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Nelson Island #2
Falling Deep
Reed Hopewell is a lot of things to a lot of people . . .
To his parents, he's the son who needs to get serious. To his friends, he's the player they all want to be. And to his fans, he's the hottest rocker in Charleston. But never has Reed been anyone's hero -- until the night he finds Hope.
Hope Dawson can count the number of men she trusts on one hand. Definitely not the guys she goes out with or the stepfather who treats her like property. She'd be out of his house tomorrow if not for the need to protect her little sister. But when things at home go from bad to worse, Hope has to act fast -- and Reed is the only person she can turn to . . .
To his parents, he's the son who needs to get serious. To his friends, he's the player they all want to be. And to his fans, he's the hottest rocker in Charleston. But never has Reed been anyone's hero -- until the night he finds Hope.
Hope Dawson can count the number of men she trusts on one hand. Definitely not the guys she goes out with or the stepfather who treats her like property. She'd be out of his house tomorrow if not for the need to protect her little sister. But when things at home go from bad to worse, Hope has to act fast -- and Reed is the only person she can turn to . . .
320 pages, Paperback
First published April 7, 2015
7 people are currently reading
528 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 28 of 28 reviews
April 11, 2015
This book will make you feel how lucky you are that your life isn't like that of the heroine's.
It'll make you appreciate what you have, that's for sure because gosh... What our heroine had is bad-- like the BAD kind of bad. Haha, does that even make sense? Errmm
Anyway, let's describe the characters first...
Hope Dawson is losing hope. :( She has a very unfortunate circumstance and a big dilemma that makes her stay in that circumstance. SHE BADLY NEEDS A HERO! I swear. However, I would also say that she's a strong woman. She stays and stands strong amidst a lot of things and she doesn't just give up. As much as I admire how she just wants to hoard her problems and never let anyone get close to her, it also had me totally annoyed. I was soooo happy when REED HOPEWELL inserts himself into the picture.
REED HOPEWELL is a hot guy with no definite road in life. I think he was going with the flow until he meets Hope. I think Reed's character didn't have the right direction until he had Hope. As cocky as he was, he was also kind of unsure about things, so I think it's just good that he met the love of his life. He just didn't know that he had to move mountains to get her.
Their characters collide in both the best way and ugly way. Reed doesn't know why Hope keeps pulling back, but he keeps reeling her in. It's only a matter of time before he truly catches her and oh, it's beautiful. However, the biggest hurdle here is overcoming Hope's demons.
Read this and see how they do just that.
You know the feeling when you just want to pull out all the bad guys in the book, bash them in the head and never let them touch one hair of the main character ever again?
Well, I felt it here.
SUPREMELY!
I wanted to claw the eyes of the villains and I want to pin them on the wall!
That's how effective they are.
Ahhhh, just read it! I promise you, you will also feel the ultimate happiness when it ends!
Sooo there!
A good read indeed!
An ARC was given to me in exchange for an honest review.
It'll make you appreciate what you have, that's for sure because gosh... What our heroine had is bad-- like the BAD kind of bad. Haha, does that even make sense? Errmm
Anyway, let's describe the characters first...
Hope Dawson is losing hope. :( She has a very unfortunate circumstance and a big dilemma that makes her stay in that circumstance. SHE BADLY NEEDS A HERO! I swear. However, I would also say that she's a strong woman. She stays and stands strong amidst a lot of things and she doesn't just give up. As much as I admire how she just wants to hoard her problems and never let anyone get close to her, it also had me totally annoyed. I was soooo happy when REED HOPEWELL inserts himself into the picture.
REED HOPEWELL is a hot guy with no definite road in life. I think he was going with the flow until he meets Hope. I think Reed's character didn't have the right direction until he had Hope. As cocky as he was, he was also kind of unsure about things, so I think it's just good that he met the love of his life. He just didn't know that he had to move mountains to get her.
Their characters collide in both the best way and ugly way. Reed doesn't know why Hope keeps pulling back, but he keeps reeling her in. It's only a matter of time before he truly catches her and oh, it's beautiful. However, the biggest hurdle here is overcoming Hope's demons.
Read this and see how they do just that.
You know the feeling when you just want to pull out all the bad guys in the book, bash them in the head and never let them touch one hair of the main character ever again?
Well, I felt it here.
SUPREMELY!
I wanted to claw the eyes of the villains and I want to pin them on the wall!
That's how effective they are.
Ahhhh, just read it! I promise you, you will also feel the ultimate happiness when it ends!
Sooo there!
A good read indeed!
An ARC was given to me in exchange for an honest review.
January 2, 2016
4-1/2 stars.
This review also appears on Pretty Sassy Cool, along with an awesome interview with Diana Gardin :)
Twenty-one year old Hope Dawson is trapped in a life working as an escort for her stepfather in order to protect her younger sister. She isn't sleeping with her clients, but it's only a matter of time before her stepfather forces her to do that. When playboy musician Reed Hopewell saves her from being assaulted one night, it's both the best thing and the worst thing to ever happen to Hope. Well, I guess to both of them.
Reed is twenty-three and torn between pursuing his passion and joining his place in the family business.
Determined never to fall in love, he's even more torn up when he saves Hope and can't get her out of his mind.
I loved this. It reminded me of Aladdin when he's going on and on about Jasmine's hair and eyes and ...yeah.:
As much as they want each other, both Reed and Hope try to avoid the inevitable.
But Hope has secrets and isn't willing to tell Reed what's going on in her life. What happens if he finds out what Hope's job really is and that she's not giving it up?
I haven't read anything by Diana Gardin before, but I really enjoyed this book. You know how I feel about Rockstars and playboys who fall head over heels for a girl he doesn't see coming, so this book had lots of stuff that I loved. I loved the storyline and the characters, especially (no surprise here) Reed. He goes through a true transformation, and I enjoyed taking the journey with him. He was sweet and swoony and Southern. I love guys from the South!
As for Hope, I get why she does it but the push and pull with him drives me crazy. I'm glad she realizes what she's done pretty much right away instead of being stupid about it until the last second of the book. I loved her sister and her best friend, Morrow, and I hope that Gardin has plans to continue this series with him.
Falling Deep is a quick read with lovable characters, a hot romance, and a believable storyline. If you like rock star romances or books with swoony guys, you'll love this one, too.
This review also appears on Pretty Sassy Cool, along with an awesome interview with Diana Gardin :)
Twenty-one year old Hope Dawson is trapped in a life working as an escort for her stepfather in order to protect her younger sister. She isn't sleeping with her clients, but it's only a matter of time before her stepfather forces her to do that. When playboy musician Reed Hopewell saves her from being assaulted one night, it's both the best thing and the worst thing to ever happen to Hope. Well, I guess to both of them.
Reed is twenty-three and torn between pursuing his passion and joining his place in the family business.
"I know you love the music thing and you're really good at it. It's time to decide...are you going to make a life with us here at the company or are you going to get out there and do the singer-songwriter thing full-time? It's now or never, little bro."
Determined never to fall in love, he's even more torn up when he saves Hope and can't get her out of his mind.
"But if I see her again..."
"If you see her again, you think you'll go man-whore Reed on her?"
Reed nodded. "Bingo. She's hot, man. Like...lingerie-model hot, only shorter. She's got this hair...never seen anything like it, it's so long and...and her ski is this bronze color that makes me crazy, wanting to touch it. And her eyes...her eyes are this brownish green that keeps glinting flecks of gold in the light. And she was so petite, I think I could fit my hands around her waist..."
I loved this. It reminded me of Aladdin when he's going on and on about Jasmine's hair and eyes and ...yeah.:
As much as they want each other, both Reed and Hope try to avoid the inevitable.
"Holy hell," he murmured against her skin. "I've done this before. I swear I have...why is it all so much...more tonight?"
"Because it's us," she said simply. "And there's something about us, Reed. I feel it, and so do you."
But Hope has secrets and isn't willing to tell Reed what's going on in her life. What happens if he finds out what Hope's job really is and that she's not giving it up?
I haven't read anything by Diana Gardin before, but I really enjoyed this book. You know how I feel about Rockstars and playboys who fall head over heels for a girl he doesn't see coming, so this book had lots of stuff that I loved. I loved the storyline and the characters, especially (no surprise here) Reed. He goes through a true transformation, and I enjoyed taking the journey with him. He was sweet and swoony and Southern. I love guys from the South!
It felt like he'd been waiting years to kiss her, to feel her body molding against his, to feel her hands tangling in his hair as they now were. The little surprised gasp that vibrated against his lips as he grabbed her only fueled his need to get as much of her touching as much of him as he possibly could.
As for Hope, I get why she does it but the push and pull with him drives me crazy. I'm glad she realizes what she's done pretty much right away instead of being stupid about it until the last second of the book. I loved her sister and her best friend, Morrow, and I hope that Gardin has plans to continue this series with him.
Falling Deep is a quick read with lovable characters, a hot romance, and a believable storyline. If you like rock star romances or books with swoony guys, you'll love this one, too.
July 13, 2015
This is the first book I've read from Diana Gardin, although FALLING DEEP is the third book in this particular series. There were several references to the characters from the first two books, but it wasn't hard to follow for people who haven't read them.
Reed Hopewell loves singing, but hasn't been able to make it past local bar stages due to his commitment to working in his wealthy family's business. He sleeps around and isn't really into serious relationships. Kudos to Gardin for portraying the hero in this manner but still making him relatable and not a total jerk; the "commitment phobe manwhore" trope usually leads to a hero I can't stand, but I actually really liked Reed. We really got to know about his history and goals, and how he got to be the way he is. He's a true southern gentleman, which I liked.
Hope Dawson works at a children's program during the day, but her nights are begrudgingly spent working for her stepfather's shady escort business. The only reason Hope doesn't quit is because she needs to save money to protect her younger sister Violet (who was awesome and sassy and my favorite character by the way) from their abusive mother. I enjoyed Hope's friendship with Morrow too.
I really enjoyed the setting of Charleston as a background for the story. It's one of those books where the setting is so strong, it's practically a character itself. I also enjoyed watching Hope and Reed's relationship develop throughout the book. Both characters grew and changed throughout the story, which was awesome and believable. I'm looking forward to more books by Diana Gardin!
Reed Hopewell loves singing, but hasn't been able to make it past local bar stages due to his commitment to working in his wealthy family's business. He sleeps around and isn't really into serious relationships. Kudos to Gardin for portraying the hero in this manner but still making him relatable and not a total jerk; the "commitment phobe manwhore" trope usually leads to a hero I can't stand, but I actually really liked Reed. We really got to know about his history and goals, and how he got to be the way he is. He's a true southern gentleman, which I liked.
Hope Dawson works at a children's program during the day, but her nights are begrudgingly spent working for her stepfather's shady escort business. The only reason Hope doesn't quit is because she needs to save money to protect her younger sister Violet (who was awesome and sassy and my favorite character by the way) from their abusive mother. I enjoyed Hope's friendship with Morrow too.
I really enjoyed the setting of Charleston as a background for the story. It's one of those books where the setting is so strong, it's practically a character itself. I also enjoyed watching Hope and Reed's relationship develop throughout the book. Both characters grew and changed throughout the story, which was awesome and believable. I'm looking forward to more books by Diana Gardin!
June 11, 2015
☆☆☆☆☆5-SMOKING HOT REED STARS☆☆☆☆☆
*COPY PROVIDED BY THE PUBLISHERS IN EXCHANGED FOR AN HONEST REVIEW*
If you must know, Rocks Star Romance has always been one of my weakness. There is nothing like a bad boy of rock and roll falling in love. And in Diana Gardin's Falling Deep, I was introduced to one sexy rocker, Reed. For all those rock star fanatics, all I got to say is ladies, hold onto your seat belts because you are in for one hot, rocking ride.
Reed has been looked down upon, by none other than his parents. They don't take him seriously. But everyone else thinks that he is THE MAN. They look up to him. Every woman who lays eyes on him wants in his pants. Everywhere he looks there's always a number of lustful eyes, who would give it up to him without having to think twice. He never wanted or thought he was a settling kind of guy, until he laid his eyes on one hot girl name, Hope.
Hope always had a date when she hangs out at the Charleston club, where Reed usually comes to perform with his band. And one night Hope wanted to be anywhere but near her date. She wanted to cut the date short but her date was very eager to get in her pants. Forcing a lady to do what she would not want to do is just one of the worse and unimaginable situations, I wouldn't want to be in. Reed comes to her rescue and things might be looking up for Hope.
With Hope having issues with her mother and stepfather, she has no choice but to stick it out and just hold on a little longer just so she can protect her sister from their abusive mother. Not only that, her stepfather isn't any different or maybe worse. When things turn bad at home, she has no one to turn to, other than the one guy she tried to stay away from, Reed. Together they embark a life experience they never thought they ever capable of doing. She has a secret that Reed might not like if he ever find out. Will he stay with her when everything out in the open? Or will he be disgusted with Hope? Will the attraction turn into something more?
I truly enjoyed getting to know Hope and Reed. Having to endure the cards they were dealt with together, was something I will not forget. I love the message of this book that love can conquer all and so if you are ready to fall deep and get lost in the romance of Hope and Reed then I highly suggest that you read Falling Deep. I for one fell deep with this storyline and look forward to reading more from Diana Gardin.
REVIEW IS ALSO ON FOUR CHICKS FLIPPING PAGES
http://fourchicksflippingpages.weebly...
*COPY PROVIDED BY THE PUBLISHERS IN EXCHANGED FOR AN HONEST REVIEW*
If you must know, Rocks Star Romance has always been one of my weakness. There is nothing like a bad boy of rock and roll falling in love. And in Diana Gardin's Falling Deep, I was introduced to one sexy rocker, Reed. For all those rock star fanatics, all I got to say is ladies, hold onto your seat belts because you are in for one hot, rocking ride.
Reed has been looked down upon, by none other than his parents. They don't take him seriously. But everyone else thinks that he is THE MAN. They look up to him. Every woman who lays eyes on him wants in his pants. Everywhere he looks there's always a number of lustful eyes, who would give it up to him without having to think twice. He never wanted or thought he was a settling kind of guy, until he laid his eyes on one hot girl name, Hope.
Hope always had a date when she hangs out at the Charleston club, where Reed usually comes to perform with his band. And one night Hope wanted to be anywhere but near her date. She wanted to cut the date short but her date was very eager to get in her pants. Forcing a lady to do what she would not want to do is just one of the worse and unimaginable situations, I wouldn't want to be in. Reed comes to her rescue and things might be looking up for Hope.
With Hope having issues with her mother and stepfather, she has no choice but to stick it out and just hold on a little longer just so she can protect her sister from their abusive mother. Not only that, her stepfather isn't any different or maybe worse. When things turn bad at home, she has no one to turn to, other than the one guy she tried to stay away from, Reed. Together they embark a life experience they never thought they ever capable of doing. She has a secret that Reed might not like if he ever find out. Will he stay with her when everything out in the open? Or will he be disgusted with Hope? Will the attraction turn into something more?
I truly enjoyed getting to know Hope and Reed. Having to endure the cards they were dealt with together, was something I will not forget. I love the message of this book that love can conquer all and so if you are ready to fall deep and get lost in the romance of Hope and Reed then I highly suggest that you read Falling Deep. I for one fell deep with this storyline and look forward to reading more from Diana Gardin.
REVIEW IS ALSO ON FOUR CHICKS FLIPPING PAGES
http://fourchicksflippingpages.weebly...
May 19, 2015
When I was approached to review Falling Deep I was assured that although it is second in a series, that it could be read as a stand alone. When I began reading I was happy to see that this was correct, it actually felt like Falling Deep was its own book, and although it tells you what happened from the first book, but it doesn't reveal the how or why, so you could easily go and read the first book.
From the minute I began reading Falling Deep I was hooked, who doesn't love a sexy, mysterious bad boy who sings. Reed is all of that, but he also has a softer side to him, and we get to see this early on within the pages. Hope was someone who I felt sorry for, especially the end of the date, but a few pages later I was shocked over what I was reading and why it was happening. MY heart broke for what she does and why, and it's a true look at how important her sister Violet is to her, and how determined she is that they will have a better life.
Falling Deep wasn't what I expected, going into this and seeing that one of the protagonists was a singer I thought he would be arrogant, and self absorbed, expecting everyone to fall at his feet. But I was pleasantly surprised to find I actually liked him....OK I had a book-boyfriend crush on him.
Falling Deep drew me into the pages and I felt every up and down of the journey that it took me on. I liked how things weren't easy for Hope and Reed, that they built up a tentative friendship and experienced the ups and downs of being attracted to someone, but also someone who is hiding something.
The characters in the pages felt real, and I loved Morrow for how he is there for Hope, for the good and the bad, I really want him to find his own person to fall in love with.
Final Verdict
Falling deep was an enjoyable read and I am looking forward to seeing what comes next.
From the minute I began reading Falling Deep I was hooked, who doesn't love a sexy, mysterious bad boy who sings. Reed is all of that, but he also has a softer side to him, and we get to see this early on within the pages. Hope was someone who I felt sorry for, especially the end of the date, but a few pages later I was shocked over what I was reading and why it was happening. MY heart broke for what she does and why, and it's a true look at how important her sister Violet is to her, and how determined she is that they will have a better life.
Falling Deep wasn't what I expected, going into this and seeing that one of the protagonists was a singer I thought he would be arrogant, and self absorbed, expecting everyone to fall at his feet. But I was pleasantly surprised to find I actually liked him....OK I had a book-boyfriend crush on him.
Falling Deep drew me into the pages and I felt every up and down of the journey that it took me on. I liked how things weren't easy for Hope and Reed, that they built up a tentative friendship and experienced the ups and downs of being attracted to someone, but also someone who is hiding something.
The characters in the pages felt real, and I loved Morrow for how he is there for Hope, for the good and the bad, I really want him to find his own person to fall in love with.
Final Verdict
Falling deep was an enjoyable read and I am looking forward to seeing what comes next.
April 11, 2015
I have always enjoyed rockstar romances, but honestly-even though that is Reed's dream, this book actually doesn't focus primarily on that. First and foremost, this is the story of Hope's struggle with her totally unorthodox (and frankly disturbing) family situation, Reed coming to terms with his own past family issues in order to trust again, and how the two of them come together despite it all. The rockstar part is just a nice bonus that doesn't overwhelm the story of finding true, unending, explosive love.
Hope. While she appears strong at times, she still is trapped in her circumstances-and while things do finally work themselves out, it bugs me that she wasn't more proactive in finding a way out of her situation sooner. And eventually that's where Reed steps in...
Reed. Oh my goodness. Everything about him will have you mesmerized and lamenting the fact that he is only a character in a fiction book. Wholly alpha male, protective, strong and still emotional and dedicated once his walls come down.
Put the two of them together, and what you get is a fiery, passionate and tempestuous relationship...and once you add in the additional angst and both of their ongoing struggles with the past and present situations, the result is a riveting story that will keep you completely engrossed until the very last page.
4.5 hot and dramatic stars for Falling Deep, recommended for 18+ due to adult situations. A definite must-read!
Hope. While she appears strong at times, she still is trapped in her circumstances-and while things do finally work themselves out, it bugs me that she wasn't more proactive in finding a way out of her situation sooner. And eventually that's where Reed steps in...
Reed. Oh my goodness. Everything about him will have you mesmerized and lamenting the fact that he is only a character in a fiction book. Wholly alpha male, protective, strong and still emotional and dedicated once his walls come down.
Put the two of them together, and what you get is a fiery, passionate and tempestuous relationship...and once you add in the additional angst and both of their ongoing struggles with the past and present situations, the result is a riveting story that will keep you completely engrossed until the very last page.
4.5 hot and dramatic stars for Falling Deep, recommended for 18+ due to adult situations. A definite must-read!
April 28, 2015
Please check out my full 4 star review right here
http://trinastantilisingtidbits.blogs...
O.M.G, My one weakness is a rock star......................... and Diana you nailed it.
Reed Hopewell has to earn Hope's trust and to do that he must earn it,
Hope Dawson has had a terrible upbringing, nothing seemed to have gone right for her and her absolute number one thought during each day was to
''Protect her sister at all costs''
Without spoiling this story for you, it is a definite must read, that will keep you turning the pages frantically, and have you on an emotional roller coaster from start to finish.
4 stars from me
http://trinastantilisingtidbits.blogs...
O.M.G, My one weakness is a rock star......................... and Diana you nailed it.
Reed Hopewell has to earn Hope's trust and to do that he must earn it,
Hope Dawson has had a terrible upbringing, nothing seemed to have gone right for her and her absolute number one thought during each day was to
''Protect her sister at all costs''
Without spoiling this story for you, it is a definite must read, that will keep you turning the pages frantically, and have you on an emotional roller coaster from start to finish.
4 stars from me
October 3, 2015
Best yet!!!
Wow!I loved both previous books in this series but this one is the best yet. Nelson Island is a fairytale place but the inhabitants are not all living their dream. The story here is heart breaking, poignant and real. Most of these characters have been introduced in the first 2 books. In Falling Deep, Aston's little brother, Reed is all grown up and ready for his life to get real. Enter, Hope and all bets are off. Reed is a manwhore. Has been since high school, but Hope puts a stop to that by just breathing. Watching the interaction between them is staggering. Ms. Gardin is a wonderful storyteller and Hope's and Reed's story is inspirational, loving and very well done. Please do yourself a favor and get Falling Deep. VERY,VERY HIGHLY RECOMMENDED
Wow!I loved both previous books in this series but this one is the best yet. Nelson Island is a fairytale place but the inhabitants are not all living their dream. The story here is heart breaking, poignant and real. Most of these characters have been introduced in the first 2 books. In Falling Deep, Aston's little brother, Reed is all grown up and ready for his life to get real. Enter, Hope and all bets are off. Reed is a manwhore. Has been since high school, but Hope puts a stop to that by just breathing. Watching the interaction between them is staggering. Ms. Gardin is a wonderful storyteller and Hope's and Reed's story is inspirational, loving and very well done. Please do yourself a favor and get Falling Deep. VERY,VERY HIGHLY RECOMMENDED
April 10, 2015
4.5 stars....
Loved Hope and Reeds story. It was CRAZY GOOD and crazy intense! lol I loved how Diana kept me on the edge of my seat from the start to the finish! I love the setting as well, I lived in Charleston fro a few years and love to be able to see the whole story play out in my head because I know the area!
Rockstar and girl who needs a hero all wrapped into the pages of Falling Deep! If you want something that will have you glued to the book ( or ebook) this read is for you! The end will leave you breathless and happy and just filled with so much!
Loved Hope and Reeds story. It was CRAZY GOOD and crazy intense! lol I loved how Diana kept me on the edge of my seat from the start to the finish! I love the setting as well, I lived in Charleston fro a few years and love to be able to see the whole story play out in my head because I know the area!
Rockstar and girl who needs a hero all wrapped into the pages of Falling Deep! If you want something that will have you glued to the book ( or ebook) this read is for you! The end will leave you breathless and happy and just filled with so much!
July 2, 2015
Excellent love story! Reed - hot musician who's just about to get his big break! Hope - beautiful young girl who's living a secret life! When they meet there's an instant connection that Hope tries to fight. She needs to protect her younger sister and starting something with Reed could jeopardize that. I was really rooting for these two to get together and enjoyed every minute of it. Loved the setting - makes me want to visit Nelson Island! Cuddle up with this one under your beach umbrella this summer and enjoy!
December 16, 2015
4-1/2 stars.
This review also appears on Pretty Sassy Cool.
Twenty-one year old Hope Dawson is trapped in a life working as an escort for her stepfather in order to protect her younger sister. She isn't sleeping with her clients, but it's only a matter of time before her stepfather forces her to do that. When playboy musician Reed Hopewell saves her from being assaulted one night, it's both the best thing and the worst thing to ever happen to Hope. Well, I guess to both of them.
Reed is twenty-three and torn between pursuing his passion and joining his place in the family business.
Determined never to fall in love, he's even more torn up when he saves Hope and can't get her out of his mind.
I loved this. It reminded me of Aladdin when he's going on and on about Jasmine's hair and eyes and ...yeah.:
As much as they want each other, both Reed and Hope try to avoid the inevitable.
But Hope has secrets and isn't willing to tell Reed what's going on in her life. What happens if he finds out what Hope's job really is and that she's not giving it up?
I haven't read anything by Diana Gardin before, but I really enjoyed this book. You know how I feel about Rockstars and playboys who fall head over heels for a girl he doesn't see coming, so this book had lots of stuff that I loved. I loved the storyline and the characters, especially (no surprise here) Reed. He goes through a true transformation, and I enjoyed taking the journey with him. He was sweet and swoony and Southern. I love guys from the South!
As for Hope, I get why she does it but the push and pull with him drives me crazy. I'm glad she realizes what she's done pretty much right away instead of being stupid about it until the last second of the book. I loved her sister and her best friend, Morrow, and I hope that Gardin has plans to continue this series with him.
Falling Deep is a quick read with lovable characters, a hot romance, and a believable storyline. If you like rock star romances or books with swoony guys, you'll love this one, too.
--
For more reviews and bookish talk, visit our blog at Pretty Sassy Cool
This review also appears on Pretty Sassy Cool.
Twenty-one year old Hope Dawson is trapped in a life working as an escort for her stepfather in order to protect her younger sister. She isn't sleeping with her clients, but it's only a matter of time before her stepfather forces her to do that. When playboy musician Reed Hopewell saves her from being assaulted one night, it's both the best thing and the worst thing to ever happen to Hope. Well, I guess to both of them.
Reed is twenty-three and torn between pursuing his passion and joining his place in the family business.
"I know you love the music thing and you're really good at it. It's time to decide...are you going to make a life with us here at the company or are you going to get out there and do the singer-songwriter thing full-time? It's now or never, little bro."
Determined never to fall in love, he's even more torn up when he saves Hope and can't get her out of his mind.
"But if I see her again..."
"If you see her again, you think you'll go man-whore Reed on her?"
Reed nodded. "Bingo. She's hot, man. Like...lingerie-model hot, only shorter. She's got this hair...never seen anything like it, it's so long and...and her ski is this bronze color that makes me crazy, wanting to touch it. And her eyes...her eyes are this brownish green that keeps glinting flecks of gold in the light. And she was so petite, I think I could fit my hands around her waist..."
I loved this. It reminded me of Aladdin when he's going on and on about Jasmine's hair and eyes and ...yeah.:
As much as they want each other, both Reed and Hope try to avoid the inevitable.
"Holy hell," he murmured against her skin. "I've done this before. I swear I have...why is it all so much...more tonight?"
"Because it's us," she said simply. "And there's something about us, Reed. I feel it, and so do you."
But Hope has secrets and isn't willing to tell Reed what's going on in her life. What happens if he finds out what Hope's job really is and that she's not giving it up?
I haven't read anything by Diana Gardin before, but I really enjoyed this book. You know how I feel about Rockstars and playboys who fall head over heels for a girl he doesn't see coming, so this book had lots of stuff that I loved. I loved the storyline and the characters, especially (no surprise here) Reed. He goes through a true transformation, and I enjoyed taking the journey with him. He was sweet and swoony and Southern. I love guys from the South!
It felt like he'd been waiting years to kiss her, to feel her body molding against his, to feel her hands tangling in his hair as they now were. The little surprised gasp that vibrated against his lips as he grabbed her only fueled his need to get as much of her touching as much of him as he possibly could.
As for Hope, I get why she does it but the push and pull with him drives me crazy. I'm glad she realizes what she's done pretty much right away instead of being stupid about it until the last second of the book. I loved her sister and her best friend, Morrow, and I hope that Gardin has plans to continue this series with him.
Falling Deep is a quick read with lovable characters, a hot romance, and a believable storyline. If you like rock star romances or books with swoony guys, you'll love this one, too.
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May 8, 2015
This book.. I knew I was going to like it from the moment I opened it up. I don’t know what it is, but I am just in love with books that fit into this category. They’re fast easy reads, they tell great stories and above all, they make you fall in love with all of the characters in it. This book was no different. It was fun, it was heartbreaking and I couldn’t help but start to love all of the characters in it.
Let me start at the very beginning. We meet Reed who is getting ready to give the show of a lifetime at a club in Charleston. He is a singer/songwriter who hopes to make it big one day, but during the day works in his father’s company. His father hopes that Reed will take over one day or run it with his sister, Aston, but Reed has different dreams. Reed has no intentions on settling down any time soon and has never had a serious girlfriend who was able to change his mind. Then we meet Hope, who appears to be on a date with a guy. She is in the club that Reed performs in and after the performance her date is set to go home, with her. But Hope has no intentions on going with the guy. Things happen and in the end Reed saves Hope from the creeper. While you never expect the story behind Hope’s horrific night, it brings in so much drama and therefore you want to know more, you want to know what happens with Hope, what happens with Reed and even what is going to happen to Hope’s little sister Violet and if Hope is able to get Violet away from her mother and stepfather.
What I love about this book is that Diana was able to create so much drama and heartbreak in just 70,000 words. The story pulls you in, you’re hooked from the very first page and I wasn’t able to put the book down very easily. Which then resulted in me having short nights before a long day at work! Even though I’ve been reading a lot of New Adult books the last couple of months, I love when a story is set apart from the rest of the books I’ve been reading. Diana was able to make me fall in love with Nelson Island (and the people on it ;) )
This book, for me, got a big five out of five stars. The story intrigued me, it made me cry, hold my breath and make me want to keep reading all night long. While I wasn’t able to post my review on Amazon, due to me not having an active buying account there, I will post this here and on other platforms. Diana, thank you for writing this book and I can’t wait to dive into Sam/Aston’s and Hunter/Ever’s story!
Let me start at the very beginning. We meet Reed who is getting ready to give the show of a lifetime at a club in Charleston. He is a singer/songwriter who hopes to make it big one day, but during the day works in his father’s company. His father hopes that Reed will take over one day or run it with his sister, Aston, but Reed has different dreams. Reed has no intentions on settling down any time soon and has never had a serious girlfriend who was able to change his mind. Then we meet Hope, who appears to be on a date with a guy. She is in the club that Reed performs in and after the performance her date is set to go home, with her. But Hope has no intentions on going with the guy. Things happen and in the end Reed saves Hope from the creeper. While you never expect the story behind Hope’s horrific night, it brings in so much drama and therefore you want to know more, you want to know what happens with Hope, what happens with Reed and even what is going to happen to Hope’s little sister Violet and if Hope is able to get Violet away from her mother and stepfather.
What I love about this book is that Diana was able to create so much drama and heartbreak in just 70,000 words. The story pulls you in, you’re hooked from the very first page and I wasn’t able to put the book down very easily. Which then resulted in me having short nights before a long day at work! Even though I’ve been reading a lot of New Adult books the last couple of months, I love when a story is set apart from the rest of the books I’ve been reading. Diana was able to make me fall in love with Nelson Island (and the people on it ;) )
This book, for me, got a big five out of five stars. The story intrigued me, it made me cry, hold my breath and make me want to keep reading all night long. While I wasn’t able to post my review on Amazon, due to me not having an active buying account there, I will post this here and on other platforms. Diana, thank you for writing this book and I can’t wait to dive into Sam/Aston’s and Hunter/Ever’s story!
April 10, 2015
Falling Deep is the first book I have read by Diana Gardin and it definitely won't be my last. I am a huge fan of rock star books and I must say I really enjoyed this one. I will surely go back and read the first book in this series to get a better understanding of Sam and Aston's relationship.
Reed Hopewell is a business man by day as this is what his parents think he should do with his life but at night and on the weekends he sings at local clubs because performing is his true passion in life. He is quite the ladies man and has no intention of settling down until he lays eyes on Hope, the most beautiful girl he has ever seen while at the local club. He ends up having to save Hope from being attacked by the guy she is on a date with and he is very intrigued by her. Will Hope by the one to finally get Reed to settle down and want to be in a committed relationship?
Hope Dawson spends lots of nights at the club working for her stepfather as an escort. She absolutely hates her job but in order to protect her sister Violet from their abusive mother she has no other choice. She is very intrigued by Reed but she knows that in order to keep the peace at home she must remain single as part of her job. When things in her life take a turn for the worse she runs to the one guy she has been trying to stay away from. Things start to get serious between Reed and Hope the more time they spend together and Hope finally feels like she can open up to him about her life. Will Hope finally be able to open up to Reed and reveal the secret she has been trying to keep hidden? Will he stick around when he finds out the secret Hope is keeping from him?
I loved the connection between Reed and Hope. These two went through many ups and downs throughout the story but always seemed to find their way back to one another. The secondary characters added lots of depth to the storyline. I look forward to reading more from Ms. Gardin in the future.
Reed Hopewell is a business man by day as this is what his parents think he should do with his life but at night and on the weekends he sings at local clubs because performing is his true passion in life. He is quite the ladies man and has no intention of settling down until he lays eyes on Hope, the most beautiful girl he has ever seen while at the local club. He ends up having to save Hope from being attacked by the guy she is on a date with and he is very intrigued by her. Will Hope by the one to finally get Reed to settle down and want to be in a committed relationship?
Hope Dawson spends lots of nights at the club working for her stepfather as an escort. She absolutely hates her job but in order to protect her sister Violet from their abusive mother she has no other choice. She is very intrigued by Reed but she knows that in order to keep the peace at home she must remain single as part of her job. When things in her life take a turn for the worse she runs to the one guy she has been trying to stay away from. Things start to get serious between Reed and Hope the more time they spend together and Hope finally feels like she can open up to him about her life. Will Hope finally be able to open up to Reed and reveal the secret she has been trying to keep hidden? Will he stick around when he finds out the secret Hope is keeping from him?
I loved the connection between Reed and Hope. These two went through many ups and downs throughout the story but always seemed to find their way back to one another. The secondary characters added lots of depth to the storyline. I look forward to reading more from Ms. Gardin in the future.
April 6, 2015
In a way Diana Gardin's book "Falling Deep" is your typical rockstar musician story where the lead guy and in this case it is Reed Hopewell meets a girl who he is willing to give up all his playboy ways for and would do anything for her. Normally in the case of the female, she is someone that is definitely not the lead male character's type and is more often than not - a goody-good or a plain jane. In this case though, the main female lead is a stunner and her occupation is somewhat of a call girl or an escort. Hope Dawson's stepfather Frank owns a high rollers club called Silk which offers females out to the clients for a night on the town and sometimes a little bit more. Hope only does this so that she can A) earn some money to finally save her sister and B) to keep the peace at home and again save Violet from being hurt. Her main priority in life is her 13 yr old sister. If it wasn't for her, then she would have left and not stuck around a long time ago. When Reed meets Hope, he wants to save her but can Hope afford to let Reed in especially when its clear, she has to remain single. When things get a bit serious with Reed, she decides to take the chance and tell him the truth - but will Reed's true colours be revealed when she tells him and he runs away ? Is there a HEA for Hope and Reed or has she got to live with the fact that she will never find true love and someone who accepts the situation she is in ?
Find out in Falling Deep by Diana Gardin. Falling Deep is a little more edgier and intense than your usual girl meets rockstar and falls in love romances.
Find out in Falling Deep by Diana Gardin. Falling Deep is a little more edgier and intense than your usual girl meets rockstar and falls in love romances.
April 13, 2015
Falling Deep was a sweet, sexy story about finding yourself as well as allowing yourself to love.
Hope has had a rough upbringing. She only lives with her hateful mother and stepfather, Frank to protect her younger sister, Violet. She is not living, just getting through the days. However, her life is turned upside down when Reed enters it.
Reed is a musician. He is hot and knows it and can get any woman he wants. One night he saves Hope and his entire world is changed.
Hope and Reed together are just perfect. They are made for each other.
“Holy hell,” he murmured against her skin. “I’ve done this before. I swear I have…why is it all so much…more tonight?” “Because it’s us,” she said simply.
At times, I did feel that this was a bit too insta-love and that there could have definitely been more build-up between Hope and Reed when certain events happened. But I loved how right they were for one another when they were together. Both of them had a lot to get through in order to be together.
Overall, I enjoyed this story. It definitely had some steamy moments.
“I want you to say you want me to fuck you against this window, and then that’s exactly what I’m going to do.”
It was also funny and dealt with some real issues. I really enjoyed the supporting characters as well, particularly Violet and Morrow. ~ Tiffany, 3.5 stars
Hope has had a rough upbringing. She only lives with her hateful mother and stepfather, Frank to protect her younger sister, Violet. She is not living, just getting through the days. However, her life is turned upside down when Reed enters it.
Reed is a musician. He is hot and knows it and can get any woman he wants. One night he saves Hope and his entire world is changed.
Hope and Reed together are just perfect. They are made for each other.
“Holy hell,” he murmured against her skin. “I’ve done this before. I swear I have…why is it all so much…more tonight?” “Because it’s us,” she said simply.
At times, I did feel that this was a bit too insta-love and that there could have definitely been more build-up between Hope and Reed when certain events happened. But I loved how right they were for one another when they were together. Both of them had a lot to get through in order to be together.
Overall, I enjoyed this story. It definitely had some steamy moments.
“I want you to say you want me to fuck you against this window, and then that’s exactly what I’m going to do.”
It was also funny and dealt with some real issues. I really enjoyed the supporting characters as well, particularly Violet and Morrow. ~ Tiffany, 3.5 stars
April 8, 2015
I loved this story!!
Hope is a young women who has been handed a shit life by her mother. Hope endures it because of her younger sister Violet. Her current stepfather owns a club that is an escort service of sorts. Her deal is to ONLY be arm candy. Just long enough to save enough money to get Violet out. Her mother is as vicious as her stepfather.
Reed is also in his early twenties, expected to take over his family business. After seeing what his parents endured he vowed to never be committed. On the side he is a rockstar, unsure of what he will do with his life.
Hope and Reed come together and their chemistry is palpable. Hope tries to keep at arms length because she can't really "date"; it would be bad for her stepfather's business, causing her mother to be unhappy and taking it out on Violet - the way they know how to get to Hope.
But the fate/coming together is inevitable. What happens when Hope tells him of the truth? Can happily ever after survive for these two?
Go one click to find out!
Hope is a young women who has been handed a shit life by her mother. Hope endures it because of her younger sister Violet. Her current stepfather owns a club that is an escort service of sorts. Her deal is to ONLY be arm candy. Just long enough to save enough money to get Violet out. Her mother is as vicious as her stepfather.
Reed is also in his early twenties, expected to take over his family business. After seeing what his parents endured he vowed to never be committed. On the side he is a rockstar, unsure of what he will do with his life.
Hope and Reed come together and their chemistry is palpable. Hope tries to keep at arms length because she can't really "date"; it would be bad for her stepfather's business, causing her mother to be unhappy and taking it out on Violet - the way they know how to get to Hope.
But the fate/coming together is inevitable. What happens when Hope tells him of the truth? Can happily ever after survive for these two?
Go one click to find out!
June 17, 2015
I read a lot of books, but I don't write very many reviews. I usually only write reviews for books I consider to be five stars. With that being said, 'Falling Deep' definitely falls into that category. An angst-riddled fast paced love story that captured me from the start, Falling Deep was definitely the surprise hit of the year for me and lifted me out of the long book drought I'd fallen into. I loved Hope's strong loyalty to her sister and the fact that she'd give everything up to keep her safe. Reed was a hot up and coming rock sensation who finds himself knocked off guard by the deep feelings he develops for Hope. These two had great chemistry and at times I found the book hard to put down. This is a great book to take with you to the beach this summer. Bravo Diana Gardin for a refreshing well-written love story!
October 13, 2015
One hell of a ride! The conflict that Hope must be going through in protecting her sister by something that she hates is felt throughout. Hope's strength of character is something that comes out really strongly throughout. Even though she hates her job for her step-father, it does bring her into Reed's life.
Reed is still struggling to find his place in the world, conflicted between duty in working at his father's company and his passion for music. Never in a million years did he think he would give up his womanising ways and settle down with one woman, until Hope. Hope gives him hope of a future that he wants.
This was a powerful and emotional read as courage and love strive to come out on top. It kept me captivated from the first word to the last, not wanting to let me go. My favourite of the series so far.
***Reviewed for LBM Book Blog***
Reed is still struggling to find his place in the world, conflicted between duty in working at his father's company and his passion for music. Never in a million years did he think he would give up his womanising ways and settle down with one woman, until Hope. Hope gives him hope of a future that he wants.
This was a powerful and emotional read as courage and love strive to come out on top. It kept me captivated from the first word to the last, not wanting to let me go. My favourite of the series so far.
***Reviewed for LBM Book Blog***
July 5, 2015
This has got to be my favourite Diana gardin book ever I loved every single second of it reed is a lot hotter than I assumed, he is broody and sexy and a big hunk of alpha male goodness ohh yes ladies this is a panty melter right here you do not want to miss it! brilliant book and HOT off the charts sexiness going down. in this book hot, rock star, tats, alpha male he'll YES would reed be my book boyfriend. he'll yes I already married this book boyfriend!
July 6, 2015
Review to come!
September 5, 2015
Really good romance story. Solid plot. Will be checking out more from this author for sure.
October 2, 2015
This is the third book in this series and I recommend reading them in order to really understand what is going on. Reed Hopewell seems to have a different girl in his bed every night. He doesn’t do relationships. It isn’t that he doesn’t believe in love or anything it is just that he has seen what his parents have gone through and is scared by it. Reed works at his father’s company however his real passion is music and he has started playing at Sunny’s and local bars in Charleston. He meets Hope outside a bar he is playing at and saves her from a guy who doesn’t want to take no for an answer. He can’t seem to get her out of his head. Then he sees her again at a function he is attending with his father. He can’t seem to stop looking at her and eventually steps out for some air to get his wits together. While trying to do that Sam brings Hope out to find him. Reed gets her to agree to go out on a date with him. Hope doesn’t know why she agreed to go out with Reed. She can’t get Reed out of her head either however she knows her step-father will never allow her to go out with Reed. Hope works for her step-father, Frank at his club Silk. No willing mind you. She has no choice but to work for Frank or they won’t let her see her sister, Violet. Hope and Violet have not had a nice childhood. Hope is doing everything she can to protect Violet from their mother and the men she brings into their lives. Hope’s friend Morrow keeps telling her to just tell Reed what is going on and that maybe he will be able to help her and Violet. Will Hope ask for help? Will Reed find out what Hope does working for Frank another way and how will he react then? Both Reed and Hope have their secrets and reasons they think it won’t work between them. Hope has more than her to worry about. She can’t bring herself to think about what could happen to her sister if she doesn’t play by Frank’s rules. Reed is scared of what happened between his parents happening to him and the girl he finally falls in love with. I could totally relate to how Hope was feeling and why she did the things she did. She was between a rock and hard place. She doesn’t feel like she could have both, no matter what Morrow tells her and what she wishes would happen. She feels like she will only be to have one or another. Reed wants to give Hope the space she needs but also be there for her. Eventually he may have to take a stand and take charge. I can’t say enough about this book or the series as a whole. I loved it and hope to read more about the characters about Nelson Island. There was a tiny hint at maybe another book with these characters and I hope it’s true. I look forward to reading other books by Diana Gardin in the future.
I was given this book in return for an honest review.
I was given this book in return for an honest review.
April 10, 2015
Reviewed on Behalf of Give Me Books
Falling Deep was a sweet, sexy story about finding yourself as well as allowing yourself to love.
Hope has had a rough upbringing. She only lives with her hateful mother and stepfather, Frank to protect her younger sister, Violet. She is not living, but just getting through the days. However, her life is turned upside down when Reed enters it.
Reed is a musician. He is hot and knows it and can get any woman he wants. One night he saves Hope and his entire world has changed.
Hope and Reed together are just perfect. They are made for each other. “Holy hell,” he murmured against her skin. “I’ve done this before. I swear I have…why is it all so much…more tonight?” “Because it’s us,” she said simply. At times, I did feel that this was a bit too insta-love and that there could have definitely been more build-up between Hope & Reed when certain events happened. But I loved how right they were for one another when they were together. Both of them had a lot to get through in order to be together.
Overall, I enjoyed this story. It definitely had some steamy moments. “I want you to say you me to fuck you against this window, and then that’s exactly what I’m going to do.” It was also funny and dealt with some real issues. I really enjoyed the supporting characters as well, particularly Violet and Morrow. (3.5 stars)
Falling Deep was a sweet, sexy story about finding yourself as well as allowing yourself to love.
Hope has had a rough upbringing. She only lives with her hateful mother and stepfather, Frank to protect her younger sister, Violet. She is not living, but just getting through the days. However, her life is turned upside down when Reed enters it.
Reed is a musician. He is hot and knows it and can get any woman he wants. One night he saves Hope and his entire world has changed.
Hope and Reed together are just perfect. They are made for each other. “Holy hell,” he murmured against her skin. “I’ve done this before. I swear I have…why is it all so much…more tonight?” “Because it’s us,” she said simply. At times, I did feel that this was a bit too insta-love and that there could have definitely been more build-up between Hope & Reed when certain events happened. But I loved how right they were for one another when they were together. Both of them had a lot to get through in order to be together.
Overall, I enjoyed this story. It definitely had some steamy moments. “I want you to say you me to fuck you against this window, and then that’s exactly what I’m going to do.” It was also funny and dealt with some real issues. I really enjoyed the supporting characters as well, particularly Violet and Morrow. (3.5 stars)
October 3, 2015
In book #2 of the series, we see Reed in his element as a musician and song writer. We also meet Hope at a club in Charleston one night where Reed happens to be signed up to play. Watch as Reed comes to Hope's rescue. What is he rescuing her from and why? What is going on with her family dynamics? We know what has happened with Reed's family. What happens one night when Reed is playing at Sunny's and some stranger walks up to him? What happens when he has to travel out of town for a few days? Who goes with him? What happens? Everything that happens when Reed returns from out of town, is like being on a roller coaster that does nothing but looptity loops. The ups and downs in this book truly show us how tumultuous a bad family situation can be. What happens with Hope and her family? Can Hope get out of the situation she is in and save her sister in the process? You'll have to read and find out. The ending leaves you with one hell of a cliff hanger. I really hope that Tam and Row get a book soon, or even next. Then we just need to hold out for Blaze and Tate to get their stories. Keep up the great writing Diana Gardin! Keep it up! I look forward to reading more of your books!
RECEIVED THIS BOOK AS A GIFT FOR A FAIR/HONEST REVIEW and REVIEWER FOR Bloggin' With M.Brennan.
RECEIVED THIS BOOK AS A GIFT FOR A FAIR/HONEST REVIEW and REVIEWER FOR Bloggin' With M.Brennan.
July 13, 2016
Reed Hopewell is sexy corporate worker by day and a sexy rocker on the weekends. Hope Dawson is a counselor by day working with needy kids and a call girl on the weekends for her evil as hell step dad who uses her younger sister to keep Hope working in the "family" business.
I totally fell in love with Reed, how could you not, the total bad boy, rocking the suit at the family firm during the day in a job he totally hates, covering up the tats and probably draining his soul and letting it all out on the weekends when he sings, one night he is finally spotted by a producer who might finally make all his dreams come true.
Hope is a beautiful young women who has the luck of having a shitty mom and a even worse step father and a baby sister Violet who she would give her life for, the mom abuses Violet, so Hope is working as a call girl (non - sexual) saving all the money she can so she can take Vi and get her out of there and give her a better life.
How can you not root for these two to be together, its a fairy tale love story, with so much heartache thrown in, you get your heart torn out before you get your HEA.
Reed is the perfect book boyfriend.
I totally fell in love with Reed, how could you not, the total bad boy, rocking the suit at the family firm during the day in a job he totally hates, covering up the tats and probably draining his soul and letting it all out on the weekends when he sings, one night he is finally spotted by a producer who might finally make all his dreams come true.
Hope is a beautiful young women who has the luck of having a shitty mom and a even worse step father and a baby sister Violet who she would give her life for, the mom abuses Violet, so Hope is working as a call girl (non - sexual) saving all the money she can so she can take Vi and get her out of there and give her a better life.
How can you not root for these two to be together, its a fairy tale love story, with so much heartache thrown in, you get your heart torn out before you get your HEA.
Reed is the perfect book boyfriend.
March 17, 2015
Reed's book is my favorite in the NI series so far! Can't wait to share him with the world!
August 23, 2015
I really enjoyed this book! Hope and Reed had a great connection and I was rooting for their HEA! Definitely worth checking out if you're relaxing by the pool this summer!
November 25, 2015
did not finish, did not connect with either character. stopped at 22%
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