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Three of a Kind #1
When the Chips are Down
Melanie Hanson's life didn't go quite the way she had planned. Her cheating ex-husband traded her in for a newer model and she’s in over her head dealing with the drama that comes along with raising her twin teenage daughters.
The last thing she is looking for or needs in her life is a man - or is it?
Ben Wilder is the boy that Melanie loved to hate throughout high school, the boy that all the girls loved and the boy that didn't give Melanie the time of day, unless it was to tease her. When she runs into him once again she realizes...he’s not a boy anymore. Older and wiser, she’s determined not to fall for her secret crush from all those years ago. But sometimes our heart has different plans than our head. Will she finally get her happily ever after with the man she least expected to have it with?
Take a humorous journey with Melanie and her daughters as their lives begin to parallel and they discover that although they may be separated by a generation their struggles are still the same.
*Book 1 of The Three Of A Kind Series
Expected Publication: 2015
The last thing she is looking for or needs in her life is a man - or is it?
Ben Wilder is the boy that Melanie loved to hate throughout high school, the boy that all the girls loved and the boy that didn't give Melanie the time of day, unless it was to tease her. When she runs into him once again she realizes...he’s not a boy anymore. Older and wiser, she’s determined not to fall for her secret crush from all those years ago. But sometimes our heart has different plans than our head. Will she finally get her happily ever after with the man she least expected to have it with?
Take a humorous journey with Melanie and her daughters as their lives begin to parallel and they discover that although they may be separated by a generation their struggles are still the same.
*Book 1 of The Three Of A Kind Series
Expected Publication: 2015
Paperback
First published March 14, 2015
44 people are currently reading
594 people want to read
About the author
Beth Rinyu
23 books578 followersEver since I can remember, I've always had a passion for Creative Writing. There's something special about being able to travel to a different place or become a different person with just the stroke of a pen--or in today's world a touch of the keyboard. Maybe it all started with the soap opera-level drama I used to script for my Barbie dolls. Plot twists, emotional arcs, surprise twins—it was basically a writer’s room before I even knew what one was. Whatever the spark, storytelling quickly became my favorite way to explore, create, and shake up reality just a little. I love stories that keep me on my toes. The kind that push me outside my comfort zone and introduce me to characters I either want to be friends with... or dramatically argue with in a fictional diner.
I love traveling to scout out new and exciting settings for my books—but nothing beats a peaceful walk in the woods or a seat by the ocean close to home. Turns out, plot twists and inspiration show up just fine with a sea breeze and squirrels.
I love traveling to scout out new and exciting settings for my books—but nothing beats a peaceful walk in the woods or a seat by the ocean close to home. Turns out, plot twists and inspiration show up just fine with a sea breeze and squirrels.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 58 reviews
March 1, 2015
Book – When the Chips are Down (Three of a Kind #1)
Author – Beth Rinyu
Publication Date – March 20, 2015
Genre – Humor/Romance
Type – Companion Series
Cliffhanger – No
Rating – 5 out of 5 Stars
Complimentary Copy generously provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.
My Thoughts - Story
I first have to compliment Ms. Rinyu of her talent with weaving 3 different POV’s which all center around one main story. The book was fast paced with each story constantly keeping you on your toes and the humor was so true to life that I felt like I was raising my teens all over again! You will connect with these characters and want to know more by the time you get to the last page. This was such an enjoyable book and I can’t wait until the next book in this series is released.
I loved how Ms. Rinyu took some pretty heavy teenage angst and without fights or violence – progressed the story to better things using responsible, mature ways to handle it along with a bit of humor.
The one word I would use to describe this book is Phenomonal!
Re-Cap
Melanie is a single mom of 2 teenage daughters – recently divorced. She is your average mom who would like to remain single for the rest of her life. In walks Ben – Ben was an old high school crush who would tease her and now he is working on her plumbing.
Sparks fly and they both agree that being friends with benefits is the best thing for them…and to keep their special relationship under wraps (especially from her girls). While this is happening…Carrie (her brainy twin daughter) is getting close to Josh (the football player) who is the son of Ben. OH BOY! And Gia (the rebel twin) is being bullied in school and becomes more introverted and friends with the brainy boy in school.
Ben doesn’t want a relationship…Melanie starts to want one – they keep sneaking around and you can just imagine what happens when the shit hits the fan and everyone is exposed!
Reason for Reading – Author Request
Story – 5 out of 5 Stars
Steam – 5 out of 5 Stars
Angst – 5 out of 5 Stars
Writing – 5 out of 5 Stars
Content Flow – 5 out of 5 Stars
Told In – Triple POV
POV 1 – Melanie – Awesome – true to life mom!
POV 2 – Gia – the rebel twin who does a complete turnaround (frustrating at first)
POV 3 – Carrie – the “good” daughter who starts to break out of her shell
HEA (Spoiler) –
Recommend To – Readers who love to laugh while reading and can relate to being a mom to teenage girls
Author – Beth Rinyu
Publication Date – March 20, 2015
Genre – Humor/Romance
Type – Companion Series
Cliffhanger – No
Rating – 5 out of 5 Stars
Complimentary Copy generously provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.
My Thoughts - Story
I first have to compliment Ms. Rinyu of her talent with weaving 3 different POV’s which all center around one main story. The book was fast paced with each story constantly keeping you on your toes and the humor was so true to life that I felt like I was raising my teens all over again! You will connect with these characters and want to know more by the time you get to the last page. This was such an enjoyable book and I can’t wait until the next book in this series is released.
I loved how Ms. Rinyu took some pretty heavy teenage angst and without fights or violence – progressed the story to better things using responsible, mature ways to handle it along with a bit of humor.
The one word I would use to describe this book is Phenomonal!
Re-Cap
Melanie is a single mom of 2 teenage daughters – recently divorced. She is your average mom who would like to remain single for the rest of her life. In walks Ben – Ben was an old high school crush who would tease her and now he is working on her plumbing.
Sparks fly and they both agree that being friends with benefits is the best thing for them…and to keep their special relationship under wraps (especially from her girls). While this is happening…Carrie (her brainy twin daughter) is getting close to Josh (the football player) who is the son of Ben. OH BOY! And Gia (the rebel twin) is being bullied in school and becomes more introverted and friends with the brainy boy in school.
Ben doesn’t want a relationship…Melanie starts to want one – they keep sneaking around and you can just imagine what happens when the shit hits the fan and everyone is exposed!
Reason for Reading – Author Request
Story – 5 out of 5 Stars
Steam – 5 out of 5 Stars
Angst – 5 out of 5 Stars
Writing – 5 out of 5 Stars
Content Flow – 5 out of 5 Stars
Told In – Triple POV
POV 1 – Melanie – Awesome – true to life mom!
POV 2 – Gia – the rebel twin who does a complete turnaround (frustrating at first)
POV 3 – Carrie – the “good” daughter who starts to break out of her shell
HEA (Spoiler) –
Recommend To – Readers who love to laugh while reading and can relate to being a mom to teenage girls
March 17, 2015
Writing this book was so much fun for me, and I was truly sad to see it end. I hope you fall in love with these characters I’ve created in this one the same way I have. Each and every one is so very special to me. While I was writing it, I actually found myself wishing they really existed so I could hang out with them (That’s my crazy author imagination for ya!). It’s a story that’s really true to life about the hardest job in the entire world – raising teenagers. Dealing with an ex and their new spouse. An unbreakable friendship with that one “crazy friend” we all should be so lucky to have. Moving on from the past, and of course falling in love once again. I cannot wait for all of you to meet Melanie, Ben, Carrie, Gia, Jason, and Jodi. Oh and there’s a few others that really add to the story as well….you’ll see who I’m talking about once you read it. I promise you a hilarious and heartwarming read with characters that I know you will never forget.
Now available!
Now available!
September 7, 2015
This book was a breath of fresh air. Corny saying, I know, but it’s true. I read this book without having a synopsis. Why? Because when Beth Rinyu asks me to read her book, I drop whatever I’m doing and read her book!!!
That being said, I was unaware this story was told in the pov of 3 women. Pleasantly surprised, this turned out to be the story of a woman and her twin teenage daughters and the intertwining web they weave as a family.
Melanie, Gia and Carrie, each struggle with everyday problems: love, friendship, sex, life after divorce, secrets, fears, broken hearts and so much more.
Their journey is sweet, endearing, emotional, and laugh out loud funny.
Melanie is struggling to live life for herself after being cheated on and left for a younger woman. She’s a busy working mother who doesn't find time to be what she is first and foremost…. a woman. A single, beautiful, intelligent woman. With a little push from her unorthodox BFF, she takes a chance on some much needed fun.
Cue a couple of hot men, a bubble bath and a glass of wine.... wait a minute, it's not that kind of story! Or is it??!! There's definitely some hot going on and his name is Ben Wilder!
Carrie is the smart one. She doesn’t have time for boys or games. She loves her family and has a good head on her shoulders. Mamma’s girl.
Gia is the outgoing one. She spunky and rebellious. Dancing is her favorite thing in the world. Daddy’s girl.
This is essentially three stories in one. You never know what’ll happen next with these three.
Some of their struggles are tough and real. Beth tackles real everyday problems teenagers and parents face, always with a positive message and leaving you with a smile on your face.
Although this installment involves all three women, When the Chips are Down begins and ends with Melanie. I'm excited to continue on with the next two books and read what the future has in store for Carrie and Gia.
That being said, I was unaware this story was told in the pov of 3 women. Pleasantly surprised, this turned out to be the story of a woman and her twin teenage daughters and the intertwining web they weave as a family.
Melanie, Gia and Carrie, each struggle with everyday problems: love, friendship, sex, life after divorce, secrets, fears, broken hearts and so much more.
Their journey is sweet, endearing, emotional, and laugh out loud funny.
Melanie is struggling to live life for herself after being cheated on and left for a younger woman. She’s a busy working mother who doesn't find time to be what she is first and foremost…. a woman. A single, beautiful, intelligent woman. With a little push from her unorthodox BFF, she takes a chance on some much needed fun.
Cue a couple of hot men, a bubble bath and a glass of wine.... wait a minute, it's not that kind of story! Or is it??!! There's definitely some hot going on and his name is Ben Wilder!
Carrie is the smart one. She doesn’t have time for boys or games. She loves her family and has a good head on her shoulders. Mamma’s girl.
Gia is the outgoing one. She spunky and rebellious. Dancing is her favorite thing in the world. Daddy’s girl.
This is essentially three stories in one. You never know what’ll happen next with these three.
Some of their struggles are tough and real. Beth tackles real everyday problems teenagers and parents face, always with a positive message and leaving you with a smile on your face.
Although this installment involves all three women, When the Chips are Down begins and ends with Melanie. I'm excited to continue on with the next two books and read what the future has in store for Carrie and Gia.
May 7, 2015
4.5 Star Review by Jen Skewes
What can I say other than I Loved this book! It is no secret that I am a huge fan of Beth Rinyu. I have read and loved every single one of her books. And one of her male characters is on my top book boyfriend list of all time. She never seems to disappoint with the the amazing story lines that she creates that always feel so real and genuine. She manages to create characters that you can relate to and fall in love with. When the Chips Are Down is no different. What I loved about this book is that it is different. This is the story of Melanie, a recently divorced mother and Gia and Cassie her two teenage twin daughters. While this is mostly Melanie’s love story what I loved is getting to see this story from all three point of views and that's where I think this story was unique in it's own way. We get to see the relationships and friendships that they all form and the real life struggles that they all face. It was fun, sweet and completely refreshing.
Melanie is a recently divorced woman who is trying to move on from her cheating ex husband. The man that she has been with since she was 20 betrayed her. It’s been a year since the divorce and it is time for her to get on with her life. She runs her own bridal shop, has two amazing twin daughters a best friend that is always there for her. Being with the same man for so long she’s not really sure she is ready to get back into the dating world. But seeing Ben Wilder again changes that. Ben Wilder was the boy she had a crush on in high school but he was also the boy who would call her names during class and wasn’t very nice to her. But that was years ago and seeing him for the first time in a long time she has to admit, that Ben Wilder definitely aged well. He’s still just as gorgeous as she remembered him to be. But he has also changed and is no longer that mean teenage boy she remembers.
Melanie and Ben have chemistry and there is certainly a spark between the two of them. Melanie feels the attraction but she is determined not to fall for him. But as they start up a casual fling neither one of them expected it to turn into more. But that actually becomes a bit of a problem because Melanie knows how she feels and knows that she is falling for Ben. But the question is – Does Ben feel the same way? Is he holding something back? As hard as she may fight her feelings Melanie deserves a second chance at happiness after her ex completely shattered her world and their marriage. Will she get it?
Melanie is trying to run her own business, be there for her two girls, deal with her ex and learning how to now co parent and at the same time is trying to find happiness again. I loved her and Ben together. I loved the flirty banter back and forth and the situations that Melanie managed to get herself into just made me laugh. Ben was sexy and I loved him but at times wanted to just yell at him to pay attention and wake up. And let’s not forget about her best friend Jodi. Every girl should have a best friend like her. She is always there for her in every way and she was just a blast. I wanted to be a part of their lives. Heck I want to be their friends and hang out with them. That’s how much I loved these characters. You can just relate to them on so many levels.
There are so many things that I loved about this book, one being that the story is told from three point of views, Melanie and her two daughters. But never once did that seem confusing. It flowed nicely and I loved going through life's experiences with all of them. It wasn’t just Melanie that was dealing with the divorce, it affected her daughters as well. They are not only coping with their parents no longer being married but also going to a new school. And honestly things are not easy for the two of them. They are teenagers and making new friends at a new school is hard. I could completely relate to being the new kid in school and not knowing anyone. And there is always that one bitch who feels the need to make your life miserable, spreading rumors so when you walk down the hallway you hear the whispers and you know they are whispering about you. All you want to do is fit it and make new friends but some people just make that impossible. And for Cassie and Gia being at a new school was not easy. But they both found new friends that stuck by them. And their experiences also brought them closer together. They may look identical but these two were complete opposites. Reading their story made me feel like I was in high school all over again. The crushes, the butterflies in your stomach when you see or talk to a cute boy, and of course the mean girls. But they had each other for support.
This book is about falling in love again but there is so much more to it. It is about the relationship between a mother and her daughters. It’s about dealing with the issues that people face in their everyday life but doing it together. People make mistakes and you learn from them. And we see that in this book. I loved watching these characters grow. At first Gia seemed like the typical snotty teenager and Cassie the goody goody who does no wrong. But over time they both grow so much and because of some of the issues they faced in school they became closer. I loved how they stuck up for each other and loved the friendships that they made with Daniel and Jason.
This book was amazing and one of my new favorites from Ms. Rinyu. This book just brought out so many feelings. I related to this book in so many ways and not just with Melanie but with her daughters as well. We have all been through some of the things these girls have been through and for me personally, being able to relate to the characters and connect with them in the way that I did, just makes the reading experience that much more incredible. I had a book hangover for days after I finished reading it. This book is a must read. Another amazing job!!!
I loved Melanie and Ben but I cannot wait for Cassie and Gina's books. I am impatiently waiting Beth!!!
What can I say other than I Loved this book! It is no secret that I am a huge fan of Beth Rinyu. I have read and loved every single one of her books. And one of her male characters is on my top book boyfriend list of all time. She never seems to disappoint with the the amazing story lines that she creates that always feel so real and genuine. She manages to create characters that you can relate to and fall in love with. When the Chips Are Down is no different. What I loved about this book is that it is different. This is the story of Melanie, a recently divorced mother and Gia and Cassie her two teenage twin daughters. While this is mostly Melanie’s love story what I loved is getting to see this story from all three point of views and that's where I think this story was unique in it's own way. We get to see the relationships and friendships that they all form and the real life struggles that they all face. It was fun, sweet and completely refreshing.
Melanie is a recently divorced woman who is trying to move on from her cheating ex husband. The man that she has been with since she was 20 betrayed her. It’s been a year since the divorce and it is time for her to get on with her life. She runs her own bridal shop, has two amazing twin daughters a best friend that is always there for her. Being with the same man for so long she’s not really sure she is ready to get back into the dating world. But seeing Ben Wilder again changes that. Ben Wilder was the boy she had a crush on in high school but he was also the boy who would call her names during class and wasn’t very nice to her. But that was years ago and seeing him for the first time in a long time she has to admit, that Ben Wilder definitely aged well. He’s still just as gorgeous as she remembered him to be. But he has also changed and is no longer that mean teenage boy she remembers.
Melanie and Ben have chemistry and there is certainly a spark between the two of them. Melanie feels the attraction but she is determined not to fall for him. But as they start up a casual fling neither one of them expected it to turn into more. But that actually becomes a bit of a problem because Melanie knows how she feels and knows that she is falling for Ben. But the question is – Does Ben feel the same way? Is he holding something back? As hard as she may fight her feelings Melanie deserves a second chance at happiness after her ex completely shattered her world and their marriage. Will she get it?
Melanie is trying to run her own business, be there for her two girls, deal with her ex and learning how to now co parent and at the same time is trying to find happiness again. I loved her and Ben together. I loved the flirty banter back and forth and the situations that Melanie managed to get herself into just made me laugh. Ben was sexy and I loved him but at times wanted to just yell at him to pay attention and wake up. And let’s not forget about her best friend Jodi. Every girl should have a best friend like her. She is always there for her in every way and she was just a blast. I wanted to be a part of their lives. Heck I want to be their friends and hang out with them. That’s how much I loved these characters. You can just relate to them on so many levels.
There are so many things that I loved about this book, one being that the story is told from three point of views, Melanie and her two daughters. But never once did that seem confusing. It flowed nicely and I loved going through life's experiences with all of them. It wasn’t just Melanie that was dealing with the divorce, it affected her daughters as well. They are not only coping with their parents no longer being married but also going to a new school. And honestly things are not easy for the two of them. They are teenagers and making new friends at a new school is hard. I could completely relate to being the new kid in school and not knowing anyone. And there is always that one bitch who feels the need to make your life miserable, spreading rumors so when you walk down the hallway you hear the whispers and you know they are whispering about you. All you want to do is fit it and make new friends but some people just make that impossible. And for Cassie and Gia being at a new school was not easy. But they both found new friends that stuck by them. And their experiences also brought them closer together. They may look identical but these two were complete opposites. Reading their story made me feel like I was in high school all over again. The crushes, the butterflies in your stomach when you see or talk to a cute boy, and of course the mean girls. But they had each other for support.
This book is about falling in love again but there is so much more to it. It is about the relationship between a mother and her daughters. It’s about dealing with the issues that people face in their everyday life but doing it together. People make mistakes and you learn from them. And we see that in this book. I loved watching these characters grow. At first Gia seemed like the typical snotty teenager and Cassie the goody goody who does no wrong. But over time they both grow so much and because of some of the issues they faced in school they became closer. I loved how they stuck up for each other and loved the friendships that they made with Daniel and Jason.
This book was amazing and one of my new favorites from Ms. Rinyu. This book just brought out so many feelings. I related to this book in so many ways and not just with Melanie but with her daughters as well. We have all been through some of the things these girls have been through and for me personally, being able to relate to the characters and connect with them in the way that I did, just makes the reading experience that much more incredible. I had a book hangover for days after I finished reading it. This book is a must read. Another amazing job!!!
I loved Melanie and Ben but I cannot wait for Cassie and Gina's books. I am impatiently waiting Beth!!!
May 25, 2015
One of my top five authors is Beth Rinyu. Anytime I pick up one of her books, I know I am in for a treat with a beautifully written adult romance novel. I couldn't wait to start When the Chips are Down and find new characters to fall in love with.
When the Chips are Down is written in a very unique way. The story is written in three different points of view of three woman going through different stages of love. The main character Melanie is a new divorced 30 late something who is moving on from her ex husband with a man from her past. Her storyline is written in more of adult viewpoint. The other two POVs are from Melanie's twin teenage daughter's Gia & Carrie who are complete opposites in every way. Their stories added a bit of humor and freshness to the book. It was so unique to read a book that would alternate between adult to more of a young adult read with Gia & Carrie's storylines bringing me back to my high school days. I was not expecting the different POVs going into the book.
It was interesting to read of a mother & her daughter's love life entwining together. I would have liked a little more of Melanie & Ben's storyline to be told but I never felt like I was missing out either. I did find myself wanting to skim some of the chapters written in Gia & Carrie's pov. They were cute but I am more of an adult romance kind of reader.
Thought When the Chips are Down is a little predictable it is a cute, fun read. I was laughing at some of the scenes and the interactions between Melanie and her daughter's reminded me a little of my mom and I (I owe her an apology!). I think anyone who was or has a teenage daughter will relate to characters.
I give When the Chips are Down (Three of a Kind #1), by Beth Rinyu 3.5 Stars.
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When the Chips are Down is written in a very unique way. The story is written in three different points of view of three woman going through different stages of love. The main character Melanie is a new divorced 30 late something who is moving on from her ex husband with a man from her past. Her storyline is written in more of adult viewpoint. The other two POVs are from Melanie's twin teenage daughter's Gia & Carrie who are complete opposites in every way. Their stories added a bit of humor and freshness to the book. It was so unique to read a book that would alternate between adult to more of a young adult read with Gia & Carrie's storylines bringing me back to my high school days. I was not expecting the different POVs going into the book.
It was interesting to read of a mother & her daughter's love life entwining together. I would have liked a little more of Melanie & Ben's storyline to be told but I never felt like I was missing out either. I did find myself wanting to skim some of the chapters written in Gia & Carrie's pov. They were cute but I am more of an adult romance kind of reader.
Thought When the Chips are Down is a little predictable it is a cute, fun read. I was laughing at some of the scenes and the interactions between Melanie and her daughter's reminded me a little of my mom and I (I owe her an apology!). I think anyone who was or has a teenage daughter will relate to characters.
I give When the Chips are Down (Three of a Kind #1), by Beth Rinyu 3.5 Stars.
Stay connected with my reviews, book news and more:
Blog- Jessica’s Book Review | Facebook | Twitter
March 14, 2015
When The Chips Are Down was such a fun read! From the prologue alone I loved it!!! I Instantly related to these characters, seeing myself and a few friends in them. Why can't these people be real? I would so be hanging out with them. Beth did an amazing job giving us three POV's. Melanie is a single Mom of two teenage daughters, Gia and Carrie. Each character brought an exceptional dynamic to the story. Surviving a cheating husband and raising twin teenage girls, Melanie is putting the pieces of her life back together. With the support of her crazy BFF Jodi, who I totally loved, she manages it all. Melanie is missing one piece to her life, a man. In walks hot and sexy Ben. I loved how their relationship flowed and what they came to mean to each other. There were a few bumps along the way, and we got to also see the trials and tribulations of being a teenager through the girls POV's. This was such a light and fun read, and I loved every second of it. If you literally want to laugh out loud, I highly recommend this book. Congratulations Beth on another 5 star read!
January 4, 2016
3.5 star rating
Drama, drama, drama! This book is full of it. Family, friends, and lovers. They're all hiding something. And, everything comes with a price. If you're in the mood for heartbreak, young love, and old crushes, this is the book for you...
Full review to be written soon...
Drama, drama, drama! This book is full of it. Family, friends, and lovers. They're all hiding something. And, everything comes with a price. If you're in the mood for heartbreak, young love, and old crushes, this is the book for you...
Full review to be written soon...
February 27, 2015
4.5 STARS <3
This brilliant read is told in triple point of view between single mum Melanie Hanson and her twin daughters, Gia and Carrie and it works so well.
Melanie is picking herself up, blowing away the cobwebs and moving on after divorcing her cheating husband. She is a great mum, strong, fun and someone you would love as a friend yourself. She is very relatable and that helped to lose myself in the story. I really laughed out loud at some of the situations she finds herself in, she cracks me up!
Gia and Carrie love their mum deeply but being typical teens and having a fractured family gives them the opportunity to play off their parents against each other, unwittingly or otherwise. Gia is the fun loving twin, oh my goodness, the antics she gets up to! Carrie is the more sensible brainbox with a level head and high morals. I love the family dynamics and how much they love, respect and care for each other.
All three characters find themselves dealing with relationships of some kind, not all necessarily romantic ones. Melanie finds herself back in touch with her high school hottie and ex lothario Ben Wilder and I have to say, I completely fell for him! There was so much back and forth between the two of them and I wanted to smack Ben on the back of his head and say ‘wake up!’ Teehe! The tender moments between Ben and Melanie gave me butterflies, there were times that they were just so perfect and him swoony and hot! I absolutely loved their chemistry and passion.
It was wonderful to watch Gia and Carrie form deep friendships with people so different from them with geeky and cute Daniel and school hottie and jock, Jason. Jason was so caring, sweet, considerate and hugely good looking. He almost seemed too good to be true!
What with awesome best friends, annoying exes and spiteful bitches included in the mix, this book really did have everything. You will laugh, swoon, fan yourself and cringe in embarrassment. You will find yourself on the edge of your seat and at other times sighing with contentment. This is a great read and all is concluded within the book so can be read as standalone, that said, I can’t wait for book two; I have a feeling it’s going to be a fantastic addition to the series.
An ARC was kindly provided by the Author for an honest review.
Review posted at Love Between the Sheets
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This brilliant read is told in triple point of view between single mum Melanie Hanson and her twin daughters, Gia and Carrie and it works so well.
Melanie is picking herself up, blowing away the cobwebs and moving on after divorcing her cheating husband. She is a great mum, strong, fun and someone you would love as a friend yourself. She is very relatable and that helped to lose myself in the story. I really laughed out loud at some of the situations she finds herself in, she cracks me up!
Gia and Carrie love their mum deeply but being typical teens and having a fractured family gives them the opportunity to play off their parents against each other, unwittingly or otherwise. Gia is the fun loving twin, oh my goodness, the antics she gets up to! Carrie is the more sensible brainbox with a level head and high morals. I love the family dynamics and how much they love, respect and care for each other.
All three characters find themselves dealing with relationships of some kind, not all necessarily romantic ones. Melanie finds herself back in touch with her high school hottie and ex lothario Ben Wilder and I have to say, I completely fell for him! There was so much back and forth between the two of them and I wanted to smack Ben on the back of his head and say ‘wake up!’ Teehe! The tender moments between Ben and Melanie gave me butterflies, there were times that they were just so perfect and him swoony and hot! I absolutely loved their chemistry and passion.
It was wonderful to watch Gia and Carrie form deep friendships with people so different from them with geeky and cute Daniel and school hottie and jock, Jason. Jason was so caring, sweet, considerate and hugely good looking. He almost seemed too good to be true!
What with awesome best friends, annoying exes and spiteful bitches included in the mix, this book really did have everything. You will laugh, swoon, fan yourself and cringe in embarrassment. You will find yourself on the edge of your seat and at other times sighing with contentment. This is a great read and all is concluded within the book so can be read as standalone, that said, I can’t wait for book two; I have a feeling it’s going to be a fantastic addition to the series.
An ARC was kindly provided by the Author for an honest review.
Review posted at Love Between the Sheets
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November 30, 2015
Have you ever wondered what happened to your high school crush? What would you do if you bumped into him again after 20 years? Would he be the same cheeky, smart alec boy, or had he matured?
Melanie Hanson has had a big year. Her marriage of 18 or so years has ended. She has moved her twin girls back to be close to her home town. She is now part owner of a bridal shop with her mother. One thing that has been a constant - her bestie Jodi.
Jodi convinces Mel to take a trip to Mexico and to start to live her life again. And you know the old saying, What happens in Mexico, Stays in Mexico - Or does it?!!!
This story is about a woman in her late 30's having to find her feet after her marriage ends, and hopefully finding love again, even if it is with the boy she loved to hate in high school.
I picked this book up on a lazy Sunday and decided it was so much more better than doing my ironing. I was hooked from the start. I loved that we got a varied narrative with the different POV's. I also enjoyed the characters and the banter they had together. This book had me giggling, smiling and it also brought a tear or two to my eyes. So all in all - it was a fabulous read and I recommend it highly.
I received a copy for an honest review.
Reviewed for JoandIsaLoveBooksBlog.
Melanie Hanson has had a big year. Her marriage of 18 or so years has ended. She has moved her twin girls back to be close to her home town. She is now part owner of a bridal shop with her mother. One thing that has been a constant - her bestie Jodi.
Jodi convinces Mel to take a trip to Mexico and to start to live her life again. And you know the old saying, What happens in Mexico, Stays in Mexico - Or does it?!!!
This story is about a woman in her late 30's having to find her feet after her marriage ends, and hopefully finding love again, even if it is with the boy she loved to hate in high school.
I picked this book up on a lazy Sunday and decided it was so much more better than doing my ironing. I was hooked from the start. I loved that we got a varied narrative with the different POV's. I also enjoyed the characters and the banter they had together. This book had me giggling, smiling and it also brought a tear or two to my eyes. So all in all - it was a fabulous read and I recommend it highly.
I received a copy for an honest review.
Reviewed for JoandIsaLoveBooksBlog.
March 14, 2015
A sweet story of a mother and her teenage twin girls. Melanie has to learn to live life as a single mother when her husband Alec AKA Douchbag as I like to call him..lol left her for his much younger girlfriend. The girls have issues of their own.
I love that you not only get Melanie POV, but you will also get Gia and Carrie POV throughout the entire story. And no story would be complete without a crazy best friend and some HOT guys.
See what happens when Ben the boys Mel went to school with comes back into her life. And how this will affect her daughters. But Mel isn't the only one dealing with boy drama. Gia and Carrie are teenager so of course high school would not be the same without a little drama.
I thought I knew who my favorite characters were but with every chapter it changed. And the best thing is the story doesn't end here. We will get to know Gia and Carrie a little better as they grow up in their own stories that will be released at a later date. I can't wait to read them.
I love that you not only get Melanie POV, but you will also get Gia and Carrie POV throughout the entire story. And no story would be complete without a crazy best friend and some HOT guys.
See what happens when Ben the boys Mel went to school with comes back into her life. And how this will affect her daughters. But Mel isn't the only one dealing with boy drama. Gia and Carrie are teenager so of course high school would not be the same without a little drama.
I thought I knew who my favorite characters were but with every chapter it changed. And the best thing is the story doesn't end here. We will get to know Gia and Carrie a little better as they grow up in their own stories that will be released at a later date. I can't wait to read them.
October 22, 2015
Such a great book! You can always count on Beth Rinyu for these kinds of light and dreamy romances.
I won't rehash the plot, but I loved this book. There was no unnecessary or immature conflict, everyone acted their age, and there were three (or four!) romances going on at once. In other circumstances, this might have been confusing, but it was written in three different POVs, and it flowed very smoothly.
This is one of those books where you get halfway through and you start slowing down because you don't want it to end. It's also one where you wish you could unread it in order to read it again for the first time. There was genuine conflict, young love, new love, and rekindled love. This wasn't my first read of Rinyu's, and it certainly won't be my last. It's just what everyone needs for a vacation read, a cure for a book hangover, or just something to make you smile.
I won't rehash the plot, but I loved this book. There was no unnecessary or immature conflict, everyone acted their age, and there were three (or four!) romances going on at once. In other circumstances, this might have been confusing, but it was written in three different POVs, and it flowed very smoothly.
This is one of those books where you get halfway through and you start slowing down because you don't want it to end. It's also one where you wish you could unread it in order to read it again for the first time. There was genuine conflict, young love, new love, and rekindled love. This wasn't my first read of Rinyu's, and it certainly won't be my last. It's just what everyone needs for a vacation read, a cure for a book hangover, or just something to make you smile.
February 27, 2015
*I was given an ARC for an honest review.
When The Chips Are Down Is an absolutely amazing book!!
It was such a refreshing and fun read! Beth wrote a wonderful book of family and love. The three POVs were perfect and I really enjoyed reading it from all direction.
There are such wonderful characters in this book...
Melanie is an amazing woman; strong and sassy. I want Jodi as my best friend!! Ben, oh Ben! I'm in love.
The book flowed easily. I loved the banter between Mel and Ben. I laughed and smiled so much and there may have been (slight) tears.
This is definitely a top read for me. Once I started this book, I did not want to put it down and I'm sad it's come to an end.This book had everything and I can't recommend it enough! I can't wait to see what happens the next book with her daughters.
*Saucy Books
When The Chips Are Down Is an absolutely amazing book!!
It was such a refreshing and fun read! Beth wrote a wonderful book of family and love. The three POVs were perfect and I really enjoyed reading it from all direction.
There are such wonderful characters in this book...
Melanie is an amazing woman; strong and sassy. I want Jodi as my best friend!! Ben, oh Ben! I'm in love.
The book flowed easily. I loved the banter between Mel and Ben. I laughed and smiled so much and there may have been (slight) tears.
This is definitely a top read for me. Once I started this book, I did not want to put it down and I'm sad it's come to an end.This book had everything and I can't recommend it enough! I can't wait to see what happens the next book with her daughters.
*Saucy Books
March 23, 2015
When The Chips Are Down by Beth Rinyu
I really loved this latest book by Beth Rinyu! I thought it highly entertaining and found myself smiling throughout most of the book. Having said that, the book did touch on some very serious issues thus resulting in some heartbreaking moments. It really was perfectly balanced. The book was written in multiple points of view which I thought was perfect for this story! The personalities were just so great and I truly loved getting to know them - Ben, Melanie, Carrie, Gia and let's not forget Jodi! - were so damn likeable and easy to relate to that I honestly felt like I could just call them up for a quick chat! I loved this book and can't wait to read Gia & Carrie's books! I do not hesitate to recommend this fabulous read and give it 5 stars!
I really loved this latest book by Beth Rinyu! I thought it highly entertaining and found myself smiling throughout most of the book. Having said that, the book did touch on some very serious issues thus resulting in some heartbreaking moments. It really was perfectly balanced. The book was written in multiple points of view which I thought was perfect for this story! The personalities were just so great and I truly loved getting to know them - Ben, Melanie, Carrie, Gia and let's not forget Jodi! - were so damn likeable and easy to relate to that I honestly felt like I could just call them up for a quick chat! I loved this book and can't wait to read Gia & Carrie's books! I do not hesitate to recommend this fabulous read and give it 5 stars!
March 12, 2015
I absolutely loved this book .I developed a love/ hate relationship with some of the characters . I felt like I knew each and every one of them personally .. I can't wait to read the next book . Great job on this book as always :) I am pretty sure this series is going to be my favorite so far .
January 5, 2017
5 stars
Oh I loved this book, these characters were beautiful and so entertaining, nothing better than the happy ending you are hoping for. Look forward to the rest of these books.
Oh I loved this book, these characters were beautiful and so entertaining, nothing better than the happy ending you are hoping for. Look forward to the rest of these books.
October 19, 2018
Good book
Wasn't sure if I liked all the different POVs in the book but it makes sense to me now. I'll be reading the rest of the series.
Wasn't sure if I liked all the different POVs in the book but it makes sense to me now. I'll be reading the rest of the series.
March 6, 2015
4/4.5 stars
This book centers around a thirty-seven year old divorcee Melanie Hanson and her two seventeen year old daughters, Gia and Carrie and it is told in all three of their points of view.
Melanie has always been the good girl, dutiful wife, and mother. Now she is the wronged wife and is raising her twin teenage daughters on her own. She is sassy, sarcastic, and a bit of a mess. Her non existent sex life gradually starts to liven up with encouragement from her crazy best friend, Jodi. When Melanie is suddenly reunited with her old high school crush/nemesis, Ben Wilder, sparks fly. They still have an antagonistic dynamic, but also a push and pull and mutual attraction.
Gia is her wild child daughter. She is doing her best to drive her mom crazy with boys, bad grades, and even worse behavior. She is the typical know-it-all kid. But her choices end up having long lasting repercussions on her social life. And as she deals with new situations, she has to figure out who she can count on and what is really important.
Carrie is the sweet, smart, good girl. She has a crush on her hot teacher, but also just started helping a popular HS jock, Jason. Her social world dynamic begins to change* through their association.
Ben Wilder is hot, sexy, sarcastic, alpha, and a complete commitment phobe. He and Melanie start out at odds, but soon channel that passion into the bedroom. But they are also compatible, enjoy each other's company, and understand the obligations they each have. But Ben is scarred by his past and has such fears and insecurities that he constantly distances himself emotionally. And Melanie is not a woman used to just fooling around without any hope of a future. And she is not used to having to deal with dating under her daughters' watchful eyes. I really liked them together, but Ben made me want to smack him with my kindle at times. He is so stubborn and so anti-relationship.
I enjoyed seeing how all of their lives changed and in ways they stepped out of their comfort zones, while in other ways they retreated back to safety of people they could really trust. There were relationships formed and tested. It was both about a mature romance with obstacles and histories that affected their choices. And also the trials and tribulations of high school, friendship, young love, bullying, and parental/child relationships. I liked how their stories intertwined and the three points of views kept the story moving. The side characters not only added humor, but also more depth and drama. I loved her fun, quirky, outspoken best friend Jodi and her son, Cam. I adored his sweet, protective son, Jason. And Gia's friend, Daniel was cute too. There were also definitely some antagonists that were easy to dislike and stirred up lots of issues.
It is told in Melanie, Gia, and Carrie's points of view which I found to be unique. I am so used to female/male dual point of view. I was not sure about it at first, but the way their three stories were woven together, it really did work. It truly was about each of the woman's lives and how they paralleled each other. And not having Ben's point of view helped make him more of an enigma with his closed off demeanor and fear of voicing his feelings. So we were at a loss to figure him out at times, just like Melanie was.
It was an engaging story of life, lust, love, and growing up(no matter what your true age). This was not super angsty, but there were various dramas, jealousy, secrets, omissions, and some complete lies. It was refreshing because it was more of a slice of real life with some complications, drama, and humor thrown in. The characters, their relationships, and their struggles were realistic. And just like real life, it is messy, chaotic, and ever changing. But if you can stick together with your family and friends, and learn to trust people that are worthy then sharing that crazy life is just more meaningful. I am looking forward to Carrie 's bookTwo of Hearts and Gia's book Wild Card.
I was gifted a copy in exchange for an honest review.
This book centers around a thirty-seven year old divorcee Melanie Hanson and her two seventeen year old daughters, Gia and Carrie and it is told in all three of their points of view.
Melanie has always been the good girl, dutiful wife, and mother. Now she is the wronged wife and is raising her twin teenage daughters on her own. She is sassy, sarcastic, and a bit of a mess. Her non existent sex life gradually starts to liven up with encouragement from her crazy best friend, Jodi. When Melanie is suddenly reunited with her old high school crush/nemesis, Ben Wilder, sparks fly. They still have an antagonistic dynamic, but also a push and pull and mutual attraction.
Gia is her wild child daughter. She is doing her best to drive her mom crazy with boys, bad grades, and even worse behavior. She is the typical know-it-all kid. But her choices end up having long lasting repercussions on her social life. And as she deals with new situations, she has to figure out who she can count on and what is really important.
Carrie is the sweet, smart, good girl. She has a crush on her hot teacher, but also just started helping a popular HS jock, Jason. Her social world dynamic begins to change* through their association.
Ben Wilder is hot, sexy, sarcastic, alpha, and a complete commitment phobe. He and Melanie start out at odds, but soon channel that passion into the bedroom. But they are also compatible, enjoy each other's company, and understand the obligations they each have. But Ben is scarred by his past and has such fears and insecurities that he constantly distances himself emotionally. And Melanie is not a woman used to just fooling around without any hope of a future. And she is not used to having to deal with dating under her daughters' watchful eyes. I really liked them together, but Ben made me want to smack him with my kindle at times. He is so stubborn and so anti-relationship.
I enjoyed seeing how all of their lives changed and in ways they stepped out of their comfort zones, while in other ways they retreated back to safety of people they could really trust. There were relationships formed and tested. It was both about a mature romance with obstacles and histories that affected their choices. And also the trials and tribulations of high school, friendship, young love, bullying, and parental/child relationships. I liked how their stories intertwined and the three points of views kept the story moving. The side characters not only added humor, but also more depth and drama. I loved her fun, quirky, outspoken best friend Jodi and her son, Cam. I adored his sweet, protective son, Jason. And Gia's friend, Daniel was cute too. There were also definitely some antagonists that were easy to dislike and stirred up lots of issues.
It is told in Melanie, Gia, and Carrie's points of view which I found to be unique. I am so used to female/male dual point of view. I was not sure about it at first, but the way their three stories were woven together, it really did work. It truly was about each of the woman's lives and how they paralleled each other. And not having Ben's point of view helped make him more of an enigma with his closed off demeanor and fear of voicing his feelings. So we were at a loss to figure him out at times, just like Melanie was.
It was an engaging story of life, lust, love, and growing up(no matter what your true age). This was not super angsty, but there were various dramas, jealousy, secrets, omissions, and some complete lies. It was refreshing because it was more of a slice of real life with some complications, drama, and humor thrown in. The characters, their relationships, and their struggles were realistic. And just like real life, it is messy, chaotic, and ever changing. But if you can stick together with your family and friends, and learn to trust people that are worthy then sharing that crazy life is just more meaningful. I am looking forward to Carrie 's bookTwo of Hearts and Gia's book Wild Card.
I was gifted a copy in exchange for an honest review.
June 11, 2015
This by far has to be one of the most enjoyable books I have read. This was so laugh out loud funny it made it effortlessly enjoyable to read. Each character has their moment at least once if not several times to take the limelight. Yet, there are some very tender moments that are so heartwarming that you realize just how truly gifted this writer is.
The story line mainly revolves around Melanie Hanson, 37 and her two twin daughters Gia and Carrie Maynard (16). Of course what would a special or should I say non-special appearance be by her ex Alec and his oh so young ex-mistress and now new wife and mother of his new bouncing baby boy, Amber, (24) be if not exciting.
Two years since her divorce and all she does is get up, get the girls off to school, work at her bridal salon (that she is part owner with mom,) come home cook dinner, visit with the girls and start all over again. The last 2 years they go to their dad’s every-other-weekend and this weekend was extend due to vacation. So Jodi who has been her best friend since 6th grade books them a mini vacation to Cancun, Mexico. When you are with Jodi you never know what’s going to happen this mini vacation was no exception. She thought that 2 years without my vajayjay being visited by anything other than my super powered shower head. They were going dancing and drinking.
It’s all fun and games until you wake up next to the most gorgeous, muscled, and sexy naked man she’d ever seen. Damn he couldn’t be more than 25. Oh no when she looks down she’s naked too. She very gently gets up not to disturb him she gets dressed. She finds one of her shoes but can’t find the other until she sees it under him… She can’t believe what a perfect specimen like himself would ever see in a much old woman with, “Oh No! I had twin’s scars!”
She’s been home back in the swing of things when she goes into work her mom says she has someone in to fix that leak in the sink. Melanie goes to put her lunch in the refrigerator and she sees the guy under the sink and sees by his junk that that is not elderly Tony the man that normally does it.
As she goes walking back in the direction of the front of the store she hears this guy cussing up a loud storm. She laughs and says what happened to Tony? Her mom said he just sent him his nephew. What the heck is going on back there is all she could think of. Her mom goes down to the coffee shop to get them some coffees when she decides to do her makeup before the store opens.
When all of a sudden the guy sneaks up behind her making her drop her very expensive face powder. When she turns to scream at him her air is cut off and she can’t speak. She knows him. He made her life a living hell, for two years in high school. Calling her, “Smellanie” OMG! None it’s none other than Ben Wilder, (39), who sat behind her in French class. Seems he has no clue who she even is or was.
On one of her many calls throughout the day Melanie fills Jodi in on who and what the kids are doing. She tells her that she ran into Ben. It was the girl’s weekend with their dad so Jodi said they were going out. Well, who do they run into? Ben and his friend Rick. By the end of the night Rick and Jodi were paired off and Ben and she were too. The affair started soon after hot and heavy. Ben is always holding back and never shows emotion. Other than when he’s having sex. I mean no one knows he has a son for a while that in fact goes to school at the same high school as Melanie’s girls.
Life becomes crazy when they realize their kids go to the same school. Events that happen are beyond funny. You will not regret reading this story. You will find yourself at times picking sides and then jumping sides. But all the time you know Melanie loves her girls and they love her. I give this 5++++ stars. Provided by Net Galley.
Follow us on: www.1rad-readerreviews.com
The story line mainly revolves around Melanie Hanson, 37 and her two twin daughters Gia and Carrie Maynard (16). Of course what would a special or should I say non-special appearance be by her ex Alec and his oh so young ex-mistress and now new wife and mother of his new bouncing baby boy, Amber, (24) be if not exciting.
Two years since her divorce and all she does is get up, get the girls off to school, work at her bridal salon (that she is part owner with mom,) come home cook dinner, visit with the girls and start all over again. The last 2 years they go to their dad’s every-other-weekend and this weekend was extend due to vacation. So Jodi who has been her best friend since 6th grade books them a mini vacation to Cancun, Mexico. When you are with Jodi you never know what’s going to happen this mini vacation was no exception. She thought that 2 years without my vajayjay being visited by anything other than my super powered shower head. They were going dancing and drinking.
It’s all fun and games until you wake up next to the most gorgeous, muscled, and sexy naked man she’d ever seen. Damn he couldn’t be more than 25. Oh no when she looks down she’s naked too. She very gently gets up not to disturb him she gets dressed. She finds one of her shoes but can’t find the other until she sees it under him… She can’t believe what a perfect specimen like himself would ever see in a much old woman with, “Oh No! I had twin’s scars!”
She’s been home back in the swing of things when she goes into work her mom says she has someone in to fix that leak in the sink. Melanie goes to put her lunch in the refrigerator and she sees the guy under the sink and sees by his junk that that is not elderly Tony the man that normally does it.
As she goes walking back in the direction of the front of the store she hears this guy cussing up a loud storm. She laughs and says what happened to Tony? Her mom said he just sent him his nephew. What the heck is going on back there is all she could think of. Her mom goes down to the coffee shop to get them some coffees when she decides to do her makeup before the store opens.
When all of a sudden the guy sneaks up behind her making her drop her very expensive face powder. When she turns to scream at him her air is cut off and she can’t speak. She knows him. He made her life a living hell, for two years in high school. Calling her, “Smellanie” OMG! None it’s none other than Ben Wilder, (39), who sat behind her in French class. Seems he has no clue who she even is or was.
On one of her many calls throughout the day Melanie fills Jodi in on who and what the kids are doing. She tells her that she ran into Ben. It was the girl’s weekend with their dad so Jodi said they were going out. Well, who do they run into? Ben and his friend Rick. By the end of the night Rick and Jodi were paired off and Ben and she were too. The affair started soon after hot and heavy. Ben is always holding back and never shows emotion. Other than when he’s having sex. I mean no one knows he has a son for a while that in fact goes to school at the same high school as Melanie’s girls.
Life becomes crazy when they realize their kids go to the same school. Events that happen are beyond funny. You will not regret reading this story. You will find yourself at times picking sides and then jumping sides. But all the time you know Melanie loves her girls and they love her. I give this 5++++ stars. Provided by Net Galley.
Follow us on: www.1rad-readerreviews.com
December 31, 2015
First reviewed at Keeper Bookshelf
There are worse things in life than finding your husband, your cheating husband, in a compromising position with the secretary. Might be hard to come up with them at the time, but there are. And maybe, in some part of her mind, Melanie wasn’t so much surprised and hurt as she was relieved. Sad, isn’t it? When the one you planned on ending your days with until your last day turns out to be the scumbag you had been suspecting he was for some time now. Oh sure, there’s pain, don’t doubt that for a moment. And anger, toss in some fear and add in determination, love for your kids and a resolve to get through this new dynamic no matter what.
To that mix, now add in two daughters, twins who are totally teenagers with all the drama, angst and complications that come along with that condition (that thankfully we do grow out of). Don’t assume that being twins means the girls are carbon copies of each other. Nothing further from the truth – oh, they have each other’s backs, but they also are each strong individuals as well. Carrie would be considered the brainy, sensible twin, and Gia is definitely the outgoing rebel (but not in a bad way) twin. Both are facing a different future, a split family and simply being teens.
Now we add in Ben. We all had a guy like Ben at some point in our lives. Really, think about it. The guy you had a crush on but never, ever gave you the slightest thought – until it was time to tease you, in front of everyone and you simply “died” of embarrassment… yeah, that guy. Who would have thought he would grow up into such a fine man. And feel the sparks start to fly once again, only this time those sparks go both ways.
When The Chips Are Down is told in three points of view – Melanie, Carrie and Gia each give us the story through their eyes. Which only highlights the fact that while each one is experiencing life and all of its complications – they are all facing the same things, but don’t always see it that way when seen from an all inclusive view.
This story has all of the emotions possible. It is a slice of life, served up with laughter, tears, anger, happiness and everything inbetween. A second chance at love that will last. If you need to laugh out loud, and cry during your reading time then this one has you covered. An enjoyable read that I would definitely recommend to just about any style of reader, because you’ll probably find what you’re looking for in this one.
*I received an e-ARC of When The Chips Are Down from the publisher and NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. That does not change what I think of this novel.*
There are worse things in life than finding your husband, your cheating husband, in a compromising position with the secretary. Might be hard to come up with them at the time, but there are. And maybe, in some part of her mind, Melanie wasn’t so much surprised and hurt as she was relieved. Sad, isn’t it? When the one you planned on ending your days with until your last day turns out to be the scumbag you had been suspecting he was for some time now. Oh sure, there’s pain, don’t doubt that for a moment. And anger, toss in some fear and add in determination, love for your kids and a resolve to get through this new dynamic no matter what.
To that mix, now add in two daughters, twins who are totally teenagers with all the drama, angst and complications that come along with that condition (that thankfully we do grow out of). Don’t assume that being twins means the girls are carbon copies of each other. Nothing further from the truth – oh, they have each other’s backs, but they also are each strong individuals as well. Carrie would be considered the brainy, sensible twin, and Gia is definitely the outgoing rebel (but not in a bad way) twin. Both are facing a different future, a split family and simply being teens.
Now we add in Ben. We all had a guy like Ben at some point in our lives. Really, think about it. The guy you had a crush on but never, ever gave you the slightest thought – until it was time to tease you, in front of everyone and you simply “died” of embarrassment… yeah, that guy. Who would have thought he would grow up into such a fine man. And feel the sparks start to fly once again, only this time those sparks go both ways.
When The Chips Are Down is told in three points of view – Melanie, Carrie and Gia each give us the story through their eyes. Which only highlights the fact that while each one is experiencing life and all of its complications – they are all facing the same things, but don’t always see it that way when seen from an all inclusive view.
This story has all of the emotions possible. It is a slice of life, served up with laughter, tears, anger, happiness and everything inbetween. A second chance at love that will last. If you need to laugh out loud, and cry during your reading time then this one has you covered. An enjoyable read that I would definitely recommend to just about any style of reader, because you’ll probably find what you’re looking for in this one.
*I received an e-ARC of When The Chips Are Down from the publisher and NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. That does not change what I think of this novel.*
January 10, 2016
4-4.5 stars
Knowing the second and third books in this series are arriving shortly, I was excited to get into Melanie’s story. I enjoyed the more mature characters in Melanie’s world, with the juxtaposition with the high school drama her daughters are experiencing. The combination of voices took some getting used to, but made this story feel very different than I expected in the best possible way.
Melanie Hanson hasn’t led the life she imagined. Always the devoted wife and mother, her world shifts dramatically when she finds her husband cheating on her. Moving her daughters to a new town, Melanie is picking up the pieces and moving on, determined to build herself stronger than before. What she didn’t expect of her new life was to run into Ben Wilder, her crush from high school.
Her daughters, Carrie and Gia, have their own struggles as they settle into a new high school, meet new boys, and look forward to the future. These two are always up to something, though the trouble they find is as opposite as the girls themselves. Identical twins, their personalities bely the sameness in their appearance. Gia is the wild child, up for anything and out for a good time. Carrie is quieter, socially awkward and studious. Their journeys within these pages are similar to those so many other high schoolers face and the drama was fitting.
There were times the combination of plots was overwhelming with all the drama coexisting within the walls of one house. But that’s also part of what I loved about this story. Melanie’s story doesn’t exist in a vacuum. Her daughter and her best friend are all exploring relationships of their own, and as women tend to do, there are rumors, gossip, and secrets.
At times I wasn’t sure where some of the details were leading. This was one story I couldn’t predict too far ahead -- it kept me on my toes and the edge of my seat. There were moments I just couldn’t see a happily ever after coming for any of the characters. I can’t wait to get my hands on Carrie and Gia’s stories, Two of Hearts and Straight to the Heart, as the foundation for their stories has been set and I want to see where their hearts lead.
ARC provided by author in exchange for an honest review. This review will be posted at Reviews by Tammy and Kim.
Knowing the second and third books in this series are arriving shortly, I was excited to get into Melanie’s story. I enjoyed the more mature characters in Melanie’s world, with the juxtaposition with the high school drama her daughters are experiencing. The combination of voices took some getting used to, but made this story feel very different than I expected in the best possible way.
Melanie Hanson hasn’t led the life she imagined. Always the devoted wife and mother, her world shifts dramatically when she finds her husband cheating on her. Moving her daughters to a new town, Melanie is picking up the pieces and moving on, determined to build herself stronger than before. What she didn’t expect of her new life was to run into Ben Wilder, her crush from high school.
Her daughters, Carrie and Gia, have their own struggles as they settle into a new high school, meet new boys, and look forward to the future. These two are always up to something, though the trouble they find is as opposite as the girls themselves. Identical twins, their personalities bely the sameness in their appearance. Gia is the wild child, up for anything and out for a good time. Carrie is quieter, socially awkward and studious. Their journeys within these pages are similar to those so many other high schoolers face and the drama was fitting.
There were times the combination of plots was overwhelming with all the drama coexisting within the walls of one house. But that’s also part of what I loved about this story. Melanie’s story doesn’t exist in a vacuum. Her daughter and her best friend are all exploring relationships of their own, and as women tend to do, there are rumors, gossip, and secrets.
At times I wasn’t sure where some of the details were leading. This was one story I couldn’t predict too far ahead -- it kept me on my toes and the edge of my seat. There were moments I just couldn’t see a happily ever after coming for any of the characters. I can’t wait to get my hands on Carrie and Gia’s stories, Two of Hearts and Straight to the Heart, as the foundation for their stories has been set and I want to see where their hearts lead.
ARC provided by author in exchange for an honest review. This review will be posted at Reviews by Tammy and Kim.
March 14, 2015
5 giant OREO COOKIES!!
This book, this book, oh my, this book!
I have been a huge fan of Beth Rinyu ever since I read her very first book and my admiration for her talent has grown with each book thereafter. But in all honesty, I must say this book is truly an example of Beth’s gift that she has for writing.
Let me rewind this: Last year around this time I was reading a certain book by this same author(and those of you that read it will know exactly which one I ‘m talking about) and I couldn’t see through the tears that were falling on to my kindle. I had never ever gotten so emotional over a book before. Beth has a knack for bringing out deep emotions in her readers.
Fast forward to this book: I cannot even begin to tell you the amount of times I literally laughed out loud right from the very first chapter. This book, I can’ even begin to explain. It’s real. You feel as if these characters truly do exist and I found myself getting depressed when I had to shut down my kindle in between to tend to things in the real world. I wanted to become friends with Mel. I related to her so much. I felt like I was part of her family as I was reading it. I wanted to yell at her daughters when they were being typical teenagers, I wanted to smack her ex-husband every time he would cause her aggravation, and I wanted Jodi as my best friend! Oh, and then there’s Ben. WOW! Well, I won’t tell you what I wanted to do during his parts of the story!
What I also like about Beth’s writing style is she’s not afraid to craft a story differently each time. This book is told from three POV’s Mel’s and her two daughters and it is pulled off flawlessly.
Most authors excel in one area, be it making you cry, laugh, keeping you guessing what’s going to happen next, swoon. But when an author can do all this and be as diverse as Beth from one book to another, you know that’s pure talent for the craft. I know that I will never be getting the same recycled plots when I read one of her books.
Trust me, when I tell you this book is well worth a read. Do not pass it up and you can thank me for it later!
I cannot wait to read Carrie & Gia’s stories in books 2 & 3.
I give this book 5 Giant OREO COOKIES (read the book and you will get that part)
This book, this book, oh my, this book!
I have been a huge fan of Beth Rinyu ever since I read her very first book and my admiration for her talent has grown with each book thereafter. But in all honesty, I must say this book is truly an example of Beth’s gift that she has for writing.
Let me rewind this: Last year around this time I was reading a certain book by this same author(and those of you that read it will know exactly which one I ‘m talking about) and I couldn’t see through the tears that were falling on to my kindle. I had never ever gotten so emotional over a book before. Beth has a knack for bringing out deep emotions in her readers.
Fast forward to this book: I cannot even begin to tell you the amount of times I literally laughed out loud right from the very first chapter. This book, I can’ even begin to explain. It’s real. You feel as if these characters truly do exist and I found myself getting depressed when I had to shut down my kindle in between to tend to things in the real world. I wanted to become friends with Mel. I related to her so much. I felt like I was part of her family as I was reading it. I wanted to yell at her daughters when they were being typical teenagers, I wanted to smack her ex-husband every time he would cause her aggravation, and I wanted Jodi as my best friend! Oh, and then there’s Ben. WOW! Well, I won’t tell you what I wanted to do during his parts of the story!
What I also like about Beth’s writing style is she’s not afraid to craft a story differently each time. This book is told from three POV’s Mel’s and her two daughters and it is pulled off flawlessly.
Most authors excel in one area, be it making you cry, laugh, keeping you guessing what’s going to happen next, swoon. But when an author can do all this and be as diverse as Beth from one book to another, you know that’s pure talent for the craft. I know that I will never be getting the same recycled plots when I read one of her books.
Trust me, when I tell you this book is well worth a read. Do not pass it up and you can thank me for it later!
I cannot wait to read Carrie & Gia’s stories in books 2 & 3.
I give this book 5 Giant OREO COOKIES (read the book and you will get that part)
August 21, 2015
Awesome book! I'm a huge Beth Rinyu fan & this book just made me an even bigger fan! I totally related to the characters! Not to mention, the writing is fantastic! It's the perfect mixture of laughter, love, passion, anger, hate, animosity and it's not short of steamy situations. Not to mention, there's a hilarious bff. It touches on a lot of sensitive issues, one being bullying! Amazing book!
The book is the 1st in a 3 book series. It's told in 3 POVs: Melanie(mom), Gia and Carrie(Twin teen daughters). It's been a VERY long time since I related & connected with a character so much. We have soooo much in common, a divorce & a teen daughter are just two! I LOL sooooo many times with Mel's dating antics & her bff's crude attitude! It's awesome! When Mel needs the assistance of a man, she gets a little more than what she bargained for! Tempers flare when the twins find out exactly who her secret crush really is!
I love the daughters too! They are really polar opposite & both have totally different personalities! It was awesome to watch them grow & develop into much more mature young women! This book is full of young love & new love. Both that are so enjoyable to read able.
Can Mel move on from her ex & get a second chance at life & love?? Can Carrie & Gia get past the stereotypical boys that everyone thinks they should be with? Will the bullies win? Find out with the first book of this series! It's truly awesome!
The book is the 1st in a 3 book series. It's told in 3 POVs: Melanie(mom), Gia and Carrie(Twin teen daughters). It's been a VERY long time since I related & connected with a character so much. We have soooo much in common, a divorce & a teen daughter are just two! I LOL sooooo many times with Mel's dating antics & her bff's crude attitude! It's awesome! When Mel needs the assistance of a man, she gets a little more than what she bargained for! Tempers flare when the twins find out exactly who her secret crush really is!
I love the daughters too! They are really polar opposite & both have totally different personalities! It was awesome to watch them grow & develop into much more mature young women! This book is full of young love & new love. Both that are so enjoyable to read able.
Can Mel move on from her ex & get a second chance at life & love?? Can Carrie & Gia get past the stereotypical boys that everyone thinks they should be with? Will the bullies win? Find out with the first book of this series! It's truly awesome!
September 7, 2015
When The Chips Are Down
This story was gifted to me in exchange for an honest review.
It looked like a sweet romance, the cover was catchy and I was good to go, I was settled in for a nice little romance. Well let me tell you that this book delivered that and so much more. It is written in three different points of view, mom Melanie is recently divorced and raising two teenage daughters, the twins Gia and Carrie who provide the other POV. All I can say is this author definitely has a lot of talent to be able to tell a story both from the point of view of a recently divorced and cheated on who is ready to rejoin the sexually active to a pair of teenage twins who encounter everything from bullying, to beginning to drive, to boy crushes and failing grades.
I hated to see each chapter end as I was loosing my connection to the character focused in that chapter. The experiences that everyone had were extremely well written and oh so very lifelike. I found myself identifying with both the girls and then the mom. I watched as Melanie slowly got back her self esteem after finding her husband cheating on her and also cheered for the girls as they encountered one teenage drama after another. Even when mom and girls were fighting and either girl threatened to go and live with dad, I still cheered for them. I laughed, I was scared at times and I cried. This book made me experience it all.
I am certainly going to read the next segment in this trilogy. Can't wait for it to be out.
I would rate this story a 4/5 and recommend it to anyone who honestly just wants to read a good heartwarming story with some sweet romance thrown in.
March 11, 2015
4.5 stars.
Received ARC for an honest review. D&S Book Blog.
Melanie Hanson's life didn't go quite the way she had planned. Her cheating ex-husband traded her in for a newer model and she’s in over her head dealing with the drama that comes along with raising her twin teenage daughters.
The last thing she is looking for or needs in her life is a man - or is it?
Ben Wilder is the boy that Melanie loved to hate throughout high school, the boy that all the girls loved and the boy that didn't give Melanie the time of day, unless it was to tease her. When she runs into him once again she realizes...he’s not a boy anymore. Older and wiser, she’s determined not to fall for her secret crush from all those years ago. But sometimes our heart has different plans than our head. Will she finally get her happily ever after with the man she least expected to have it with?
Take a humorous journey with Melanie and her daughters as their lives begin to parallel and they discover that although they may be separated by a generation their struggles are still the same.
*Book 1 of a 3 part series. Can be read as a stand-alone
This is an story of love and second chances, and everything in between. I love the way Ben and Melanie have been written, their banter and how they cope with what life throws them. This is a great read, and i am looking forward to reading the next two books. The writing is excellent, and you can't help falling in love with Ben and Mel and its almost like you are part of their lives when reading. Great start to this series.
Received ARC for an honest review. D&S Book Blog.
Melanie Hanson's life didn't go quite the way she had planned. Her cheating ex-husband traded her in for a newer model and she’s in over her head dealing with the drama that comes along with raising her twin teenage daughters.
The last thing she is looking for or needs in her life is a man - or is it?
Ben Wilder is the boy that Melanie loved to hate throughout high school, the boy that all the girls loved and the boy that didn't give Melanie the time of day, unless it was to tease her. When she runs into him once again she realizes...he’s not a boy anymore. Older and wiser, she’s determined not to fall for her secret crush from all those years ago. But sometimes our heart has different plans than our head. Will she finally get her happily ever after with the man she least expected to have it with?
Take a humorous journey with Melanie and her daughters as their lives begin to parallel and they discover that although they may be separated by a generation their struggles are still the same.
*Book 1 of a 3 part series. Can be read as a stand-alone
This is an story of love and second chances, and everything in between. I love the way Ben and Melanie have been written, their banter and how they cope with what life throws them. This is a great read, and i am looking forward to reading the next two books. The writing is excellent, and you can't help falling in love with Ben and Mel and its almost like you are part of their lives when reading. Great start to this series.
March 23, 2016
I have read a couple of books from this author in the past, but this is by far my absolute favorite by her to date. This story and these characters really spoke to me, and I found myself completely engaged in their saga. Between Melanie and Ben, Carrie and Jason and Gia and Daniel this read had my rapt attention. I was totally pulled in, waiting to see what would happen next.
Melanie is coming to terms with her divorce and adjusting to the fact that her husband is now married to the much younger woman that he had an affair with. She is also juggling running a bridal business with her Mom and raising twin 17 year old daughters. Just when she was feeling settled in to her new normal, she is reacquainted with her high school crush Ben Wilder. Carrie, the studious daughter, who does everything right and is always making Melanie's job easy, finds herself falling for the school jock who she is tutoring in calculus. Gia, the more rebellious twin, who aspires to be a dancer finds herself falling for her nerdy calculus tutor (who knew that calculus could lead to romance, lol). Jodi, is the fun loving, free spirit, BFF to Melanie and she is always a source of comic relief and mayhem. This cast of characters along with the men of their lives come together to make this a wonderful adventure.
They all touched my heart and had me wanting more. I can't wait to see how Carrie and Jason are going to end up, and I'm sure that their journey will be precious. I am also thinking that we haven't heard the last from Alec, LOL! Thank you Beth for the beginning of a wonderful series.
Melanie is coming to terms with her divorce and adjusting to the fact that her husband is now married to the much younger woman that he had an affair with. She is also juggling running a bridal business with her Mom and raising twin 17 year old daughters. Just when she was feeling settled in to her new normal, she is reacquainted with her high school crush Ben Wilder. Carrie, the studious daughter, who does everything right and is always making Melanie's job easy, finds herself falling for the school jock who she is tutoring in calculus. Gia, the more rebellious twin, who aspires to be a dancer finds herself falling for her nerdy calculus tutor (who knew that calculus could lead to romance, lol). Jodi, is the fun loving, free spirit, BFF to Melanie and she is always a source of comic relief and mayhem. This cast of characters along with the men of their lives come together to make this a wonderful adventure.
They all touched my heart and had me wanting more. I can't wait to see how Carrie and Jason are going to end up, and I'm sure that their journey will be precious. I am also thinking that we haven't heard the last from Alec, LOL! Thank you Beth for the beginning of a wonderful series.
March 22, 2015
I really loved this book and once I started reading I couldn't put it down. When the Chips are down is told in 3 POV's, Melanie and her twin teenage daughters Carrie and Gia. Melanie is trying to pick up the pieces of her life after her divorce to her cheating husband Alec. Gia is your fun loving twin who likes to get in trouble and Carrie is the more sensible one who likes to do things by the book. You might think having 3 pov's is confusing but I absolutely loved it!! Even after I finished reading, I wanted more. Melanie is a strong and wonderful mother who is just trying to take life day by day. When she runs into Ben (a guy she used to go to school with and couldn't stand at the time) I knew things were about to get intresting. I LOVED Ben!!! I also loved seeing Gia and Carrie's characters grow. While Gia finally begins to try and change her bad girl ways, Carrie begins to open up more once she begins to tutor Jason. Throw in Melanie's best friend Jodi (who was a hoot and a best friend everyone should have) and you have the perfect story!! I felt like I was right there in the book with all of them and just couldn't get enough!! Will Jason and Carrie finally give in and become a couple? Will Melanie and Ben get married? What's the deal with Gia and Cam? Are they really just bff's or is there more to it? Has Jodi finally found the one for her or will she be on the hunt for another hubby? Amazing job Beth!! I can't wait to see what you have in store for us next!!
January 12, 2016
Melanie Hanson is starting over. After finding her cheating husband with a younger woman, Melanie finds herself as a single mother of her twin teenage girls.
Ben Wilder is the boy from high school that wouldn't have anything to do with her unless it was to call her names and tease her. But after a hilarious meeting after all these years can enemies turn into something more?
Beth Rinyu has written a laugh out loud book! I loved the scene where Ben and Melanie meet again. I could see that happening to me.
Any woman today can relate to this book. From the ups and downs of raising two totally different teenage girls, dealing with your ex husband and his new younger wife, trying to co parent with an ex spouse and finding love the second time around.
I hope everyone woman has a BBF like Jodi! Jodi was the perfect compliment to Melanie. Even though she did not have the best track record with men, she gave Melanie that little or not so little nudge at times, to move her out of comfort zone regarding Ben.
Melanie and Ben had the chemistry! Plus not only did they have to deal with their feelings for each other but also deal with the pitfalls of dating with teenagers.
This book is a sweet, loving, and funny read. Beth Rinyu has written the first installment of Three of a Kind, and I can't wait to read Gia and Carrie's books.
April 4, 2015
TATIA'S REVIEW
4 Stars
Melanie Hanson is now a single mom of twin girls. Had it not been for her best friend, she would have totally let herself go after her husband cheated and then left her for the much younger woman. Now, Jodi (said best friend) is determined to get Melanie back in the world of dating with a trip to Mexico. I guess you could say that it worked since Melanie woke up in someone else's bed.
Once she gets back home and back to her normal routine, she runs into a guy from high school who gave her tons of trouble. She figures he's still the arrogant guy he was back then. Little does she know, he had his reasons for acting the way he did.
When the Chips are Down wasn't just about Melanie and her looking to find love again. The story also focused around her daughters and how they are handling being split between two families now and how they're dealing with high school drama. In the beginning, all of the different POVs kind of put me off. I didn't really like the bouncing back and forth, but once I got in to the story, I found that they didn't really bother me. I enjoyed seeing how they all dealt with their problems. It turned out to be a story that I truly did not want to end. A sweet story of second chances at love and finding lasting friendships early on in life, ones that would be cherished forever.
4 Stars
Melanie Hanson is now a single mom of twin girls. Had it not been for her best friend, she would have totally let herself go after her husband cheated and then left her for the much younger woman. Now, Jodi (said best friend) is determined to get Melanie back in the world of dating with a trip to Mexico. I guess you could say that it worked since Melanie woke up in someone else's bed.
Once she gets back home and back to her normal routine, she runs into a guy from high school who gave her tons of trouble. She figures he's still the arrogant guy he was back then. Little does she know, he had his reasons for acting the way he did.
When the Chips are Down wasn't just about Melanie and her looking to find love again. The story also focused around her daughters and how they are handling being split between two families now and how they're dealing with high school drama. In the beginning, all of the different POVs kind of put me off. I didn't really like the bouncing back and forth, but once I got in to the story, I found that they didn't really bother me. I enjoyed seeing how they all dealt with their problems. It turned out to be a story that I truly did not want to end. A sweet story of second chances at love and finding lasting friendships early on in life, ones that would be cherished forever.
January 18, 2016
When the Chips are Down is book #1 in the Three of a Kind series
I gave this book 5 stars.
This is Melanie's story.
I honestly picked this book to read because I loved the cover.. I needed a much needed break from all the drama and chaos of my life. I found it in this book. It was perfect.
This book is not what I expected. It was so much more.
Melanie is a daughter, a mom, a best friend. She had her life planned out, it just didn't turn out the way she expected it to. This is her story. It is funny, and sweet. It is heartbreaking and caring. It is real.
Gia and Carrie are her twin daughters. You will get to know them and fall in love with them.
You will be rooting for all three of these women by the time you get to the end of this book. I couldn't put this book down .. It was a page turner and kept me wanting more. I am so thankful that I have book 2 already to start reading Carrie's story..
Thank you for an amazing novel.. I cannot wait to read what you have coming out in the future.
January 22, 2016
Three POVs, three stories in one
I enjoyed this story with three 1st person POVs from the mother and her twin daughters. This was a first for me. Three females with their own personalities and hot, potential partners.
My interest was piqued by an unexpected one-nighter in Mexico that starts off the story. Then she returns to her regular life: divorced, partner with her mother at their bridal shop, and raising her twin daughters. She meets up with the popular guy from high school, who she was crushing on and is now even hotter. There is a surprising twist because of her casual sex that is funny and awkward, and her growing attraction to him.
There are some sexy scenes, heartbreaking scenes, and proof that family and love mean everything.
I rated this 4 stars because I felt that too much time was spent on the daughters' stories the expense of a longer story for their mother, especially since both daughters are featured in the next two books in the series.
I enjoyed this story with three 1st person POVs from the mother and her twin daughters. This was a first for me. Three females with their own personalities and hot, potential partners.
My interest was piqued by an unexpected one-nighter in Mexico that starts off the story. Then she returns to her regular life: divorced, partner with her mother at their bridal shop, and raising her twin daughters. She meets up with the popular guy from high school, who she was crushing on and is now even hotter. There is a surprising twist because of her casual sex that is funny and awkward, and her growing attraction to him.
There are some sexy scenes, heartbreaking scenes, and proof that family and love mean everything.
I rated this 4 stars because I felt that too much time was spent on the daughters' stories the expense of a longer story for their mother, especially since both daughters are featured in the next two books in the series.
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