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VA Is For Lovers #1
Just Parker
They say hate is a strong word, but Eileen Parker is certainly no stranger to it. Parker hates her first name, hates her apartment, hates her life. Which, sure, sounds a bit cynical, but after the life that she’s led so far, you really can’t blame her. With her sophomore year of college overshadowed by circumstances that she never expected, Parker just wants to keep her head down, pass her classes, and take care of the responsibilities that are threatening to destroy her. And then she meets Ash.
Ashton Carter is working to fix the messes that he’s made, but he’s still struggling with dark memories of a night that changed his life. He’s definitely not looking for someone to spend forever with, but when he meets Parker, his life changes once again. It doesn't bother him that Parker adamantly refuses to admit to the chemistry between them, or that she’s determined to keep him at arms length. Ash is convinced that Parker is everything he never knew he needed, and he’s not about to let her slip away.
Fighting against overwhelming insecurities and secrets that feel too big to share, the two must make a choice. They can keep running from their pasts, or they can confront them and face their future together.
***This is the first book in a series of standalone novels. Due to adult language/situations and mild drug use, this book is recommended for readers 18+.
Ashton Carter is working to fix the messes that he’s made, but he’s still struggling with dark memories of a night that changed his life. He’s definitely not looking for someone to spend forever with, but when he meets Parker, his life changes once again. It doesn't bother him that Parker adamantly refuses to admit to the chemistry between them, or that she’s determined to keep him at arms length. Ash is convinced that Parker is everything he never knew he needed, and he’s not about to let her slip away.
Fighting against overwhelming insecurities and secrets that feel too big to share, the two must make a choice. They can keep running from their pasts, or they can confront them and face their future together.
***This is the first book in a series of standalone novels. Due to adult language/situations and mild drug use, this book is recommended for readers 18+.
409 pages, Kindle Edition
First published December 1, 2014
1 person is currently reading
467 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 27 of 27 reviews
June 28, 2015
I thoroughly enjoyed "Just Parker"
I was given a free e copy in exchange for an honest review.
I hadn't finished reading the first page when I realised that there is something special about this writer. The use of language, the prose, the style of writing, the immediate connection with the reader had me from the get go,.
The story is told from the POV of Parker and Ash. (I love POV done well, and this is done extremely well - no mistaking who is talking, and the characters evolve as we listen.) We drop into Parker's head first and enough is revealed to really want to get to know her better. I formed an attachment to her straight away.
Parker is barely keeping herself together as she grapples with her current situation and the past. Ash is struggling to find himself in the aftermath of some terrible event. This is far more than a love story. It deals with death, cancer, abuse, anger, family dynamics and more. It is against and through this background that the characters are exposed and grow. Parker is a strong young woman. Her character is complex; she is vulnerable, full of self doubt, yet determined and focussed. Ash's character is also multi dimensional. He appears confident, he has a vocational goal, he has everything that Parker does not, money, friends, a supportive and loving family but he struggles to know who he is.
I liked the structure of the novel and the complex, multi layered characterisation that gradually led to some sort of resolution. The writing is excellent. It reminded me at times of Jodi Picoult's, Jojo Moyes', and Kristen Hannah's, but better.
Very strong 4 stars!
I read the first few pages of Completely Caroline and I can't wait to read it! Really, I want to read it as soon as it's published.
(But please, can we have fewer "groan" "growl" and "chuckle" verbs)
I was given a free e copy in exchange for an honest review.
I hadn't finished reading the first page when I realised that there is something special about this writer. The use of language, the prose, the style of writing, the immediate connection with the reader had me from the get go,.
The story is told from the POV of Parker and Ash. (I love POV done well, and this is done extremely well - no mistaking who is talking, and the characters evolve as we listen.) We drop into Parker's head first and enough is revealed to really want to get to know her better. I formed an attachment to her straight away.
Parker is barely keeping herself together as she grapples with her current situation and the past. Ash is struggling to find himself in the aftermath of some terrible event. This is far more than a love story. It deals with death, cancer, abuse, anger, family dynamics and more. It is against and through this background that the characters are exposed and grow. Parker is a strong young woman. Her character is complex; she is vulnerable, full of self doubt, yet determined and focussed. Ash's character is also multi dimensional. He appears confident, he has a vocational goal, he has everything that Parker does not, money, friends, a supportive and loving family but he struggles to know who he is.
I liked the structure of the novel and the complex, multi layered characterisation that gradually led to some sort of resolution. The writing is excellent. It reminded me at times of Jodi Picoult's, Jojo Moyes', and Kristen Hannah's, but better.
Very strong 4 stars!
I read the first few pages of Completely Caroline and I can't wait to read it! Really, I want to read it as soon as it's published.
(But please, can we have fewer "groan" "growl" and "chuckle" verbs)
July 10, 2015
Thank You so much to the New Adult Book Club for giving me the opportunity to read this heartwarming book.
I want to write a better review next week, but I just finished this book and I have a lot of good feelings towards it and I wanted to write it down here.
I love how two people that start thinking not so highly of themselves end up realizing just how amazing they are, the love story was so swoony!!! I can't wait to read more from this series :)
I want to write a better review next week, but I just finished this book and I have a lot of good feelings towards it and I wanted to write it down here.
I love how two people that start thinking not so highly of themselves end up realizing just how amazing they are, the love story was so swoony!!! I can't wait to read more from this series :)
June 25, 2015
I was given a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. That, in no way, has any effect on my opinion.
Actual rating: 4.8 stars.
Just Parker is the story of a girl, who has drawn the short end of the stick when it comes to most aspects of her life. Her dad leaves her right after her 5th birthday to stay with her mom who would rather drink whiskey and rattle off insults than be a mother to her daughter. From a very early age, Parker had to learn to take care of herself -- she had to cook, clean, and bathe herself because her mom was always too drunk to care. Upon turning eighteen she moves out of her house and into an apartment for three months before starting college and being able to move into the dorms. She hadn't talked to or seen her mom in over a year when she receives a phone call from her mom: her mom has cancer and needs a ride to the doctor.
Parker ends up having to move back in with her mom to take care of her. Everyday, she still receives insult after insult. College is back in session and Parker is late to class on her first day. When entering the classroom, she falls directly on her butt and hopes that no one witnessed it. Then she notices a pair of legs with a hand extending out to help her up.
Enter Ash.
Ashton Carter is a privileged man, but he hasn't always handled that so well. He's just off a 15 month house arrest stint and trying to right himself back onto the premed track. The last thing he expects is to get knocked onto his butt by this stunning girl first thing in the morning -- on the first day of class, no less.
**
I absolutely enjoyed this story and had a lot of trouble putting it down. When I had to put it down, I kept thinking about it. Parker and Ash's story is anything but conventional -- it's heartbreaking at times and absolutely lovely at others. These two have to learn to let eachother in and to realize that they're both good people. Their pasts cause both of them a lot of heartache and they aren't sure how to get past that. Parker is the more stubborn of the two and all the walls she's built up causes quite a bit of tension.
The last 75 pages or so were the hardest for me. It dealt with death and at times, I had to fight back tears. Kind of hard when you're at work and having to deal with customers -- so I had to put it down a couple times so I wouldn't have to explain myself.
I loved every part of this story. I thought I'd have things I'd question when I reached the end, but I feel that the story was ended really well. Everything, I thought, was tied up beautifully. You could feel how much Parker and Ash loved eachother. Their sex scenes? Yeah, steamy. Also, not overdone.
If you're looking for a story that you can easily fall in love with and connect with the characters on all levels...this is the story for you.
Actual rating: 4.8 stars.
Just Parker is the story of a girl, who has drawn the short end of the stick when it comes to most aspects of her life. Her dad leaves her right after her 5th birthday to stay with her mom who would rather drink whiskey and rattle off insults than be a mother to her daughter. From a very early age, Parker had to learn to take care of herself -- she had to cook, clean, and bathe herself because her mom was always too drunk to care. Upon turning eighteen she moves out of her house and into an apartment for three months before starting college and being able to move into the dorms. She hadn't talked to or seen her mom in over a year when she receives a phone call from her mom: her mom has cancer and needs a ride to the doctor.
Parker ends up having to move back in with her mom to take care of her. Everyday, she still receives insult after insult. College is back in session and Parker is late to class on her first day. When entering the classroom, she falls directly on her butt and hopes that no one witnessed it. Then she notices a pair of legs with a hand extending out to help her up.
Enter Ash.
Ashton Carter is a privileged man, but he hasn't always handled that so well. He's just off a 15 month house arrest stint and trying to right himself back onto the premed track. The last thing he expects is to get knocked onto his butt by this stunning girl first thing in the morning -- on the first day of class, no less.
**
I absolutely enjoyed this story and had a lot of trouble putting it down. When I had to put it down, I kept thinking about it. Parker and Ash's story is anything but conventional -- it's heartbreaking at times and absolutely lovely at others. These two have to learn to let eachother in and to realize that they're both good people. Their pasts cause both of them a lot of heartache and they aren't sure how to get past that. Parker is the more stubborn of the two and all the walls she's built up causes quite a bit of tension.
The last 75 pages or so were the hardest for me. It dealt with death and at times, I had to fight back tears. Kind of hard when you're at work and having to deal with customers -- so I had to put it down a couple times so I wouldn't have to explain myself.
I loved every part of this story. I thought I'd have things I'd question when I reached the end, but I feel that the story was ended really well. Everything, I thought, was tied up beautifully. You could feel how much Parker and Ash loved eachother. Their sex scenes? Yeah, steamy. Also, not overdone.
If you're looking for a story that you can easily fall in love with and connect with the characters on all levels...this is the story for you.
July 3, 2015
I received a complimentary e-copy of Just Parker in exchange for an honest review!
Just Parker is about Parker, a college student who is struggling to deal with everything on her plate. Besides her classes, she's dealing with the fact that her mom is dying of cancer and the knowledge that her father walked away from her without a second glance when she was 5. Even before cancer struck, Parker and her mom did not have a good relationship. Her mom has spewed hateful things to her for years, making it well known that she holds Parker responsible for all the bad things that she's done with her life. In fact, she had been so hateful to Parker, that prior to the cancer diagnosis, they hadn't spoken to each other in over a year. Once the diagnosis was made, mom went into guilt mode, playing the wounded mother a la 'Parker, you know I'm dying. you should do all you can to make my last days comfortable.' To say that Parker has mixed feelings about the inevitable demise of her mom would be putting it lightly.
Imagine her surprise when she meets Ashton. He's gorgeous and surprisingly kind to her and is instantly intrigued by her. He is guarding his own secrets and continually tries to get through Parker's walls only to feel like he's knocking his head against the wall. For every step they take forward toward a relationship, they go back 3 more steps. Can Ash prove to Parker that she can trust him, that what they could have together could be amazing, could be just what they each didn't know they were looking for and that it doesn't have to be Just Parker against the world anymore?
I seriously loved this book. Parker's circumstances are absolutely heartbreaking. For her to have to deal with her obnoxious mom would be bad enough, but due to her dad's unexpected departure so many years ago, she is not very trusting and not receptive to becoming close to anyone. Ash was just the kind of person that she needed in her life. Even though he was keeping his own secrets, he tried so hard to not waver and to not push her too hard in their relationship even though it was killing him that she wouldn't let him in and help her carry her burdens. My heart ached as their relationship grew and stalled and blossomed more. They certainly weren't having an easy go at it. But I had to keep onto the hope that love would prevail at the end.
Just Parker may be K.C. O'Neill's debut novel, but based on how well written, and how well the story flowed and how much she made you care about the characters, you'd never know she hasn't been published for years!! I absolutely recommend this book!!
Just Parker is about Parker, a college student who is struggling to deal with everything on her plate. Besides her classes, she's dealing with the fact that her mom is dying of cancer and the knowledge that her father walked away from her without a second glance when she was 5. Even before cancer struck, Parker and her mom did not have a good relationship. Her mom has spewed hateful things to her for years, making it well known that she holds Parker responsible for all the bad things that she's done with her life. In fact, she had been so hateful to Parker, that prior to the cancer diagnosis, they hadn't spoken to each other in over a year. Once the diagnosis was made, mom went into guilt mode, playing the wounded mother a la 'Parker, you know I'm dying. you should do all you can to make my last days comfortable.' To say that Parker has mixed feelings about the inevitable demise of her mom would be putting it lightly.
Imagine her surprise when she meets Ashton. He's gorgeous and surprisingly kind to her and is instantly intrigued by her. He is guarding his own secrets and continually tries to get through Parker's walls only to feel like he's knocking his head against the wall. For every step they take forward toward a relationship, they go back 3 more steps. Can Ash prove to Parker that she can trust him, that what they could have together could be amazing, could be just what they each didn't know they were looking for and that it doesn't have to be Just Parker against the world anymore?
I seriously loved this book. Parker's circumstances are absolutely heartbreaking. For her to have to deal with her obnoxious mom would be bad enough, but due to her dad's unexpected departure so many years ago, she is not very trusting and not receptive to becoming close to anyone. Ash was just the kind of person that she needed in her life. Even though he was keeping his own secrets, he tried so hard to not waver and to not push her too hard in their relationship even though it was killing him that she wouldn't let him in and help her carry her burdens. My heart ached as their relationship grew and stalled and blossomed more. They certainly weren't having an easy go at it. But I had to keep onto the hope that love would prevail at the end.
Just Parker may be K.C. O'Neill's debut novel, but based on how well written, and how well the story flowed and how much she made you care about the characters, you'd never know she hasn't been published for years!! I absolutely recommend this book!!
July 14, 2015
*I was given a free e copy in exchange for an honest review.*
Before I even begin let me say, that title though. I love a good sarcastic nickname(that is more than what it seems) when I see one. Now off the other 99% of the book.
This book is about a girl named "Parker" and a guy named Ash and the road that leads them to together and if they can get past their secrets long enough to see what and who is right in front of them. When I started this book, the flashback in the begining, made me think that it was her "daddy issues" that was going to be the reason why she is isolated the way she is, but I was wrong (which I am happy about).
One of the main things I liked about this book was how real and strong both of their back stories was and how it shaped the people they were today. There was no "I can't be with you because you are too beautiful" which I have sen alot. But instead they were two people the despite what they had been through where still trying to better themselves before they even met the other person. This was good because it made them strong characters without needing the other person as a crutch. For me, that made them believable and likable characters.
The other characters helped round out this story not overshadowing but instead helping the main characters fulfill their aspirations. But they were more than just random characters and for me it felt like they all had a place in the story instead of just being used to move the story along.
Overall I would give this book 4 stars and I am really excited to see her next book.
Before I even begin let me say, that title though. I love a good sarcastic nickname(that is more than what it seems) when I see one. Now off the other 99% of the book.
This book is about a girl named "Parker" and a guy named Ash and the road that leads them to together and if they can get past their secrets long enough to see what and who is right in front of them. When I started this book, the flashback in the begining, made me think that it was her "daddy issues" that was going to be the reason why she is isolated the way she is, but I was wrong (which I am happy about).
One of the main things I liked about this book was how real and strong both of their back stories was and how it shaped the people they were today. There was no "I can't be with you because you are too beautiful" which I have sen alot. But instead they were two people the despite what they had been through where still trying to better themselves before they even met the other person. This was good because it made them strong characters without needing the other person as a crutch. For me, that made them believable and likable characters.
The other characters helped round out this story not overshadowing but instead helping the main characters fulfill their aspirations. But they were more than just random characters and for me it felt like they all had a place in the story instead of just being used to move the story along.
Overall I would give this book 4 stars and I am really excited to see her next book.
June 30, 2015
Wow…where do I begin? First, I was thrilled when I received a copy of this book from Katrina to read and review. I was static so I jumped right into it.
Now, the story…my, oh my! I fell in-love with Ashton; a sweet, sexy, old-soul 22-year old boy with a desire to love and care for innocent 19 year-old Parker, a broken soul who is hungry for love and acceptance. The way the author brings these characters together in this story is heart wrenching. It is a story about love, compassion, learning to leave the past behind and look into the future, and most of all forgiveness. I cried, several times, and did not want the story to end. I must confess, throughout the book I was not sure how the story was going to end, which is one of the things I loved on this book. I was hooked from the very beginning; I was into the story and started connecting with the characters right away. A page turner, can’t put down, up until 4:00am kind of book!
The style of writing that this author uses is so easy to follow, clean and classy!
Thanks for such an awesome story Katrina ☺
Now, the story…my, oh my! I fell in-love with Ashton; a sweet, sexy, old-soul 22-year old boy with a desire to love and care for innocent 19 year-old Parker, a broken soul who is hungry for love and acceptance. The way the author brings these characters together in this story is heart wrenching. It is a story about love, compassion, learning to leave the past behind and look into the future, and most of all forgiveness. I cried, several times, and did not want the story to end. I must confess, throughout the book I was not sure how the story was going to end, which is one of the things I loved on this book. I was hooked from the very beginning; I was into the story and started connecting with the characters right away. A page turner, can’t put down, up until 4:00am kind of book!
The style of writing that this author uses is so easy to follow, clean and classy!
Thanks for such an awesome story Katrina ☺
June 25, 2015
Parker and Ashton are both damaged by past events and guilt they can't overcome. When these two meet, they have a chemistry that can't be denied. Unfortunately, Parker has spent many years building a wall around her heart, and does everything she can to push Ash away. Ash isn't giving up without a fight, but their trust issues and past secrets might doom this relationship before it starts.
The book is humorous, heartwarming, an intense. I went through a range of emotions while reading Parker and Ash's story. Told from Ash and Parker's POV's, the characters immediately draw you into their stories and you can't help but hope that all ends well for them. Ash was a little too extreme at times and there were a few typos, but overall this is a well written and great story. I can't wait to read the next book in the series.
The book is humorous, heartwarming, an intense. I went through a range of emotions while reading Parker and Ash's story. Told from Ash and Parker's POV's, the characters immediately draw you into their stories and you can't help but hope that all ends well for them. Ash was a little too extreme at times and there were a few typos, but overall this is a well written and great story. I can't wait to read the next book in the series.
June 25, 2015
Just Parker is a story of two young adults ultimately looking for the same thing...PEACE and LOVE. Parker and Ash grew up on opposite sides of the track--had totally different child hoods. So to say 'Opposites attract' is an understatement for these two. Ash who came from a background of family and love was able to help Parker overcome her background of aloneness and hate. He taught her how to trust, love, and belong. Although Ash was dealing with his own demons, it was Parker who developed most in the book, hence the title 'Just Parker.' I thought the author did an excellent job of staying on focus and not making the book solely about Parker's relationship with Ash or focusing more on Ash's problem. I thought it was a good balance of sadness, love, romance, and self-actualization.
I received a copy of this book in return for my honest review.
I received a copy of this book in return for my honest review.
June 4, 2015
I was lucky enough to receive an ARC of this book to review.
I have no idea where to start with how much I absolutely adored this book! It had the perfect blend of everything; The characters were both damaged but amazing, and so funny! The sex scenes were fantastic, plenty of laughs but tears also, the main characters friends were great also, I'm so needing more! Especially after the snippet of the next book at the end!
Parker and Ash's chemistry is obvious from their first meeting, and as much as Parker tries to keep Ash away, believing she's not worthy of love, he doesn't give up easily! He's the perfect Book Boyfriend, sexy, hilarious and adorable! With his ripped jeans and all! ;)
I'm beyond excited to read more from this exceptionally talented new author!
I have no idea where to start with how much I absolutely adored this book! It had the perfect blend of everything; The characters were both damaged but amazing, and so funny! The sex scenes were fantastic, plenty of laughs but tears also, the main characters friends were great also, I'm so needing more! Especially after the snippet of the next book at the end!
Parker and Ash's chemistry is obvious from their first meeting, and as much as Parker tries to keep Ash away, believing she's not worthy of love, he doesn't give up easily! He's the perfect Book Boyfriend, sexy, hilarious and adorable! With his ripped jeans and all! ;)
I'm beyond excited to read more from this exceptionally talented new author!
July 15, 2015
Just Parker was incredible. It is definitely one of my favorite books I read so far this year. It's about two broken people with a tough past, came together as one experiencing unexpected love and hope. I cried a whole lot though but so worth it. Just something about these characters so relatable to me. I am so happy I read this book. It definitely captivated me. The plot of the story was so amazing. I don't think I'll ever forget this one. Most memorable story I ever read. The romance between the main characters was everything. I love it so much. This book deserves more than 5 stars ! I highly recommend ! :)
*Received a free ebook in exchange for an honest review*
*Received a free ebook in exchange for an honest review*
July 6, 2015
Just Parker by K C O'Neill is an excellent read.
Parker is a girl with the weight of the world on her shoulders. Keeping everything bottled in, anger, guilt, stress, Parker does not let anyone get too close.
Ash is dealing with his own set of problems. Still struggling to learn how to adjust to life again is something he is working on.
Both are keeping secrets from one another. While Parker tries her best to push Ash away, Ash fights back because he believes they have a once in a lifetime kind of love.
I am in love with these two characters and this story! Just Parker is one of my favorite books I’ve read all year!
Parker is a girl with the weight of the world on her shoulders. Keeping everything bottled in, anger, guilt, stress, Parker does not let anyone get too close.
Ash is dealing with his own set of problems. Still struggling to learn how to adjust to life again is something he is working on.
Both are keeping secrets from one another. While Parker tries her best to push Ash away, Ash fights back because he believes they have a once in a lifetime kind of love.
I am in love with these two characters and this story! Just Parker is one of my favorite books I’ve read all year!
February 27, 2017
This is a well written story of Parker and Ashton. Written from both of their POVs, the story follows their journey of an accidental meeting into a solid, life-changing relationship. Like all relationships, this one has its doubts and imperfections.
One of the things that makes this story so 'real' for me is that these characters have flaws-they think they aren't worthy of love, but along the way, find each other and realize their love makes each other better.
Parker has a bad home life, and she is dealing with an incredibly tough time at home. She doesn't want to let Ashton in. She tells him as much and that she isn't worthy of love. These are his thoughts:
"I knew that she believed every word she had said. She thought she was tainted, or unlovable. And she was so wrong. I didn’t know what she’d been through, but I knew that whatever it was, it wouldn’t change the way I felt. I couldn’t even begin to explain it, but she was starting to feel… essential."
But Ashton doesn't stop there. (swoon):
"A beautiful, amazing, special person, and you don’t deserve the life that’s been given to you. I promise you, things are going to get better. One way or another, things are going to get better, and until they do, I’ll be here every single day, making sure you know how fucking incredible you are.”
Through Parker he finds his self-worth, and becomes a better man: "All I felt was determination. Determination to live a life that I could be proud of, that Parker would be proud of. A life that brought more people to my deathbed than two kids whose feelings were such complicated tangles of emotion that it would take years to sort through them."
Through the self-discovery and love and heartache and death, these two survive it all. I loved this quote the most...it seems to sum up Ashton and Parker perfectly: "I was beginning to love the way that we could just sit and… be. Like nothing mattered in the world, and all we needed to feel okay was to sit and hold onto each other’s hands."
Because honestly? Doesn't everyone just hope to have someone to just 'be' with? Just as you are....just to be.
One of the things that makes this story so 'real' for me is that these characters have flaws-they think they aren't worthy of love, but along the way, find each other and realize their love makes each other better.
Parker has a bad home life, and she is dealing with an incredibly tough time at home. She doesn't want to let Ashton in. She tells him as much and that she isn't worthy of love. These are his thoughts:
"I knew that she believed every word she had said. She thought she was tainted, or unlovable. And she was so wrong. I didn’t know what she’d been through, but I knew that whatever it was, it wouldn’t change the way I felt. I couldn’t even begin to explain it, but she was starting to feel… essential."
But Ashton doesn't stop there. (swoon):
"A beautiful, amazing, special person, and you don’t deserve the life that’s been given to you. I promise you, things are going to get better. One way or another, things are going to get better, and until they do, I’ll be here every single day, making sure you know how fucking incredible you are.”
Through Parker he finds his self-worth, and becomes a better man: "All I felt was determination. Determination to live a life that I could be proud of, that Parker would be proud of. A life that brought more people to my deathbed than two kids whose feelings were such complicated tangles of emotion that it would take years to sort through them."
Through the self-discovery and love and heartache and death, these two survive it all. I loved this quote the most...it seems to sum up Ashton and Parker perfectly: "I was beginning to love the way that we could just sit and… be. Like nothing mattered in the world, and all we needed to feel okay was to sit and hold onto each other’s hands."
Because honestly? Doesn't everyone just hope to have someone to just 'be' with? Just as you are....just to be.
June 28, 2015
Parker is a girl who pretty much hates her life, she's trying to get through school and juggle a part time job at the same time as taking care of her mother who is dying of cancer. The mother that was terrible to Parker growing up, who drank and neglected her. She moved out as soon as she turned 18 but once her mother got her diagnosis her life changed and had to step up and take responsibility when there was no one else.
Cancer didn't change her mother though, she was still a terrible person not only to Parker but to everyone she came into contact with. Parker doesn't let anyone in a decides she's better off alone. That is until she meets Ash.
Ash sees Parker and they have an instant connection, Ash has secrets of his own and doesn't think he is good enough for Parker but he doesn't want to just let her go.
I really liked this book and have to say that I really enjoyed Ash's character. I found this book to actually be quite funny, I loved that the characters swore and came out with some one liners a couple of my favourites would be
"My brain has completely left the building, we're talking full and total desertion. that motherfucker was AWOL "
"He winked at me and I think I had an orgasm"
"I made that first date official as fuck"
This book is one to take lightly and just have fun reading and not over analyse. My favourite bit is when Ash gets love advice off his friend who is completely stoned. I kept picturing him as a high love guru.
The one downfall of the story I would say is how fast Ash and Parker can't live without each other, it's like they meet once, Parker plays hard to get and Ash just starts calling her his girlfriend. I sort of just had to get over that and keep reading but I'm glad I did as the story started to get good, it's like oh great you have known each other for a week, I guess that's an acceptable amount of time to have undying love for each other.
Parker really makes him work for it though, she is set on not letting anyone in and keeping secrets to herself while at the same time as wanting to marry and make babies with him. I'm glad the book is in both Parker's and Ash's POV otherwise It would be really confusing.
While Parker is dealing with her inner conflict of feeling like she isn't good enough, Ash is also dealing with the same thing but they won't talk about it too each other, they pretty much have a Mexican Standoff with feelings.
It makes for an enjoyable read because no one wants them to have a happy ever after straight up, I need them to have the conflict in the middle.
My Rating - 3 Stars ***
"Do you know what today is?"
"Today is the first day of the rest of our lives together"
(Expect a lot of this, you have been warned!)
Read more reviews at Skyesbookblog.wordpress.com
Cancer didn't change her mother though, she was still a terrible person not only to Parker but to everyone she came into contact with. Parker doesn't let anyone in a decides she's better off alone. That is until she meets Ash.
Ash sees Parker and they have an instant connection, Ash has secrets of his own and doesn't think he is good enough for Parker but he doesn't want to just let her go.
I really liked this book and have to say that I really enjoyed Ash's character. I found this book to actually be quite funny, I loved that the characters swore and came out with some one liners a couple of my favourites would be
"My brain has completely left the building, we're talking full and total desertion. that motherfucker was AWOL "
"He winked at me and I think I had an orgasm"
"I made that first date official as fuck"
This book is one to take lightly and just have fun reading and not over analyse. My favourite bit is when Ash gets love advice off his friend who is completely stoned. I kept picturing him as a high love guru.
The one downfall of the story I would say is how fast Ash and Parker can't live without each other, it's like they meet once, Parker plays hard to get and Ash just starts calling her his girlfriend. I sort of just had to get over that and keep reading but I'm glad I did as the story started to get good, it's like oh great you have known each other for a week, I guess that's an acceptable amount of time to have undying love for each other.
Parker really makes him work for it though, she is set on not letting anyone in and keeping secrets to herself while at the same time as wanting to marry and make babies with him. I'm glad the book is in both Parker's and Ash's POV otherwise It would be really confusing.
While Parker is dealing with her inner conflict of feeling like she isn't good enough, Ash is also dealing with the same thing but they won't talk about it too each other, they pretty much have a Mexican Standoff with feelings.
It makes for an enjoyable read because no one wants them to have a happy ever after straight up, I need them to have the conflict in the middle.
My Rating - 3 Stars ***
"Do you know what today is?"
"Today is the first day of the rest of our lives together"
(Expect a lot of this, you have been warned!)
Read more reviews at Skyesbookblog.wordpress.com
July 8, 2015
** I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review **
We meet Parker as she begins her sophomore year of college. Overworked and overwhelmed in her life & responsibilities. She presents as closed off and secretive. Nobody seems to know her and she seems ok with that.
Enter Ash(ton) - the extremely smart & sexy somewhat older guy in class who she is instantly attracted to upon running into him on the first day of classes. Literally - actually running into the guy.
I felt like, for the most part, Ash & Parker were pretty relate-able characters. They both had secrets they were keeping and fears about their own worth. They both needed to learn how to forgive themselves and move forward in spite of past events and experiences.
I really liked that both Parker & Ash grew as characters and got their HEA.
Two teenie-tiny things prevented me from giving Just Parker a 5 star rating. The first is that I didn't understand a lot of Parker's actions. She claims to not have time for a relationship and pushes Ash away but promptly decides that they can be friends. It irritated me somewhat that she stuck to her guns for about half a second. The other thing that got to me was that Ash was always the one chasing her. It seemed like every time Parker pushed him away, he was the one that had to go running after her & convince her why he loved her. It got to be a little bothersome for me because poor Ash did everything humanly possible to prove his love & commitment to Parker and he STILL had to be the one chasing her.
All in all, neither of those two issues were enough to cause me to not recommend this book. I enjoyed it and will read more of this author's work.
We meet Parker as she begins her sophomore year of college. Overworked and overwhelmed in her life & responsibilities. She presents as closed off and secretive. Nobody seems to know her and she seems ok with that.
Enter Ash(ton) - the extremely smart & sexy somewhat older guy in class who she is instantly attracted to upon running into him on the first day of classes. Literally - actually running into the guy.
I felt like, for the most part, Ash & Parker were pretty relate-able characters. They both had secrets they were keeping and fears about their own worth. They both needed to learn how to forgive themselves and move forward in spite of past events and experiences.
I really liked that both Parker & Ash grew as characters and got their HEA.
Two teenie-tiny things prevented me from giving Just Parker a 5 star rating. The first is that I didn't understand a lot of Parker's actions. She claims to not have time for a relationship and pushes Ash away but promptly decides that they can be friends. It irritated me somewhat that she stuck to her guns for about half a second. The other thing that got to me was that Ash was always the one chasing her. It seemed like every time Parker pushed him away, he was the one that had to go running after her & convince her why he loved her. It got to be a little bothersome for me because poor Ash did everything humanly possible to prove his love & commitment to Parker and he STILL had to be the one chasing her.
All in all, neither of those two issues were enough to cause me to not recommend this book. I enjoyed it and will read more of this author's work.
July 10, 2015
*This ARC was kindly gifted in exchange for an honest review*
3.5 stars
This is the debut novel from K C O'Neill. Overall I think this was a good read. It's not the usual college storyline. Both characters are going through some stressful/serious situations. When they first meet, they both experience the BOOM factor, but it's not necessarily insta-love.
I loved Ash. Even when Parker was constantly pushing him away, being secretive and not opening up, he still pursued her. The words that came out of his mouth were swoon worthy.
Parker was a bit frustrating at times, but I did like her. Between her mother and school, she's drowning and has nobody to lean on. When Ash offers to be that person, she's hesitant, and rightfully so. The only person she could ever depend on was herself.
I really like the fact that this story didn't end with a perfect happily ever after. Parker never does get the closure she deserves. I'm glad the author kept that part of the story realistic. Although, I did walk away wondering what ended up happening with Parker's father.
If you are a fan of college romances with a serious storyline, I would recommend this book. This story does not contain a bunch of fluff. I also recommend this just to meet Ash. Definitely has book boyfriend qualities!
3.5 stars
This is the debut novel from K C O'Neill. Overall I think this was a good read. It's not the usual college storyline. Both characters are going through some stressful/serious situations. When they first meet, they both experience the BOOM factor, but it's not necessarily insta-love.
I loved Ash. Even when Parker was constantly pushing him away, being secretive and not opening up, he still pursued her. The words that came out of his mouth were swoon worthy.
Parker was a bit frustrating at times, but I did like her. Between her mother and school, she's drowning and has nobody to lean on. When Ash offers to be that person, she's hesitant, and rightfully so. The only person she could ever depend on was herself.
I really like the fact that this story didn't end with a perfect happily ever after. Parker never does get the closure she deserves. I'm glad the author kept that part of the story realistic. Although, I did walk away wondering what ended up happening with Parker's father.
If you are a fan of college romances with a serious storyline, I would recommend this book. This story does not contain a bunch of fluff. I also recommend this just to meet Ash. Definitely has book boyfriend qualities!
July 10, 2015
I received a copy of this book from the author on exchange for an honest review.
I really liked this book. I loved both Parker and Ash add characters for different reasons. Parker has such a hard time believing that she's worth anyone's time because of her abusive childhood. Ash can't believe that Parker doesn't realize how beautiful and amazing she is and is determined to get her to see that.
I love books with split POV. It's easily one of my weaknesses when reading a good NA romance. I love being able to see inside both of their heads, especially the guy's. I also loved all of the funny but extremely honest things they thought in their heads. I definitely laughed a lot with some things that were said.
The only reason I couldn't do 5 stars is because there was a bit of insta-love in the book on Ash's part. Also, there are a handful of cheesy one liners that I think the book could have done without to make Ash seem a bit less perfect and knight in shining armor. All in all though, I really enjoyed it.
I really liked this book. I loved both Parker and Ash add characters for different reasons. Parker has such a hard time believing that she's worth anyone's time because of her abusive childhood. Ash can't believe that Parker doesn't realize how beautiful and amazing she is and is determined to get her to see that.
I love books with split POV. It's easily one of my weaknesses when reading a good NA romance. I love being able to see inside both of their heads, especially the guy's. I also loved all of the funny but extremely honest things they thought in their heads. I definitely laughed a lot with some things that were said.
The only reason I couldn't do 5 stars is because there was a bit of insta-love in the book on Ash's part. Also, there are a handful of cheesy one liners that I think the book could have done without to make Ash seem a bit less perfect and knight in shining armor. All in all though, I really enjoyed it.
June 28, 2015
I was given an ARC copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
I would say that I enjoy reading the book although, there are some points that I feel like lacked the attention. Like the romance progress between Parker and Ashton is a bit fast although Parker is like limiting it in way that he pushed away Ashton several times. But still nothing happened, like nothing slow down. And I feel like Ashton's mysterious problem at the first chapter was a bit neglected and the whole story focuses on Parker's relationship with here dying mother, which is a really a big b*tch, and how she planned on trying to be casual with Ashton.And also I think that the emphasis on how Parker is called just Parker is lacking. I mean yes, the very reason why was mentioned there but as what I said earlier it lacks the emphasis. But overall it's a good book and a good read.
I would say that I enjoy reading the book although, there are some points that I feel like lacked the attention. Like the romance progress between Parker and Ashton is a bit fast although Parker is like limiting it in way that he pushed away Ashton several times. But still nothing happened, like nothing slow down. And I feel like Ashton's mysterious problem at the first chapter was a bit neglected and the whole story focuses on Parker's relationship with here dying mother, which is a really a big b*tch, and how she planned on trying to be casual with Ashton.And also I think that the emphasis on how Parker is called just Parker is lacking. I mean yes, the very reason why was mentioned there but as what I said earlier it lacks the emphasis. But overall it's a good book and a good read.
June 26, 2015
Received from the author for a honest review. 3 1/2 stars Parker is finally going back to school. Just like her life, everything seems to go wrong for her on the first day. That is until she is helped by the nicest pair of jeans she has ever seen. Ash is finally back at school. Trying to keep a low profile. Until he helps a beautiful sad girl on in his psychology class. Parker feels she doesn't deserve any happiest and is afraid of someone finding out her dark secrets. Ash just sees a sad lost girl and doesn't want to give her up even if he doesn't always feel he deserves it. Just Parker takes us through the ups & downs of Parker's life. Her sad childhood and how it effects her not trusting or not believing she deserves love. Good simple read.
December 11, 2015
I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
The story is about Parker and Ashton, two people with meet in a college class and quickly develop strong feeling for one another. Parker however has a hard time accepting her feelings as she is dealing with a lot of personal issues and feels that she doesn't deserved to be loved. Ashton though fights hard to prove that she is worth loving and Parker learns to embrace her feelings. Overall I really liked this story. I thought it was a quick easy read. The characters of Parker and Ashton both have a lot of depth and I really enjoyed reading about the build of their relationship. I would recommend this book to others and would also be interested in reading more from K.C. O'Neill
The story is about Parker and Ashton, two people with meet in a college class and quickly develop strong feeling for one another. Parker however has a hard time accepting her feelings as she is dealing with a lot of personal issues and feels that she doesn't deserved to be loved. Ashton though fights hard to prove that she is worth loving and Parker learns to embrace her feelings. Overall I really liked this story. I thought it was a quick easy read. The characters of Parker and Ashton both have a lot of depth and I really enjoyed reading about the build of their relationship. I would recommend this book to others and would also be interested in reading more from K.C. O'Neill
July 22, 2015
I received this book free through Goodreads First Reads. I liked the writing and the side characters and there were times I liked the main characters but there were more times when I didn't. Though I liked Ashton's character more than Parker, he still irked me sometimes. I didn't like how he treated her like she was incapable of doing certain things. Packers character annoyed me a lot. I hated when she did something that hurt ash and she had know clue why he acted a certain way or left. Then when he left her because she wouldn't tell him anything she told people she didn't know why or it was his fault that he left. Overall, I liked how the story ended.
March 21, 2017
This book was great, there was a few times where I wanted to slap Parker for once again letting her insecurities rule over, but at the same time I have no room to judge because if I had a mother like hers I may be just the same.
Ash was pretty amazing and sweet, but with all stories with men, I have a problem with "baby this" and "baby that".
With that said, I did cry a lot in this book. It was so touching, and filled with emotion.
*****added review****
Currently I'm reading wait for you by J Lynn and I have to say this is eerily similar.... With the exception of her mother being sick. It almost makes me mad
Ash was pretty amazing and sweet, but with all stories with men, I have a problem with "baby this" and "baby that".
With that said, I did cry a lot in this book. It was so touching, and filled with emotion.
*****added review****
Currently I'm reading wait for you by J Lynn and I have to say this is eerily similar.... With the exception of her mother being sick. It almost makes me mad
September 16, 2015
I really, really enjoyed the first half of this book. I thought the characters were interesting and Parker could stand up to Ash in personality and stubbornness, and Ash did not try to bend her to his will. However, the second half of the book turned into a sopping cry-a-thon. Now, this is a personal preference, but I like my romances to be light and fluffy with minimal story outside of the relationship. That's not to say that the second half of the book was terrible; the situation and drama were handled marvelously and it all felt very real and plausible. I just like a lighter romance.
May 31, 2015
When I first started reading Just Parker I wasn't sure what I thought I'd get out of the book. But I was quickly drawn in. As the story progressed I saw myself as Parker, only my dad was the alcoholic I grew up with and I hated him. There were times he said things to me like Parker's mom said to her, my first year of college he was in a house fire and he died. For years I lived with regret for hating him. So reading this story brought back so many memories both good and bad. I loved the writing style and how easily the story flowed. Excellent book, great read.
July 2, 2015
** I received a copy of this book in exchange of an honest review**
I don't even know where to start! I really enjoyed Just Parker. Parker and Ash feel an immediate attraction to one another when they first meet. Parker has A LOT on her plate at the moment and Ash just ins't on the menu...Ash, however, could care less and is determined to get what he wants.
This was another boy meets girls story, but a good one. The characters were likable (albeit one -- who was just ugh) and it was overall a feel good story.
3.5 Stars
I don't even know where to start! I really enjoyed Just Parker. Parker and Ash feel an immediate attraction to one another when they first meet. Parker has A LOT on her plate at the moment and Ash just ins't on the menu...Ash, however, could care less and is determined to get what he wants.
This was another boy meets girls story, but a good one. The characters were likable (albeit one -- who was just ugh) and it was overall a feel good story.
3.5 Stars
June 10, 2015
Great book, easy read. Can't wait for the next one!
July 6, 2015
I was given this book in exchange for an honest review***
I really did like this book. We had damaged characters and undeniable chemistry. I will definitely read more from this author.
I really did like this book. We had damaged characters and undeniable chemistry. I will definitely read more from this author.
November 3, 2015
Good story about a couple of struggling with their past college students who find love together. Enjoyed very much
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