What do you think?
Rate this book
The Critic
WORDS...Convey a message
Andrea Jordan dreams of acting on Broadway, and she is at the cusp of achieving success. All her sacrifices start to pay off when she lands a role that will catapult her to stardom.
CAN...Express our thoughts
Award-winning theater critic Bentley Chambers possesses the power to make or break a career. Theatergoers consider his reviews to be gospel, and actors cringe at the thought of him in the audience. His words possess power.
HURT...A heart’s not made of stone
More than one actor has been sent packing after Bentley’s bad reviews, and Andrea could be next. She won’t stand by and let him shatter her dreams, but she never thought giving him a piece of her mind would also mean giving him a piece of her heart.
Will Andrea discover on her own the passion Bentley claims she lacks, or will he be the one to draw it out of her?
Words… choose them wisely.
*STANDALONE NOVEL*INTENDED FOR MATURE READERS 18+*
Andrea Jordan dreams of acting on Broadway, and she is at the cusp of achieving success. All her sacrifices start to pay off when she lands a role that will catapult her to stardom.
CAN...Express our thoughts
Award-winning theater critic Bentley Chambers possesses the power to make or break a career. Theatergoers consider his reviews to be gospel, and actors cringe at the thought of him in the audience. His words possess power.
HURT...A heart’s not made of stone
More than one actor has been sent packing after Bentley’s bad reviews, and Andrea could be next. She won’t stand by and let him shatter her dreams, but she never thought giving him a piece of her mind would also mean giving him a piece of her heart.
Will Andrea discover on her own the passion Bentley claims she lacks, or will he be the one to draw it out of her?
Words… choose them wisely.
*STANDALONE NOVEL*INTENDED FOR MATURE READERS 18+*
315 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 2, 2015
27 people are currently reading
496 people want to read
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 79 reviews
January 16, 2021
Eventhough the story is recyled with a very judgemental heroine, The Critic was saved by Bently, the hero. It is a nice change to read a demure alpha hero. Bently is just that. Demure, loyal, and vulnerable.
The writing from Miss Schwehm is mediocre. I want to see more drama/twist/ plot. At the end I can not say I am disappointed. I am familiar with Miss Schwehm's work before. The moral story for me is be kind. Words can be cruel.
4 stars
The writing from Miss Schwehm is mediocre. I want to see more drama/twist/ plot. At the end I can not say I am disappointed. I am familiar with Miss Schwehm's work before. The moral story for me is be kind. Words can be cruel.
4 stars
February 3, 2015
I LOVE this book! Bentley Chambers may be critical but his opinion is THE only one that matters when it comes to Andi Jordan. Ms. Schwehm writes a wonderful story about learning, growing, and realizing what truly is important when it comes to life. Her characters are sexy, witty, and fun while the banter between the MCs and the supporting characters is flawless and real. Grab this book and savor the story. I did and I will be doing it again.
March 2, 2015
Fabulous! Five Stars -
Bentley Chambers is a critic and most artists/actors' worst nightmare--because he writes it like it is.
To most, he is an as*...especially to Andi, up and coming Broadway star. Although he admires and loves her from afar, he has come to expect the best from her and she cannot get it right when it comes to Bentley. And he publishes this all on a regular basis. GAH.
Until she approaches him and sparks fly, in and out of the bedroom. Bentley offers to help Andi with her craft, and when she accepts, she doesn't expect to fall for the obnoxious critic. Soon she learns he is anything but and he is a pretty amazing guy.
Just the right amount of tension and angst keeps you on the edge of your seat (pun intended) for this story. Schwehm does a fabulous job of transporting the reader to off-Broadway and into the bedroom.
The scene in the restaurant (the one in the beginning...you'll know it) is my favorite and I cannot stop thinking about it. Normally attracted to jerks, I couldn't help but to fall for the sweet and sensual, Bentley Chambers.
Bentley Chambers is a critic and most artists/actors' worst nightmare--because he writes it like it is.
To most, he is an as*...especially to Andi, up and coming Broadway star. Although he admires and loves her from afar, he has come to expect the best from her and she cannot get it right when it comes to Bentley. And he publishes this all on a regular basis. GAH.
Until she approaches him and sparks fly, in and out of the bedroom. Bentley offers to help Andi with her craft, and when she accepts, she doesn't expect to fall for the obnoxious critic. Soon she learns he is anything but and he is a pretty amazing guy.
Just the right amount of tension and angst keeps you on the edge of your seat (pun intended) for this story. Schwehm does a fabulous job of transporting the reader to off-Broadway and into the bedroom.
The scene in the restaurant (the one in the beginning...you'll know it) is my favorite and I cannot stop thinking about it. Normally attracted to jerks, I couldn't help but to fall for the sweet and sensual, Bentley Chambers.
March 8, 2015
As a fan of all Joanne Schwehm's books I knew that I would enjoy this book. However She completely blew me away with this one! It is by far my favorite of all of her books! Start to finish it took me 3 hours to reach the end! I could not stop reading about Bentley and Andi. These two pulled me in from the very first page. Bentley is simply amazing! There is no way someone can not read his story and fall in love with him! Andi seems like a strong female but she has self doubt just like everyone else. She is a character that I think a lot of readers will be able to connect with and relate to. Throughout this book I went through one emotion after the other. From holy crap that was HOT to heartbreaking sobs, and then to pure happiness. There were also tears of happiness involved! You can't help but feel the emotions. They jump right off the pages! Joanne truely outdid herself with this one! I highly recommend this book!!! If I could give it more than 5 stars I would!
Want to read
December 2, 2018💝 FREE on Amazon today (12/2/2018)!💝
Blurb:
WORDS
Convey a message
Andrea Jordan dreams of acting on Broadway, and she is at the cusp of achieving success. All her sacrifices start to pay off when she lands a role that will catapult her to stardom.
CAN
Express our thoughts
Award-winning theater critic Bentley Chambers possesses the power to make or break a career. Theatergoers consider his reviews to be gospel, and actors cringe at the thought of him in the audience. His words possess power.
HURT
A heart’s not made of stone
More than one actor has been sent packing after Bentley’s bad reviews, and Andrea could be next. She won’t stand by and let him shatter her dreams, but she never thought giving him a piece of her mind would also mean giving him a piece of her heart.
Will Andrea discover on her own the passion Bentley claims she lacks, or will he be the one to draw it out of her?
Words… choose them wisely.
Blurb:
WORDS
Convey a message
Andrea Jordan dreams of acting on Broadway, and she is at the cusp of achieving success. All her sacrifices start to pay off when she lands a role that will catapult her to stardom.
CAN
Express our thoughts
Award-winning theater critic Bentley Chambers possesses the power to make or break a career. Theatergoers consider his reviews to be gospel, and actors cringe at the thought of him in the audience. His words possess power.
HURT
A heart’s not made of stone
More than one actor has been sent packing after Bentley’s bad reviews, and Andrea could be next. She won’t stand by and let him shatter her dreams, but she never thought giving him a piece of her mind would also mean giving him a piece of her heart.
Will Andrea discover on her own the passion Bentley claims she lacks, or will he be the one to draw it out of her?
Words… choose them wisely.
March 4, 2015
I don't usually read CR but found this was just what I needed. The book took me to one of my favorite cities (New York) and straight into the world of Broadway, actors, critics, and the machinations of the theatre world.
Our hero and heroine (Andi and Bentley) were a wonderfully sweet couple who had met previously yet nothing had come from it. He carried the crush for a while until finally destiny threw them together once again. Toss in a few misunderstandings, an acting performance found lacking, and a sharply written review, and our lovebirds are faced with complications. The ending was satisfying though, with plenty of steamy scenes and an epilogue I adored.
Overall, Joanne has a captivating writing style and her story was unique among a slew of sometimes ridiculous tropes. *cough" Stepbrother.
I will definitely buy this author again.
Our hero and heroine (Andi and Bentley) were a wonderfully sweet couple who had met previously yet nothing had come from it. He carried the crush for a while until finally destiny threw them together once again. Toss in a few misunderstandings, an acting performance found lacking, and a sharply written review, and our lovebirds are faced with complications. The ending was satisfying though, with plenty of steamy scenes and an epilogue I adored.
Overall, Joanne has a captivating writing style and her story was unique among a slew of sometimes ridiculous tropes. *cough" Stepbrother.
I will definitely buy this author again.
February 3, 2015
I was lucky enough to beta read The Critic, This book brought out the hopeless romantic in me. It was realistic and honest from the first page to the last. I fell in love with Mr. Bentley Chambers. He's a modern day prince charming who swept me off my feet. With each turn of the page, I could feel the emotions that Bentley and Andi were feeling. Their personalities jumped off the pages, and kept me riveted as to what would happen next. I thoroughly enjoyed this gem.
March 17, 2015
Now this was a great, easy contemporary romance read for me. The writing flowed well and my interest was held the whole way through. The storyline was original which frankly is getting harder to find these days.
As for the characters, I really liked Bentley, our male lead. Even though he so badly wants Andi, he's not willing to sacrifice who he is or how he writes his reviews (telling the absolute truth, no matter how hard)-even though he knows she'll be hurt by his words...he just keeps hoping that what he writes will help her. And I have to say-as a reviewer, I really get where Bentley is coming from. I always want to write an honest review, and sometimes that means telling people things they may not want to hear. So this is something that actually helped me identify with his character, which is one of the reasons I liked him so much.
Andrea (Andi), well her character was pretty good, but at times I found her a bit frustrating with how she would jump to conclusions. The supporting characters were well rounded and helped give The Critic depth (along with some comic relief).
Andi and Bentley have some great chemistry, especially evident when Bentley is trying to bring out Andi's passionate side to help her with her acting.
The Critic was a 4-star read for me, and I'd recommend for 18+ contemporary romance fans.
As for the characters, I really liked Bentley, our male lead. Even though he so badly wants Andi, he's not willing to sacrifice who he is or how he writes his reviews (telling the absolute truth, no matter how hard)-even though he knows she'll be hurt by his words...he just keeps hoping that what he writes will help her. And I have to say-as a reviewer, I really get where Bentley is coming from. I always want to write an honest review, and sometimes that means telling people things they may not want to hear. So this is something that actually helped me identify with his character, which is one of the reasons I liked him so much.
Andrea (Andi), well her character was pretty good, but at times I found her a bit frustrating with how she would jump to conclusions. The supporting characters were well rounded and helped give The Critic depth (along with some comic relief).
Andi and Bentley have some great chemistry, especially evident when Bentley is trying to bring out Andi's passionate side to help her with her acting.
The Critic was a 4-star read for me, and I'd recommend for 18+ contemporary romance fans.
March 4, 2015
Joanne has done it again. Her writing style is one that allows you be sucked in and relate to her characters. Her characters are realistic , sweet , sexy , and powerful without being over the top and unbelievable. Bentley, the Critic, is honest to a fault and believes in what he says and writes . Andi is trying to live out her dream to be on Broadway. Bentley and Andi have a chance meeting and he can't get her out of his mind. He ends up reviewing her show and isn't impressed with her performance ,his review says as much . He sees potential but no passion in her performances ...... Can Andi put aside the hurt that she feels from his reviews to allow him to help her find that passion he knows she has deep down or will her heart stay focused on his negative reviews and not allow him in? Get it and fall in love with Bentley, Get a different side of Brett, Meet Gina , she is a spicy , crazy,honest best friend and an amazing support system for Andi. Joanne , no need for a penny , I am lucky enough to have gotten to read this ARC . Can't wait for the next book from you. BRAVA! Standing Ovation !
July 16, 2017
I can honestly say this has to be my favorite of Joannes books. Andi and Bentley's story is so romantic. Mainly because they truly had to work for it. Just because your beautifully stunning or drop dead handsome means you get the guy or girl 123.
As a blogger I know reviews are very important. But I also know that being critical can really hurt. Bentley learned a very hard lesson. Sometimes its not what you say its how you say it
As a blogger I know reviews are very important. But I also know that being critical can really hurt. Bentley learned a very hard lesson. Sometimes its not what you say its how you say it
March 21, 2015
4.25 stars!
What a surprise that Bentley Chambers turned out to be. Sweet story
What a surprise that Bentley Chambers turned out to be. Sweet story
March 8, 2015
Cute read with some mild angst.
March 24, 2015
Read for ByoB
This was a sweet romance; Andi is an aspiring Broadway actress and Bentley is an acclaimed theater critic. He has the ability to make or break a show and finds himself falling for a girl on stage. But instead of glowing reviews he writes what he sees, which are not much to the liking of Andi.
Hurt by his words, Andi does everything she can to be better. When she finally thinks she has made it with a perfect part, Bentley comes to the preview show. Let's just say his words do not reflect kindly on her performance. Bound and determined to find out what his problem is Andi seeks Bentley out and confronts him. Loving the fire that he sees Bentley finds that he wants to do more than just help her performance and a crazy attraction leads to more than advice.
Their relationship was never easy, there are misunderstandings that lead to more misunderstandings and there were points where I wanted to reach through the book and give Andi a good shake. For all her stage presence, she is quite insecure. She doesn't really believe in herself and spends more time behaving like she thinks she should instead of throwing cation to the wind and just being. While you think that a critic who can destroy you with his words would be a bit of a jerk, that is just not the case with Bentley. He is sweet and caring and only wants what is best.
This books has a lot of ups and downs in relatively short order but the banter and conversations are refreshing. The dialog was witty and the story flowed along well. There was a definite chemistry between our two main characters and they heated up the pages when they weren't fighting. This was a real sweet story and held my attention. I wanted to see how the characters made out. I wanted to see if Andi was able take the criticism and become what she was meant to be? Or is she too guarded and does she try to hard to become great?
This was a sweet romance; Andi is an aspiring Broadway actress and Bentley is an acclaimed theater critic. He has the ability to make or break a show and finds himself falling for a girl on stage. But instead of glowing reviews he writes what he sees, which are not much to the liking of Andi.
Hurt by his words, Andi does everything she can to be better. When she finally thinks she has made it with a perfect part, Bentley comes to the preview show. Let's just say his words do not reflect kindly on her performance. Bound and determined to find out what his problem is Andi seeks Bentley out and confronts him. Loving the fire that he sees Bentley finds that he wants to do more than just help her performance and a crazy attraction leads to more than advice.
Their relationship was never easy, there are misunderstandings that lead to more misunderstandings and there were points where I wanted to reach through the book and give Andi a good shake. For all her stage presence, she is quite insecure. She doesn't really believe in herself and spends more time behaving like she thinks she should instead of throwing cation to the wind and just being. While you think that a critic who can destroy you with his words would be a bit of a jerk, that is just not the case with Bentley. He is sweet and caring and only wants what is best.
This books has a lot of ups and downs in relatively short order but the banter and conversations are refreshing. The dialog was witty and the story flowed along well. There was a definite chemistry between our two main characters and they heated up the pages when they weren't fighting. This was a real sweet story and held my attention. I wanted to see how the characters made out. I wanted to see if Andi was able take the criticism and become what she was meant to be? Or is she too guarded and does she try to hard to become great?
December 26, 2015
This was a sweet romance; Andi is an aspiring Broadway actress and Bentley is an acclaimed theater critic. He has the ability to make or break a show and finds himself falling for a girl on stage. But instead of glowing reviews he writes what he sees, which are not much to the liking of Andi.
Hurt by his words, Andi does everything she can to be better. When she finally thinks she has made it with a perfect part, Bentley comes to the preview show. Let's just say his words do not reflect kindly on her performance. Bound and determined to find out what his problem is Andi seeks Bentley out and confronts him. Loving the fire that he sees Bentley finds that he wants to do more than just help her performance and a crazy attraction leads to more than advice.
Their relationship was never easy, there are misunderstandings that lead to more misunderstandings and there were points where I wanted to reach through the book and give Andi a good shake. For all her stage presence, she is quite insecure. She doesn't really believe in herself and spends more time behaving like she thinks she should instead of throwing cation to the wind and just being. While you think that a critic who can destroy you with his words would be a bit of a jerk, that is just not the case with Bentley. He is sweet and caring and only wants what is best.
This books has a lot of ups and downs in relatively short order but the banter and conversations are refreshing. The dialog was witty and the story flowed along well. There was a definite chemistry between our two main characters and they heated up the pages when they weren't fighting. This was a real sweet story and held my attention. I wanted to see how the characters made out. I wanted to see if Andi was able take the criticism and become what she was meant to be? Or is she too guarded and does she try to hard to become great?
~Jess
Hurt by his words, Andi does everything she can to be better. When she finally thinks she has made it with a perfect part, Bentley comes to the preview show. Let's just say his words do not reflect kindly on her performance. Bound and determined to find out what his problem is Andi seeks Bentley out and confronts him. Loving the fire that he sees Bentley finds that he wants to do more than just help her performance and a crazy attraction leads to more than advice.
Their relationship was never easy, there are misunderstandings that lead to more misunderstandings and there were points where I wanted to reach through the book and give Andi a good shake. For all her stage presence, she is quite insecure. She doesn't really believe in herself and spends more time behaving like she thinks she should instead of throwing cation to the wind and just being. While you think that a critic who can destroy you with his words would be a bit of a jerk, that is just not the case with Bentley. He is sweet and caring and only wants what is best.
This books has a lot of ups and downs in relatively short order but the banter and conversations are refreshing. The dialog was witty and the story flowed along well. There was a definite chemistry between our two main characters and they heated up the pages when they weren't fighting. This was a real sweet story and held my attention. I wanted to see how the characters made out. I wanted to see if Andi was able take the criticism and become what she was meant to be? Or is she too guarded and does she try to hard to become great?
~Jess
March 6, 2015
Considering I purchased The Critic immediately (not normal for me) after reading an excerpt and the first chapter, it says something about the way Joanne Schwehm brought this romance to life.
Bentley seems at first of be an ass of the highest kind, but perception changes as the novel goes on. There is that "it" feeling with him that goes beyond good looks and permeates his soul. His honesty is most important to him, and what his career hinges on. It doesn't matter if it hurts, as long as it's the truth.
Actresses need thick skins and Andi has it, unless it concerns one critic in particular. From her first performance to her last, she's been slammed and shredded by Bentley. It hurts that he made a name for himself critiquing her first show and it's even more bewildering that he manages to be in every theater she has a play in. Why single her out with the hundreds of actresses in the New York/New Jersey area? What's so special about her?
Finally Bentley writes the critique that puts Andi's role in jeopardy and she decides that's the last time he'll rip her up. After a blazing confrontation that ends with Bentley offering her his help, Andi decides that her career is worth the risk of letting her worst critic into her life.
I love how the characters develop throughout the story, there is an actual feeling of growth not only in their relationship but within themselves. Their conversations aren't stilted or forced. And the love scenes are exactly that - steamy, sexy, and romantic. They're hot in themselves without needing to rely on graphic details.
The Critic is one novel I can read again and again so it's going straight to my favorites shelf, Joanne Scwehm. I'll be keeping my eye out for your next book.
Bentley seems at first of be an ass of the highest kind, but perception changes as the novel goes on. There is that "it" feeling with him that goes beyond good looks and permeates his soul. His honesty is most important to him, and what his career hinges on. It doesn't matter if it hurts, as long as it's the truth.
Actresses need thick skins and Andi has it, unless it concerns one critic in particular. From her first performance to her last, she's been slammed and shredded by Bentley. It hurts that he made a name for himself critiquing her first show and it's even more bewildering that he manages to be in every theater she has a play in. Why single her out with the hundreds of actresses in the New York/New Jersey area? What's so special about her?
Finally Bentley writes the critique that puts Andi's role in jeopardy and she decides that's the last time he'll rip her up. After a blazing confrontation that ends with Bentley offering her his help, Andi decides that her career is worth the risk of letting her worst critic into her life.
I love how the characters develop throughout the story, there is an actual feeling of growth not only in their relationship but within themselves. Their conversations aren't stilted or forced. And the love scenes are exactly that - steamy, sexy, and romantic. They're hot in themselves without needing to rely on graphic details.
The Critic is one novel I can read again and again so it's going straight to my favorites shelf, Joanne Scwehm. I'll be keeping my eye out for your next book.
February 20, 2015
OMG! I love Bentley Chambers! He's one tough critic that you will never forget again! He's hot, sexy, and left me swooning, and even drooling a few times.
Andrea aka Andi is trying to make it in the world of acting and has been struggling to get on Broadway. It seems that just when she thinks she has reached her dream, here comes Bentley with his devastating reviews. It seems he is one man who is hard to please. Little did she know, he is really trying to help her move forward, but she’s determined to face him and fight for what she wants.
As they meet, the sparks do fly. They have this undeniable attraction that neither of them can ignore. Andi doesn't know if she loves or hates him, and he sure made me mad along the way. Deep down, you truly can tell he has such a big heart and really is a softie. I love how much she changes throughout this book. She really grows in not only her acting but her emotional well being also.
Even though they have their differences, the heat and sexual tension bring them together. I love how they seem to balance each other out and make such a perfect couple, and the scenes were just HOT! I loved Gina, her best friend, and I am so curious about Brett, Bentley's brother and I'm looking forward to his book too.
Joanne hooked me into the story and I read it in one sitting because I was so anxious to know if their relationship would survive the obstacles they were faced with. The characters are well-written and well thought out. If you're looking for a book with a hot and sexy male who will knock your socks off, then you will love Bentley in The Critic.
Andrea aka Andi is trying to make it in the world of acting and has been struggling to get on Broadway. It seems that just when she thinks she has reached her dream, here comes Bentley with his devastating reviews. It seems he is one man who is hard to please. Little did she know, he is really trying to help her move forward, but she’s determined to face him and fight for what she wants.
As they meet, the sparks do fly. They have this undeniable attraction that neither of them can ignore. Andi doesn't know if she loves or hates him, and he sure made me mad along the way. Deep down, you truly can tell he has such a big heart and really is a softie. I love how much she changes throughout this book. She really grows in not only her acting but her emotional well being also.
Even though they have their differences, the heat and sexual tension bring them together. I love how they seem to balance each other out and make such a perfect couple, and the scenes were just HOT! I loved Gina, her best friend, and I am so curious about Brett, Bentley's brother and I'm looking forward to his book too.
Joanne hooked me into the story and I read it in one sitting because I was so anxious to know if their relationship would survive the obstacles they were faced with. The characters are well-written and well thought out. If you're looking for a book with a hot and sexy male who will knock your socks off, then you will love Bentley in The Critic.
March 1, 2015
This book has such and original story line! Bentley is "The" critic that everyone wants to please. He writes reviews for The Edge on Broadway/Off Broadway shows. There had been this on actress that he wants to see who has thrived by his not so nice reviews. However, no many how many times he has seen Andi perform, her performance is never up to par.
Andi is the actress who is suppose to be the next big thing. However, the one thing that keeps her back is the negative reviews she gets from a certain critic.
Having enough of his mean and hurtful reviews Andi has decided she is going to find this Critic Bentley. What she expected to find is NOT what she expected at all.
These two have such a chemistry. They blew me away. Andi wants to succeed on her own merit but she's understand after Bentley had explained himself to her she needs to improve. She's willing to do what is necessary in this business to show she can be a leading actress on a Broadway show. Bentley wants to be the person to help her.
The storyline is original. These two work to get where they are not only on a professional level but also a personal level.
I love we get to see Brett, Alex, and Aubrey (from My Chance Series check that series out HOT). So we see what the characters have been up too.
I love how Andi realize how much she loves Bentley and what he needs to do before it maybe too late. It may have taken her a bit to really see the big picture but thank goodness she didn't waste time!
These two are fabulous!
I strongly suggest you one click this book! I love it!
Andi is the actress who is suppose to be the next big thing. However, the one thing that keeps her back is the negative reviews she gets from a certain critic.
Having enough of his mean and hurtful reviews Andi has decided she is going to find this Critic Bentley. What she expected to find is NOT what she expected at all.
These two have such a chemistry. They blew me away. Andi wants to succeed on her own merit but she's understand after Bentley had explained himself to her she needs to improve. She's willing to do what is necessary in this business to show she can be a leading actress on a Broadway show. Bentley wants to be the person to help her.
The storyline is original. These two work to get where they are not only on a professional level but also a personal level.
I love we get to see Brett, Alex, and Aubrey (from My Chance Series check that series out HOT). So we see what the characters have been up too.
I love how Andi realize how much she loves Bentley and what he needs to do before it maybe too late. It may have taken her a bit to really see the big picture but thank goodness she didn't waste time!
These two are fabulous!
I strongly suggest you one click this book! I love it!
March 11, 2015
Now my turn to be the Critic
This book is about Bentley the critic, that can make or drown you in just one review. Then we have Andi, the actress trying to make her way to Broadway. She has to first get thorough The Critic.
This book goes into the main gist of the story that you can act out the words and actions, but you have to feel them and make your audience feel them too. Would of been hypocritical if the book was that, read the words and didn't feel along with the characters.
Good thing JS practices what she preaches in this case. You feel Bentley struggling with wanting Andi to be better and improve her acting skills, when she feels she is doing everything the only way she knows how.
Andi, I wanted to throat punch at times. That to me is a great writer to make me feel that strong of emotions about a fictional character.
I gave this book 4* because something wasn't answered, and that will be book two. The main MC story didn't end on a cliffhanger, so yes this can be a stand alone. I would recommend this book.
I received this book for an honest review.
This book is about Bentley the critic, that can make or drown you in just one review. Then we have Andi, the actress trying to make her way to Broadway. She has to first get thorough The Critic.
This book goes into the main gist of the story that you can act out the words and actions, but you have to feel them and make your audience feel them too. Would of been hypocritical if the book was that, read the words and didn't feel along with the characters.
Good thing JS practices what she preaches in this case. You feel Bentley struggling with wanting Andi to be better and improve her acting skills, when she feels she is doing everything the only way she knows how.
Andi, I wanted to throat punch at times. That to me is a great writer to make me feel that strong of emotions about a fictional character.
I gave this book 4* because something wasn't answered, and that will be book two. The main MC story didn't end on a cliffhanger, so yes this can be a stand alone. I would recommend this book.
I received this book for an honest review.
March 20, 2015
The Critic blew me away!!! Andi Jordan has left her prestigious family to pursue an acting career in NYC. And during this journey to “make it” she has received performance reviews that haven’t, well, been entirely positive. Bentley Chambers is the critic. Although his words seem harsh, he has to be honest in his reviews or else it will reflect poorly on his job. I adored these characters. I couldn’t get enough of the funny, cute dialogue between these two. I felt for Andi while she read the reviews. Yet, I was able to understand Bentley and his words. Excellent job by the author for the character development. I felt the passion from both characters, Bentley for his job and Andi for her craft. I loved the penny references as well. I smiled while I read them and loved each one! I recommend this book for the romantics that love a sweet, steamy, love story! 4.5 Smooches for The Critic by Joanne Schwehm!
Sarah
Sarah
March 2, 2015
Joanne Shwehm does it again! I adore her feisty characters and her heart wrenching storylines. They take the reader on an emotional rollercoaster that never fails to leave me sayin "Wow"! The genious yet effortless way she ties the character in her various books together is brilliant! They always leave me wanting more.
Bently Chambers practical obsession with Andrea Jordan might have consumed the average critic and led them to write reviews that were less than accurate. This characters professionalism and brutal honesty is what bound these two characters together in a pretty unconventional way. The obstacles as their relationship developed were many but the author perfectly executed how each was overcome.
The passion between Bently and Andi was sizzling and the other characters, Gina and Bev were refreshing and very relevant. I am so looking forward to what this aauthor comes up with next!!!
Bently Chambers practical obsession with Andrea Jordan might have consumed the average critic and led them to write reviews that were less than accurate. This characters professionalism and brutal honesty is what bound these two characters together in a pretty unconventional way. The obstacles as their relationship developed were many but the author perfectly executed how each was overcome.
The passion between Bently and Andi was sizzling and the other characters, Gina and Bev were refreshing and very relevant. I am so looking forward to what this aauthor comes up with next!!!
March 3, 2015
Bentley Chambers is The Critic he writes for The Edge. His reviews of the shows can make or Break an actor. Andrea { Andi } thinks Bentley hates her. His reviews are putting doubt in her acting , doubting her passion . What Bentley see's is beyond her acting,is the true Andi. She has what it takes she just need help bringing it out. Bentley has been drawn to Andi from her first play he saw and reviewed, but that wasn't the first time his eyes landed on her. 5 years ago in a store they so called met and she has haunted his mind ever since. Can Bentley help Andi, bring her true passion out and also see Bentley's true feeling or will she let her hurt and pride keep her from seeing what's in front of her, will she let that all walk away from her, He is offering her more then her acting he is offering himself and Happiness.
March 4, 2015
Prior to getting my hands on this book I'd heard it was going to be a great read, and I'm happy to say they were right!
The Critic is one of those rare books that hits all the marks of a great read for me.
I was hooked early, from Bentley and Andi's first interaction in the coffee shop.
I loved the characters,the strong and independent Andi was an amazing character. She's tough yet weak in the most perfect ways.
Bentley is honest to a fault. He's strong, a bit dominant and doesn't give up when there's something he wants.
The characters are realistic, believable and human. The chemistry is explosive and Bentley and Andi couldn't be more perfect for each other.
The story itself is also realistic and written in a believable way. I never found myself bored or wishing the pace would pick up, the writing is just right.
Another truly amazing story from the brilliant Joanne Schwehm.
The Critic is one of those rare books that hits all the marks of a great read for me.
I was hooked early, from Bentley and Andi's first interaction in the coffee shop.
I loved the characters,the strong and independent Andi was an amazing character. She's tough yet weak in the most perfect ways.
Bentley is honest to a fault. He's strong, a bit dominant and doesn't give up when there's something he wants.
The characters are realistic, believable and human. The chemistry is explosive and Bentley and Andi couldn't be more perfect for each other.
The story itself is also realistic and written in a believable way. I never found myself bored or wishing the pace would pick up, the writing is just right.
Another truly amazing story from the brilliant Joanne Schwehm.
March 3, 2015
I received an advanced copy of The Critic by Joanne Schwehm. I have read everything by her and I love them all. I really fell in love with Andi and Bentley and I know you will too. Andi is looking for the bright lights of Broadway and Bentley never seems to have any nice reviews to give her, but a face to face encounter will change all that. It pulled me in from the first chapter and kept me hanging on to see how their story would unfold. It is beautifully written and with all the right details to make me feel like I was on stage or on the streets of NYC. Take a chance with this couple and you will not be disappointed!
February 1, 2016
I have to say I really enjoy reading a book that features a strong alpha male, but one who isn't an asshole, who has a sweet side that he isn't afraid to show, and who has a lot of heart. And Bentley Chambers fit that to a T.
Andi and Bentley are great together, once they were able to get past a few issues. I liked how Andi grew under Bentley's care, and how he had some realizations of his own.
The Critic is a sweet and entertaining read, I couldn't wait to get home from work this evening to finish it. The supporting characters were just as engaging as Bentley and Andi, and I'm excited to see that some have their own books, they will definitely be added to my tbr pile!
Andi and Bentley are great together, once they were able to get past a few issues. I liked how Andi grew under Bentley's care, and how he had some realizations of his own.
The Critic is a sweet and entertaining read, I couldn't wait to get home from work this evening to finish it. The supporting characters were just as engaging as Bentley and Andi, and I'm excited to see that some have their own books, they will definitely be added to my tbr pile!
June 3, 2020
I absolutely fell in love with The Critic. Bentley is one of the most romantic men I have ever read. Andi had me wanting to cry for her, shake sense into her, and fall in love with her.
Andi is a actress the has her sights set on Broadway. Bentley is The Critic that can make or break a Broadway actress. Bentley believes in giving honest reviews. So what happens what he has to give a bad review to the girl that he hopes to make his one day?
You have to be careful with the words that are said or written because the can make or break someone.
Andi is a actress the has her sights set on Broadway. Bentley is The Critic that can make or break a Broadway actress. Bentley believes in giving honest reviews. So what happens what he has to give a bad review to the girl that he hopes to make his one day?
You have to be careful with the words that are said or written because the can make or break someone.
February 23, 2015
I was given an ARC of The Critic, for an honest review.
The Critic has a great storyline, it's funny, sexy and romantic. I love that both main characters Bentley Chambers and Andrea Jordan, have strong personalities and are determined to succeed. The Critic is one of those books, you will be thinking of the characters after you finished it. I love that I met new characters and visited briefly with some old ones. Everyone should read this book you won't be disappointed. Truly can't wait to see where Joanne Schwehm takes me next !
The Critic has a great storyline, it's funny, sexy and romantic. I love that both main characters Bentley Chambers and Andrea Jordan, have strong personalities and are determined to succeed. The Critic is one of those books, you will be thinking of the characters after you finished it. I love that I met new characters and visited briefly with some old ones. Everyone should read this book you won't be disappointed. Truly can't wait to see where Joanne Schwehm takes me next !
April 23, 2015
This book left me completely frustrated. I really, really wanted to like it more than I did because the premise had such great potential. The first 10% of the book was great, but then it became extremely annoying. Andi was such a flip flopping cry baby! I wanted to give her a throat punch several times. I just didn't buy the insta love between Bentley and Andi and the angst between Andi and her parents was too easily smoothed over. Regardless, of its flaws, I stuck with this story that could have been great. Ultimately, it was just ok.
July 23, 2015
So yet again am I falling in love with a Joanne Schwehm book!! This was book four from her & she hasn't disappointed me yet!!! Brantley was simply amazing...all the sweet & sexy & soft side to him!! I couldn't help but fall in love!!! The little crossover with Brett & Julie and Alex & Aubrey was just perfect!!! God but now I need Brett & Julie's story even more!!! Way to go Joanne!!!
March 9, 2015
I love me some Bentley!! Damn he is so honest and so hot!! I've read all of Joanne's books and I do have to say this is my favorite of them all! Andrea tries so hard and needs to find the passion. Do Bentleys words help or hinder her? Read this book and find out! The chemistry between them is out of this world. I love the back and forth. Joanne kept me turning the pages. Highly recommended.
March 10, 2015
I guess I'm in the minority regarding this book. I did not find this book entertaining at all. For some reason Andi just rubbed me the wrong way. Just the way she handles things, it felt like she went from one extreme to another and after the misunderstanding regarding Lucy and Bentley's cousin, I just could not read any more.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 79 reviews