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Rock Canyon, Idaho #4
Return of the Bad Girl
Bad girls don't forgive.
Bad girls don't forget.
Bad girls don't fall in love.
Caroline Willis may be known for causing trouble, but she is NOT about to become homeless. So when she learns that her perfect apartment has been double-booked—to a dangerously hot bad boy—Caroline's bad-girl reputation comes out in full force. He may be sexy as sin, but she's not afraid of him … or his panty-melting smile.
Rock Canyon's got room for only one bad attitude—and Gabe Moriarty was here first. Still, starting over means playing it smart, so while sharing his new apartment is less than ideal, it's worth getting his dream business off the ground. Not to mention that it means shacking up with a sexy wild child. Caroline may be giving him the cold shoulder, but Gabe always was good at starting fires …
Caroline vows to keep things professional with Gabe, but as close quarters begin to ignite the sizzling chemistry between them, she's left wondering: Bad boy plus bad girl equals nothing but trouble … right?
Bad girls don't forget.
Bad girls don't fall in love.
Caroline Willis may be known for causing trouble, but she is NOT about to become homeless. So when she learns that her perfect apartment has been double-booked—to a dangerously hot bad boy—Caroline's bad-girl reputation comes out in full force. He may be sexy as sin, but she's not afraid of him … or his panty-melting smile.
Rock Canyon's got room for only one bad attitude—and Gabe Moriarty was here first. Still, starting over means playing it smart, so while sharing his new apartment is less than ideal, it's worth getting his dream business off the ground. Not to mention that it means shacking up with a sexy wild child. Caroline may be giving him the cold shoulder, but Gabe always was good at starting fires …
Caroline vows to keep things professional with Gabe, but as close quarters begin to ignite the sizzling chemistry between them, she's left wondering: Bad boy plus bad girl equals nothing but trouble … right?
384 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published November 18, 2014
24 people are currently reading
1162 people want to read
About the author
Codi Gary
32 books979 followersFrom the time I could put a Disney Book cassette into my little stereo,and read along, books have held a fantastic distraction. When I was eleven, I decided I wanted to be one of those magical people that brought stories to life. Devouring a book a day sometimes, my first romance novel stuck with me. I've always been a sucker for a happy ending (and the great romantic gesture)and that's what I try to put into my stories. I am so honored to be a part of Avon, and am so excited to have my own dreams coming true.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 62 reviews
January 1, 2015
I always seem to forget how much I love Codi Gary's writing in between her books. She's got such way with words that she draws me in every time!
I loved Caroline and Gabe's story. I have to say that in this book, along with the previous book Bad Girls Don't Marry Marines, I hated how horrible the towns people were to the Willis girls. I seriously wanted to go Dexter on the whole town, leaving just the good guys standing in the end. Lol, the author is truly talented to make me hate a whole town of people. ;)
One of the things I loved most was how real Gabe and Caroline felt. Both of them had made mistakes in the past, had their lives destroyed and they both worked hard to rebuild their lives.
I loved learning more about the Willis family but I really hated some of the things Elle did in this book. It will be interesting to see what happens to her in the future and if she gets a book. Being the revenge-y/bloodthirsty sort of reader, I was slightly disappointed that some of the towns’ people didn’t get their comeuppance for treating Caroline so bad. I really wanted them to eat some crow.
I can’t wait to read more from this author and this series.
I loved Caroline and Gabe's story. I have to say that in this book, along with the previous book Bad Girls Don't Marry Marines, I hated how horrible the towns people were to the Willis girls. I seriously wanted to go Dexter on the whole town, leaving just the good guys standing in the end. Lol, the author is truly talented to make me hate a whole town of people. ;)
One of the things I loved most was how real Gabe and Caroline felt. Both of them had made mistakes in the past, had their lives destroyed and they both worked hard to rebuild their lives.
I loved learning more about the Willis family but I really hated some of the things Elle did in this book. It will be interesting to see what happens to her in the future and if she gets a book. Being the revenge-y/bloodthirsty sort of reader, I was slightly disappointed that some of the towns’ people didn’t get their comeuppance for treating Caroline so bad. I really wanted them to eat some crow.
I can’t wait to read more from this author and this series.
November 22, 2014
***I received this book in exchange for an honest review***
Codi brings us back to that rowdy town of Rock Canyon. And this blogger couldn't be more thrilled! And how hot is this cover?!? So, let me start with one of my lists.
1) One of my favorite things about this Rock Canyon installment is that each chapter starts with a quote from the always entertaining and widely despised Miss Know It All.
2) After falling hard for Chase, Miss Codi has given me another man on a bike to pine after: the tall, dark and handsome Gabe Moriarty. Chase said it best: "Aw, you came all this way for me," Chase said, jokingly clasping his hands to his chest. "Be still my heart. Trust and believe that Chase will not be the only one who is smitten with Mr. Moriarty.
3) And finally, there are kittens. I friggin love kittens. Even if Gabe thinks "...they're a couple of cock-blocking fuzzbuts."
4) While getting to know the latest talk of the town, you get to catch up with all of Rock Canyon's most recent love connections, while watching other progress a little more.
In Return of the Bad Girl, Codi flawlessly pens a heart tugging story of second chances. Caroline: ..."She'd burned more bridges before she was eighteen than most people lit up in their entire lifetime." Gabe spent five years in jail for an accident that left his life turned upside down. And finally, Edward Willis had a second chance to mend the broken relationship he had with his daughter, Caroline. And that was no easy feat for stubborn Willis folks. "Really, Caroline, I am trying to control my temper, but your obnoxious attempts to bait me are grating."
Caroline and Gabe are both finding themselves while getting to know each other. While the physical attraction was pretty immediate, I enjoyed how they slowly peeled away layers of their past: the pains, the fears and opened themselves up for something real.
Gabe had himself confused he wasn't good enough; wasn't deserving of love from another person - whether it be his sister, Honey or Caroline. "If she started thinking he was anything but an arrogant dick head, he would only disappoint her. Even at his best, there was too much bad surrounding him to combat the good." Caroline feels her damaged past wouldn't be appealing to any man worth settling down for. A match made in some kind of broken heaven.
"I don't care how damaged you are, because I am just as broken, maybe more so."
Every part of this book was incredible. The tension and snark that lead to the opening up to one another. The sex that lead to amusing lines like this:
"When you said sex with you was a ride, you weren't just whistlin' Dixie."
"Whistlin' Dixie? Who are you, Granny Clampet?"
Finally, to wrap up my review - I must say this is the BEST book from Codi Gary to date. Her writing has matured tremendously since The Trouble With Sexy. Codi is an author you want to keep an eye on because she is going places in the world of contemporary romance! (And honestly, anywhere else she and her pen decide to venture.) An easy FIVE contemporary romantic stars from this lady! I cannot for this to hit E-Readers and bookshelves EVERYONE. For now, I suggest you Pre-Order it, Add it to your TBR or Wish List! You will not want to miss this amazing book on it's release: December 30, 2014.
***see FULL REVIEW here: http://areaderlivesa1000lives.blogspo...***
Codi brings us back to that rowdy town of Rock Canyon. And this blogger couldn't be more thrilled! And how hot is this cover?!? So, let me start with one of my lists.
1) One of my favorite things about this Rock Canyon installment is that each chapter starts with a quote from the always entertaining and widely despised Miss Know It All.
2) After falling hard for Chase, Miss Codi has given me another man on a bike to pine after: the tall, dark and handsome Gabe Moriarty. Chase said it best: "Aw, you came all this way for me," Chase said, jokingly clasping his hands to his chest. "Be still my heart. Trust and believe that Chase will not be the only one who is smitten with Mr. Moriarty.
3) And finally, there are kittens. I friggin love kittens. Even if Gabe thinks "...they're a couple of cock-blocking fuzzbuts."
4) While getting to know the latest talk of the town, you get to catch up with all of Rock Canyon's most recent love connections, while watching other progress a little more.
In Return of the Bad Girl, Codi flawlessly pens a heart tugging story of second chances. Caroline: ..."She'd burned more bridges before she was eighteen than most people lit up in their entire lifetime." Gabe spent five years in jail for an accident that left his life turned upside down. And finally, Edward Willis had a second chance to mend the broken relationship he had with his daughter, Caroline. And that was no easy feat for stubborn Willis folks. "Really, Caroline, I am trying to control my temper, but your obnoxious attempts to bait me are grating."
Caroline and Gabe are both finding themselves while getting to know each other. While the physical attraction was pretty immediate, I enjoyed how they slowly peeled away layers of their past: the pains, the fears and opened themselves up for something real.
Gabe had himself confused he wasn't good enough; wasn't deserving of love from another person - whether it be his sister, Honey or Caroline. "If she started thinking he was anything but an arrogant dick head, he would only disappoint her. Even at his best, there was too much bad surrounding him to combat the good." Caroline feels her damaged past wouldn't be appealing to any man worth settling down for. A match made in some kind of broken heaven.
"I don't care how damaged you are, because I am just as broken, maybe more so."
Every part of this book was incredible. The tension and snark that lead to the opening up to one another. The sex that lead to amusing lines like this:
"When you said sex with you was a ride, you weren't just whistlin' Dixie."
"Whistlin' Dixie? Who are you, Granny Clampet?"
Finally, to wrap up my review - I must say this is the BEST book from Codi Gary to date. Her writing has matured tremendously since The Trouble With Sexy. Codi is an author you want to keep an eye on because she is going places in the world of contemporary romance! (And honestly, anywhere else she and her pen decide to venture.) An easy FIVE contemporary romantic stars from this lady! I cannot for this to hit E-Readers and bookshelves EVERYONE. For now, I suggest you Pre-Order it, Add it to your TBR or Wish List! You will not want to miss this amazing book on it's release: December 30, 2014.
***see FULL REVIEW here: http://areaderlivesa1000lives.blogspo...***
January 7, 2015
Lindsay: I always seem to forget how much I love Codi Gary's writing in between her books. She's got such way with words that she draws me in every time!
Nikki: Well, this is only my second book by her but I can tell that this is a series I definitely want to read the rest of!
Lindsay: I loved Caroline and Gabe's story. I have to say that in this book, along with the previous book Bad Girls Don't Marry Marines, I hated how horrible the towns people were to the Willis girls. I seriously wanted to go Dexter on the whole town, leaving just the good guys standing in the end. Lol, the author is truly talented to make me hate a whole town of people. ;)
Nikki: Omg I know! They were so rude and hateful that I wanted to bitch slap almost every singe person! The grocery store bitties were awful and every time Caroline went to get something I wanted to reach in the book and do some damage on her behalf! I agree that Ms. Gary did a great job writing those crows and making me hate them and feel for Caroline!
Lindsay: One of the things I loved most was how real Gabe and Caroline felt. Both of them had made mistakes in the past, had their lives destroyed and they both worked hard to rebuild their lives.
Nikki: I felt for both Gabe and Caroline too. I hated how they both were bascially tarred and feathered by the people around them and were never shown any compassion. People make mistakes and they both just wanted to atone and move on, but thier towns just couldn't, or I should say wouldn't, let them. I was happy that they found each other.
Lindsay: I loved learning more about the Willis family but I really hated some of the things Elle did in this book. It will be interesting to see what happens to her in the future and if she gets a book. Being the revenge-y/bloodthirsty sort of reader, I was slightly disappointed that some of the towns’ people didn’t get their comeuppance for treating Caroline so bad. I really wanted them to eat some crow.
Nikki: LOL! I know you did! I wanted some crow for dinner too! ;) And I agree about Ellie. She was out of control and I hated that she let you-know-who do you-know-what to her and get away with it. I was really hoping they would get a far harsher and painful punishment. >:) I guess I've been spending too much time with you. ;)
Lindsay: I can’t wait to read more from this author and this series.
Nikki: Overall I really enjoyed this book and I also can't wait for the next one!
Nikki: Well, this is only my second book by her but I can tell that this is a series I definitely want to read the rest of!
Lindsay: I loved Caroline and Gabe's story. I have to say that in this book, along with the previous book Bad Girls Don't Marry Marines, I hated how horrible the towns people were to the Willis girls. I seriously wanted to go Dexter on the whole town, leaving just the good guys standing in the end. Lol, the author is truly talented to make me hate a whole town of people. ;)
Nikki: Omg I know! They were so rude and hateful that I wanted to bitch slap almost every singe person! The grocery store bitties were awful and every time Caroline went to get something I wanted to reach in the book and do some damage on her behalf! I agree that Ms. Gary did a great job writing those crows and making me hate them and feel for Caroline!
Lindsay: One of the things I loved most was how real Gabe and Caroline felt. Both of them had made mistakes in the past, had their lives destroyed and they both worked hard to rebuild their lives.
Nikki: I felt for both Gabe and Caroline too. I hated how they both were bascially tarred and feathered by the people around them and were never shown any compassion. People make mistakes and they both just wanted to atone and move on, but thier towns just couldn't, or I should say wouldn't, let them. I was happy that they found each other.
Lindsay: I loved learning more about the Willis family but I really hated some of the things Elle did in this book. It will be interesting to see what happens to her in the future and if she gets a book. Being the revenge-y/bloodthirsty sort of reader, I was slightly disappointed that some of the towns’ people didn’t get their comeuppance for treating Caroline so bad. I really wanted them to eat some crow.
Nikki: LOL! I know you did! I wanted some crow for dinner too! ;) And I agree about Ellie. She was out of control and I hated that she let you-know-who do you-know-what to her and get away with it. I was really hoping they would get a far harsher and painful punishment. >:) I guess I've been spending too much time with you. ;)
Lindsay: I can’t wait to read more from this author and this series.
Nikki: Overall I really enjoyed this book and I also can't wait for the next one!
December 9, 2014
I have been reading the Rock Canyon Series since before I was a book blogger and have always really enjoyed it but this book, Return Of The Bad Girl, is by far the very best one yet. The writing has gotten so good, the characters have gotten more and more desirable and the storyline is both fun and intense. I love that she is not afraid to get a little deeper with the plots and subject matter.
“What was it about this infuriating woman that reduced him to a twelve-year-old at the pool?”
Caroline left Rock Canyon years ago with a chip on her shoulder and a bad reputation. Gabe is fresh out of jail for a bad decision that has completely changed the course of his life and followed his former best friend, Chase, to Rock Canyon. When both are promised the same apartment they are PISSED but eventually come to the decision to become roommates and nothing more. Although on a physical level both are supremely attracted to the other, on a personality level they cannot seem to say more than one nice thing to each other and clearly know they are not compatible.
“You have exactly three seconds to get out of here before I do everything I’ve been thinking about since the first day I saw you. You decide. Now.”
What these two outcasts don’t count on . . . understanding the struggles the other has faced. Caroline’s story broke my heart and it is clear her heart was broken years ago and she has never really recovered. But when the demons of her past resurface and not only threaten her sanity but the safety of those she loves leave it to Gabe to step in and make sure she is safe. Gabe too though has a past that haunts him every day of his life and it is one that will never go away. A decision he made years ago irreparably changed the life of the one person who matters the most to him and it is certain that it is not something he can ever fully recover from only something he can attempt to live with. This is where Caroline and her ability to understand him and look at his future and not his past help him heal.
“The ride’s not over yet, princess.”
Overall, Return of the Bad Girl was an addictive read that had me laughing, crying and turned on all in one great book. While this can very easily be a standalone I highly recommend this whole series and am sure you won’t be let down.
~miranda
“What was it about this infuriating woman that reduced him to a twelve-year-old at the pool?”
Caroline left Rock Canyon years ago with a chip on her shoulder and a bad reputation. Gabe is fresh out of jail for a bad decision that has completely changed the course of his life and followed his former best friend, Chase, to Rock Canyon. When both are promised the same apartment they are PISSED but eventually come to the decision to become roommates and nothing more. Although on a physical level both are supremely attracted to the other, on a personality level they cannot seem to say more than one nice thing to each other and clearly know they are not compatible.
“You have exactly three seconds to get out of here before I do everything I’ve been thinking about since the first day I saw you. You decide. Now.”
What these two outcasts don’t count on . . . understanding the struggles the other has faced. Caroline’s story broke my heart and it is clear her heart was broken years ago and she has never really recovered. But when the demons of her past resurface and not only threaten her sanity but the safety of those she loves leave it to Gabe to step in and make sure she is safe. Gabe too though has a past that haunts him every day of his life and it is one that will never go away. A decision he made years ago irreparably changed the life of the one person who matters the most to him and it is certain that it is not something he can ever fully recover from only something he can attempt to live with. This is where Caroline and her ability to understand him and look at his future and not his past help him heal.
“The ride’s not over yet, princess.”
Overall, Return of the Bad Girl was an addictive read that had me laughing, crying and turned on all in one great book. While this can very easily be a standalone I highly recommend this whole series and am sure you won’t be let down.
~miranda
January 24, 2015
4.5 stars.
December 10, 2015
BRAVO!!
Loved every minute of it I'm a huge fan of Miss Gary's now, I have one more book in the series can't wait to read it !
Loved every minute of it I'm a huge fan of Miss Gary's now, I have one more book in the series can't wait to read it !
April 27, 2017
I wasn't that impressed with this story. Don't get me wrong, it was an entertaining story, but I couldn't actually believe in the situation that Caroline and Gabe found themselves in. That made it difficult for me to believe in their attraction, which seemed to stem from being in close proximity to one another. They both do the emotionally tortured and scarred character scenario pretty well, but a lot of details about Gabe's side of things were left out, as if it never affected him at all. Prison changes you, and not seeing those effects made it harder to believe in Gabe as a character. All things considered, this is not a strong link in the series for me.
February 7, 2015
“Ladies, lock up your men! Caroline Willis is back into town.” - Miss Know It All
In the latest installment of the Rock Canyon Series by Codi Gary, we are introduced to the third Willis sister. And yes, she is one of those Willis girls. It has been twelve years since Caroline has left her small hometown and lets just say she isn’t exactly welcomed back with open arms. She didn't just burn a few bridges, she torched them. However, she wants to be near her sisters and attempt to mend fences with her oh-so-stuborn father. And as the saying goes, all best laid plans…
Though it will not be easy, Caroline makes the effort to settle down and have a home base. In the very first chapters of the book, she is confronted with an ex-best friend with an ax to grind, a town full of busybodies gossiping about her past, and then there is Kyle. He is the one that she is most fearful of. For a strong woman who doesn’t take much crap from anyone, Kyle is the one person that scares her. What he did to her haunts her and essentially made her be the woman she is. A woman that doesn’t let men in, will not forgive, will never forget, and most importantly, will never fall in love.
Now enter Gabe Moriarty. He is the definition of a bad boy. From the tattoos, to the prison record, to his motorcycle, this man has the “don’t bring me home to daddy” thing down pat. However, as in many of Codi’s characters, what is on the surface isn’t always the whole picture. Yes, he has a trouble past, but he also has a heart of gold when it comes to his sister. So how bad can he really be?
“I’ve been told, ‘'To assume is to make an ass out of your and me,’ to which I reply, ‘I don’t have to assume. I know your an ass.’” - Miss Know it All
The sparks fly when Gabe and Caroline were both promised the same apartment and decide to live together. It seems like every other minute they are fighting about something, but is there more underneath it all? Will these two be able to put behind them the mountain load of baggage that they are carrying around? You will just have to jump in and read to find out.
“Everyone has baggage. Whether or not you can leave your baggage at the door of a new relationship is up to you.” - Miss Know It All
There is no secret that I am addicted to anything Codi Gary writes. I love her to pieces and have spent many a night with my nose in one of her books. However, in this book, Codi brought the series to a whole new level. Though there are the fun, sassy, and sexy moments which we all love, the author tackles a serious issue. There is a reality to this story that doesn’t exploit rape as just something to put in a book. She creates a character that is shaped by this incident and allows her to take control of her emotions. Codi allows Caroline to evolve right in front of the reader as she moves past the shame and starts to realize that this one man can’t take away the rest of her life and make her live in fear. Honestly, this is the best book yet from the series. Bravo Codi! You just kicked it up a notch. I can’t wait for the next book in the series.
“Being loved is not the greatest gift. The greatest gift someone can give is acceptance.” - Miss Know It All
On a lighter note, there is also a strong Miss Know It All presence in this book. Each chapter opens up with a quote from the infamous blogger. I loved these quotes and comments because they shaped each chapter. It was almost as if she was guiding the story for the reader. Almost as if she knew what was going to happen for us…
- See more at: http://artbookscoffee.com/the-bookshe...
February 10, 2015
Codi does it again! I love the Rock Canyon Romance series.
Caroline Willis returned to Rock Canyon when her father had a heart attack. She’d hoped he would welcome her home and be proud of her after she’d made good and established herself in business, but the stubborn old man was just as angry and refusing as ever. Not to be discouraged, and tired of sleeping on her sister’s couch, she decides to find a place of her own and seek out customers for her consulting business. Having found the perfect place to live, she’s ready to move in but discovers she’s hit an incredibly sexy and equally stubborn brick wall as she is, by the name of Gabe.
Gabriel Moriarty has some demons he needs to exorcise from his past. He has a lot to make up for and one of those things is an apology to his former best friend, Chase Trepasso. Rock Canyon seems to be the perfect place to set up his custom motorcycle shop. It’s a town where no one knows the past he's ashamed of, where his best friend lives, and it’s close enough to where his sister is being cared for that he can make sure she’s well and see her as often as he wants. The two-bedroom apartment he found is perfect. The rent is good and he can’t wait to move in, but there’s a gorgeous fly in the ointment. With a simple suggestion from his sister, he offers to let the beautiful, and far too sexy and very stubborn, Caroline Willis share the apartment. When he made the offer, he thought he could live in close quarters with her but it doesn’t take long for him to find himself desiring her more than he should, and wanting to protect her from whatever demons are chasing her too.
Caroline and Gabe are made for each other. Both are fearful of opening up to anyone yet the trust begins to build between them even as they fight it. Caroline begins to see a multitude of layers in the gorgeous man who presents an even harder shell to the outside world than she does. When her past comes back to threaten her and her sisters, it’s Gabe who gives her the strength to face it head on. Even though Caroline is a take no crap from anyone kind of gal, there’s one person who makes her quake in her boots. To protect Gabe, she finds the strength to take control and defeat him. Loved, loved it! In return, Caroline helps Gabe see the hero that lies deep within him, which he’s determined to deny but eventually allows to come forth for those he loves.
Every visit to Rock Canyon is like coming home. The secondary characters we’ve come to know and love, and not like so much, make this place real in our imaginations. RETURN OF THE BAD GIRL by Codi Gary is a coming home story filled with humor, angst, good times, and bad. It’s about family, friends, forgiveness, and how even the worst things done for whatever reason can be forgiven and give strength to those affected by the deeds. Caroline and Gabe are kindred spirits who find each other, clash delightfully, create delicious sexual tension, and then come together with explosive intensity. I enjoyed watching these characters grow and become complete by finding the person they really are and how together, they could share, trust, and love each other.
I highly recommend RETURN OF THE BAD GIRL, book four in the Rock Canyon Romance series by Codi Gary because coming home to face your life is an experience worth doing. I love this series more with each book, and I’m going to keep coming back to Rock Canyon and the wonderful inhabitants conjured by the incredible imagination of Codi Gary. I hope you will too.
***I purchased this one for my own personal reading and am willingly sharing my honest and unscripted thoughts.
Caroline Willis returned to Rock Canyon when her father had a heart attack. She’d hoped he would welcome her home and be proud of her after she’d made good and established herself in business, but the stubborn old man was just as angry and refusing as ever. Not to be discouraged, and tired of sleeping on her sister’s couch, she decides to find a place of her own and seek out customers for her consulting business. Having found the perfect place to live, she’s ready to move in but discovers she’s hit an incredibly sexy and equally stubborn brick wall as she is, by the name of Gabe.
Gabriel Moriarty has some demons he needs to exorcise from his past. He has a lot to make up for and one of those things is an apology to his former best friend, Chase Trepasso. Rock Canyon seems to be the perfect place to set up his custom motorcycle shop. It’s a town where no one knows the past he's ashamed of, where his best friend lives, and it’s close enough to where his sister is being cared for that he can make sure she’s well and see her as often as he wants. The two-bedroom apartment he found is perfect. The rent is good and he can’t wait to move in, but there’s a gorgeous fly in the ointment. With a simple suggestion from his sister, he offers to let the beautiful, and far too sexy and very stubborn, Caroline Willis share the apartment. When he made the offer, he thought he could live in close quarters with her but it doesn’t take long for him to find himself desiring her more than he should, and wanting to protect her from whatever demons are chasing her too.
Caroline and Gabe are made for each other. Both are fearful of opening up to anyone yet the trust begins to build between them even as they fight it. Caroline begins to see a multitude of layers in the gorgeous man who presents an even harder shell to the outside world than she does. When her past comes back to threaten her and her sisters, it’s Gabe who gives her the strength to face it head on. Even though Caroline is a take no crap from anyone kind of gal, there’s one person who makes her quake in her boots. To protect Gabe, she finds the strength to take control and defeat him. Loved, loved it! In return, Caroline helps Gabe see the hero that lies deep within him, which he’s determined to deny but eventually allows to come forth for those he loves.
Every visit to Rock Canyon is like coming home. The secondary characters we’ve come to know and love, and not like so much, make this place real in our imaginations. RETURN OF THE BAD GIRL by Codi Gary is a coming home story filled with humor, angst, good times, and bad. It’s about family, friends, forgiveness, and how even the worst things done for whatever reason can be forgiven and give strength to those affected by the deeds. Caroline and Gabe are kindred spirits who find each other, clash delightfully, create delicious sexual tension, and then come together with explosive intensity. I enjoyed watching these characters grow and become complete by finding the person they really are and how together, they could share, trust, and love each other.
I highly recommend RETURN OF THE BAD GIRL, book four in the Rock Canyon Romance series by Codi Gary because coming home to face your life is an experience worth doing. I love this series more with each book, and I’m going to keep coming back to Rock Canyon and the wonderful inhabitants conjured by the incredible imagination of Codi Gary. I hope you will too.
***I purchased this one for my own personal reading and am willingly sharing my honest and unscripted thoughts.
January 2, 2015
Welcome back to the small town of Rock Canyon in this 4th installment of Codi Gary's Rock Canyon Romance series. You know the story of the little 'blink and you miss it' kind of towns, everyone knows your business and is VERY judgmental. That would be the town of Rock Canyon, complete with the town gossip column.
Let's start with Caroline Willis. After high school, she refuses to attend a college of her father's choosing, when her tormentor would be in attendance. She decided to get out from under his thumb and pave her own way in life. It wasn't an easy task, and she's done things she's not proud of to make ends meet along the way. Her rough experiences have left her hardened and a little jaded, but she's come out on top. She found something that she loves to do, and makes a heck of a living at it. She's tired of traveling and being away from her sisters, so she decided to head home and set roots in her home town. Although she knows it won't be easy to face her past, she's tired of moving all across the country chasing a dream that she can do from anywhere. She's ready to settle into her little apartment and begin this new phase in her life. There's just one problem with her plan. As Caroline heads over to sign the lease on her new apartment, some jerk on a bike zips past her and steals her parking spot. Not only does he still her spot, but he also claims that the apartment is his!
Meet Gabe Moriarty; he would be the fore mentioned jerk. He's the bad boy with a past and looking for a fresh new start. He's paid his debt to society and lives with a life altering decision that he made when he was young and drunk. Only, it wasn't just his life that was permanently scarred. His poor judgment left his sister in a state of needing permanent care for the rest of her life. He's found a new facility to care for her near the perfect place to set up his new custom bike shop. All he needs is to get settled into his new place and find the building to house his new shop. There's just one problem standing in his way. She's a sexy siren with quite the temper and a claim to HIS apartment.
With little in the way of available places to rent, Caroline and Gabe decide to share the apartment. What could possibly go wrong? Besides, it won't be for long, and they are both mature adults. No matter that they are physically attracted to each other, stubborn pride won't allow anything to come between them.
Caroline is a strong woman that believes she can face anything. When demons from her past that come back to haunt her, she may not be as tough as she thinks. When Gabe steps in to help her, she sees a different side of him. Can two damaged hearts find their way to healing each other's broken souls?
I just can't say enough how much I LOVED this book. I also thoroughly enjoyed the others in the series as well. I read Return of the Bad Girl in one sitting, with only time for potty breaks. There was no time for food when the book was still unfinished! I just HAD to know how it would all turn out. The characters just called to me. Sparks of all kids are thrown between them. The story was believable. The banter between the characters was at times both humorous and steamy. The kitten scenes were touching. I loved the referral from 101 Dalmatians. I can't wait to read more of this series!
Let's start with Caroline Willis. After high school, she refuses to attend a college of her father's choosing, when her tormentor would be in attendance. She decided to get out from under his thumb and pave her own way in life. It wasn't an easy task, and she's done things she's not proud of to make ends meet along the way. Her rough experiences have left her hardened and a little jaded, but she's come out on top. She found something that she loves to do, and makes a heck of a living at it. She's tired of traveling and being away from her sisters, so she decided to head home and set roots in her home town. Although she knows it won't be easy to face her past, she's tired of moving all across the country chasing a dream that she can do from anywhere. She's ready to settle into her little apartment and begin this new phase in her life. There's just one problem with her plan. As Caroline heads over to sign the lease on her new apartment, some jerk on a bike zips past her and steals her parking spot. Not only does he still her spot, but he also claims that the apartment is his!
Meet Gabe Moriarty; he would be the fore mentioned jerk. He's the bad boy with a past and looking for a fresh new start. He's paid his debt to society and lives with a life altering decision that he made when he was young and drunk. Only, it wasn't just his life that was permanently scarred. His poor judgment left his sister in a state of needing permanent care for the rest of her life. He's found a new facility to care for her near the perfect place to set up his new custom bike shop. All he needs is to get settled into his new place and find the building to house his new shop. There's just one problem standing in his way. She's a sexy siren with quite the temper and a claim to HIS apartment.
With little in the way of available places to rent, Caroline and Gabe decide to share the apartment. What could possibly go wrong? Besides, it won't be for long, and they are both mature adults. No matter that they are physically attracted to each other, stubborn pride won't allow anything to come between them.
Caroline is a strong woman that believes she can face anything. When demons from her past that come back to haunt her, she may not be as tough as she thinks. When Gabe steps in to help her, she sees a different side of him. Can two damaged hearts find their way to healing each other's broken souls?
I just can't say enough how much I LOVED this book. I also thoroughly enjoyed the others in the series as well. I read Return of the Bad Girl in one sitting, with only time for potty breaks. There was no time for food when the book was still unfinished! I just HAD to know how it would all turn out. The characters just called to me. Sparks of all kids are thrown between them. The story was believable. The banter between the characters was at times both humorous and steamy. The kitten scenes were touching. I loved the referral from 101 Dalmatians. I can't wait to read more of this series!
February 3, 2015
I loved this book!
Return of the Bad Girl came to my attention on another blog and I picked it up because it sounded like a lot of fun. I’d never read anything by this author before and really had no idea what to expect. I’m happy to report Ms. Gary totally had me hook, line and sinker from page one.
At first I wasn’t sure about the heroine, Caroline. She was just so bitchy!! As I got to know her though, I came to understand what had made her that way. Caroline was hurt badly as a teenager and lashed out from the pain and anger inside by doing a lot of hurtful things to the people around her. She left home and although she initially struggled, she went on to make a success of herself. In Return of the Bad Girl she was back home in Rock Canyon to finally settle down and make amends with her father who had just suffered a heart attack. What she didn’t plan on was Gabe Moriarty. I loved Gabe from the get-go. He’d made a huge mistake when he was younger that cost him dearly and was now trying to make it up to the people he hurt while also building a life for himself.
Boy did the sparks fly at Caroline and Gabe’s first meeting! Both had major attitudes, but I could totally feel the heat between them. The sexual tension was so yummy and it was so much fun watching them try to resist the pull between them by fighting and ripping into one another every chance they got. It was one of those I-want-you-so-bad-but-don’t-want-to-want-you-so-I’ll-act-like-I-hate-you situations. You just knew they were eventually going to rip each other’s clothes off and it was going to be so good! It was highly enjoyable :). What they didn’t count on though were the feelings they’d developed for one another. Watching them try to figure it all out was fun and very entertaining.
I loved the banter between Gabe and Caroline. They’re so hot for one another but try to deny it by being downright nasty :).
‘Are you trying to irritate me?’
‘I didn’t know I had to try. I thought you just woke up, and the annoyance was there.’
‘Oh, no, some mornings I wake up thinking, I must’ve imagined it. He can’t be that bad. And then I see you, and it all comes flooding back like a drunken night of idiocy.’ When she tapped his chest with a long, glittery purple nail, he resisted the urge to grab it and nibble the tip.
‘Only it’s not my idiocy I’m remembering.’
Gabe was ridiculously hot. He was this big, tough, tattooed and pierced hunk of a man on the outside, but so sweet and sensitive on the inside. Yum! He made some terrible mistakes, but deep down was a good man with a big heart. Totally swoon worthy <3.
Not only did this book have me laughing, it also moved me to tears. Gabe’s interactions with his sister, Honey, and with Caroline’s kittens had me tearing up from how sweet and adorable he was. And the same for the way Caroline treated Honey; she was just so wonderful with her, I couldn’t help but tear up.
Return of the Bad Girl was funny, sexy, and sweet. It was a quick and fun read that was pure entertainment from beginning to end. I highly recommend it and I plan to go back and read the other books in the series.
Originally posted on www.thebrunettebookworm.com
Return of the Bad Girl came to my attention on another blog and I picked it up because it sounded like a lot of fun. I’d never read anything by this author before and really had no idea what to expect. I’m happy to report Ms. Gary totally had me hook, line and sinker from page one.
At first I wasn’t sure about the heroine, Caroline. She was just so bitchy!! As I got to know her though, I came to understand what had made her that way. Caroline was hurt badly as a teenager and lashed out from the pain and anger inside by doing a lot of hurtful things to the people around her. She left home and although she initially struggled, she went on to make a success of herself. In Return of the Bad Girl she was back home in Rock Canyon to finally settle down and make amends with her father who had just suffered a heart attack. What she didn’t plan on was Gabe Moriarty. I loved Gabe from the get-go. He’d made a huge mistake when he was younger that cost him dearly and was now trying to make it up to the people he hurt while also building a life for himself.
Boy did the sparks fly at Caroline and Gabe’s first meeting! Both had major attitudes, but I could totally feel the heat between them. The sexual tension was so yummy and it was so much fun watching them try to resist the pull between them by fighting and ripping into one another every chance they got. It was one of those I-want-you-so-bad-but-don’t-want-to-want-you-so-I’ll-act-like-I-hate-you situations. You just knew they were eventually going to rip each other’s clothes off and it was going to be so good! It was highly enjoyable :). What they didn’t count on though were the feelings they’d developed for one another. Watching them try to figure it all out was fun and very entertaining.
I loved the banter between Gabe and Caroline. They’re so hot for one another but try to deny it by being downright nasty :).
‘Are you trying to irritate me?’
‘I didn’t know I had to try. I thought you just woke up, and the annoyance was there.’
‘Oh, no, some mornings I wake up thinking, I must’ve imagined it. He can’t be that bad. And then I see you, and it all comes flooding back like a drunken night of idiocy.’ When she tapped his chest with a long, glittery purple nail, he resisted the urge to grab it and nibble the tip.
‘Only it’s not my idiocy I’m remembering.’
Gabe was ridiculously hot. He was this big, tough, tattooed and pierced hunk of a man on the outside, but so sweet and sensitive on the inside. Yum! He made some terrible mistakes, but deep down was a good man with a big heart. Totally swoon worthy <3.
Not only did this book have me laughing, it also moved me to tears. Gabe’s interactions with his sister, Honey, and with Caroline’s kittens had me tearing up from how sweet and adorable he was. And the same for the way Caroline treated Honey; she was just so wonderful with her, I couldn’t help but tear up.
Return of the Bad Girl was funny, sexy, and sweet. It was a quick and fun read that was pure entertainment from beginning to end. I highly recommend it and I plan to go back and read the other books in the series.
Originally posted on www.thebrunettebookworm.com
December 7, 2014
Title/Author: Return of the Bad Girl (Rock Canyon Romance #4) by Codi Gary
Publisher/Date published: Avon Impulse, December 30th 2014
How I got this book: received it from the publisher as an egalley
Goodreads summary: Bad girls don't forgive.
Bad girls don't forget.
Bad girls don't fall in love.
Caroline Willis may be known for causing trouble, but she is NOT about to become homeless. So when she learns that her perfect apartment has been double-booked — to a dangerously hot bad boy — Caroline's bad-girl reputation comes out in full force. He may be sexy as sin, but she's not afraid of him... or his panty-melting smile.
Rock Canyon's got room for only one bad attitude — and Gabe Moriarty was here first. Still, starting over means playing it smart, so while sharing his new apartment is less than ideal, it's worth getting his dream business off the ground. Not to mention that it means shacking up with a sexy wild child. Caroline may be giving him the cold shoulder, but Gabe always was good at starting fires...
Caroline vows to keep things professional with Gabe, but as close quarters begin to ignite the sizzling chemistry between them, she's left wondering: Bad boy plus bad girl equals nothing but trouble... right?
I enjoyed Good Girls Don't Date Rock Stars, the second book in this series and haven't read the other two yet, but I have to say that I wasn't much a fan of Return of the Bad Girl.
As I'm sitting typing this review, I'm not even all that sure why exactly I finished reading it, because I wasn't all that into the romance. Which is kinda the point of a romance novel, right? I think it might be due to the fact that Return of the Bad Girl has two adorable teeny tiny kittens in it and I'm a sucker for anything feline ever since we got a cat ourselves a couple of months ago. And as I was away from home all week, I craved a cat companion no matter if it was just a fictional one. Or two.
Caroline and Travis have both had a tough past and are both more than a little damaged by it. They both have scars and that feels right considering everything. The one thing that I can't figure out is why there's nothing about Travis' five years in prison in the book. I mean, it's mentioned, but that's it. Nothing about his experiences there, which felt off to me. I mean, that's a big part of your life and it's gonna shape you somehow.
I was wondering why their parents were so sucky, even if Caroline's father comes around after she confesses her big secret to him. She and her father should really learn to communicate better. And while I really liked the small town vibe in Good Girls Don't Date Rock Stars, it really annoyed me in Return of the Bad Girl, because everyone was so judgmental and just plain mean. And how are there so many sleazeballs in such a tiny place?
But mostly the problem was that I wasn't feeling it. I wasn't feeling the romance and the drama and was a bit like yeah, maybe you shouldn't be together. Which is not what you want to be thinking when you should be rooting for a couple.
My rating: 1,5 stars
Publisher/Date published: Avon Impulse, December 30th 2014
How I got this book: received it from the publisher as an egalley
Goodreads summary: Bad girls don't forgive.
Bad girls don't forget.
Bad girls don't fall in love.
Caroline Willis may be known for causing trouble, but she is NOT about to become homeless. So when she learns that her perfect apartment has been double-booked — to a dangerously hot bad boy — Caroline's bad-girl reputation comes out in full force. He may be sexy as sin, but she's not afraid of him... or his panty-melting smile.
Rock Canyon's got room for only one bad attitude — and Gabe Moriarty was here first. Still, starting over means playing it smart, so while sharing his new apartment is less than ideal, it's worth getting his dream business off the ground. Not to mention that it means shacking up with a sexy wild child. Caroline may be giving him the cold shoulder, but Gabe always was good at starting fires...
Caroline vows to keep things professional with Gabe, but as close quarters begin to ignite the sizzling chemistry between them, she's left wondering: Bad boy plus bad girl equals nothing but trouble... right?
I enjoyed Good Girls Don't Date Rock Stars, the second book in this series and haven't read the other two yet, but I have to say that I wasn't much a fan of Return of the Bad Girl.
As I'm sitting typing this review, I'm not even all that sure why exactly I finished reading it, because I wasn't all that into the romance. Which is kinda the point of a romance novel, right? I think it might be due to the fact that Return of the Bad Girl has two adorable teeny tiny kittens in it and I'm a sucker for anything feline ever since we got a cat ourselves a couple of months ago. And as I was away from home all week, I craved a cat companion no matter if it was just a fictional one. Or two.
Caroline and Travis have both had a tough past and are both more than a little damaged by it. They both have scars and that feels right considering everything. The one thing that I can't figure out is why there's nothing about Travis' five years in prison in the book. I mean, it's mentioned, but that's it. Nothing about his experiences there, which felt off to me. I mean, that's a big part of your life and it's gonna shape you somehow.
I was wondering why their parents were so sucky, even if Caroline's father comes around after she confesses her big secret to him. She and her father should really learn to communicate better. And while I really liked the small town vibe in Good Girls Don't Date Rock Stars, it really annoyed me in Return of the Bad Girl, because everyone was so judgmental and just plain mean. And how are there so many sleazeballs in such a tiny place?
But mostly the problem was that I wasn't feeling it. I wasn't feeling the romance and the drama and was a bit like yeah, maybe you shouldn't be together. Which is not what you want to be thinking when you should be rooting for a couple.
My rating: 1,5 stars
December 30, 2014
My Thoughts:
I have been interested in trying out the Rock Canyon Romance Series for a while. I love all of the book covers so much in this series, and think the titles are fun and attention catching. Return Of The Bad Girl is the first book that I have read by Codi Gary. It was a really sweet small town romance that reminded me a lot of Jill Shalvis' writing style.
In Return Of The Bad Girl, we get Caroline and Gabe's story. Caroline is returning to her estranged home in Rock Canyon, Idaho when she is notified that her father recently suffered a heart attack. She hasn't seen her father or her younger sister's, Val and Ellie in over ten years. When she returns to her hometown, we learn that Caroline has quite the colorful past, and has burned bridges along the way. However, she is in Rock Canyon to make amends, reunite with her family, and build a consulting business. Things don't go so well, when she learns that the apartment she had lined up to live in was double booked.
Gabe is excited for his new beginning, and has found the perfect place to open his new bike restoration shop. It is only two hours away from his younger sister, Honey, has a beautiful view, and is the place where is best friend from high school resides. However, things don't go smoothly when he learns that his apartment has become double booked. Therefore, he thinks up the perfect compromise; and convinces Caroline that they should share the apartment, and split rent and utilities down the middle, until one of them decides to move.
Both Caroline and Gabe have suffered greatly. They both have traumatic pasts, large regrets, and are looking for a fresh start. Little by little, we learn the life experiences that shaped Caroline and Gabe in to the people that they presently are.
\These two had major chemistry and loved pushing each other's buttons. As they got to know one another, they made a home together, and began to fall in love. I enjoyed getting to learn about Caroline's younger sisters, as well as both her and Gabe's good friends. I enjoy stories with a small town setting, and would like to go back in the series, and read all of the secondary character's stories. Return Of The Bad Girl was a sweet and entertaining read that touched on pain, trauma, abuse, redemption, healing, love, and new beginnings.
My Rating:
I give Return Of The Bad Girl, 3.5 Feisty, Sexy, Slow-Burn Filled Stars! If you enjoy realistic characters, some angst, and small town romance, check out this series!
My Favorite Quote:
"I don't care how damaged you are, because I am just as broken, maybe more so." (eARC, Loc. 2417)
~Caroline
*To Read More Book Reviews, Visit A Bookish Escape at http://www.abookishescape.com
I have been interested in trying out the Rock Canyon Romance Series for a while. I love all of the book covers so much in this series, and think the titles are fun and attention catching. Return Of The Bad Girl is the first book that I have read by Codi Gary. It was a really sweet small town romance that reminded me a lot of Jill Shalvis' writing style.
In Return Of The Bad Girl, we get Caroline and Gabe's story. Caroline is returning to her estranged home in Rock Canyon, Idaho when she is notified that her father recently suffered a heart attack. She hasn't seen her father or her younger sister's, Val and Ellie in over ten years. When she returns to her hometown, we learn that Caroline has quite the colorful past, and has burned bridges along the way. However, she is in Rock Canyon to make amends, reunite with her family, and build a consulting business. Things don't go so well, when she learns that the apartment she had lined up to live in was double booked.
Gabe is excited for his new beginning, and has found the perfect place to open his new bike restoration shop. It is only two hours away from his younger sister, Honey, has a beautiful view, and is the place where is best friend from high school resides. However, things don't go smoothly when he learns that his apartment has become double booked. Therefore, he thinks up the perfect compromise; and convinces Caroline that they should share the apartment, and split rent and utilities down the middle, until one of them decides to move.
Both Caroline and Gabe have suffered greatly. They both have traumatic pasts, large regrets, and are looking for a fresh start. Little by little, we learn the life experiences that shaped Caroline and Gabe in to the people that they presently are.
\These two had major chemistry and loved pushing each other's buttons. As they got to know one another, they made a home together, and began to fall in love. I enjoyed getting to learn about Caroline's younger sisters, as well as both her and Gabe's good friends. I enjoy stories with a small town setting, and would like to go back in the series, and read all of the secondary character's stories. Return Of The Bad Girl was a sweet and entertaining read that touched on pain, trauma, abuse, redemption, healing, love, and new beginnings.
My Rating:
I give Return Of The Bad Girl, 3.5 Feisty, Sexy, Slow-Burn Filled Stars! If you enjoy realistic characters, some angst, and small town romance, check out this series!
My Favorite Quote:
"I don't care how damaged you are, because I am just as broken, maybe more so." (eARC, Loc. 2417)
~Caroline
*To Read More Book Reviews, Visit A Bookish Escape at http://www.abookishescape.com
January 26, 2015
***A gifted copy was provided in exchange for an honest review.***
~*Review by Elyssa*~
Fallers, I didn't really know what I was getting into when I started Return of the Bad Girl. I'd picked it randomly out of a list of books, and it's part of a longer series (the Rock Canyon series, for those who are interested). Luckily, this book is totally stand-alone (I honestly wouldn't have known it was part of a series if I hadn't looked it up), and it was completely awesome! I'm giving Return of the Bad Girl four and a half leaves!
Caroline and Gabe are basically a match made in heaven. She's the town's former bad-girl, eventually leaving home before graduating high school to strike out on her own. Gabe's recently out of a jail due to a horrible accident in his past.... and both are now stuck together in the same apartment. Necessity brings people together, and I could tell the minute they met that Caroline and Gabe were in for a bumpy (but incredibly fun and really hot) ride. One of the things that struck me about this book was the absolutely incredibly, admirable growth both characters went through. They've both had really rough pasts, but both are working incredibly hard to put it behind them, start fresh, and try to improve themselves.
And they do. You can see it in their actions, the way they interact with one another and with other people. They're not always successful, but they both realize when they make mistakes, and both do their best to remedy them. That's the focus of this book for me--two people who are trying to better themselves for themselves, and also realizing that just because they had a bad past doesn't mean they don't deserve each other--deserve love--in their future.
I loved Gabe and Caroline. Both were witty, smart, and completely devoted to one another. The ride was a little choppy, but definitely check this one out, Fallers!
Read more reviews by Elyssa and the Fallers at http://fallinginfall.blogspot.com
~*Review by Elyssa*~
Fallers, I didn't really know what I was getting into when I started Return of the Bad Girl. I'd picked it randomly out of a list of books, and it's part of a longer series (the Rock Canyon series, for those who are interested). Luckily, this book is totally stand-alone (I honestly wouldn't have known it was part of a series if I hadn't looked it up), and it was completely awesome! I'm giving Return of the Bad Girl four and a half leaves!
Caroline and Gabe are basically a match made in heaven. She's the town's former bad-girl, eventually leaving home before graduating high school to strike out on her own. Gabe's recently out of a jail due to a horrible accident in his past.... and both are now stuck together in the same apartment. Necessity brings people together, and I could tell the minute they met that Caroline and Gabe were in for a bumpy (but incredibly fun and really hot) ride. One of the things that struck me about this book was the absolutely incredibly, admirable growth both characters went through. They've both had really rough pasts, but both are working incredibly hard to put it behind them, start fresh, and try to improve themselves.
And they do. You can see it in their actions, the way they interact with one another and with other people. They're not always successful, but they both realize when they make mistakes, and both do their best to remedy them. That's the focus of this book for me--two people who are trying to better themselves for themselves, and also realizing that just because they had a bad past doesn't mean they don't deserve each other--deserve love--in their future.
I loved Gabe and Caroline. Both were witty, smart, and completely devoted to one another. The ride was a little choppy, but definitely check this one out, Fallers!
Read more reviews by Elyssa and the Fallers at http://fallinginfall.blogspot.com
February 1, 2015
I adore Codi Gary's Rock Canyon series. I can not get enough of the depth of characters she's managed to create and love the community feel of the town she created. Like every story and every small town, there are people you root for and people you just love to hate. I keep wanting to read about every new character she introduces in this series and they just get better with each book. :) I loved reading about and getting to know Gabe and Caroline. Let me say their romance was very explosive! Gabe's background just about broke my heart and so did Caroline's. This book will make you laugh, and it'll make you cry. it'll also make you say way to go girl when you see what Caroline did to get even with a certain jerk... No not Gabe. you'll just have to read this story to find out what really happened to make Caroline leave town, but when Caroline finally found the courage to admit the truth to her father, family and Gabe after so many years of hiding it, I was cheering her on. Now I'm waiting to hear more about Ellie's story... she does get one doesn't she?? :) But who in Rock Canyon would be good for Ellie and be able to handle her reputation?? With Return of the Bad Girl, you'll be introduced to several new characters who I think should totally get their own books as well because I want to get to know some of them some more :) This town just keeps growing and you're going to fall even more in love with it when you're done! 5 star read!
December 16, 2014
Ok. Where to start? I have not read the first 3 books in the series, but that did not detract from the story. Definitely can be read as a stand alone. I will be going back to read those as well.
I love the dynamics and the characters of this story. ***Spoilers***
Gabe is a man that has suffered for mistakes in his past. He has come to Rock Canyon to make amends for that mistake with his best friend, Chase. He wants to make a new start for himself. His plans did not include the feisty Caroline.
Caroline, the town bad girl, has returned home after 12 years. Her father kicked her out at 17. She has been on her own ever since. She returns home to find that everyone from her past hates her.
She meets and becomes roommates with Gabe. They have a love hate relationship. As they get closer, her past comes back to haunt her. Can she keep the secret she has been holding onto for 15 years?
The ups and downs, and twists and turns kept me hooked. There was so much depth in the backgrounds of Gabe and Caroline. The love story was remarkable. Definitely a new author for me to cuddle up with!
I love the dynamics and the characters of this story. ***Spoilers***
Gabe is a man that has suffered for mistakes in his past. He has come to Rock Canyon to make amends for that mistake with his best friend, Chase. He wants to make a new start for himself. His plans did not include the feisty Caroline.
Caroline, the town bad girl, has returned home after 12 years. Her father kicked her out at 17. She has been on her own ever since. She returns home to find that everyone from her past hates her.
She meets and becomes roommates with Gabe. They have a love hate relationship. As they get closer, her past comes back to haunt her. Can she keep the secret she has been holding onto for 15 years?
The ups and downs, and twists and turns kept me hooked. There was so much depth in the backgrounds of Gabe and Caroline. The love story was remarkable. Definitely a new author for me to cuddle up with!
January 14, 2015
ERIN'S REVIEW:
Ok. Where to start? I have not read the first 3 books in the series, but that did not detract from the story. Definitely can be read as a stand alone. I will be going back to read those as well.
I love the dynamics and the characters of this story. ***Spoilers***
Gabe is a man that has suffered for mistakes in his past. He has come to Rock Canyon to make amends for that mistake with his best friend, Chase. He wants to make a new start for himself. His plans did not include the feisty Caroline.
Caroline, the town bad girl, has returned home after 12 years. Her father kicked her out at 17. She has been on her own ever since. She returns home to find that everyone from her past hates her.
She meets and becomes roommates with Gabe. They have a love hate relationship. As they get closer, her past comes back to haunt her. Can she keep the secret she has been holding onto for 15 years?
The ups and downs, and twists and turns kept me hooked. There was so much depth in the backgrounds of Gabe and Caroline. The love story was remarkable. Definitely a new author for me to cuddle up with!
Ok. Where to start? I have not read the first 3 books in the series, but that did not detract from the story. Definitely can be read as a stand alone. I will be going back to read those as well.
I love the dynamics and the characters of this story. ***Spoilers***
Gabe is a man that has suffered for mistakes in his past. He has come to Rock Canyon to make amends for that mistake with his best friend, Chase. He wants to make a new start for himself. His plans did not include the feisty Caroline.
Caroline, the town bad girl, has returned home after 12 years. Her father kicked her out at 17. She has been on her own ever since. She returns home to find that everyone from her past hates her.
She meets and becomes roommates with Gabe. They have a love hate relationship. As they get closer, her past comes back to haunt her. Can she keep the secret she has been holding onto for 15 years?
The ups and downs, and twists and turns kept me hooked. There was so much depth in the backgrounds of Gabe and Caroline. The love story was remarkable. Definitely a new author for me to cuddle up with!
December 10, 2014
Not sure if it's really jealousy that Caroline is but it sure seems that way, "oh, yeah? So, I have to explain who my guests are, but you can take advantage of drunk girls in your room and I can't say anything?" Okay maybe that's not jealousy but I thought it was I bet she was wishing that she was in Gabe's room. Gabe he's such a gentleman at times letting his girl know about her body parts, "your ti*s are going to pop out of that dress if you bend over." Gabe may come off as a total bada** but the boy is sensitive, "you were horny as hell, and I was available. I understand and believe me, I didn't mind." He's also not one for the kittens his girl loves so much, "I think they're a couple of c***-blocking fuzzbutts," Gabe grumbled." Once everything is out in the open we get to see a new Caroline a much bossier one, "she jump him, wrapping her arms and legs around him, trusting him to catch her. He did, of course. "Well, come on. Let's get on with it." I liked this book I enjoyed it and I loved Gabe.
January 1, 2015
As with all Cary's books, this was a fun and easy read with ll the drama and twists and turns I've come to expect in her books.
The characters were great, Caroline was the perfect bad ass with a heart and issues and Gabe was the perfect partner for her. He was cool and a bad boy with the past and a heart of gold.
Sure, it's not literary gold, the plot is predictable it has the usual romance plot, but it's the way it's written and the characters which make it every time. Gary has a skill at creating realistic characters and writing well so that the romance doesn't feel awkward, the drama doesn't feel overplayed and ridiculous and that the chracters don't become ridiculous figures in another romance novel.
I will always recommend Gary's books to others, especially those who are fan of the romance genre, because what she does is not necessarily any different from any other romance novel, but she does it well and that makes her stand out from the crowd. I've already got her next book on preorder.
The characters were great, Caroline was the perfect bad ass with a heart and issues and Gabe was the perfect partner for her. He was cool and a bad boy with the past and a heart of gold.
Sure, it's not literary gold, the plot is predictable it has the usual romance plot, but it's the way it's written and the characters which make it every time. Gary has a skill at creating realistic characters and writing well so that the romance doesn't feel awkward, the drama doesn't feel overplayed and ridiculous and that the chracters don't become ridiculous figures in another romance novel.
I will always recommend Gary's books to others, especially those who are fan of the romance genre, because what she does is not necessarily any different from any other romance novel, but she does it well and that makes her stand out from the crowd. I've already got her next book on preorder.
January 26, 2015
Caroline Willis was a Bad Girl when she was a teenager, and left the small town of Rock Canyon after an intense disagreement with her father. Twelve years later, she’s made a success of her life and returns home to start over again. Caroline is ready to forget the past, but her father, sisters and the entire town remember her “disgraceful behavior” as if it were yesterday. She meets with hostility and anger wherever she goes. She finds a two bedroom apartment to rent, and when she shows up to sign the lease, Gabe Moriarty is already there, ready to sign the same lease. After exchanging hostilities, they compromise and end up sharing the apartment. Sexy romance, with a nice heat level in the sex scenes. Gabe and Caroline have a lot in common, and they eventually work out a nice Happily Ever After.
I enjoyed this story, the characters appealed to me, and I liked the ending. Caroline was strong and determined, and had a lot of emotional turmoil to work through. Gabe was awesome - who doesn't like a man who can nurture not only his sister, but stray kittens, too.
I enjoyed this story, the characters appealed to me, and I liked the ending. Caroline was strong and determined, and had a lot of emotional turmoil to work through. Gabe was awesome - who doesn't like a man who can nurture not only his sister, but stray kittens, too.
December 30, 2014
Caroline Willis is really a bad girl, and Gabe Moriarty is a bad boy, but a lot has to do with gossip and nastiness from the part of other people. They are trying very hard to get their life back on track and it’s not easy. Caroline is back in Rock Canyon Idaho for family and business matters; she’s decided to face her troubled past head-on and it’s harder than she ever thought it could be. Gabe is looking to have his own motorcycle shop and Rock Canyon seemed like a good place to start anew. RETURN OF THE BAD GIRL is the latest in the Rock Canyon series, and Codi Gary has given us what could be her strongest effort yet. This is not light, often not pretty, but it’s honest, tough, and oh so real; Caroline and Gabe became part of my life, people I really care for. Ms. Gary does not do fluffy and pink, and I am grateful for it. A fabulous, touching, potent story that you will not soon forget!
January 5, 2015
Review : 5 stars !!!
This is my first read by Codi and loved it !!! This was very well written and got me hooked the moment I started it to the end. I even pulled an all nighter to finish it. I loved Gabe's and Caroline's story, it was different and unique. Very original and refreshing.
The way Gabe and Caroline loved each other was. It felt so real, and passionate. Like all couples they made mistakes. But who doesn't, they tried making up for those mistakes and put the pieces back together. Nothing about this book or relationship was boring. I wish I had their relationship ( LoL). It was hot and steamy.
But I felt like the plot was a little predictable, but I was fine with that. Overall gave the book the edge it needed. It worked.And loved it. I would recommend it to anyone.
This is my first read by Codi and loved it !!! This was very well written and got me hooked the moment I started it to the end. I even pulled an all nighter to finish it. I loved Gabe's and Caroline's story, it was different and unique. Very original and refreshing.
The way Gabe and Caroline loved each other was. It felt so real, and passionate. Like all couples they made mistakes. But who doesn't, they tried making up for those mistakes and put the pieces back together. Nothing about this book or relationship was boring. I wish I had their relationship ( LoL). It was hot and steamy.
But I felt like the plot was a little predictable, but I was fine with that. Overall gave the book the edge it needed. It worked.And loved it. I would recommend it to anyone.
August 13, 2015
Good Lord, Codi Gary just gets better and better. This book was amazing! I swear I must have highlighted the whole frikkin book. As usual I found a smile on my face as I read, interspersed with laughs, cringing, frowning, growling, maybe a little tearing up. Can I just say that I frikkin loved Gabe. The man won me over in the first scene with his sister, he really did. And it just grew from there. I loved Caroline as well. I liked her courage, her humor, her stubbornness, her determination, and what she went through broke my heart. I highly enjoyed getting to fall back in love with Chase, Travis, and even Justin (although we only saw a little of him). I so highly recommend anything written by this amazing author, and this is no exception. I can't wait for her next book. <3
January 6, 2015
When 'Bad Girl' Caroline returns to Rock Canyon following her Dad's health scare, it shouldn't be as hard to prove to the community that you're not the girl you were any longer. But apparently not. People have really long memories in Rock Canyon.
Gabe Moriarity, a 'Bad Boy' working on becoming a good guy, meets Caroline and sparks fly--not necessarily the good kind.
They both want the same apartment, since one won't give it up, they decide to share it. They also end up sharing more than just a kitchen and a bathroom.
Codi's writing just gets better with every book. She not only writes fun romances, but she can bring the drama too. This book is highlighted by the laughs, but can also make you cry.
I just want to know, who's next in Rock Canyon and when can I meet them?
Gabe Moriarity, a 'Bad Boy' working on becoming a good guy, meets Caroline and sparks fly--not necessarily the good kind.
They both want the same apartment, since one won't give it up, they decide to share it. They also end up sharing more than just a kitchen and a bathroom.
Codi's writing just gets better with every book. She not only writes fun romances, but she can bring the drama too. This book is highlighted by the laughs, but can also make you cry.
I just want to know, who's next in Rock Canyon and when can I meet them?
February 15, 2016
I have never read one of this authors books but I have to say after reading this one I am bow an official lover of this author.
This book had so many realistic characters that it really manages to draw you in. Caroline is a girl with a rocky past because she was raped and the one and only person she told didn't believe her. Now when she goes back to her hometown after 12 years she gets way more then she expected in a bad way.
Gabe has been trying to make amends for the past nine years after a fateful night that almlst resulted in his sisters death, trying to make a new life in a new town becomes a little hard because the apartment he was suppose to have was also going to Caroline.
This is one story you won't want to put down.
This book had so many realistic characters that it really manages to draw you in. Caroline is a girl with a rocky past because she was raped and the one and only person she told didn't believe her. Now when she goes back to her hometown after 12 years she gets way more then she expected in a bad way.
Gabe has been trying to make amends for the past nine years after a fateful night that almlst resulted in his sisters death, trying to make a new life in a new town becomes a little hard because the apartment he was suppose to have was also going to Caroline.
This is one story you won't want to put down.
Read
February 27, 2015T R O U B L E
Trouble is Caroline's nickname. Growing up in a very dysfunctional family, with hidden secrets, and a tainted name Caroline didn't look back when she left her home in Rock Canyon, Idaho at the age of 17.
Fast forward years and a thirty something year old Caroline Willis has returned home to Rock Canyon. She's met with hate, accusations, and family issues. Most of all she's faced with two different men that have changed and will change her life forever.
Codi Gary doesn't sugar coat this modern day love story. She shows you her art of writing a love story that isn't all hearts and flowers. Bravo Codi.
Trouble is Caroline's nickname. Growing up in a very dysfunctional family, with hidden secrets, and a tainted name Caroline didn't look back when she left her home in Rock Canyon, Idaho at the age of 17.
Fast forward years and a thirty something year old Caroline Willis has returned home to Rock Canyon. She's met with hate, accusations, and family issues. Most of all she's faced with two different men that have changed and will change her life forever.
Codi Gary doesn't sugar coat this modern day love story. She shows you her art of writing a love story that isn't all hearts and flowers. Bravo Codi.
January 7, 2015
This is the second book in this series, as well as the second book by this author, that I have read and enjoyed! Once again, the towns folk all needed to get slapped around a bit for being judgmental pricks, the main characters both were trying to make something of themselves despite some pretty messed up choices they'd made in their pasts. I takes a bit for them to admit how they feel for each other, but when they do the sparks fly! I really liked this one and I'd definitely read more from this author!
January 15, 2015
I had a little trouble with this one. Maybe it was because I didn't read the rest of the series. Caroline is a bad girl who has come home to unwelcoming arms. No one seems happy to have her back. Sure, she was a little bit of a bad girl, but that was 10 years ago. She was young and a rebel. But she was also a teenager.
Now she is back cause her dad is sick, and she is trying to prove she has changed.
Rock Canyon is also a bad boy turned good. Taking care of his sister and changing his bad boy ways.
If you like second chance at life stories, this is a good one for you.
Now she is back cause her dad is sick, and she is trying to prove she has changed.
Rock Canyon is also a bad boy turned good. Taking care of his sister and changing his bad boy ways.
If you like second chance at life stories, this is a good one for you.
February 15, 2015
Return of the Bad Girl was a great read! Caroline and Gabe are two people trying to get their life together, after past mistakes. I really enjoyed the storyline and the characters were honest and realistic. Gabe and Caroline definitely sizzle up the pages. Codi Gary does a fantastic job with her Rock Canyon small town romances. I seriously wouldn't mind moving there. The first thing I'd probably do is hang out with Caroline, cause that girl is awesome. Return of the Bad Girl is a must read!
January 5, 2015
I know most wouldn't call a story with this kind of darkness beautiful but for me it was exactly that. To see Caroline come into her own despite obstacles of the past is inspiring. Then add Gabe with his troubling past and trying to move forward. You combine the two and you get true beauty along with steamy hotness!
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