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The Farther I Fall
Sometimes when you fall, you land just where you need to be... Gwen Tennison got out of Afghanistan alive but scarred--and then got stuck on her sister's couch. When she's offered a job managing the U.S. tour for rock music's hottest, most troubled star, it seems like just the thing to snap her out of her post-injury funk. Her instructions are start the shows on time, and keep him clean. But Lucas Wheeler may be more than she can handle. Though he's drug-free, he still feels the need, and his gorgeous, capable new tour manager is a challenge he can't ignore. Fame and infamy have forced Lucas to protect his heart, but soon he finds himself craving Gwen's touch, and yearning to give her control. And Gwen might feel the same way. But it's not just the mutual heat between them that is keeping Gwen on her toes. Someone is following Lucas from city to city. With more than just her job on the line Gwen must decide how much she's willing to risk to keep Lucas safe. Lisa Nicholas lives in Michigan with a ridiculously adorable golden retriever named Maddie and possibly more cats than is sensible. If she's not writing, she's feeding her story addiction any way she raiding Netflix, pillaging her local bookstore and library, and (most recently) tearing her way through the comics archive at Marvel.
248 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 20, 2015
4 people are currently reading
483 people want to read
About the author
Lisa Nicholas
6 books63 followersI’ve always called Michigan home, despite some deep family roots in Kentucky. When I was five, I asked for a typewriter for Christmas because I knew I wanted to write books. I realized then that the blank white space needed words, and panicked. These days the blank white space is on a computer screen instead of paper, and there’s usually less panic and better spelling. Usually.
My first love has always been for stories that have larger-than-life heroines and heroes fighting an epic battle against evil or having an epic romance–or even better, both. If I’m not writing, I’m feeding my story addiction any way I can: raiding Netflix, pillaging my local bookstore and library, and (most recently) tearing my way through the comics archive at Marvel. I live with a ridiculously adorable dog and possibly more cats than is sensible.
I also write short erotica and erotic romance for Selkie Sea Press under the name Jade Cain.
And you can contact me via Twitter or at lisa@lisanicholas.com.
My first love has always been for stories that have larger-than-life heroines and heroes fighting an epic battle against evil or having an epic romance–or even better, both. If I’m not writing, I’m feeding my story addiction any way I can: raiding Netflix, pillaging my local bookstore and library, and (most recently) tearing my way through the comics archive at Marvel. I live with a ridiculously adorable dog and possibly more cats than is sensible.
I also write short erotica and erotic romance for Selkie Sea Press under the name Jade Cain.
And you can contact me via Twitter or at lisa@lisanicholas.com.
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Displaying 1 - 24 of 24 reviews
January 15, 2015
2 stars!
Unfortunately, I didn’t click with this book. I was curious to see how the author would approach the romance part as the two main characters’ backgrounds are just so different, but in the end, I was left feeling extremely underwhelmed and more than a little annoyed with how things turned out. There were too many plot inconsistencies and while I liked these characters, I didn’t feel a connection between the two. I did think the author had a solid writing style and there were a couple of scenes with witty banter, so a 2 star rating seemed appropriate.
But first, I believe it’s important to mention that this book is neither a rockstar romance because the hero’s part of a band nor a military romance because the heroine was a combat medic in the British Army. Instead, it’s a mix of the two with an extremely heavy emphasis on suspense. I know there are readers who say it doesn’t matter what book a genre is as long as it’s a good book, but in this case it’s the total opposite. Personally, I have to have a certain mindset for certain types of genres and I rate & review differently because of them as well. Because over half of this book is romantic suspense and the other half a mix of military romance and rockstar romance, there was TOO MUCH going on everywhere plot holes started to pop up and details were overlooked. The suspense aspect was also poorly developed as the chain of events that made up the mystery was over the top dramatic and only displayed the incompetency of the heroine and the rest of the team members.
As for plot holes, the most obvious one that grated on my nerves was
I am a fan of tough and kickass heroines though and Gwen acted the part most of the time. Lucas paled in comparison to her and was more of a charming beta hero. Their emotional bond and even their physical attraction to one another wasn’t very strong IMO, so the romance part didn’t really wow me. There’s little push/pull dynamic and surprisingly, very little angst as well, something that’s a bit unusual when the story background is amongst concerts, tours, and groupies.
Overall, little to nothing about the book impressed me, and it certainly wasn’t unputdownable. I do think this is a story that had a lot of potential and because so, may work for others. It just wasn’t for me.
ARC provided by Penguin Intermix via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Unfortunately, I didn’t click with this book. I was curious to see how the author would approach the romance part as the two main characters’ backgrounds are just so different, but in the end, I was left feeling extremely underwhelmed and more than a little annoyed with how things turned out. There were too many plot inconsistencies and while I liked these characters, I didn’t feel a connection between the two. I did think the author had a solid writing style and there were a couple of scenes with witty banter, so a 2 star rating seemed appropriate.
But first, I believe it’s important to mention that this book is neither a rockstar romance because the hero’s part of a band nor a military romance because the heroine was a combat medic in the British Army. Instead, it’s a mix of the two with an extremely heavy emphasis on suspense. I know there are readers who say it doesn’t matter what book a genre is as long as it’s a good book, but in this case it’s the total opposite. Personally, I have to have a certain mindset for certain types of genres and I rate & review differently because of them as well. Because over half of this book is romantic suspense and the other half a mix of military romance and rockstar romance, there was TOO MUCH going on everywhere plot holes started to pop up and details were overlooked. The suspense aspect was also poorly developed as the chain of events that made up the mystery was over the top dramatic and only displayed the incompetency of the heroine and the rest of the team members.
As for plot holes, the most obvious one that grated on my nerves was
I am a fan of tough and kickass heroines though and Gwen acted the part most of the time. Lucas paled in comparison to her and was more of a charming beta hero. Their emotional bond and even their physical attraction to one another wasn’t very strong IMO, so the romance part didn’t really wow me. There’s little push/pull dynamic and surprisingly, very little angst as well, something that’s a bit unusual when the story background is amongst concerts, tours, and groupies.
Overall, little to nothing about the book impressed me, and it certainly wasn’t unputdownable. I do think this is a story that had a lot of potential and because so, may work for others. It just wasn’t for me.
ARC provided by Penguin Intermix via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
September 27, 2015
It Just Didn't Work For Me!!
I'll start right away with this one because honestly it left me quite annoyed and with a big scowl on my face and believe me that's never a jolly combination.
I had no problem with the mixed genre, or the inadequacy of the main character or even the lifeless, generic and tedious writing style, no, my biggest problem was laying somewhere else. Not that the previous matters suggest a happy reader, but the no-chemistry and the underdeveloped everything coupled with the insane face-palm worthy suspense scenes were the last drop.
And the sad part? It started out so nicely, with a hot scene in a club an interesting female character and an intriguing, versatile male hero. And yet it ended as a cheap mystery.
First of all, Gwen and Lukas share no chemistry, the plot turns quickly over-dramatic and the story suffers many consistency issues and most of all the end is laughable. Add the gutless, gullible hero, the unattractive storyline, the questions that never got answered and you have a clusterfuck on your hands.
Even now, 2 days since i finished it i can't believe how naive Gwen was and didn't check the people in their team, even as a precaution she really seemed like a clever girl who knew what was going on. And i can't stomach the story with Lee. He knew where a psycho kept his brother and waited for Gwen to go and do what? Save him? Why would anyone put at risk someone in that way? Just so the reader can be convinced that Gwen was truly a fighter? No, just no!
Well i have to say that i loved a few things though. Mostly the friendly, witty banter that Craig provided throughout the story and a few nicely written scene involving Lukas and his mindset. Otherwise sadly it was mediocre and forgettable.
THOUGHTS ABOUT THE BOOK
- I couldn't get comfortable with the characters.
- Too much drama.
- I liked Craig. He was a big plus.
- Lee was likeable but then the absolutely uncharacteristic move towards the end baffled me.
- I liked Lukas the brief moments he was daring and spontaneous. The rest of the time he was a big let-down.
ARC provided via Netgalley in exchange of an honest review. Thank you!
I'll start right away with this one because honestly it left me quite annoyed and with a big scowl on my face and believe me that's never a jolly combination.
I had no problem with the mixed genre, or the inadequacy of the main character or even the lifeless, generic and tedious writing style, no, my biggest problem was laying somewhere else. Not that the previous matters suggest a happy reader, but the no-chemistry and the underdeveloped everything coupled with the insane face-palm worthy suspense scenes were the last drop.
And the sad part? It started out so nicely, with a hot scene in a club an interesting female character and an intriguing, versatile male hero. And yet it ended as a cheap mystery.
First of all, Gwen and Lukas share no chemistry, the plot turns quickly over-dramatic and the story suffers many consistency issues and most of all the end is laughable. Add the gutless, gullible hero, the unattractive storyline, the questions that never got answered and you have a clusterfuck on your hands.
Even now, 2 days since i finished it i can't believe how naive Gwen was and didn't check the people in their team, even as a precaution she really seemed like a clever girl who knew what was going on. And i can't stomach the story with Lee. He knew where a psycho kept his brother and waited for Gwen to go and do what? Save him? Why would anyone put at risk someone in that way? Just so the reader can be convinced that Gwen was truly a fighter? No, just no!
Well i have to say that i loved a few things though. Mostly the friendly, witty banter that Craig provided throughout the story and a few nicely written scene involving Lukas and his mindset. Otherwise sadly it was mediocre and forgettable.
THOUGHTS ABOUT THE BOOK
- I couldn't get comfortable with the characters.
- Too much drama.
- I liked Craig. He was a big plus.
- Lee was likeable but then the absolutely uncharacteristic move towards the end baffled me.
- I liked Lukas the brief moments he was daring and spontaneous. The rest of the time he was a big let-down.
ARC provided via Netgalley in exchange of an honest review. Thank you!
Want to read
December 12, 2014 This rock star romance sounds really good!!
The heroine got out of Afghanistan alive but scarred. When she's offered a job managing the U.S. tour for rock music's hottest, most troubled star, her instructions are simple: start the shows on time, and keep him clean... But Lucas Wheeler may be more than she can handle.
The heroine got out of Afghanistan alive but scarred. When she's offered a job managing the U.S. tour for rock music's hottest, most troubled star, her instructions are simple: start the shows on time, and keep him clean... But Lucas Wheeler may be more than she can handle.
February 5, 2015
Quickie Review:
OH damn! That was GOOD! Fabulous read. Sexy, intriguing, a little raw and edgy. I loved pretty much everything about it and damn I am ready for the next one. Please! Oh and this is totally NOT New Adult seeing's how they're in their 30s. lol
Full Review:
Oh but I was feeling some mad love for The Father I Fall! Nicholas totally knocked her debut book out of the park. I couldn't put this one down and was totally captivated by a sexy rocker and his tough as nails love interest who is former British Army and now tasked with keeping him in line as his tour manager. With some strange happenings and some creep-tastic letters showing up it was both hot and sexy and a little unnerving as these two figured out how to deal with both each other and the things happening around them.
Oh man. Where to start!? These two! I seriously loved them. They were so different than most heroes and heroines. Rocking some heavy duty issues and attitudes but managing to be so damn intriguing and likable at the same time.
Lucas is a recovering druggie who is on rocky grounds with the music company he works with. He's dealing with living sober, with temptation, frustration and now a woman sent to keep an eye on things and,well, he could act like a petulant little shit. But...somehow...the bastard managed to be lickable and sexy and almost weirdly endearing at the same time. And lordy once he stops being a putz...whew boy! Yeah. He's potent.
And Gwen? She was an awesome heroine. She's on medical leave from the Royal Army Medical Corp and pretty much floundering until her sister makes her take a job as a tour manager. Keeping calm under pressure and problem solving are her thing so this will be good for her. I really liked her. She's smart and while dealing with trauma and some light PTSD she doesn't give up, plugs through and is solid through and through.
The two together. Ho-ly crap. They had a rather rocky start and some moments as they head off that made even ME feel awkward and embarrassed for them. But it just made their romance even sweeter once they fought through it. The tension and spark between them was fantastic and when they do finally fall into bed it's just a little edgy and has some daring moves for a mainstream contemp. She's a little more dominant and he's liking that but can give it right back. They're a little dirty and man alive it was freaking HOT.
There's a little mystery/suspense with someone stalking Lucas and while I did figure things out before the big reveal it was nicely done and for a while kept me curious and wondering who on earth was behind it.
All together The Farther I Fall was just a captivating rockstar romance that was unique, daring and so full of life. I loved their struggles, the sweet moments, the scorching ones and the awkward as hell ones that made it feel more real. Nicholas is definitely one to keep an eye on. And I am so ready for book 2. Please! Please tell me there's going to be a book two. Cus I'm really gonna need one. And I'm not above doing some naughty things to get it. *nods*
OH damn! That was GOOD! Fabulous read. Sexy, intriguing, a little raw and edgy. I loved pretty much everything about it and damn I am ready for the next one. Please! Oh and this is totally NOT New Adult seeing's how they're in their 30s. lol
Full Review:
Oh but I was feeling some mad love for The Father I Fall! Nicholas totally knocked her debut book out of the park. I couldn't put this one down and was totally captivated by a sexy rocker and his tough as nails love interest who is former British Army and now tasked with keeping him in line as his tour manager. With some strange happenings and some creep-tastic letters showing up it was both hot and sexy and a little unnerving as these two figured out how to deal with both each other and the things happening around them.
Oh man. Where to start!? These two! I seriously loved them. They were so different than most heroes and heroines. Rocking some heavy duty issues and attitudes but managing to be so damn intriguing and likable at the same time.
"He likes to push buttons, especially with women. He can be a cad. We've lost some good people from this tour because they couldn't cope."
"I thought he was gay."
Same gave her a wry grin. "He doesn't like to limit himself."
Lucas is a recovering druggie who is on rocky grounds with the music company he works with. He's dealing with living sober, with temptation, frustration and now a woman sent to keep an eye on things and,well, he could act like a petulant little shit. But...somehow...the bastard managed to be lickable and sexy and almost weirdly endearing at the same time. And lordy once he stops being a putz...whew boy! Yeah. He's potent.
And Gwen? She was an awesome heroine. She's on medical leave from the Royal Army Medical Corp and pretty much floundering until her sister makes her take a job as a tour manager. Keeping calm under pressure and problem solving are her thing so this will be good for her. I really liked her. She's smart and while dealing with trauma and some light PTSD she doesn't give up, plugs through and is solid through and through.
"Sorry, am I making you uncomfortable?"
"Nothing I haven't seen before."
"Oh, well in that case." The towel hit the carpet. She rolled her eyes, but she looked anyway, as he meant for her to--and forgot to breathe.
The two together. Ho-ly crap. They had a rather rocky start and some moments as they head off that made even ME feel awkward and embarrassed for them. But it just made their romance even sweeter once they fought through it. The tension and spark between them was fantastic and when they do finally fall into bed it's just a little edgy and has some daring moves for a mainstream contemp. She's a little more dominant and he's liking that but can give it right back. They're a little dirty and man alive it was freaking HOT.
There's a little mystery/suspense with someone stalking Lucas and while I did figure things out before the big reveal it was nicely done and for a while kept me curious and wondering who on earth was behind it.
All together The Farther I Fall was just a captivating rockstar romance that was unique, daring and so full of life. I loved their struggles, the sweet moments, the scorching ones and the awkward as hell ones that made it feel more real. Nicholas is definitely one to keep an eye on. And I am so ready for book 2. Please! Please tell me there's going to be a book two. Cus I'm really gonna need one. And I'm not above doing some naughty things to get it. *nods*
February 2, 2017
Four and a half OMG I saw what you did there stars.
Yet another book that I saw reviewed and put on my Wish List - then lovely Kobo sent me THREE money off vouchers and this little baby was mine.
On the surface this is a pretty straightforward clash of opposites romance. Gwen Tennison is a British ex-Army medic, invalided out after being injured in an IED and ambush incident which killed her best friend. Her sister Sam is a hotshot in the US music industry and asks Gwen to act as tour manager for a 'difficult' customer. Lucas Wheeler has just come out off his third stint in rehab, this time it seems to be working but he needs babysitting and his agents have sacked/ reassigned any of his old team who had any drug associations.
Gwen reluctantly takes on the role and finds Lucas to be as precocious and petulant as you would expect of a bisexual bad boy musican who looks like a pirate when Gwen first sees him (in my mind I have a picture of Marc Bolan the 1970s rock star). And yet, Gwen also finds him verrrry sexy!
Then Lucas starts getting some creepy messages, he thinks the first one is from Gwen but as they escalate 'accidents' start happening on tour. It seems as though Lucas has a stalker who has a beef with some of the women in the crew. Now, I'l be honest, I knew who the stalker was, at least by the 51% point but that didn't matter because Gwen and Lucas didn't do that Scooby Doo thing of running around ignoring the obvious clues.
What set this aside from other books was that this was a complete gender-bender story. Lucas was the long-haired, "damsel in distress" and Gwen was the ex-Army, no-nonsense bodyguard. Even when they toy (very lightly) with D/s it's not Gwen who's the submissive.
Some of the story towards the end got a leetle far-fetched for me, but the writing was good enough to pull it back for me. And hey, when has the female MC ever been the strong character the whole way through before? Even when they are special ops/ assassins etc they always need to rescued/ saved by some man - not this time.
I look forward to reading more books by Lisa Nicholas - Lucas' twin brother Lee seems intriguing, am I silly for thinking that he and Gwen's sister Sam might have a thing?
Yet another book that I saw reviewed and put on my Wish List - then lovely Kobo sent me THREE money off vouchers and this little baby was mine.
On the surface this is a pretty straightforward clash of opposites romance. Gwen Tennison is a British ex-Army medic, invalided out after being injured in an IED and ambush incident which killed her best friend. Her sister Sam is a hotshot in the US music industry and asks Gwen to act as tour manager for a 'difficult' customer. Lucas Wheeler has just come out off his third stint in rehab, this time it seems to be working but he needs babysitting and his agents have sacked/ reassigned any of his old team who had any drug associations.
Gwen reluctantly takes on the role and finds Lucas to be as precocious and petulant as you would expect of a bisexual bad boy musican who looks like a pirate when Gwen first sees him (in my mind I have a picture of Marc Bolan the 1970s rock star). And yet, Gwen also finds him verrrry sexy!
Then Lucas starts getting some creepy messages, he thinks the first one is from Gwen but as they escalate 'accidents' start happening on tour. It seems as though Lucas has a stalker who has a beef with some of the women in the crew. Now, I'l be honest, I knew who the stalker was, at least by the 51% point but that didn't matter because Gwen and Lucas didn't do that Scooby Doo thing of running around ignoring the obvious clues.
What set this aside from other books was that this was a complete gender-bender story. Lucas was the long-haired, "damsel in distress" and Gwen was the ex-Army, no-nonsense bodyguard. Even when they toy (very lightly) with D/s it's not Gwen who's the submissive.
Some of the story towards the end got a leetle far-fetched for me, but the writing was good enough to pull it back for me. And hey, when has the female MC ever been the strong character the whole way through before? Even when they are special ops/ assassins etc they always need to rescued/ saved by some man - not this time.
I look forward to reading more books by Lisa Nicholas - Lucas' twin brother Lee seems intriguing, am I silly for thinking that he and Gwen's sister Sam might have a thing?
January 7, 2015
2.5 Cocktails
I did not know what to expect when I started reading this book. I wanted a rock romance and I was hoping this would satisfy me. It did in a way but not the way I was hoping. I am all for a strong woman character. I love them. But I guess I am old school and want the hero to be the male in the story. Gwen is a war hero and once she is home she finds herself in a rut. Her sister helps her out with a job becoming the manager of a rock star named Lucas Wheeler. Now he is a character with so many issues. He is a recovering drug addict who also has a stalker. Gwen is more a babysitter than a manager for him. Some of the story got lost on me. And I could just not get into the love story between Gwen and Lucas.
Reviewed by BookBud for Cocktails and Books
I did not know what to expect when I started reading this book. I wanted a rock romance and I was hoping this would satisfy me. It did in a way but not the way I was hoping. I am all for a strong woman character. I love them. But I guess I am old school and want the hero to be the male in the story. Gwen is a war hero and once she is home she finds herself in a rut. Her sister helps her out with a job becoming the manager of a rock star named Lucas Wheeler. Now he is a character with so many issues. He is a recovering drug addict who also has a stalker. Gwen is more a babysitter than a manager for him. Some of the story got lost on me. And I could just not get into the love story between Gwen and Lucas.
Reviewed by BookBud for Cocktails and Books
January 24, 2015
My 3.5 Star Review for The Farther I Fall by Lisa Nicholas
Summary
After almost sacrificing her life for her country, Gwen is suffering from PTSD. She is living with her sister while she recovers but can’t seem to get out of her funk. She is offered a job managing a tour for a very popular rock band. She has also been assigned to keep him on the straight and arrow. How hard can it be to make sure the show starts on time and that he stay’s clean and sober? This is a challenge that will definitely get her out of her funk.
Lucas Wheeler is a playboy. Drugs kept his feelings numb and sex, well, yeah, it was a release that his body needs. His fame has forced him to protect his heart and the last person he ever expected to worm her way into his heart was Gwen.
Gwen know nothing about the music industry let alone being a manager but she manages to catch on quickly and she also runs a pretty tight ship. Lucas is impressed with her. Trying to maintain a professional relationship Gwen soon realizes that the chemistry between them is one she can no longer fight. Slowly they begin to explore things.
When Lucas starts to receive scary letters and things start happening, Gwen will do everything she can to protect him from an unknown stalker. With everything at stake, Gwen has to make a decision that may cost her everything.
My Thoughts:
I LOVED having the lead is a military alpha female. Not only is she beautiful but she is smart and witty and has a great head on her shoulders. She also has her dark secrets and her guilt and they continue to haunt her. I loved how fierce she protects Lucas but at the same time is so feminine and sexy.
Lucas is a gorgeous rock star, one that is overcoming some bumps in the road. Fighting hard to remain on the path of staying clean, there is something in Gwen that makes him want to be a better man, there is also that vulnerability in her, one that makes him want to protect her fiercely. Without realizing right away, they balance each other out and with each other, they slowly start healing.
I love the bickering between them and the sexual tension is HOT! The suspense in this story was fantastic, it kept me guessing until the end.
This was an angsty, suspenseful, romantic and sexy read. I really enjoyed it.
Summary
After almost sacrificing her life for her country, Gwen is suffering from PTSD. She is living with her sister while she recovers but can’t seem to get out of her funk. She is offered a job managing a tour for a very popular rock band. She has also been assigned to keep him on the straight and arrow. How hard can it be to make sure the show starts on time and that he stay’s clean and sober? This is a challenge that will definitely get her out of her funk.
Lucas Wheeler is a playboy. Drugs kept his feelings numb and sex, well, yeah, it was a release that his body needs. His fame has forced him to protect his heart and the last person he ever expected to worm her way into his heart was Gwen.
Gwen know nothing about the music industry let alone being a manager but she manages to catch on quickly and she also runs a pretty tight ship. Lucas is impressed with her. Trying to maintain a professional relationship Gwen soon realizes that the chemistry between them is one she can no longer fight. Slowly they begin to explore things.
When Lucas starts to receive scary letters and things start happening, Gwen will do everything she can to protect him from an unknown stalker. With everything at stake, Gwen has to make a decision that may cost her everything.
My Thoughts:
I LOVED having the lead is a military alpha female. Not only is she beautiful but she is smart and witty and has a great head on her shoulders. She also has her dark secrets and her guilt and they continue to haunt her. I loved how fierce she protects Lucas but at the same time is so feminine and sexy.
Lucas is a gorgeous rock star, one that is overcoming some bumps in the road. Fighting hard to remain on the path of staying clean, there is something in Gwen that makes him want to be a better man, there is also that vulnerability in her, one that makes him want to protect her fiercely. Without realizing right away, they balance each other out and with each other, they slowly start healing.
I love the bickering between them and the sexual tension is HOT! The suspense in this story was fantastic, it kept me guessing until the end.
This was an angsty, suspenseful, romantic and sexy read. I really enjoyed it.
January 18, 2015
*** 1.5 Stars ***
ARC Review. Arc provided by publisher, via, Netgalley, for a fair and honest review
I could not run this review on Smut Book Junkie Reviews blog page.
I did not like The Farther I Fall by Lisa Nicholas. I hated the leading male character. I found several problems in the pacing of the book, the transitions from one passage to another, and flaws in the characterization. The plot was good but not delivered in a satisfying manner. The ending was rushed and felt wrong in many ways.
Lucas Wheeler is one the worst male characters that I have read. He was a weak, selfish, indecisive leading man. It was very hard to understand why a strong woman like Gwen would be attracted to him. He never once did anything that really showed his undeniable attraction for Gwen.
I liked Gwen's character. She was a strong and decisive woman.
The plot for this book had a strong sense of suspense. I felt like Gwen, being the smart woman she is, would of picked up on many of the clues as to who was stalking Lucas.
I had a very difficult time finishing this book.
I would not recommend this book. I think the author needs to re evaluate her character development. Readers want a stronger male character that is decisive in his actions. Readers want to feel the deep connections between the characters. Readers also want a book the flows without effort and engages them in the story.
February 26, 2015
This book united two of my favorite types of characters- a rocker and a military vet. Had my name on it. Then I started reading and discovered that whew-boy, this was most definitely a match made in reader-girl land. I enjoy when an author puts a twist in the ordinary order of things and explores so rarely ventured into territory with me. In this case, I was given a submissive bi-sexual hero fighting addictions and a dominant ex-combat medic with a case of survivor's guilt and a wound that knocked her out of the service. Lots to keep me occupied there even before we toss in a rock tour, a stalker, an ex, and a whole lotta opposites attracts razzle dazzle. Seriously? This was a debut book? Keep 'em coming, sister!
The story opens with Gwen Tennison camped out on her sister's couch mourning the loss of her career due to an injury to her shoulder, mourning the loss of her friend and fellow soldier with a heap of guilt feeling and scared to think of what the future has in store for her since being a combat medic was what she lived for. Sam is done coddling her and knows just what Gwen needs to get her back in the game. Gwen is going to take over as tour manager for a rocker who likes his fun and is tough on his long string of managers. Oh and he's recently out of detox and he's on a short leash with his record company. No pressure there especially for a person who knows nothing about the music industry. However, she does know a little something about organization, logistics, motivating her men and pushing through adversity. It all seemed tough and improbable for success until she meets Lucas Wheeler. Okay move things from improbable to impossible. He's now her charge and it would be all sorts of wrong to start something up with him as enticing as he is.
Lucas doesn't know what to make of the woman he has been saddled with for his new tour manager. That one night at the club when she didn't know who he was and she danced with such fire and sensuality showed that there is something more than the tough no-nonsense creature in the suit who is unmoved by his brattiness or his come-ons. No one has resisted him before. Guys and women both rush to have him so why not Gwen? He knows she isn't indifferent. His attraction and need grows even more powerful when she restrains him and barks orders at him. He wants her to have control and has images in his mind of her doing so. His overbearing, powerful and perfect twin, Lee, enters the picture and for the first time he worries that his stuffy brother might hold more appeal to the woman he wants. Then he acquires a stalker and Gwen is more babysitting bodyguard than potential lover. But that is hot too in its way. Lucas will wear her down and convince her that he's changed and is ready for something new- he's ready for Gwen.
This story kept me buried in the pages from the beginning and I read it rapidly through to the end. It wasn't perfect, but my issues were small. There were a few things I wanted to see teased out better after they were introduced and maybe they will be since I noticed that Lucas' brother, Lee, gets his own book. I felt that Lucas leaving home and not coming back, trouble with the dad and mom and the antagonism toward Lee were left hanging. And on a lesser scale, Gwen's thing about her folks was the same way. There was some explanation, but I just wanted more. The focus stays right on the present and on the two main players for the most part though dynamics within the tour company are written with depth and I loved the secondary romance for two others.
This was hot and sensual in its build up for the romance and a wonderful tension-filled twisting plot for the suspense caused by the stalker. I had my suspicions and I was right about who it was, but that didn't lessen the excitement. The story switches back and forth between Gwen and Lucas' perspectives and I enjoyed getting both of their thoughts. Gwen feels older and more mature- confident and sure of herself while Lucas is working through his issues and finding his way. He is practiced in the sexual side and knows how to live it up in true rocker style. Lucas is supremely talented as a musician, but ignorant of relationships and responsibilities. It was fascinating to see the gender bending in their relationship as a result. Lucas willingly hands over the control to Gwen, but he's no doormat. He trusts her and respects her, but he has no trouble making it clear that he is capable and strong too in spite of his struggle with addiction and to embrace a relationship.
As to that power exchange aspect, Gwen is dominant and Lucas is submissive. Gwen has charge of Lucas as his manager so its part of their daily public life and it seeps into their growing private life. They explore it a bit in a few bedroom scenes, but its mild kink at the most. It left the door open for more in their future.
I liked how the author explored the dynamic of having Lucas be bi-sexual and Gwen be mono-sexual. It wasn't a huge issue in the story. Lucas is attracted to men and women and has been with both and sometimes at the same time. Gwen fears that she won't be enough even though she is a strong, sexual woman. Being Bi can be tough on that individual and the person/s with them. I loved that it was there and not glossed over, but didn't turn into some overblown angst-fest.
To wrap this up, this story was abso-fab in all its components and facets. I really enjoyed the intro to a new to me author and look forward to what is to come with Lee's story. I would recommend this one for those who enjoy a hot romance, behind the scenes rock tour-style setting, engaging suspense and intriguing characters. New Adult, Contemporary Romance and Romantic Suspense lovers should take a look.
My thanks to Penguin Group and Net Galley for the opportunity to read this book in exchange for an honest review.
The story opens with Gwen Tennison camped out on her sister's couch mourning the loss of her career due to an injury to her shoulder, mourning the loss of her friend and fellow soldier with a heap of guilt feeling and scared to think of what the future has in store for her since being a combat medic was what she lived for. Sam is done coddling her and knows just what Gwen needs to get her back in the game. Gwen is going to take over as tour manager for a rocker who likes his fun and is tough on his long string of managers. Oh and he's recently out of detox and he's on a short leash with his record company. No pressure there especially for a person who knows nothing about the music industry. However, she does know a little something about organization, logistics, motivating her men and pushing through adversity. It all seemed tough and improbable for success until she meets Lucas Wheeler. Okay move things from improbable to impossible. He's now her charge and it would be all sorts of wrong to start something up with him as enticing as he is.
Lucas doesn't know what to make of the woman he has been saddled with for his new tour manager. That one night at the club when she didn't know who he was and she danced with such fire and sensuality showed that there is something more than the tough no-nonsense creature in the suit who is unmoved by his brattiness or his come-ons. No one has resisted him before. Guys and women both rush to have him so why not Gwen? He knows she isn't indifferent. His attraction and need grows even more powerful when she restrains him and barks orders at him. He wants her to have control and has images in his mind of her doing so. His overbearing, powerful and perfect twin, Lee, enters the picture and for the first time he worries that his stuffy brother might hold more appeal to the woman he wants. Then he acquires a stalker and Gwen is more babysitting bodyguard than potential lover. But that is hot too in its way. Lucas will wear her down and convince her that he's changed and is ready for something new- he's ready for Gwen.
This story kept me buried in the pages from the beginning and I read it rapidly through to the end. It wasn't perfect, but my issues were small. There were a few things I wanted to see teased out better after they were introduced and maybe they will be since I noticed that Lucas' brother, Lee, gets his own book. I felt that Lucas leaving home and not coming back, trouble with the dad and mom and the antagonism toward Lee were left hanging. And on a lesser scale, Gwen's thing about her folks was the same way. There was some explanation, but I just wanted more. The focus stays right on the present and on the two main players for the most part though dynamics within the tour company are written with depth and I loved the secondary romance for two others.
This was hot and sensual in its build up for the romance and a wonderful tension-filled twisting plot for the suspense caused by the stalker. I had my suspicions and I was right about who it was, but that didn't lessen the excitement. The story switches back and forth between Gwen and Lucas' perspectives and I enjoyed getting both of their thoughts. Gwen feels older and more mature- confident and sure of herself while Lucas is working through his issues and finding his way. He is practiced in the sexual side and knows how to live it up in true rocker style. Lucas is supremely talented as a musician, but ignorant of relationships and responsibilities. It was fascinating to see the gender bending in their relationship as a result. Lucas willingly hands over the control to Gwen, but he's no doormat. He trusts her and respects her, but he has no trouble making it clear that he is capable and strong too in spite of his struggle with addiction and to embrace a relationship.
As to that power exchange aspect, Gwen is dominant and Lucas is submissive. Gwen has charge of Lucas as his manager so its part of their daily public life and it seeps into their growing private life. They explore it a bit in a few bedroom scenes, but its mild kink at the most. It left the door open for more in their future.
I liked how the author explored the dynamic of having Lucas be bi-sexual and Gwen be mono-sexual. It wasn't a huge issue in the story. Lucas is attracted to men and women and has been with both and sometimes at the same time. Gwen fears that she won't be enough even though she is a strong, sexual woman. Being Bi can be tough on that individual and the person/s with them. I loved that it was there and not glossed over, but didn't turn into some overblown angst-fest.
To wrap this up, this story was abso-fab in all its components and facets. I really enjoyed the intro to a new to me author and look forward to what is to come with Lee's story. I would recommend this one for those who enjoy a hot romance, behind the scenes rock tour-style setting, engaging suspense and intriguing characters. New Adult, Contemporary Romance and Romantic Suspense lovers should take a look.
My thanks to Penguin Group and Net Galley for the opportunity to read this book in exchange for an honest review.
January 11, 2015
Got an advance copy from netgalley for an honest review.
Gwen is such a brave person and I absolutely loved her. Not only does she kick butt but when it comes to the people she loves, she's very protective. Being wounded while serving in the Queens army gave her a chance to visit with her sister but that got old fast. Sam being tired of watching her sister waste away on her couch got her a job as the tour manger for a group of singers, not only that but she was also in charge of keeping the star on track.
Lucas knew he screwed up when he OD'd and being out of rehab feels better that the other times he went in. coming face-to-face with Gwen after meeting her in a club was a surprise and he made it his mission to have her. Things get complicated fast though, when he gets a stalker on his hands who means business. People getting hurt, rooms torn up, money missing, someone getting arrested and him getting kidnapped twice does not help the situation at all. I loved reading this book, the author had my attention form the first page.
Gwen is such a brave person and I absolutely loved her. Not only does she kick butt but when it comes to the people she loves, she's very protective. Being wounded while serving in the Queens army gave her a chance to visit with her sister but that got old fast. Sam being tired of watching her sister waste away on her couch got her a job as the tour manger for a group of singers, not only that but she was also in charge of keeping the star on track.
Lucas knew he screwed up when he OD'd and being out of rehab feels better that the other times he went in. coming face-to-face with Gwen after meeting her in a club was a surprise and he made it his mission to have her. Things get complicated fast though, when he gets a stalker on his hands who means business. People getting hurt, rooms torn up, money missing, someone getting arrested and him getting kidnapped twice does not help the situation at all. I loved reading this book, the author had my attention form the first page.
January 25, 2015
Paige's review posted on Guilty Pleasures Book Reviews
4.5 Stars
I enjoyed this fresh take on the Rockstar and the Army medic.
Lucas is our resident bad boy Rockstar. He has caused doubt in his management team with his current behavior which now leads to his need for a baby sitter.
And there isn’t a better candidate than Gwen. A recently discharged Army medic who needs to do something in her life.
I loved the chemistry between both characters. They both came from different worlds but they worked in the story. Their relationship was believable.
I also enjoyed was the drama and suspense the author created. I love the unexpected twists the book contained.
I also enjoyed reading about the secondary characters. They enhanced the book without overshadowing the main characters. There are a characters that I’m hoping get their own story.
4.5 Stars
I enjoyed this fresh take on the Rockstar and the Army medic.
Lucas is our resident bad boy Rockstar. He has caused doubt in his management team with his current behavior which now leads to his need for a baby sitter.
And there isn’t a better candidate than Gwen. A recently discharged Army medic who needs to do something in her life.
I loved the chemistry between both characters. They both came from different worlds but they worked in the story. Their relationship was believable.
I also enjoyed was the drama and suspense the author created. I love the unexpected twists the book contained.
I also enjoyed reading about the secondary characters. They enhanced the book without overshadowing the main characters. There are a characters that I’m hoping get their own story.
January 17, 2015
I have to say this wasn't the best rockstar romance I have read but it was good and kept me into it. Gwen was part of the Royal Army, injured and her career on the line she is in the States with her sister trying to recover. To get her out of her funk, her sister makes her tour manager of Lucas Wheeler's tour. What could go wrong?
Lucas has not made life easy. Back on track keeping clean should be easy but when life starts adding attraction to his new tour manager, a stalker, old lovers, and police....what will happen?
Lucas has not made life easy. Back on track keeping clean should be easy but when life starts adding attraction to his new tour manager, a stalker, old lovers, and police....what will happen?
January 14, 2015
This was a very good story, packed full of action, humor, and a great romance. Gwen and Lucas were cute together and the way they interacted was very real. The little bit of mystery about who the stalker was good, I didn't figure it out until it was revealed and I was shocked. I really enjoyed this book and I look forward to the next book.
I was given a copy by the publisher via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
I was given a copy by the publisher via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
January 20, 2015
The Farther I Fall, Lisa Nicholas
Review from Jeannie Zelos book reviews
Genre: Contemporary romance, suspense.
Its always interesting when you’re reading a debut book, where the author’s writing style is totally unknown. I really enjoyed this read, and feel Lisa has a strong future in fiction. There were a couple of irritants, some general and some a more personal issue, but on the whole this was a solid, fun and sexy read.
Gwen – I liked her. she’s tough – been an army medic and is recuperating from her injuries. She doesn’t take any nonsense, and her little sister needs someone tough to look after her top rock star signing. He’s fresh out of rehab, for the third time and the top execs are nervous about his upcoming tour.
I’m not hooked on military reads, tending to avoid them but it works for me here because that's really in the background, as Gwen’s history mainly. I do like rock star romances, and the fact they were touring adds a fun flavour to this novel and makes it feel more real to me. It was interesting having characters in their thirties for a change ( hurrah), as the romance genre does seem to get dominated by younger characters and its good to have older participants we can more easily identify with. I liked Gwen’s no nonsense, control stance, but did feel her PTSD, that was giving her severe headahces before the tour, seemed to go very quickly. It seemed her sister felt they were nightly and severe, whereas once on tour they were minimal and occasional...I’d have liked to see that balanced better. Likewise Lucas drug addiction – its his third time in rehab, and though he gave reasons for why he feels differently this time he didn’t seem to have any real probelms staying away apart from one incident, and I’d have thought that might have been harder – but I know nothing in reality of drug addiction or PTSD so could be wrong on both counts!
Lucas, he was a fun character –I loved the banter between him and Gwen, their special connection right from the start, and the way the others supporting him were so close. It was almost like they were a sort of family unit, but I guess being so closely connected for weeks hot housed any problems, and like a family they had to deal with them quickly as they couldn’t be avoided by distance. I did like the way Lucas was happy to give control to Gwen at times, when it came to sex. Usually I like the reverse, with a strong and dominant male lead, and wouldn’t have thought I’d like it this way round, but it fitted well with both characters and the backgrounds they had and worked well. Surprised me and shows its good to step out of comfort zone in reading. I loved Lucas brother too, and see he’s got a book coming out, and I’ll be looking out for that. I would have liked to know more about his family problems, it’s clear something big was behind his staying away so many years, and maybe the next book will reveal more? I just hate having things waved under my nose, my appetite to know more whetted, and then being left hanging....
The romance part, that worked well for me, though I would have liked a bit more build up, a bit more tension before they got together but once they did it was hot and sensual, without taking over the story. Sometimes reads become more sex than story and I need that balance, that the sex scenes are part of the story and not The story. It was perfect here. When it came to the suspense it wasn’t a heavily dominant thriller type suspense, but one where the suspense was just another angle to the romance side. I prefer that too – I used to read thrillers all the while, but now prefer reads that are lighter in that area. The dangers slowly build up and TBH I’d guessed fairly soon who was behind it all,but there were things that happened that I really didn’t expect and that was fun. Overall its made for a fun, sensual romantic read, with some real tension, and a satisfying climax.
Stars: Four and a half, one I really enjoyed and a great debut read.
ARC supplied by Netgalley and publishers.
February 14, 2015
Review can be read at It's About The Book
What a great novel! It combined a lot of my favorite things: a kick-ass alpha female who’s got some damage–literally to her body from being at war as a combat medic in Afghanistan. A gorgemous rock star, and a suspenseful killer chasing after them both. Yikes! Plus, a little something kinky for the ladies…
Gwen comes home after nearly dying and losing her best friend Janet while serving as a med tech in Afghanistan. She’s suffering from a little PTSD, and who can blame her? She flies to recuperate in LA with her sister Sam, but her recuperation takes an extended leave and leads to her planting her ass on Sam’s couch 24/7. This situation’s not good for her mental health and it’s worrying her sister. Since Samantha manages talent, she sticks Gwen with a job as a babysitter to a rock star who has a little drug issue–who’s having an issue with everyone watching him… This is his third shot at rehab after nearly dying from an overdose in NYC, so the management team is necessarily a little sensitive about his health. So Gwen’s medical skills and her military training are spot on for the job–at least as far as Sam sees it–and her organizational skills earned in the RAMC are going to be put to good use. That’s the Royal Army Medical Corps–because our girl Gwen’s from England. And her British accent is the first thing Lucas falls for when he first meets her.
Lucas feels like a real screw up. He’d really messed up with the drugs and he knew it. He also knew that he was lucky to be alive. This time he was determined to make it out of the tour without using. And when he heard the crisp accent of the new tour manager, he kind of fell in love. Known for sleeping with the tour manager to keep them in control, he felt kind of awkward hitting on her but this time it was different. She brought him a kind of peace when he was around her; he didn’t feel the need anymore to go out and get wasted. Even though it was taking her a while to catch on to the timing and all the little details that made touring bearable, he could tell that she was one sharp cookie and that she was going to catch on amazingly fast. And she was concerned about him for himself, too. That was different. She insisted he train so that he could defend himself if they got separated. Honestly, it was the first time someone had given him credit for being able to do anything but sing–and it felt nice.
But as always with any good romantic suspense, the creep factor appears. Lucas starts getting notes, suggesting that someone thinks they belong together. He doesn’t take them seriously at first; then the accidents start happening. Accidents on the stage involving members of the crew and guest singers that are scary and dangerous. Everyone is on edge and Gwen involves the police. Lucas’s brother Lee is on standby to help her. And then the money gets stolen and Gwen gets framed–removing the last obstacle between the stalker and Lucas. How far was this crazy going to go to make sure they got the happy ending the notes promised?
This book was really well done; one of the things I enjoyed the most was the sexual dominance going on between Gwen and Lucas. He kind of liked to be overpowered and she liked to dominate. They fell into it naturally but it grew from each noticing the other liking it and it was delicious; naughty, salty and sweet. Those moments were some of the finest in the book, when the characters felt the most open emotionally, and that was very intimate and touching to read. Both of them were damaged, and yet they were able to reach out and meet this way. No angst, no “I shouldn’t feel this way,” just done.
Thanks for the read!
What a great novel! It combined a lot of my favorite things: a kick-ass alpha female who’s got some damage–literally to her body from being at war as a combat medic in Afghanistan. A gorgemous rock star, and a suspenseful killer chasing after them both. Yikes! Plus, a little something kinky for the ladies…
Gwen comes home after nearly dying and losing her best friend Janet while serving as a med tech in Afghanistan. She’s suffering from a little PTSD, and who can blame her? She flies to recuperate in LA with her sister Sam, but her recuperation takes an extended leave and leads to her planting her ass on Sam’s couch 24/7. This situation’s not good for her mental health and it’s worrying her sister. Since Samantha manages talent, she sticks Gwen with a job as a babysitter to a rock star who has a little drug issue–who’s having an issue with everyone watching him… This is his third shot at rehab after nearly dying from an overdose in NYC, so the management team is necessarily a little sensitive about his health. So Gwen’s medical skills and her military training are spot on for the job–at least as far as Sam sees it–and her organizational skills earned in the RAMC are going to be put to good use. That’s the Royal Army Medical Corps–because our girl Gwen’s from England. And her British accent is the first thing Lucas falls for when he first meets her.
Lucas feels like a real screw up. He’d really messed up with the drugs and he knew it. He also knew that he was lucky to be alive. This time he was determined to make it out of the tour without using. And when he heard the crisp accent of the new tour manager, he kind of fell in love. Known for sleeping with the tour manager to keep them in control, he felt kind of awkward hitting on her but this time it was different. She brought him a kind of peace when he was around her; he didn’t feel the need anymore to go out and get wasted. Even though it was taking her a while to catch on to the timing and all the little details that made touring bearable, he could tell that she was one sharp cookie and that she was going to catch on amazingly fast. And she was concerned about him for himself, too. That was different. She insisted he train so that he could defend himself if they got separated. Honestly, it was the first time someone had given him credit for being able to do anything but sing–and it felt nice.
But as always with any good romantic suspense, the creep factor appears. Lucas starts getting notes, suggesting that someone thinks they belong together. He doesn’t take them seriously at first; then the accidents start happening. Accidents on the stage involving members of the crew and guest singers that are scary and dangerous. Everyone is on edge and Gwen involves the police. Lucas’s brother Lee is on standby to help her. And then the money gets stolen and Gwen gets framed–removing the last obstacle between the stalker and Lucas. How far was this crazy going to go to make sure they got the happy ending the notes promised?
This book was really well done; one of the things I enjoyed the most was the sexual dominance going on between Gwen and Lucas. He kind of liked to be overpowered and she liked to dominate. They fell into it naturally but it grew from each noticing the other liking it and it was delicious; naughty, salty and sweet. Those moments were some of the finest in the book, when the characters felt the most open emotionally, and that was very intimate and touching to read. Both of them were damaged, and yet they were able to reach out and meet this way. No angst, no “I shouldn’t feel this way,” just done.
Thanks for the read!
March 22, 2015
Previously reviewed on The Good, The Bad, and The Unread:
I love it when an author takes one or more well-used tropes and turns them completely on their heads; I’m particularly impressed when I see this kind of behaviour in a debut novel. That being the case, my eye was instantly drawn to the blurb for this novel, which takes the familiar scenario of ex-military bodyguard paired with an off-the-rails rock star and then switches the genders around. And that’s just the start of our journey into Wonderland (or should it be Through the Looking Glass?).
Gwen is on injury-forced leave from the Royal Army Medical Corps (a familiar background for a lot of protagonists I’m meeting at the moment, but then it is one of the few ways for a heroine to have served on the front line) and has wound up in the US, staying with her music industry sister. The future is looking pretty bleak, with a probable discharge lined up when Gwen returns to the UK, but her sister comes up with a short-term solution in the form of Liam, a rising star just out of rehab (yet again) and in need of a new tour manager after the sacking or reassignment of all those likely to lead Liam back into old habits.
Gwen and Liam have had one near-encounter prior to being properly introduced, but while she’s attracted to him – and the feeling seems to be mutual – she’s determined to keep a professional distance. However, the two are pushed ever closer together when they discover that Liam has a stalker, whose behaviour is rapidly escalating from leaving slightly odd notes to threatening anyone Liam is, or has previously been, involved with – including both Gwen and Liam’s ex-girlfriend, and former bandmate, who joins him on the tour for a string of joint gigs.
I love both Gwen and Liam as well as all the supporting cast, as well as the way we were thrown any number of red herrings as to the identity of the stalker before events escalated still further into a big reveal. Gwen is tough (though not butch as the stalker’s notes suggest), but she’s also haunted by events and situations in Afghanistan, which she was unable to either prevent or get everyone out of safely. Liam is unashamedly bisexual (far too much of a rarity in heroes, in my opinion), which previously led to a now-resolved rift with his wealthy parents, and he’s also mostly submissive to Gwen in the bedroom (also refreshing, in my opinion), no matter how much of a brat he might be everywhere else. I’m desperate to see more of these two, but may have to content myself with Liam’s twin brother – whose book should be coming out later in the year.
This is an author that may well have catapulted directly to auto-buy status on the strength of this book. But being British, I’ll reserve a tiny bit of judgement until I’ve read one more story by her first.
I love it when an author takes one or more well-used tropes and turns them completely on their heads; I’m particularly impressed when I see this kind of behaviour in a debut novel. That being the case, my eye was instantly drawn to the blurb for this novel, which takes the familiar scenario of ex-military bodyguard paired with an off-the-rails rock star and then switches the genders around. And that’s just the start of our journey into Wonderland (or should it be Through the Looking Glass?).
Gwen is on injury-forced leave from the Royal Army Medical Corps (a familiar background for a lot of protagonists I’m meeting at the moment, but then it is one of the few ways for a heroine to have served on the front line) and has wound up in the US, staying with her music industry sister. The future is looking pretty bleak, with a probable discharge lined up when Gwen returns to the UK, but her sister comes up with a short-term solution in the form of Liam, a rising star just out of rehab (yet again) and in need of a new tour manager after the sacking or reassignment of all those likely to lead Liam back into old habits.
Gwen and Liam have had one near-encounter prior to being properly introduced, but while she’s attracted to him – and the feeling seems to be mutual – she’s determined to keep a professional distance. However, the two are pushed ever closer together when they discover that Liam has a stalker, whose behaviour is rapidly escalating from leaving slightly odd notes to threatening anyone Liam is, or has previously been, involved with – including both Gwen and Liam’s ex-girlfriend, and former bandmate, who joins him on the tour for a string of joint gigs.
I love both Gwen and Liam as well as all the supporting cast, as well as the way we were thrown any number of red herrings as to the identity of the stalker before events escalated still further into a big reveal. Gwen is tough (though not butch as the stalker’s notes suggest), but she’s also haunted by events and situations in Afghanistan, which she was unable to either prevent or get everyone out of safely. Liam is unashamedly bisexual (far too much of a rarity in heroes, in my opinion), which previously led to a now-resolved rift with his wealthy parents, and he’s also mostly submissive to Gwen in the bedroom (also refreshing, in my opinion), no matter how much of a brat he might be everywhere else. I’m desperate to see more of these two, but may have to content myself with Liam’s twin brother – whose book should be coming out later in the year.
This is an author that may well have catapulted directly to auto-buy status on the strength of this book. But being British, I’ll reserve a tiny bit of judgement until I’ve read one more story by her first.
Want to read
January 10, 2015*NETGALLEY*
Want to read
December 10, 2014added to our TRL: http://amzn.to/1IBACa1
September 19, 2015
I'm violating my usual ratings system for this one. Normally I'd rate it two stars -- "would not read again" -- but this is a debut from a new author, and it seems unfair to weigh their ratings so. In "objective" terms, therefore, it's about a 2.75 rounded to a 3. It's a very strong premise with interesting characters. Unfortunately it lacks the cohesive plotting of a good thriller, while also lacking the emotional complexity needed for a good romance novel. It doesn't really carry either element off convincingly, in the end, but it's not a bad read.
The rest isn't so much spoiler-y as, mmm, some insider baseball talk, so I'm placing it behind a tag:
The rest isn't so much spoiler-y as, mmm, some insider baseball talk, so I'm placing it behind a tag:
Want to read
January 14, 2015Gwen Tennison got out of Afghanistan alive but scarred--and then got stuck on her sister's couch. When she's offered a job managing the U.S. tour for rock music's hottest, most troubled star, it seems like just the thing to snap her out of her post-injury funk. Her instructions are simple: start the shows on time, and keep him clean.
But Lucas Wheeler may be more than she can handle. Though he's drug-free, he still feels the need, and his gorgeous, capable new tour manager is a challenge he can't ignore. Fame and infamy have forced Lucas to protect his heart, but soon he finds himself craving Gwen's touch, and yearning to give her control. And Gwen might feel the same way.
But it's not just the mutual heat between them that is keeping Gwen on her toes. Someone is following Lucas from city to city. With more than just her job on the line Gwen must decide how much she's willing to risk to keep Lucas safe.
But Lucas Wheeler may be more than she can handle. Though he's drug-free, he still feels the need, and his gorgeous, capable new tour manager is a challenge he can't ignore. Fame and infamy have forced Lucas to protect his heart, but soon he finds himself craving Gwen's touch, and yearning to give her control. And Gwen might feel the same way.
But it's not just the mutual heat between them that is keeping Gwen on her toes. Someone is following Lucas from city to city. With more than just her job on the line Gwen must decide how much she's willing to risk to keep Lucas safe.
April 7, 2015
An enjoyable contemporary romance. The peek behind the scenes of the life of a rock star was a fun escape. I liked the characters, and the stalker storyline gave the novel some good tense moments.
A side note on formatting: I read this on my Kindle, and the formatting was really messed up. Strange placement of page numbers right in the middle of pages, places where a new paragraph should have started because the speaker changed, but it was all run together. I don't know if this was simply because this was a NetGalley ARC, which comes to my machine as a document instead of a book...at any rate, the formatting greatly detracted from the flow of the story. I'm hoping it's all fixed in the version people purchase!
As mentioned, this book was received from NetGalley, in exchange for an honest review.
A side note on formatting: I read this on my Kindle, and the formatting was really messed up. Strange placement of page numbers right in the middle of pages, places where a new paragraph should have started because the speaker changed, but it was all run together. I don't know if this was simply because this was a NetGalley ARC, which comes to my machine as a document instead of a book...at any rate, the formatting greatly detracted from the flow of the story. I'm hoping it's all fixed in the version people purchase!
As mentioned, this book was received from NetGalley, in exchange for an honest review.
February 13, 2016
So caveat: I haven't read a ton of romance, so I'm not sure how to judge this. I do know this: I so want to be friends with the heroine. She's a totally competent army medic, who ends up as a tour manager for the US tour of a rising pop star.
What I loved, apart from how I utterly believed these two working together, is the whole world around them. I know next to nothing about the music industry either, but the whole setting of trekking through a country from one place to the next with a small group of people... it felt so ALIVE to me.
So yeah, would recommend.
What I loved, apart from how I utterly believed these two working together, is the whole world around them. I know next to nothing about the music industry either, but the whole setting of trekking through a country from one place to the next with a small group of people... it felt so ALIVE to me.
So yeah, would recommend.
February 26, 2016
Not my cup of tea, I felt that Lucas was a freaking child. I need an alpha male not a little boy that throws a temper tantrum every time he doesn't get his way.
The book was also just too predictable, I knew who the stalker was immediately there was no mystery and because of that it made the Gwen look like an Idiot.
I wont be reading the next book.
The book was also just too predictable, I knew who the stalker was immediately there was no mystery and because of that it made the Gwen look like an Idiot.
I wont be reading the next book.
February 14, 2016
Didn't quite buy the premise or the execution, though I did like the heroine.
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