just so boring to me. The conversations didn't really flow, and the way Eliza described everything was sort of clipped. There wasn't much to the story or the relationship. Even when pasts are revealed, it still didn't strike me as interesting.
This is one rock star romance that didn't strike a harmonious chord with me.
June 28, 2013
This is my first review where I'm attempting to add pics so hopefully it goes as well as I want. After reading Who He Is by S.Q. Williams I was so stoked and wanted my review to show just how inspired I really was from just reading it.
This is book one in the FireNine series and it was definitely 5 Rock Stars!!
Eliza (Ellie) Smith is twenty one and a homebody. She was always a ponytail and jeans and t-shirt girl and never wore makeup until she moved in with her dad Ben in her junior year of high school. Ben is homosexual and gave her a makeover...on the outside. In the inside she was still trying to make sense of her crazy life. Parties aren't really her thing but painting is.
Her dad is the manager of FireNine and he gets her to go on tour with him and the band to try and get her out of her shell. This is where she meets the lead singer!
Gage Grendel is 3 years older than Ellie and the ultimate player. He has the power to break a girls heart in two with his bedroom voice, hazel eyes, silky brown hair and tattoos sleeves on both of his arms and one even on his neck. I love that his choice of foot wear is always his Chuck Taylor's.
In the beginning Ellie swears to herself that she isn't going to get involved with Gage especially because he has a beautiful girlfriend and sees girls throwing themselves at him whenever they can. It's even worse that Gage takes these girls up on their offers. After hearing the lyrics to one of the songs Gage sings she realizes that maybe he is this way because he has his own baggage he's carrying around.
After not being able to deny her attraction to Gage any longer she agrees to give in and have a "fling" with Gage until the tour is over.
Spending weeks with each other has done a number on both of them and it could have possibly made one or both of them feel more than just their "fling" should allow.
Feelings are confessed and hearts are left raw by the emotions and baggage that is bared.
"Don't leave me, . You can't....I need you too much. I love you too much."
But is it too late? The tour is coming to an end and one of them is too caught up in their own future and dead set on following their career path. It's the eleventh hour and there's no more time but as always something or someone is more of a priority than having the proper goodbye.
And this is where it ends!! Yes my fellow book whore's I was biting my nails and pulling my hair out till the very end. I usually hate cliffhangers but Gage and Ellie's journey is so worth all the bubble guts and curse words that flew out of my mouth. I can't wait to get back to their story and see what mischief the other members of the band are getting into! I feel so honored to have received a copy of this book before it's been published, I would definitely recommend it!!!
This is book one in the FireNine series and it was definitely 5 Rock Stars!!
Eliza (Ellie) Smith is twenty one and a homebody. She was always a ponytail and jeans and t-shirt girl and never wore makeup until she moved in with her dad Ben in her junior year of high school. Ben is homosexual and gave her a makeover...on the outside. In the inside she was still trying to make sense of her crazy life. Parties aren't really her thing but painting is.
Her dad is the manager of FireNine and he gets her to go on tour with him and the band to try and get her out of her shell. This is where she meets the lead singer!
Gage Grendel is 3 years older than Ellie and the ultimate player. He has the power to break a girls heart in two with his bedroom voice, hazel eyes, silky brown hair and tattoos sleeves on both of his arms and one even on his neck. I love that his choice of foot wear is always his Chuck Taylor's.
In the beginning Ellie swears to herself that she isn't going to get involved with Gage especially because he has a beautiful girlfriend and sees girls throwing themselves at him whenever they can. It's even worse that Gage takes these girls up on their offers. After hearing the lyrics to one of the songs Gage sings she realizes that maybe he is this way because he has his own baggage he's carrying around.
After not being able to deny her attraction to Gage any longer she agrees to give in and have a "fling" with Gage until the tour is over.
Spending weeks with each other has done a number on both of them and it could have possibly made one or both of them feel more than just their "fling" should allow.
Feelings are confessed and hearts are left raw by the emotions and baggage that is bared.
"Don't leave me, . You can't....I need you too much. I love you too much."
But is it too late? The tour is coming to an end and one of them is too caught up in their own future and dead set on following their career path. It's the eleventh hour and there's no more time but as always something or someone is more of a priority than having the proper goodbye.
And this is where it ends!! Yes my fellow book whore's I was biting my nails and pulling my hair out till the very end. I usually hate cliffhangers but Gage and Ellie's journey is so worth all the bubble guts and curse words that flew out of my mouth. I can't wait to get back to their story and see what mischief the other members of the band are getting into! I feel so honored to have received a copy of this book before it's been published, I would definitely recommend it!!!
November 7, 2015
DNF
This may work for you, but it did not work for me.
There are some spoilers below.
I did not finish the book so I do not know how it ended, etc. I just give examples of what annoyed me.
This could have been so good, but it made my head hurt. All the back and forth. The heroine deserved better. She had been through enough.
In the prologue, we really don't know what is going on but get the sense that the heroine is being abused by someone. Then fast forward the heroine is 21 years old. She keeps to herself. She likes to paint, read, draw and not go out and party.
The heroine's father, Ben, is the manager for a hot band called Firenine. Ben makes his daughter, Eliza, go on tour with the band for 2 months while she is on summer break from college. He wants her to get out and enjoy life. Eliza is hesitant, but goes. Eliza has had a crush on the lead singer, Gage since high school, but he has not noticed her until now. So I thought "WOW, I hit jackpot because I love these types of stories and I could read a hundred of them and never get sick of them." WRONG!!!! The story got stupid. STUPID!!! First Gage played these games with Eliza. He would be nice to her, take her to places, but then he would bring random girls back to the bus or fly his girlfriend, Penelope, to have sex with him. Yes, Gage has a girlfriend and he would ask Eliza with a smirk if she was jealous about the girlfriend. It became ridiculous. It was like junior high. Whenever, Eliza thought there was a connection, Gage would bring Penelope or a groupie around. Listen, I love drama. I crave drama. I am a drama whore. However, this behavior got annoying and stupid. Especially when Penelope or some other girl would be with Gage. Then Gage's band mate, Montana, would tell Eliza that Gage wanted her and only talked about her. It was like they were playing mind games with Eliza. The other ridiculous thing was when Gage would get jealous of other guys around Eliza, but ask her later if she was jealous of girls hanging out with him. The final straw for me was when they were eating at Cracker Barrel and Gage had his hands on Eliza's leg in a sexual way. Then some random girl showed up while they were still sitting at the table and Gage took the groupie to the restroom and had sex with the her. This was minutes after trying to touch Eliza. This type of behavior was in every chapter. Gage would touch Eliza, act nice to her, and then he would have sex with a random groupie or his girlfriend. It got old. I was not connected enough to feel the angst that Eliza was feeling. Instead of angst, I was felt annoyance and at that point, it was time for me to quit.
This may work for you, but it did not work for me.
There are some spoilers below.
I did not finish the book so I do not know how it ended, etc. I just give examples of what annoyed me.
This could have been so good, but it made my head hurt. All the back and forth. The heroine deserved better. She had been through enough.
In the prologue, we really don't know what is going on but get the sense that the heroine is being abused by someone. Then fast forward the heroine is 21 years old. She keeps to herself. She likes to paint, read, draw and not go out and party.
The heroine's father, Ben, is the manager for a hot band called Firenine. Ben makes his daughter, Eliza, go on tour with the band for 2 months while she is on summer break from college. He wants her to get out and enjoy life. Eliza is hesitant, but goes. Eliza has had a crush on the lead singer, Gage since high school, but he has not noticed her until now. So I thought "WOW, I hit jackpot because I love these types of stories and I could read a hundred of them and never get sick of them." WRONG!!!! The story got stupid. STUPID!!! First Gage played these games with Eliza. He would be nice to her, take her to places, but then he would bring random girls back to the bus or fly his girlfriend, Penelope, to have sex with him. Yes, Gage has a girlfriend and he would ask Eliza with a smirk if she was jealous about the girlfriend. It became ridiculous. It was like junior high. Whenever, Eliza thought there was a connection, Gage would bring Penelope or a groupie around. Listen, I love drama. I crave drama. I am a drama whore. However, this behavior got annoying and stupid. Especially when Penelope or some other girl would be with Gage. Then Gage's band mate, Montana, would tell Eliza that Gage wanted her and only talked about her. It was like they were playing mind games with Eliza. The other ridiculous thing was when Gage would get jealous of other guys around Eliza, but ask her later if she was jealous of girls hanging out with him. The final straw for me was when they were eating at Cracker Barrel and Gage had his hands on Eliza's leg in a sexual way. Then some random girl showed up while they were still sitting at the table and Gage took the groupie to the restroom and had sex with the her. This was minutes after trying to touch Eliza. This type of behavior was in every chapter. Gage would touch Eliza, act nice to her, and then he would have sex with a random groupie or his girlfriend. It got old. I was not connected enough to feel the angst that Eliza was feeling. Instead of angst, I was felt annoyance and at that point, it was time for me to quit.
July 19, 2013
Ok, let me get the good stuff in first. I liked the story, it is raw and bounces along at a nice pace. Eliza is endearing and likeable and Gage is......I'll come back to Gage. The supporting characters are interesting and this is a warts and all view of a relationship within a touring rock band environment, the grittiness is compelling.
My problems with it are that Gage is a character who has loads of potential to be really hot but just falls short because of his weakness in dealing with his ex who he never really finishes with but still will fall on the floor crying for Eliza??? Not a strong enough reason for letting that relationship go on in my opinion.
There was strange sentences such as ........his strides toward the shower were cautious......... (striding is assertive, not cautious) didn't make sense.
Also, ..........he was about to turn around, but surprisingly, I called his name and he stopped.......... (she surprised herself by calling his name???) Odd.
..........For the most part, we were quiet. It wasn't awkward to stare because he had more than enough to stare at and keep me quiet.......... (WHAT??)
.........He looked me over briefly, his eyes depressing...... (what in the hell does that mean?)
The book is absolutely littered with these annoying sentences and although I tried to ignore them, I couldn't. Also, the characters are often contradictory and I felt confused by what the character was supposed to be feeling. This writer also explains everything and that makes me switch off when reading, for instance...........I turned quickly in spotting Gage, whose eyebrows were stitched. His nostrils flared and his lips were pinched so tight that the skin around his mouth was pale. The skin over his knuckles was as white as snow because of his clenched fist...........(Too much description, let my brain work please).
So, this story needs a lot of work, a good editor would be useful as well as having someone reading it back aloud to make sure it makes sense. I hope that the work does improve because the author clearly has the talent to create a good story but needs a good team and perhaps a bit more time re-working before publishing to make it a polished story.
My problems with it are that Gage is a character who has loads of potential to be really hot but just falls short because of his weakness in dealing with his ex who he never really finishes with but still will fall on the floor crying for Eliza??? Not a strong enough reason for letting that relationship go on in my opinion.
There was strange sentences such as ........his strides toward the shower were cautious......... (striding is assertive, not cautious) didn't make sense.
Also, ..........he was about to turn around, but surprisingly, I called his name and he stopped.......... (she surprised herself by calling his name???) Odd.
..........For the most part, we were quiet. It wasn't awkward to stare because he had more than enough to stare at and keep me quiet.......... (WHAT??)
.........He looked me over briefly, his eyes depressing...... (what in the hell does that mean?)
The book is absolutely littered with these annoying sentences and although I tried to ignore them, I couldn't. Also, the characters are often contradictory and I felt confused by what the character was supposed to be feeling. This writer also explains everything and that makes me switch off when reading, for instance...........I turned quickly in spotting Gage, whose eyebrows were stitched. His nostrils flared and his lips were pinched so tight that the skin around his mouth was pale. The skin over his knuckles was as white as snow because of his clenched fist...........(Too much description, let my brain work please).
So, this story needs a lot of work, a good editor would be useful as well as having someone reading it back aloud to make sure it makes sense. I hope that the work does improve because the author clearly has the talent to create a good story but needs a good team and perhaps a bit more time re-working before publishing to make it a polished story.
August 15, 2013
I almost gave up about 30% in, but noooooo....I thought for SURE it had to get better. So many 5-star ratings! *Le sigh* On the most basic of levels, there should be a one smirk per page rule. Keep in mind that I read this on my Kindle app on my phone. The action/verbage was just weird. I found myself having to re-read sentences, and not in a "Toni Morrison writes some deep shit, yo" way...but in an "is English your native language?" way.
On the next level, a woman who constantly refers to other women as skanks, whores, sluts...and my personal favorite "floozy" should be embarrassed. Yes, there are groupies. We get it. All girlfriends of the band will become Yoko Ono. Check.
One more step up here - really with the trying to make each other jealous? Of course our "bad boy rocker" has to actually sleep with every vagina that comes across his path (including his path to the Cracker Barrel bathroom) while the beautiful-physically abused-gorgeous yet insecure-former cage fighter (I shit you not) turned shut in-good girl with a "v-card" and the new vogue gay father just has to speak to another guy before the rocker blows his lid.
The whole thing with Bentley? WTF? Unnecessary heroism/PTSD segue that makes ZERO sense.
And, "But honey...I have to keep flying my girlfriend of 3 years all over the country so I can sleep with her...I have no choice!" Oh lawd.
Back to our story...who doesn't love some hot shaggin' after a good puke in the shower? "He was about to deflower me and make me into a real woman." Like the Pinocchio of Virgins. The Velveteen Vagina? Anyway....
"There was some blood on the white sheets and I gasped, thinking maybe there really was a cherry down there." And me with no shower to vomit into...
I should have given up early and spared myself the pain, especially when I got to the end and realized it's a trilogy. Oy vey.
On the next level, a woman who constantly refers to other women as skanks, whores, sluts...and my personal favorite "floozy" should be embarrassed. Yes, there are groupies. We get it. All girlfriends of the band will become Yoko Ono. Check.
One more step up here - really with the trying to make each other jealous? Of course our "bad boy rocker" has to actually sleep with every vagina that comes across his path (including his path to the Cracker Barrel bathroom) while the beautiful-physically abused-gorgeous yet insecure-former cage fighter (I shit you not) turned shut in-good girl with a "v-card" and the new vogue gay father just has to speak to another guy before the rocker blows his lid.
The whole thing with Bentley? WTF? Unnecessary heroism/PTSD segue that makes ZERO sense.
And, "But honey...I have to keep flying my girlfriend of 3 years all over the country so I can sleep with her...I have no choice!" Oh lawd.
Back to our story...who doesn't love some hot shaggin' after a good puke in the shower? "He was about to deflower me and make me into a real woman." Like the Pinocchio of Virgins. The Velveteen Vagina? Anyway....
"There was some blood on the white sheets and I gasped, thinking maybe there really was a cherry down there." And me with no shower to vomit into...
I should have given up early and spared myself the pain, especially when I got to the end and realized it's a trilogy. Oy vey.
January 6, 2015
I don't usually write reviews, but this had to be the most annoying book I've read in a very long time. We've got a "good girl" and a "bad boy" rock star falling for each other. Of course they've got dark pasts. She wants him, he's fucking groupies,they fall in love eventually, she breaks his heart....Cliffhanger. Typical. I've read many of stories like this, but executed in a more put together fashion (*cough* Music of the Heart by Katie Ashley).They childishly went back and forth making each other jealous for about 75% of the story. The dialogue was all over the place, and he "smirked" too much for my liking.
I won't be reading book 2 in this trilogy.
I won't be reading book 2 in this trilogy.
July 29, 2013
Who He Is was one of the first rock star book I have read. Shanora Williams is one of my favorite authors when it comes to New Adult books. And like every other one this one out shines the last. I didn't think it was possible for her to write another book boyfriend into existence. But Gage is God, the things I could say about him. If he were real I would find him like I was some kind of stalker!!! lol
This is a book that you are going to want to read, everything about it screams sexy. And I wish my dad was a manager of a rock band and he was as cool as Eliza's dad. I wanted to scream out the whole time, "Gage, can I keep you?!?!"
I cant wait to get my hands on the next book! The way book one ended...WOW!!! I didn't know what to feel. I cried, I screamed, and I felt like I wanted to kick anything that came into a five foot radius of me. it had me feeling so many different emotions, I was over whelmed.
needless to say this was a fantastic book that I will be rereading forever!!!! ( and I am sure I am going to love all the other books in this series) Yes, you heard it right all the boys are going to be getting a book too. I cant wait!!!!!
This is a book that you are going to want to read, everything about it screams sexy. And I wish my dad was a manager of a rock band and he was as cool as Eliza's dad. I wanted to scream out the whole time, "Gage, can I keep you?!?!"
I cant wait to get my hands on the next book! The way book one ended...WOW!!! I didn't know what to feel. I cried, I screamed, and I felt like I wanted to kick anything that came into a five foot radius of me. it had me feeling so many different emotions, I was over whelmed.
needless to say this was a fantastic book that I will be rereading forever!!!! ( and I am sure I am going to love all the other books in this series) Yes, you heard it right all the boys are going to be getting a book too. I cant wait!!!!!
August 12, 2013
2.5 stars
Gage was so effing frustrating and Eliza was such a damn doormat that I got a headache reading this. The ending and sneak peak of the next book almost cements the fact that I wouldn't be able to handle another book with these 2. I want to know what happens, but things that happened in it are just not my cup of tea.
When they finally got together Gage made one promise to Eliza and then he pretty much broke it big time and wanted her to understand? It wasn't even explained what exactly happened which makes me more frustrated. I needed the truth to know whether or not I should be pissed or ripping balls off mad. Grr.
This was me venting my frustrations. Thanks for reading my neurotic musings... I just needed to put them out into the universe.
Gage was so effing frustrating and Eliza was such a damn doormat that I got a headache reading this. The ending and sneak peak of the next book almost cements the fact that I wouldn't be able to handle another book with these 2. I want to know what happens, but things that happened in it are just not my cup of tea.
When they finally got together Gage made one promise to Eliza and then he pretty much broke it big time and wanted her to understand? It wasn't even explained what exactly happened which makes me more frustrated. I needed the truth to know whether or not I should be pissed or ripping balls off mad. Grr.
This was me venting my frustrations. Thanks for reading my neurotic musings... I just needed to put them out into the universe.
March 7, 2022
Why do I do this to myself? I have a weakness and I know it, but that doesn’t stop me from indulging in these guilty pleasures. I’ve already admitted that rockstar romances are my Kryptonite. I’m not strong like Superman, who knows to stay away from the stuff. NO, I just rush head long into it knowing I’m going to have the Kryptonite hangover. Yes, that is what I have, a book hangover. I read this book and couldn’t get enough. I just had to have one more taste so I went back and read it again. Now I just want book 2. I’m stomping my foot in a two year old tantrum kind of way. Why do I do this to myself?
I’ll tell you why, because a hot rocker is dangled in front of me and I can’t resist. Their pursuit of the object of their desire is just too irresistible to deny. Who He Is gave me my next rocker book boyfriend, and his name is Gage. Don’t you just love it? I fell for Gage and his cockiness and smirky smile right along with Liza. He knew how to tease her to the point where she just had to give in. He was fun, loyal, and sizzling. Might I also add that he had tattoos? Mmmm hot tats are always a plus. All the things I expect in my rocker book boyfriends. He also had a heartbreaking past that shaped him into the person he was now. Talk about gut wrenching. When he finally opens up and talks about his childhood I wanted to cry. His mother did something that you could only understand if you are a mom. What really broke me was his actions at the end. I couldn’t believe the outcome. Gage is one hot male who loves fiercely but now he’s broken even more. Can I please have book 2 NOW, Please?
The other band members need to be mentioned here. I wanted to have a person like Montana on my side. He was the typical guy who had to have the girls but he also had a soft spot for Liza. He was like the big brother she never had. He gave great advice. He knew Gage and was always pointing Liza in his direction. Deed came off as a jerk but once you find out what’s been going on with him you just want to gather him in your arms and hold onto him. Then there is the quiet Roy. He must have some deep secrets because he doesn’t talk much and is always walking away or keeping to himself. He is a mystery and I want to open him up. Basically, this is a group of guys I wouldn’t mind being around.
As much as I like my rocker book boyfriends, I also am intrigued by the girls/women who captivate their hearts. Liza is a smart cookie. She’s artistic, likes to read, and doesn’t mind being by herself. She’s had a rough childhood that she is determined to overcome. Liza has her life planned to the point that she can’t afford any distractions. Her dad, Ben, is the manager of Fire Nine. Any time the band comes over she hides away in her room to avoid Gage. She’s had a secret crush on him for years, but he’s a distraction. The story takes off when Liza goes on the road with her dad and the band for the summer. It’s inevitable that Liza and Gage will hook up. He’s magnetic and she is attracted. They have perfect chemistry. I loved every tease that led up to the sizzling scenes between Gage and Liza. I was hoping for something that didn’t happen. In the end I was floored. Can I please have book 2 now? I can’t take it. My heart is aching.
To say I liked this book would be an understatement. I more than liked this book. I adore this book. I want more of this story and I will get it. I just don’t know when. Please, I’m not too proud to beg. Can I have it now? The author has ruined me for the next book I read. How is it going to live up to the awesomeness of this one? Seriously, I think I need to look into getting some help for my rocker book boyfriend obsession. Do me a favor and get a copy of Who He Is. I definitely fell for Who He Is…He is Gage, my new rocker book boyfriend.
I’ll tell you why, because a hot rocker is dangled in front of me and I can’t resist. Their pursuit of the object of their desire is just too irresistible to deny. Who He Is gave me my next rocker book boyfriend, and his name is Gage. Don’t you just love it? I fell for Gage and his cockiness and smirky smile right along with Liza. He knew how to tease her to the point where she just had to give in. He was fun, loyal, and sizzling. Might I also add that he had tattoos? Mmmm hot tats are always a plus. All the things I expect in my rocker book boyfriends. He also had a heartbreaking past that shaped him into the person he was now. Talk about gut wrenching. When he finally opens up and talks about his childhood I wanted to cry. His mother did something that you could only understand if you are a mom. What really broke me was his actions at the end. I couldn’t believe the outcome. Gage is one hot male who loves fiercely but now he’s broken even more. Can I please have book 2 NOW, Please?
The other band members need to be mentioned here. I wanted to have a person like Montana on my side. He was the typical guy who had to have the girls but he also had a soft spot for Liza. He was like the big brother she never had. He gave great advice. He knew Gage and was always pointing Liza in his direction. Deed came off as a jerk but once you find out what’s been going on with him you just want to gather him in your arms and hold onto him. Then there is the quiet Roy. He must have some deep secrets because he doesn’t talk much and is always walking away or keeping to himself. He is a mystery and I want to open him up. Basically, this is a group of guys I wouldn’t mind being around.
As much as I like my rocker book boyfriends, I also am intrigued by the girls/women who captivate their hearts. Liza is a smart cookie. She’s artistic, likes to read, and doesn’t mind being by herself. She’s had a rough childhood that she is determined to overcome. Liza has her life planned to the point that she can’t afford any distractions. Her dad, Ben, is the manager of Fire Nine. Any time the band comes over she hides away in her room to avoid Gage. She’s had a secret crush on him for years, but he’s a distraction. The story takes off when Liza goes on the road with her dad and the band for the summer. It’s inevitable that Liza and Gage will hook up. He’s magnetic and she is attracted. They have perfect chemistry. I loved every tease that led up to the sizzling scenes between Gage and Liza. I was hoping for something that didn’t happen. In the end I was floored. Can I please have book 2 now? I can’t take it. My heart is aching.
To say I liked this book would be an understatement. I more than liked this book. I adore this book. I want more of this story and I will get it. I just don’t know when. Please, I’m not too proud to beg. Can I have it now? The author has ruined me for the next book I read. How is it going to live up to the awesomeness of this one? Seriously, I think I need to look into getting some help for my rocker book boyfriend obsession. Do me a favor and get a copy of Who He Is. I definitely fell for Who He Is…He is Gage, my new rocker book boyfriend.
July 25, 2013
Oh my god - first of all let me tell you I am friggen sobbing from that ending oh my god and second I NEED the next book now! Full review coming later - god this book was so powerful
Check out more reviews from me the "bookBANGERR
~update~
***HOLY MOTHER MARY ON TOAST ! You know those books you kind of go into without knowing anything about the book or author and your all like "hey let me take a risk , maybe it'll be a good." Well I took that risk and I can not be more grateful for taking it. I absolutely adored this book and naturally I read it in one sitting as soon as I got it. During the entire book I thought it was an awesome book a 4.5 STARS for me but then , then I got to the end and normally I hate cliffhangers especially sad ones that rip my heart out and trust me this ending was all of that and more. After I finished the last scene I found myself literally crying, legitimate not normal crying, and let me tell you , I hardly cry in my everyday life let alone books! The last time I cried and felt such a strong emotion for a character was in 50 shades when Ana says' she's leaving Christian. So obviously this book was amped up to a whole 5 STARS for the amazing writing and the feelings that this author made me feel! Thank you Shanora !!!
Lets' start out with the lovely Eliza Smith , I actually really enjoyed her. She was very down to earth and shy , a little boring , but also had a little bit of feistiness to her. She had a pretty rough past with her mom (that dumb whore) so I understand where she comes from with a lot of the things she does. I was also glad there was no "love triangle" in this book , thank you , thank you so rest assured if you hate that crap like I do. Eliza's father , oh god I LOVED BEN! He is actually the most awesome dad ever and he also happens to be FireNine's manager.
Now let's get on to our lovely Hero, Gage Grendel. Oh Gage, firstly I really like that name and second he was one sexy hottie. Gage is actually one of the members of FireNine as lead singer and I believe guitar as well. Eliza actually knows him from school since she always had a crush on him but Gage was about 3 years older and never really knew who she was back in high school. Obviously he's some playa playa mostly throughout this whole book there were times when I just wanted to backhand him like for real boy don't you learn?!? But then other times he was just so perfect. I truly loved him from beginning to finish no matter how much of a dirtbag he was. He was also kinda of Alphaish which I loved , he wasn't SUPER over the top , but he defiantly was NO wimp when it came to Eliza. When Gage and Eliza are together(ish) I really love them I feel they truly balance out as a couple!
There were also quite a few side characters and I truly loved them all and would love to read anything about them as well ! *hint hint* just saying ;]
Let me say there is a SERIOUS cliffhanger at the end like knife in the heart ! If you hate cliffhangers don't be worried because the author said the 2nd book will be out in September! *PHEW thank God <3 All in all this is an amazing story and I can't wait to see where the author takes it ! =]
Check out more reviews from me the "bookBANGERR
~update~
***HOLY MOTHER MARY ON TOAST ! You know those books you kind of go into without knowing anything about the book or author and your all like "hey let me take a risk , maybe it'll be a good." Well I took that risk and I can not be more grateful for taking it. I absolutely adored this book and naturally I read it in one sitting as soon as I got it. During the entire book I thought it was an awesome book a 4.5 STARS for me but then , then I got to the end and normally I hate cliffhangers especially sad ones that rip my heart out and trust me this ending was all of that and more. After I finished the last scene I found myself literally crying, legitimate not normal crying, and let me tell you , I hardly cry in my everyday life let alone books! The last time I cried and felt such a strong emotion for a character was in 50 shades when Ana says' she's leaving Christian. So obviously this book was amped up to a whole 5 STARS for the amazing writing and the feelings that this author made me feel! Thank you Shanora !!!
Lets' start out with the lovely Eliza Smith , I actually really enjoyed her. She was very down to earth and shy , a little boring , but also had a little bit of feistiness to her. She had a pretty rough past with her mom (that dumb whore) so I understand where she comes from with a lot of the things she does. I was also glad there was no "love triangle" in this book , thank you , thank you so rest assured if you hate that crap like I do. Eliza's father , oh god I LOVED BEN! He is actually the most awesome dad ever and he also happens to be FireNine's manager.
Now let's get on to our lovely Hero, Gage Grendel. Oh Gage, firstly I really like that name and second he was one sexy hottie. Gage is actually one of the members of FireNine as lead singer and I believe guitar as well. Eliza actually knows him from school since she always had a crush on him but Gage was about 3 years older and never really knew who she was back in high school. Obviously he's some playa playa mostly throughout this whole book there were times when I just wanted to backhand him like for real boy don't you learn?!? But then other times he was just so perfect. I truly loved him from beginning to finish no matter how much of a dirtbag he was. He was also kinda of Alphaish which I loved , he wasn't SUPER over the top , but he defiantly was NO wimp when it came to Eliza. When Gage and Eliza are together(ish) I really love them I feel they truly balance out as a couple!
There were also quite a few side characters and I truly loved them all and would love to read anything about them as well ! *hint hint* just saying ;]
Let me say there is a SERIOUS cliffhanger at the end like knife in the heart ! If you hate cliffhangers don't be worried because the author said the 2nd book will be out in September! *PHEW thank God <3 All in all this is an amazing story and I can't wait to see where the author takes it ! =]
August 2, 2013
“You need to start packing. We’re going on tour with FireNine!” he said over dinner.
I’m going to start this review by telling you why I loved this book, Raw Realistic Emotion. There are some books that I read and the main female character doesn’t have a clue that she is beautiful, as far as she is concerned she’s pretty plain Jane. Then, one day a man wants her and poof she magically grows in to a woman full of sexual prowess. What? I really don’t think that is realistic at all. Especially, when this female in question is a virgin. Did she do a crash course online overnight, on how to be the best lay her first time around the bedroom? Now, this book on the other hand gives the reader a cold douse of true emotion.
Gage was beyond the word hot. He was sexy but extremely deadly toward any girl’s emotions. He could break a girl’s heart in two and not care about it. It was always that way in high school. He’d hook up with a girl one day; the next she’d come into class with smeared mascara. That was one thing that agitated me about guys in rock bands. It seemed as if they weren’t all the same—all aiming to have sex and then forget about it the next day.
Eliza is an average girl, or this is how she views herself. She grew up in a home that was less then stellar and when she goes to live with her father, she gets thrust in to the world of Firenine. Gage the lead singer of Firenine and old classmate in high school, notices Eliza. Even though Eliza should be off limits to Gage, because of the uncomfortable circumstances that would ensue if they give in to their desire for each other, it doesn’t stop him from trying. Eliza being the realist that she is keeps Gage at arms length, except for when those pesky little hormones start to kick in and she finds herself on foreign territory.
Now this is where the story really grabbed me. I was already drawn to the story, but this is where the book tossed me, chewed me up and spit me out leaving me wanting more. No, begging for more. I wanted more of the abuse Eliza and Gage could throw at me. I could completely understand every part of their relationship. First, there is the let’s be friends, then jump into the “Yeah, I want you but, can I really just do the one-night stand thing?”, then they jump to the arrangement stage (this is never a good place to be).
Now the problem with this story that I have been reading in reviews for some people is Eliza’s immaturity. Was she immature? YES! I am going to tell you why. She grew up in a home where she might as well be dirt beneath her mother’s shoes, she spent most of her teenage years trying to blend. She never did relationships, they would just further complicate her camouflage. When Gage starts pursuing Eliza, she doesn’t want to be another notch on his rock star wall and she also doesn’t want to deal with the emotions of it. All of the attention is new to Eliza and with that newness comes the craving to eat up any of that attention she never got before. This ladies and gentlemen, is reality.
I can even say that I was just as immature and a whirlwind of doubt and emotion when I first discovered boys liked me. I ate that shit up. I have fond, embarrassing moments when I let my emotions get the best of me and did things that would even make Eliza look like a saint. In short I related to Eliza’s emotions. I related to where she was coming from. If I had been in Eliza’s shoes, I would feel the way that she did, inexperienced and scared to explore that world.
Everytime we’d go out, he’d have a different girl on his arm—making out with her, holding her, nuzzling her neck. He’d do it right in front of me. I tried ignoring him, but I started to think he was running into me on purpose.
Now, let me talk about Gage. This sexy man whore gave me flippin whiplash. I knew what was going to happen in the end of this story and I prayed I was wrong. Gage, I loved his character. There was no bullshit when it came to him. Yes, he played the game that Eliza threw at him. If she didn’t want to be with him, he was going to make her want to. That is what being a player is all about. The thrill of the chase. I don’t think he was quite expecting to have to hunt Eliza because he isn’t a man that hears the word no a lot, maybe the word a lot is incorrect, probably never is more like it. I also don’t think he was expecting to feel anything for Eliza aside from what was going on between her legs. It blindsided him and again, he was thrown in to new territory. What’s a man to do when he doesn’t know what the hell is going on? Well, he acts like a juvenile. New emotions equals roller coaster ride on coping skills.
I cannot even begin to tell you everything that happens in this book. There are so many characters and events in this story. The balance that S.Q. Williams keeps in the story line is brilliant. I never got lost and the emotions she brings out of these characters is beautiful. If your expecting a book where everything is neatly packaged and tied with a bow, your looking at the wrong book. If you want a story that leaves you reeling and wondering what the hell just happened, this is it.
I told a friend of mine the other day that if she is going to read this book, try to remember the first boyfriend she ever had, her first sexual encounter, her first time. Revisit those emotions because that is where she is going to find herself. She told me after she read Who He Is, that by telling her that she could see where Eliza’s emotions were coming from. I am asking you to do the same, remember those emotions because your going to need it for this ride.
I’m going to start this review by telling you why I loved this book, Raw Realistic Emotion. There are some books that I read and the main female character doesn’t have a clue that she is beautiful, as far as she is concerned she’s pretty plain Jane. Then, one day a man wants her and poof she magically grows in to a woman full of sexual prowess. What? I really don’t think that is realistic at all. Especially, when this female in question is a virgin. Did she do a crash course online overnight, on how to be the best lay her first time around the bedroom? Now, this book on the other hand gives the reader a cold douse of true emotion.
Gage was beyond the word hot. He was sexy but extremely deadly toward any girl’s emotions. He could break a girl’s heart in two and not care about it. It was always that way in high school. He’d hook up with a girl one day; the next she’d come into class with smeared mascara. That was one thing that agitated me about guys in rock bands. It seemed as if they weren’t all the same—all aiming to have sex and then forget about it the next day.
Eliza is an average girl, or this is how she views herself. She grew up in a home that was less then stellar and when she goes to live with her father, she gets thrust in to the world of Firenine. Gage the lead singer of Firenine and old classmate in high school, notices Eliza. Even though Eliza should be off limits to Gage, because of the uncomfortable circumstances that would ensue if they give in to their desire for each other, it doesn’t stop him from trying. Eliza being the realist that she is keeps Gage at arms length, except for when those pesky little hormones start to kick in and she finds herself on foreign territory.
Now this is where the story really grabbed me. I was already drawn to the story, but this is where the book tossed me, chewed me up and spit me out leaving me wanting more. No, begging for more. I wanted more of the abuse Eliza and Gage could throw at me. I could completely understand every part of their relationship. First, there is the let’s be friends, then jump into the “Yeah, I want you but, can I really just do the one-night stand thing?”, then they jump to the arrangement stage (this is never a good place to be).
Now the problem with this story that I have been reading in reviews for some people is Eliza’s immaturity. Was she immature? YES! I am going to tell you why. She grew up in a home where she might as well be dirt beneath her mother’s shoes, she spent most of her teenage years trying to blend. She never did relationships, they would just further complicate her camouflage. When Gage starts pursuing Eliza, she doesn’t want to be another notch on his rock star wall and she also doesn’t want to deal with the emotions of it. All of the attention is new to Eliza and with that newness comes the craving to eat up any of that attention she never got before. This ladies and gentlemen, is reality.
I can even say that I was just as immature and a whirlwind of doubt and emotion when I first discovered boys liked me. I ate that shit up. I have fond, embarrassing moments when I let my emotions get the best of me and did things that would even make Eliza look like a saint. In short I related to Eliza’s emotions. I related to where she was coming from. If I had been in Eliza’s shoes, I would feel the way that she did, inexperienced and scared to explore that world.
Everytime we’d go out, he’d have a different girl on his arm—making out with her, holding her, nuzzling her neck. He’d do it right in front of me. I tried ignoring him, but I started to think he was running into me on purpose.
Now, let me talk about Gage. This sexy man whore gave me flippin whiplash. I knew what was going to happen in the end of this story and I prayed I was wrong. Gage, I loved his character. There was no bullshit when it came to him. Yes, he played the game that Eliza threw at him. If she didn’t want to be with him, he was going to make her want to. That is what being a player is all about. The thrill of the chase. I don’t think he was quite expecting to have to hunt Eliza because he isn’t a man that hears the word no a lot, maybe the word a lot is incorrect, probably never is more like it. I also don’t think he was expecting to feel anything for Eliza aside from what was going on between her legs. It blindsided him and again, he was thrown in to new territory. What’s a man to do when he doesn’t know what the hell is going on? Well, he acts like a juvenile. New emotions equals roller coaster ride on coping skills.
I cannot even begin to tell you everything that happens in this book. There are so many characters and events in this story. The balance that S.Q. Williams keeps in the story line is brilliant. I never got lost and the emotions she brings out of these characters is beautiful. If your expecting a book where everything is neatly packaged and tied with a bow, your looking at the wrong book. If you want a story that leaves you reeling and wondering what the hell just happened, this is it.
I told a friend of mine the other day that if she is going to read this book, try to remember the first boyfriend she ever had, her first sexual encounter, her first time. Revisit those emotions because that is where she is going to find herself. She told me after she read Who He Is, that by telling her that she could see where Eliza’s emotions were coming from. I am asking you to do the same, remember those emotions because your going to need it for this ride.
September 19, 2013
FRUSTRATING
Cover: 7/10
Plot: Shall we, shan't we sexy-rocker-romance
Writing style: 6/10
Heroine: 2/10
Hero: 1/10
Jealousy: 10/10
Romance: 5/10
Hotness: 5/10
Ending: 3/10
Extra book Details: First two books about the same H/h, more books tbr about another/other band members.
Overall: Totally disliked the characters.
GoodReads book 'overall' rating can be totally deceiving. Firstly, if you haven't read it yet, make sure you read the bad reviews (sod it, even read the ones with spoilers, you really need to know what you're getting into) and the good reviews, if I saw the bad ones before I started this book then I would have never picked it up.
GR users either hate or love this book, there is no in between, I was one of the ones that hated it, as you can see.
What I liked? The pace of the story was good, there was loads of dialogue, the scenes were varied and interesting, the rest of the band, found them much more endearing and likeable. I will have a go at book three, book two with the same H/h? No.
{VERY MILD SPOILERS COMING}
Shall I count the ways I hate it?
Of course, his past means he's become a man-whore, what guys don't? If you don't respect women, then you're hot(!) And making me jealous by shagging everything in sight, and purposely making out with every girl you lay you're eyes on in front of me. Oh and flying your 'girlfriend' in to your bed whenever you feel like an extra bang, will only make me want you more(!)
Furthermore, I never understood why Eliza was attracted to him throughout high school, when he acts like he does, it only makes him repulsive on the inside, but of course, that doesn't matter, cos he is HOT. If you're an author who's writing about a rock star, I think you really need to careful you don't write your supposed Hero as a total dick. He somewhat redeemed himself, but not enough for me.
Her father acted more of a gay best friend, never seemed protective over her.
Every guy smirks, cause Gage more than the rest, and all different types of smirks too. How many smirks? Wanna know? Oh, only 87.
All the guys who encountered her seemed to talk to her like they are all varying degrees of the same creep.
Some of the dialogue felt... off. Actually, so did some of the inner monologue:
'He was about to turn around, but surprisingly, I called his name and he stopped.' People do that????
'For the most part, we were quiet. It wasn't awkward to stare because he had more than enough to stare at and keep me quiet.' EH?
'There was some blood on the white sheets and I gasped, thinking maybe there really was a cherry down there.' Jeez.
'He was about to deflower me and make me into a real woman.'Of course, you were a fake one before.
About her abusive mother; 'It sucked knowing what she’d done to me, but oh well. I couldn’t do much about it.' Yep, I feel the same way about this book.
Cover: 7/10
Plot: Shall we, shan't we sexy-rocker-romance
Writing style: 6/10
Heroine: 2/10
Hero: 1/10
Jealousy: 10/10
Romance: 5/10
Hotness: 5/10
Ending: 3/10
Extra book Details: First two books about the same H/h, more books tbr about another/other band members.
Overall: Totally disliked the characters.
GoodReads book 'overall' rating can be totally deceiving. Firstly, if you haven't read it yet, make sure you read the bad reviews (sod it, even read the ones with spoilers, you really need to know what you're getting into) and the good reviews, if I saw the bad ones before I started this book then I would have never picked it up.
GR users either hate or love this book, there is no in between, I was one of the ones that hated it, as you can see.
What I liked? The pace of the story was good, there was loads of dialogue, the scenes were varied and interesting, the rest of the band, found them much more endearing and likeable. I will have a go at book three, book two with the same H/h? No.
{VERY MILD SPOILERS COMING}
Shall I count the ways I hate it?
Of course, his past means he's become a man-whore, what guys don't? If you don't respect women, then you're hot(!) And making me jealous by shagging everything in sight, and purposely making out with every girl you lay you're eyes on in front of me. Oh and flying your 'girlfriend' in to your bed whenever you feel like an extra bang, will only make me want you more(!)
Furthermore, I never understood why Eliza was attracted to him throughout high school, when he acts like he does, it only makes him repulsive on the inside, but of course, that doesn't matter, cos he is HOT. If you're an author who's writing about a rock star, I think you really need to careful you don't write your supposed Hero as a total dick. He somewhat redeemed himself, but not enough for me.
Her father acted more of a gay best friend, never seemed protective over her.
Every guy smirks, cause Gage more than the rest, and all different types of smirks too. How many smirks? Wanna know? Oh, only 87.
All the guys who encountered her seemed to talk to her like they are all varying degrees of the same creep.
Some of the dialogue felt... off. Actually, so did some of the inner monologue:
'He was about to turn around, but surprisingly, I called his name and he stopped.' People do that????
'For the most part, we were quiet. It wasn't awkward to stare because he had more than enough to stare at and keep me quiet.' EH?
'There was some blood on the white sheets and I gasped, thinking maybe there really was a cherry down there.' Jeez.
'He was about to deflower me and make me into a real woman.'Of course, you were a fake one before.
About her abusive mother; 'It sucked knowing what she’d done to me, but oh well. I couldn’t do much about it.' Yep, I feel the same way about this book.
September 18, 2013
Holy smokes, I did not expect this book to be THAT good, it was incredible, unlike any rock star romance I've ever read, so unique and I just could NOT put it down!
Gage is your typical rock star bad boy, he's a man-whore who fucks everything with a pulse to forget, but forget about what exactly? we find out as the story progresses.
He's hot as hell and I was practically drooling all over my tablet, he's arrogant, cocky and covered in tattoos, so he's pretty much perfect in my book.
Enter good girl Eliza, sweet twenty-one year old virginal Eliza, *snorts* I must say, I hate hate HATE when the heroine is a virgin, I thought Liza would be like the others I read about "innocent, insecure and naive" but that's not at all how it was with Liza, she's strong and I really liked her personality.
So the beginning of the book starts with Ben, Liza's dad, trying to convince Liza to join him on tour for the summer with FireNine, a rock band, so he gets her to agree and the fun begins (or heart ache).
Gage was her high school crush but he never noticed her then, so they meet and they become friends (or try to anyway) she's attracted to him but she ignores him, she stays away from him 'cause she knows he uses women then throws them away.
Eventually, she can't deny she has the hots for him anymore, so they agree on a casual fling or a friends with benefits relationship and the time goes by and soon the 2 months are over and she has to make a choice.
Will she go back to college and leave Gage? or will she stay with him and see where they would go?
Go buy this book ASAP and read it, it's just perfection and the next book Who We Are, comes out September 24th. One more month, YAY!
Gage is your typical rock star bad boy, he's a man-whore who fucks everything with a pulse to forget, but forget about what exactly? we find out as the story progresses.
He's hot as hell and I was practically drooling all over my tablet, he's arrogant, cocky and covered in tattoos, so he's pretty much perfect in my book.
"He's created a freaking ice cream sundae with extra-hot fudge just by uttering my name."
Enter good girl Eliza, sweet twenty-one year old virginal Eliza, *snorts* I must say, I hate hate HATE when the heroine is a virgin, I thought Liza would be like the others I read about "innocent, insecure and naive" but that's not at all how it was with Liza, she's strong and I really liked her personality.
So the beginning of the book starts with Ben, Liza's dad, trying to convince Liza to join him on tour for the summer with FireNine, a rock band, so he gets her to agree and the fun begins (or heart ache).
Gage was her high school crush but he never noticed her then, so they meet and they become friends (or try to anyway) she's attracted to him but she ignores him, she stays away from him 'cause she knows he uses women then throws them away.
Eventually, she can't deny she has the hots for him anymore, so they agree on a casual fling or a friends with benefits relationship and the time goes by and soon the 2 months are over and she has to make a choice.
Will she go back to college and leave Gage? or will she stay with him and see where they would go?
“Don’t leave me, Eliza. You can’t… I need you too much. I love you too much.”
Go buy this book ASAP and read it, it's just perfection and the next book Who We Are, comes out September 24th. One more month, YAY!
March 2, 2014
Dumbass Girl meets even Dumber, Sluttier Boy. Both engage in further dumb behavior by making each other jealous and other random acts of degradation and even less self-respect. Cue waterworks, angst, and even more stupidity from both characters. End.
I kid you not. Trust me. I painfully sat through 306 pages of this. So I totally know.
July 24, 2013
Wow!!! I love this book! I received this book from the author! I'm so glad I chose this book! Good reads needs to have a higher rating system (just saying) I completely fell in love with Gage and Montana! Omg the cliffhanger why?????? I can't wait for the second book!! Shanora you did an amazing job with this book!!
My rating is in hearts!!! ❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤. Must read!!!
My rating is in hearts!!! ❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤. Must read!!!
August 2, 2013
I have read a few books from this author and they were all good but honestly this book is freaking awesome. It blows all the others out of the water. How is it possible to hate one person so much but love them at the same time? Well that's exactly what I felt for Gage. He infuriated me, but then he broke me. He made me scowl then made me smile. He had me wanting to swiftly kick him and put his member out of commission but then I wanted to latch onto him and never let him go. Talk about infuriating. He had me all kinds of crazy. And well yes he had me....
I mean seriously he's hot, cocky, a rockstar and has the ever so lickable tattoos!
Liza, well I felt for her. She had a hard life from the beginning but Ben rescued her and it was so comforting to know and learn about them. She was so,closed off for so many years and shelters hard self, fear of everything falling to pieces. She was a shell, she stuck to herself and didn't really have a life until Ben got her to go with him and the band FireNine where Gage was the lead singer.
Here she made friends with all of the band members especially Montana, who I so liked.
Gage sorta laid claim to her right from the get go but although Liza had an instant attraction to him she played it off not wanting to get close to him but he affected her in ways she could not control. Gage made it know more than a couple of tomes that he wanted her but Liza kept pushing away but yet being lured in. But he quickly had me so mad, he would come into her, flirt but then have Penelope or another woman on his arm or take em off for a one time romp and Liza got to witness this and she was disgusted as was I. So when Liza talked to any other he became instantly mad and jealous, he questioned her and then professed his want for her again.
Eventually Liza gives in and they have their friends with benefits thing but heck I knew it was going to be more than that. Feelings were going to get involved and things were going to get crazy and that they did.
I was fist pumping the air so many times,
I was riding a high, exhilarated it was crazy. They both broke my heart for their pasts. It was sad and my heart literally hurt but then there were times I thought my heart was going to leap from my chest and do its own little happy dance. Many times I had to take deep breaths and sigh, it was just that consuming for me.
At the ending I think my heart shattered into millions of pieces, I felt like I was experiencing it all on my own, the utter desperation that Gage was throwing at Liza and I wanted to be so mad at him for what he did but heck the way he pleaded and all had me so torn up it was almost impossible to think of what he done wrong.
I have read a lot of books her lately really great ones but this book literally consumed me!!!
I had no idea there was going to be another that's the only downfall to this story I just don't want to wait. It will plague me day and night what will happen next.
To the author...you seriously rocked this big time!!!!!
August 9, 2013
1.5
This book was not what I expected at all. I presumed this story would be an edgy, hot, angsty, and amusing tale. It didn't really hit any of those but angsty, and as evidenced by this book, too much angst with no progress proves to be an annoying read.
This book is about Eliza and Gage. She is an innocent and naïve heroine, whose father is the manager of the band FireNine. He is the lead singer of FireNine, and is your typical bad boy. Eliza is 21, and decides to spend her summer break on tour with her dad, and thus with FireNine. Ever since Eliza was in high school, she has crushed on Gage and his good looks. So being on toured proves to be rather predictable: she can't resist him. They both prove to be rather reluctant to get involved with each other and they don't want to share their secrets. This brings on quite the angst. The angst doesn't ever really let up until two-thirds of the way through the book.
Two-thirds through the book is a big breaking point in the story. I almost quit reading this book about eighteen times (no exaggeration) before I hit that point. In the story, Eliza is supposed to be 21, and Gage 24. They are supposed to be on tour for a rock band. However, this book could've been set in summer during high school. That is how immature the heroine acted. I wouldn't say the hero was all that immature, but he enabled the heroine. I understand that she sheltered herself for most of her life starting around the age 16, but she still seemed rather naïve and clueless to social norms. She would get upset with Gage over the most high-school of issues, and then deal with them in a high-school fashion as well. At one point, some of their tension comes to a head and Gage confronts her about avoiding him. He asks her if she is interested in him and she rejects that idea and goes on to accuse him of things. Then not even a minute later, Gage brings up how she said she wasn't interested in him and she denies that that ever happened. Perhaps in was a writing/editing error, but I'll give the author the benefit of the doubt and say that she didn't make a mistake. However, then that means that Eliza really is a petty and immature 21 year-old girl. She really was the reason I almost quit reading so often. Between my hatred of not finishing books and the fact that there seemed to be some underlying intrigue, I kept with it. The end of the book really did interest me more. If the whole book would've been that intriguing, I would've rated it with many more stars.
The ending finally picked up, because the author finally addressed some of the underlying tension and conflicts every single character had. I would've liked it if they actually dealt with all those conflicts or really any of them. I just would've liked some resolution, but alas, this was another author/publisher determined to sell another book for the series by adding a cliffhanger. This cliffhanger wasn't the worst or the best I've seen. This one actually did intrigue me more than frustrate me, so I will give some props for that, but frankly it could've just been because I had already lost most of my hope for this book.
This book was not what I expected at all. I presumed this story would be an edgy, hot, angsty, and amusing tale. It didn't really hit any of those but angsty, and as evidenced by this book, too much angst with no progress proves to be an annoying read.
This book is about Eliza and Gage. She is an innocent and naïve heroine, whose father is the manager of the band FireNine. He is the lead singer of FireNine, and is your typical bad boy. Eliza is 21, and decides to spend her summer break on tour with her dad, and thus with FireNine. Ever since Eliza was in high school, she has crushed on Gage and his good looks. So being on toured proves to be rather predictable: she can't resist him. They both prove to be rather reluctant to get involved with each other and they don't want to share their secrets. This brings on quite the angst. The angst doesn't ever really let up until two-thirds of the way through the book.
Two-thirds through the book is a big breaking point in the story. I almost quit reading this book about eighteen times (no exaggeration) before I hit that point. In the story, Eliza is supposed to be 21, and Gage 24. They are supposed to be on tour for a rock band. However, this book could've been set in summer during high school. That is how immature the heroine acted. I wouldn't say the hero was all that immature, but he enabled the heroine. I understand that she sheltered herself for most of her life starting around the age 16, but she still seemed rather naïve and clueless to social norms. She would get upset with Gage over the most high-school of issues, and then deal with them in a high-school fashion as well. At one point, some of their tension comes to a head and Gage confronts her about avoiding him. He asks her if she is interested in him and she rejects that idea and goes on to accuse him of things. Then not even a minute later, Gage brings up how she said she wasn't interested in him and she denies that that ever happened. Perhaps in was a writing/editing error, but I'll give the author the benefit of the doubt and say that she didn't make a mistake. However, then that means that Eliza really is a petty and immature 21 year-old girl. She really was the reason I almost quit reading so often. Between my hatred of not finishing books and the fact that there seemed to be some underlying intrigue, I kept with it. The end of the book really did interest me more. If the whole book would've been that intriguing, I would've rated it with many more stars.
The ending finally picked up, because the author finally addressed some of the underlying tension and conflicts every single character had. I would've liked it if they actually dealt with all those conflicts or really any of them. I just would've liked some resolution, but alas, this was another author/publisher determined to sell another book for the series by adding a cliffhanger. This cliffhanger wasn't the worst or the best I've seen. This one actually did intrigue me more than frustrate me, so I will give some props for that, but frankly it could've just been because I had already lost most of my hope for this book.
July 23, 2013
3.5 Man Ho Stars
Man Ho. Oh yes how we love to love them. And to hate them. Gage is a Man Ho. With a captial HO. He breaks the unspoken rules of what happens when the Hero meets the Heroine. He blows those rules all to pieces with his Man Ho Ways.
Eliza is a trying to get control over her life. She had very little control growing up, so this control thing is a nice change for her. She is going to be a senior in college and her dad, Ben thinks she needs a break for being the self controlled girl for the summer. So he takes her tour with the rock band he manages, FireNine. Nice summer gig if you can get it. I worked at an insurance brokerage in college. No hot rock god there I can promise you.
Gage is the lead singer of the band. He is a Man Ho. Even after he meets Eliza he continues to hook up with random groupies night after night. Eliza is not convinced he is serious about a relationship. You think??? Good call Eliza.
There is a lot of Eliza doubting her own feelings, doubting Gage's feelings, doubting her place on the tour, doubting what to call her body parts. Where she gets those names is anyone's guess.
Will Eliza let go and let Gage? Will she just go for it with one of the other multitude of hot guys on the tour? You get the answers but not the ending. The story ends with a tortuous....to be continued.
It would have been a 4 star read for me but there were some huge gaps in the story to me. Her dad, Ben...the timeline of her life just does not flow even with her eventual telling of it. And a huge what the hell for me was that Gage revealed he had had major surgery, but no scar is ever spoken of. That surgery would have left a huge scar even if he was a boy and yet no mention of it. I don't know why that bothered me but it did.
The story was good. I thought it drug a bit in places but over all a good Rock God Man Ho read.
Man Ho. Oh yes how we love to love them. And to hate them. Gage is a Man Ho. With a captial HO. He breaks the unspoken rules of what happens when the Hero meets the Heroine. He blows those rules all to pieces with his Man Ho Ways.
Eliza is a trying to get control over her life. She had very little control growing up, so this control thing is a nice change for her. She is going to be a senior in college and her dad, Ben thinks she needs a break for being the self controlled girl for the summer. So he takes her tour with the rock band he manages, FireNine. Nice summer gig if you can get it. I worked at an insurance brokerage in college. No hot rock god there I can promise you.
Gage is the lead singer of the band. He is a Man Ho. Even after he meets Eliza he continues to hook up with random groupies night after night. Eliza is not convinced he is serious about a relationship. You think??? Good call Eliza.
There is a lot of Eliza doubting her own feelings, doubting Gage's feelings, doubting her place on the tour, doubting what to call her body parts. Where she gets those names is anyone's guess.
Will Eliza let go and let Gage? Will she just go for it with one of the other multitude of hot guys on the tour? You get the answers but not the ending. The story ends with a tortuous....to be continued.
It would have been a 4 star read for me but there were some huge gaps in the story to me. Her dad, Ben...the timeline of her life just does not flow even with her eventual telling of it. And a huge what the hell for me was that Gage revealed he had had major surgery, but no scar is ever spoken of. That surgery would have left a huge scar even if he was a boy and yet no mention of it. I don't know why that bothered me but it did.
The story was good. I thought it drug a bit in places but over all a good Rock God Man Ho read.
September 13, 2013
I have been having the hardest time rating books lately and this one is no different! I was annoyed with the majority of this read secondary to absolutely despising the lead male character, Gage Grendal. This "rock god" is a jerk to the highest degree. He is everything you would think an rock star is...arrogant, careless, callous, selfish, and beyond manwhore! I found Eliza, the lead female character a breath of fresh air... she has a survivor and has a good head on her shoulders and although Gage is swoon worthy, she does a great job of keeping her wits and knowing he will only cause heartbreak. I was cheering this girl on from the get go yelling..."NO dont do it!"
Enter the 80% mark of the book and the shit hits the fan! Gage becomes human and lets down the rockstar facade...I am hooked and he is gutting me! Also, my strong Eliza begins to annoy the snot out of me! She has flipped the table of Gage. This "casual fling' has developed into more for Gage, and although Eliza professes her love, she sure as hell doesnt have a problem ending things.
I cant say I loved this book, YET.... but I also know that there is more too it...I am really looking forward to where this goes. So yes, i would recommend it, but maybe wait for the conclusion! I know i am !!!
Enter the 80% mark of the book and the shit hits the fan! Gage becomes human and lets down the rockstar facade...I am hooked and he is gutting me! Also, my strong Eliza begins to annoy the snot out of me! She has flipped the table of Gage. This "casual fling' has developed into more for Gage, and although Eliza professes her love, she sure as hell doesnt have a problem ending things.
I cant say I loved this book, YET.... but I also know that there is more too it...I am really looking forward to where this goes. So yes, i would recommend it, but maybe wait for the conclusion! I know i am !!!
September 26, 2013
2.5 stars
I have mix feelings about this one. So I’m giving it 2.5 stars.
I didn’t like the characters too much. It’s the story of Eliza and Gage. Gage is a lead singer of a rock band and Eliza is joining their tour. She is a “good girl” that doesn’t trust anyone and doesn’t want to fall in love. He is bad, hot, overconfident and used to having every girl he wants. So long story short, after spending 60% of the book arguing and making each other jealous... they agree on having a summer fling. Then the next 30% they both weren’t admitting their feelings for each other.
I found the plot a bit boring and I had a serious issue with the ending (there is a cliffhanger). It was just...too much. I couldn’t connect to the story and the characters and I definitely didn’t like Eliza. I’m not sure I will read the next one.
I have mix feelings about this one. So I’m giving it 2.5 stars.
I didn’t like the characters too much. It’s the story of Eliza and Gage. Gage is a lead singer of a rock band and Eliza is joining their tour. She is a “good girl” that doesn’t trust anyone and doesn’t want to fall in love. He is bad, hot, overconfident and used to having every girl he wants. So long story short, after spending 60% of the book arguing and making each other jealous... they agree on having a summer fling. Then the next 30% they both weren’t admitting their feelings for each other.
I found the plot a bit boring and I had a serious issue with the ending (there is a cliffhanger). It was just...too much. I couldn’t connect to the story and the characters and I definitely didn’t like Eliza. I’m not sure I will read the next one.
July 26, 2013
6+++++++++ STARS. ALL THE STARS TO EVER EXIST EVER. EVER.
Oh my God, okay. I don't. I don't know how to go about this. I need to try to make this short, because if I don't, it's going to get really incoherent and that doesn't help anyone, right? .... WELL, we'll see what happens. BUT I FREAKING LOVED THIS BOOK AND OH MY GOD OKAY. Maybe I got it out of my system, let's see. (No, but be prepared for more caps lock, because I can't control it.)
As always, though, my status updates definitely convey my in-the-moment feelings, so I always recommend them as a sort of "review," as well.
I want to make sure that everyone knows I have never, ever, until this book, knowingly walked into a cliffhanger. (As far as I can remember.) If I find out there's a cliffhanger, I push the book aside and I wait. I hate cliffhangers. I mean, I like that they make you feel, but they just... I don't know. It's hard to say. AND THIS ONE. IT MAY NOT HAVE BEEN THE WORST, BUT IT BROKE MY FUCKING HEART. I WANT TO CRY SOME MORE.
HOWEVER, something about this book was calling to me. It was just sitting on my Kindle, staring at me, begging for me to open it and immerse myself in the world of Ellie, Gage, and FireNine. Well, my friends, I am very pleased to say that I do not regret it at all. Cliffhanger or not, I love this book with every fiber of my being. Why? Well, I'll try to get to that.
I was super giddy right from the start. I think rock star romances are my absolute favorite ever, hands down. There's just something about them. I don't know. They're the best. I was so in love right from the very beginning, which is so cliche, but so true. Gage and Ellie were adorable right from the start. (Yes, she is Ellie to me, always.) The band members? I loved them all, no matter how weird. I was instantly hooked, and instantly in love with every single one. I thought for a minute that Gage might be one hero that I hated to love, but no. No. I love to love him.
"I'm making love to you tonight, Eliza."
Ms. Williams has a way of dropping hints about things, but leaving you in the dark, and making you fidget with curiosity, but not left angry because you don't know yet. Roy is a friggin' mystery, and I am definitely intrigued. He's the only one we really didn't get much of anything from, which I'm cool with, BECAUSE EVERYONE GETS A STORY AND THAT'S ALL I CARE ABOUT. MY DREAMS ARE GOING TO COME TRUE. Ahem. Anyway. I loved the mysterious bits, not knowing secrets until later, always wondering. It was awesome.
You know, I saw someone say in one review that Ms. Williams doesn't do fluff, and for some reason, it stuck with me throughout the story. My God, it's true! Not that I doubted it, exactly, but man, I am blown away. Every single word felt important, and I was hanging on to each one. I don't understand how that can be true, but after thinking about it, I hardly skimmed this book at all! I think once or twice, I went a few pages ahead, but other than that, nothing! That's HUGE for me. I skip and ruin things always, but not this time! Each word kept me so interested, so captivated, that I didn't even care to skim. I wanted to make sure I got everything, as it came.
"The wait is killing me and I'm not even getting any ass."
I want to talk about the characters, okay. I fucking loved Montana. I'm so in love with him, you don't even know the half of it. I want him to be there, everywhere, always. I can't wait for his story, because even though we might be an odd pair, I want him to be my best friend for the rest of my life. Seriously, oh my God, bless his soul. 35% anyone??? I was seriously giggling like a little school girl. I don't. I just love him, okay? He has my heart. (Gage does, too, obviously... he's a top BBF.) Deed, I so loved Deed. His beautiful conversation with Ellie? His adorableness and his kindness toward her later? Bless HIS soul, too. Even Roy, however creepy he was. I loved them all. AND BEN. AND JUST EVERYONE, SH.
This isn't turning out to be as short as it really should be, so I'm gonna try to cut to the chase. I'm totally torn between the two of them, about whose "side" I'm on. I was so mad at Ellie for trying to pretend that there was nothing going on, nothing at all. I was even angrier with her for being so mean near the end. Did she have every right to be? Sure, probably. I WAS STILL MAD. To be honest, though, I'm obviously all for her making the decision that she did. She did the right thing. I fully believe that. That doesn't mean I'm not upset with her for breaking my heart. AND I'M SORRY BUT THAT ONE SCENE WITH GAGE WAS SO PAINFUL, I HAVE NO FREAKING IDEA HOW ELLIE HAD THE STRENGTH TO DO WHAT SHE DID. NO. IDEA.
That's something I want to finish with here. Ellie was so damn strong, it was refreshing. It's so nice to see a strong heroine. She exuded strength, constantly, and for that I greatly admire her. She may have pissed me off occasionally, considering my love for Gage, but still, I felt for her, and I fully support her.
"I could never hurt you because hurting you is... hurting me."
If you're still reading this, and I hope that you are, please, just go buy the book. Give this story a chance. Put aside all thoughts about anything and everything, and just dive in. Shanora Williams, with her lovely writing style, has woven a beautiful story of love, heartache, humor, and so much more. This book completely captivated me. It blew me away. Gage Grendel has stolen my heart. And I think Ms. Williams even took a piece of it, herself. With that, I leave you to explore this story on your own. You will not regret it.
Oh my God, okay. I don't. I don't know how to go about this. I need to try to make this short, because if I don't, it's going to get really incoherent and that doesn't help anyone, right? .... WELL, we'll see what happens. BUT I FREAKING LOVED THIS BOOK AND OH MY GOD OKAY. Maybe I got it out of my system, let's see. (No, but be prepared for more caps lock, because I can't control it.)
As always, though, my status updates definitely convey my in-the-moment feelings, so I always recommend them as a sort of "review," as well.
I want to make sure that everyone knows I have never, ever, until this book, knowingly walked into a cliffhanger. (As far as I can remember.) If I find out there's a cliffhanger, I push the book aside and I wait. I hate cliffhangers. I mean, I like that they make you feel, but they just... I don't know. It's hard to say. AND THIS ONE. IT MAY NOT HAVE BEEN THE WORST, BUT IT BROKE MY FUCKING HEART. I WANT TO CRY SOME MORE.
HOWEVER, something about this book was calling to me. It was just sitting on my Kindle, staring at me, begging for me to open it and immerse myself in the world of Ellie, Gage, and FireNine. Well, my friends, I am very pleased to say that I do not regret it at all. Cliffhanger or not, I love this book with every fiber of my being. Why? Well, I'll try to get to that.
I was super giddy right from the start. I think rock star romances are my absolute favorite ever, hands down. There's just something about them. I don't know. They're the best. I was so in love right from the very beginning, which is so cliche, but so true. Gage and Ellie were adorable right from the start. (Yes, she is Ellie to me, always.) The band members? I loved them all, no matter how weird. I was instantly hooked, and instantly in love with every single one. I thought for a minute that Gage might be one hero that I hated to love, but no. No. I love to love him.
"I'm making love to you tonight, Eliza."
Ms. Williams has a way of dropping hints about things, but leaving you in the dark, and making you fidget with curiosity, but not left angry because you don't know yet. Roy is a friggin' mystery, and I am definitely intrigued. He's the only one we really didn't get much of anything from, which I'm cool with, BECAUSE EVERYONE GETS A STORY AND THAT'S ALL I CARE ABOUT. MY DREAMS ARE GOING TO COME TRUE. Ahem. Anyway. I loved the mysterious bits, not knowing secrets until later, always wondering. It was awesome.
You know, I saw someone say in one review that Ms. Williams doesn't do fluff, and for some reason, it stuck with me throughout the story. My God, it's true! Not that I doubted it, exactly, but man, I am blown away. Every single word felt important, and I was hanging on to each one. I don't understand how that can be true, but after thinking about it, I hardly skimmed this book at all! I think once or twice, I went a few pages ahead, but other than that, nothing! That's HUGE for me. I skip and ruin things always, but not this time! Each word kept me so interested, so captivated, that I didn't even care to skim. I wanted to make sure I got everything, as it came.
"The wait is killing me and I'm not even getting any ass."
I want to talk about the characters, okay. I fucking loved Montana. I'm so in love with him, you don't even know the half of it. I want him to be there, everywhere, always. I can't wait for his story, because even though we might be an odd pair, I want him to be my best friend for the rest of my life. Seriously, oh my God, bless his soul. 35% anyone??? I was seriously giggling like a little school girl. I don't. I just love him, okay? He has my heart. (Gage does, too, obviously... he's a top BBF.) Deed, I so loved Deed. His beautiful conversation with Ellie? His adorableness and his kindness toward her later? Bless HIS soul, too. Even Roy, however creepy he was. I loved them all. AND BEN. AND JUST EVERYONE, SH.
This isn't turning out to be as short as it really should be, so I'm gonna try to cut to the chase. I'm totally torn between the two of them, about whose "side" I'm on. I was so mad at Ellie for trying to pretend that there was nothing going on, nothing at all. I was even angrier with her for being so mean near the end. Did she have every right to be? Sure, probably. I WAS STILL MAD. To be honest, though, I'm obviously all for her making the decision that she did. She did the right thing. I fully believe that. That doesn't mean I'm not upset with her for breaking my heart. AND I'M SORRY BUT THAT ONE SCENE WITH GAGE WAS SO PAINFUL, I HAVE NO FREAKING IDEA HOW ELLIE HAD THE STRENGTH TO DO WHAT SHE DID. NO. IDEA.
That's something I want to finish with here. Ellie was so damn strong, it was refreshing. It's so nice to see a strong heroine. She exuded strength, constantly, and for that I greatly admire her. She may have pissed me off occasionally, considering my love for Gage, but still, I felt for her, and I fully support her.
"I could never hurt you because hurting you is... hurting me."
If you're still reading this, and I hope that you are, please, just go buy the book. Give this story a chance. Put aside all thoughts about anything and everything, and just dive in. Shanora Williams, with her lovely writing style, has woven a beautiful story of love, heartache, humor, and so much more. This book completely captivated me. It blew me away. Gage Grendel has stolen my heart. And I think Ms. Williams even took a piece of it, herself. With that, I leave you to explore this story on your own. You will not regret it.
February 23, 2022
Yet another book of Shanora I can't get enough off! Her storytelling and writing just always immediately sucks me in. Whenever I start one of her books I can not put them down 😩😍. This story revolves around a sweet girl named Eliza, who's father is a band manager. She decides to go with them on tour and she falls head over heels for a member of firenine. At first she tries to dent herself this but who can deny love for long am I right?! Safe to say that Shanora has become my favorite author in a time of 3 months since reading my first book of her. I would for sure recommend any genre she writes; either romance, dark romances, thrillers? She can absolutely do it all! ✨
August 3, 2013
I don't even know where to start to tell you how much this book rocked my socks off. I mean I love books about rockers. This one has to be up there on my list of favorites. I take that back no this is absolutely positively the best by far. Shanora really did good with this one. She nailed it with Gage and Fire Nine. She gave me a story that I can't stop thinking about.
Eliza gets to spend the summer with Fire Nine on tour thanks to her Father who is the bands manager. She has no intention of starting anything with her former high school crush. She's never even ever dated anyone so when she gets to know Gage the good and the bad she learns that he is really hard to resist. He's a rock star for goodness sake what is there not to like. They both engage in a fun fling with one another. A fling that becomes way more then they ever expected.
I'm going to go ahead and say that Eliza was pretty fantastic character. She was driven, strong, engaging, and I definitely would love to be friends with her. Now Gage well he was a lot of things and what I loved the most was his confidence. He wasn't afraid to put it all out there. This man was used to getting what he wanted whenever he wanted. Eliza wasn't someone he could figure out the feelings he had for her were undeniable. He was going to have her and he wasn't one to back down from a challenge. Eliza was smart enough to understand that Gage would never truly be able to be with her. She decided that she would take what he was willing to give. I give her a lot of credit she really held her own with him. He definitely didn't make things easy on her.
My favorite part of the book was how very romantic Gage was. He was short of nothing amazing when he wanted to be. Although things were complicated most of the time he made up for in so many ways. I obviously didn't want this book to end. I am ready to read it all over again. Is it weird that I already miss Eliza and Gage? I seriously want the next book. I imagine that it will be anything short of amazing.
My recommendation is if you haven't guessed is a positive one. If you were looking for a book that will stay with you and become a part of you then this is the book for you.
Eliza gets to spend the summer with Fire Nine on tour thanks to her Father who is the bands manager. She has no intention of starting anything with her former high school crush. She's never even ever dated anyone so when she gets to know Gage the good and the bad she learns that he is really hard to resist. He's a rock star for goodness sake what is there not to like. They both engage in a fun fling with one another. A fling that becomes way more then they ever expected.
I'm going to go ahead and say that Eliza was pretty fantastic character. She was driven, strong, engaging, and I definitely would love to be friends with her. Now Gage well he was a lot of things and what I loved the most was his confidence. He wasn't afraid to put it all out there. This man was used to getting what he wanted whenever he wanted. Eliza wasn't someone he could figure out the feelings he had for her were undeniable. He was going to have her and he wasn't one to back down from a challenge. Eliza was smart enough to understand that Gage would never truly be able to be with her. She decided that she would take what he was willing to give. I give her a lot of credit she really held her own with him. He definitely didn't make things easy on her.
My favorite part of the book was how very romantic Gage was. He was short of nothing amazing when he wanted to be. Although things were complicated most of the time he made up for in so many ways. I obviously didn't want this book to end. I am ready to read it all over again. Is it weird that I already miss Eliza and Gage? I seriously want the next book. I imagine that it will be anything short of amazing.
My recommendation is if you haven't guessed is a positive one. If you were looking for a book that will stay with you and become a part of you then this is the book for you.
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