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Lake Effect #1
It's Not My Favorite
This title has been UNPUBLISHED and is no longer offered by the author or publisher. Please see the information for "Finding My Favorite" (The Lake Effect Series, Book 1) to begin reading this series.
312 pages, Paperback
First published October 13, 2013
166 people are currently reading
1165 people want to read
About the author
Rue
61 books123 followers2015 and 2016 IPPY Award Winner.
2016 National Indie Excellence Awards Finalist.
Rue is an award-winning fiction author and in her limited spare time, she reads voraciously. Her love of the written word led to the pursuit of a B.A. in Journalism from Pepperdine University in California and a lifelong passion for writing. Her respect for indigenous cultures, oral traditions, and the seasonal magick of nature inevitably brought her work to the world of fantasy. The story of Flynn Hawthorn has been part of her heart and imagination for nearly a decade.
2016 National Indie Excellence Awards Finalist.
Rue is an award-winning fiction author and in her limited spare time, she reads voraciously. Her love of the written word led to the pursuit of a B.A. in Journalism from Pepperdine University in California and a lifelong passion for writing. Her respect for indigenous cultures, oral traditions, and the seasonal magick of nature inevitably brought her work to the world of fantasy. The story of Flynn Hawthorn has been part of her heart and imagination for nearly a decade.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 77 reviews
April 29, 2020
I'm confused why this is toted as a lesbian romance, okay there is a subplot pertaining to the main characters gay sister. But 90% of this story is about a very straight Gwenn including many many references to guy/girl fucking.
Not to mention, as a New Zealander, the kiwi dialogue drove me to drink.
"I'll look eet u."
"Heenry Wilkeen, that's eet."
Not to mention, as a New Zealander, the kiwi dialogue drove me to drink.
"I'll look eet u."
"Heenry Wilkeen, that's eet."
December 18, 2015
It's Not My Favorite is certainly not one of my favorites. I loved the sound of this one from the description, but it's really not anything like that. Gwenn and Rachel are sisters and very close, and they've both had to deal with their born again Christian parents trying to direct their lives. Mostly, their mother criticizes everything about them and constantly tries to hook them up with nice Christian boys. Well, Gwenn isn't interested in anyone from church and Rachel is a lesbian (not that her parents know that). Then Gwenn finds a picture that leads her to the man who might be what's missing from her life.
Sadly, it became clear early on that It's Not My Favorite was not going to be a story about both sisters finding love and dealing with their mother. It's very much Gwenn's story and honestly, other than the awkwardness at the beginning, it's not that interesting. Rachel on the other hand has a break-up, rebound, make-up, and coming out all crammed into maybe five out of fifty chapters! That is not fair especially since she's given half of the description! She's very much a side character and not the main character.
It's Not My Favorite did start off pretty great. Gwenn has never felt like she fits in her family, so when she thinks her mother may have had an affair around the time of her conception, she's desperate to find the truth. Of course this means that she originally thought the love interest was her father! Talk about awkward! But then she takes off to New Zealand to get herself together and Daniel stalks her across the world. That is not okay! They had only met twice: once when she asked if he's her father and then again for a DNA test. But he's in love with her and has to find her and bring her home! Creepy!
It's Not My Favorite was just not what I was expecting to read and there was no way I could get behind that romance after Daniel starts stalking Gwenn after two conversations. I was even more troubled that Gwenn's assistant would give out that much information to a client! He could have been a psycho killer! And more than that, Daniel goes to therapy and she basically tells him that he needs to let Gwenn see him as a potential romantic partner and not the representation of the family she lost, rather than telling him that stalking is not okay! I really don't get it.
Read more of my reviews at Pinkindle Reads & Reviews.
Sadly, it became clear early on that It's Not My Favorite was not going to be a story about both sisters finding love and dealing with their mother. It's very much Gwenn's story and honestly, other than the awkwardness at the beginning, it's not that interesting. Rachel on the other hand has a break-up, rebound, make-up, and coming out all crammed into maybe five out of fifty chapters! That is not fair especially since she's given half of the description! She's very much a side character and not the main character.
It's Not My Favorite did start off pretty great. Gwenn has never felt like she fits in her family, so when she thinks her mother may have had an affair around the time of her conception, she's desperate to find the truth. Of course this means that she originally thought the love interest was her father! Talk about awkward! But then she takes off to New Zealand to get herself together and Daniel stalks her across the world. That is not okay! They had only met twice: once when she asked if he's her father and then again for a DNA test. But he's in love with her and has to find her and bring her home! Creepy!
It's Not My Favorite was just not what I was expecting to read and there was no way I could get behind that romance after Daniel starts stalking Gwenn after two conversations. I was even more troubled that Gwenn's assistant would give out that much information to a client! He could have been a psycho killer! And more than that, Daniel goes to therapy and she basically tells him that he needs to let Gwenn see him as a potential romantic partner and not the representation of the family she lost, rather than telling him that stalking is not okay! I really don't get it.
Read more of my reviews at Pinkindle Reads & Reviews.
May 18, 2016
This reads like a Lifetime movie. It's ridiculous. The dialogue is poorly written and doesn't sound the way anyone actually talks. Who uses someone's name six times in one conversation? If she called her sister "Rache" one more unnecessary time, I was going to throw the book across the room.
The other stupid part of this book was the constant label dropping. I don't care if she's wearing a Patagonia jacket or Michael Kors shoes. She covered every single quasi-designer label out there.
I went into this (because it's labeled LGBT) thinking the protagonist was going to be a lesbian or bisexual but, of course, the main character is a straightie with a train wreck of a love life and the sister is the quirky lesbian character (the B plot if you will).
Skip this. Even though it's available for download for free right now.
The other stupid part of this book was the constant label dropping. I don't care if she's wearing a Patagonia jacket or Michael Kors shoes. She covered every single quasi-designer label out there.
I went into this (because it's labeled LGBT) thinking the protagonist was going to be a lesbian or bisexual but, of course, the main character is a straightie with a train wreck of a love life and the sister is the quirky lesbian character (the B plot if you will).
Skip this. Even though it's available for download for free right now.
November 4, 2017
here is some crazy as hell stuff going on in this book. Ridiculous, but in a way that I absolutely enjoyed and I'm not even ashamed. It's because of that reason that I just couldn't put it down. I needed to know what the hell was going to happen, because it was so different than anything I expected it to be.
Read more here:
http://www.platypire.com/j-hooligan/i...
Read more here:
http://www.platypire.com/j-hooligan/i...
June 8, 2014
The first chapter was very steamy! Then ...it was a dream! OMG The Hutchinson sisters grew up the daughters of a preacher. I got the feeling that if one or both ever did find and marry "a good Christian boy" they would find something else to complain about. The conversations between them were the high point for me. Their mother spoke in Minnesota lingo so it was a treat.
As for the main characters Gwenn (Gwendolyn) and her sister Rachel are funny. When it comes to the sister likeness they are not it! They are opposites. Each one is just trying to find out where and what they should be doing.
Gwen is an organizer and has her own business. There are a few funny scenes between them where you find out that Gwenn is a slob. I guess she tires of cleaning other peoples clutter, so when it comes to her own, well shed just rather it sit and be clutter.
Rachel is a little bit of a rebel, she gay, her parents don't know. I don't get her thinking, but she feels like it would be the end all battle so why tell them. In every other conversation she is told of a "nice Christian boy" that she could date. So it was laughable. They make reference to things I consider funny like mentioning God told them to move. They moved a lot too!
The plot follows as Gwenn has vivid dreams of a handsome stranger. Then Gwenn discovers a photo and she wonders if this artist Daniel Gregory is her dream guy. When the adventure begins the sisters keep a decent pace. I felt bad for Rachel when she had to deal with a possible cheating dilemma with her long time rock band girlfriend. She takes you on a text message fueled frenzy.
Overall the book was good although at times a little too descriptive and that slowed things up a little for me. The title comes from a family saying “Well, it’s not my favorite.” The sisters are in for more Minnesota adventures for sure.
As for the main characters Gwenn (Gwendolyn) and her sister Rachel are funny. When it comes to the sister likeness they are not it! They are opposites. Each one is just trying to find out where and what they should be doing.
Gwen is an organizer and has her own business. There are a few funny scenes between them where you find out that Gwenn is a slob. I guess she tires of cleaning other peoples clutter, so when it comes to her own, well shed just rather it sit and be clutter.
Rachel is a little bit of a rebel, she gay, her parents don't know. I don't get her thinking, but she feels like it would be the end all battle so why tell them. In every other conversation she is told of a "nice Christian boy" that she could date. So it was laughable. They make reference to things I consider funny like mentioning God told them to move. They moved a lot too!
The plot follows as Gwenn has vivid dreams of a handsome stranger. Then Gwenn discovers a photo and she wonders if this artist Daniel Gregory is her dream guy. When the adventure begins the sisters keep a decent pace. I felt bad for Rachel when she had to deal with a possible cheating dilemma with her long time rock band girlfriend. She takes you on a text message fueled frenzy.
Overall the book was good although at times a little too descriptive and that slowed things up a little for me. The title comes from a family saying “Well, it’s not my favorite.” The sisters are in for more Minnesota adventures for sure.
March 1, 2015
Please note: We had two reviewers read this book, and their ratings differed greatly. The rating given is a hallfway point between the two. That's books, right?
This is a good book about sisters who stick together through it all. The love they have for each other goes above and beyond, and around the globe.
Gwenn and her sister Rachel are the main ladies in this one. Gwenn has dreams she was switched at birth and she is not really trapped in her family. Rachel is gay and out of the closet with everyone but their parents.
Daniel meets Gwenn in an unusual way and their relationship has a very rocky start, to say the least. He has his own demons in his past, and with the help of his assistant, Todd, pursues Gwenn to the ends of the earth.
Annie is Rachel’s girlfriend, but when they hit a bumpy patch things fall apart quickly. These two are battling their own fears and insecurities throughout the book.
There is a lot going on in this book, and a lot of characters but it was pretty easy to follow along. There were times and scenes that could have been less detailed to make the story flow better, but overall the characters were real. They reacted the same way most of us when times get tough. There is some heat to this book, but much is left up to the imagination. ~ Devlynn, 3.5 stars
~~~
This book had a huge amount of potential. Two quirky, crazy sisters just trying to live their lives. Unfortunately, the author must not have felt that their stories were compelling enough that she decided to throw in side stories about their parents, their co-workers, former lovers, etc. This all greatly detracted from the focus of the the main characters, Gwynne and Rachel, and I gave up trying to keep up with things at 32%. ~ Missy, DNF @ 32%
This is a good book about sisters who stick together through it all. The love they have for each other goes above and beyond, and around the globe.
Gwenn and her sister Rachel are the main ladies in this one. Gwenn has dreams she was switched at birth and she is not really trapped in her family. Rachel is gay and out of the closet with everyone but their parents.
Daniel meets Gwenn in an unusual way and their relationship has a very rocky start, to say the least. He has his own demons in his past, and with the help of his assistant, Todd, pursues Gwenn to the ends of the earth.
Annie is Rachel’s girlfriend, but when they hit a bumpy patch things fall apart quickly. These two are battling their own fears and insecurities throughout the book.
There is a lot going on in this book, and a lot of characters but it was pretty easy to follow along. There were times and scenes that could have been less detailed to make the story flow better, but overall the characters were real. They reacted the same way most of us when times get tough. There is some heat to this book, but much is left up to the imagination. ~ Devlynn, 3.5 stars
~~~
This book had a huge amount of potential. Two quirky, crazy sisters just trying to live their lives. Unfortunately, the author must not have felt that their stories were compelling enough that she decided to throw in side stories about their parents, their co-workers, former lovers, etc. This all greatly detracted from the focus of the the main characters, Gwynne and Rachel, and I gave up trying to keep up with things at 32%. ~ Missy, DNF @ 32%
May 24, 2015
It's Not My Favorite is a little bit silly, a lot funny, and also has its share of heartache and getting to terms with a difficult family.
This and all my other reviews are originally posted on my blog (un)Conventional Bookviews
This and all my other reviews are originally posted on my blog (un)Conventional Bookviews
January 27, 2017
I didn't like this book at all. I thought it was slow and boring.
July 23, 2017
I was given this free review copy audiobook at my request and have voluntarily left this review.
I expected more from this novel than I received. It's less about two sisters and more about one of the sisters and her possible brother/lover. I really liked Rachel, whose story line is mostly crammed into a few small chapters while the main plot focuses on Gwenn. I feel like Rachel would have been much more interesting as the main character in this novel, or at least a serious secondary character. Her LGBT plot line was much easier to read than Gwenn's pretty boring life. Gwenn is so desperate to escape her born again parents that she daydreams that she was swapped at birth. After finding a photo of a man that she thinks might be her father, Gwenn embarks on a journey of discovery which takes her to a possible brother and a physical journey to another continent. Daniel, I was leery about. Like... he follows Gwenn across the world after meeting her twice because he's in love with her? Why exactly did his therapist not flag this up as worrisome behaviour? I realise that the therapist tells him to get Gwenn to view him as a lover and not as a brother to progress the plot line, but I really didn't like it. He was stalking.
That being said, the best part of this novel was the interactions between Gwenn and Rachel. It was easy to feel the friendship and love between them and that sustained this novel. The audio narration was also spectacular and I found it really easy to get into.
I expected more from this novel than I received. It's less about two sisters and more about one of the sisters and her possible brother/lover. I really liked Rachel, whose story line is mostly crammed into a few small chapters while the main plot focuses on Gwenn. I feel like Rachel would have been much more interesting as the main character in this novel, or at least a serious secondary character. Her LGBT plot line was much easier to read than Gwenn's pretty boring life. Gwenn is so desperate to escape her born again parents that she daydreams that she was swapped at birth. After finding a photo of a man that she thinks might be her father, Gwenn embarks on a journey of discovery which takes her to a possible brother and a physical journey to another continent. Daniel, I was leery about. Like... he follows Gwenn across the world after meeting her twice because he's in love with her? Why exactly did his therapist not flag this up as worrisome behaviour? I realise that the therapist tells him to get Gwenn to view him as a lover and not as a brother to progress the plot line, but I really didn't like it. He was stalking.
That being said, the best part of this novel was the interactions between Gwenn and Rachel. It was easy to feel the friendship and love between them and that sustained this novel. The audio narration was also spectacular and I found it really easy to get into.
April 2, 2016
Title: It's Not My Favorite (The Lake Effect Series Book 1)
Author: Rue
Series: The Lake Effect
Publisher: Sittin' On A Goldmine Productions LLC
Reviewer: Mollien
Release Date: May 28, 2014
Genre(s): Gay Lesbian Male Female Romance
Page Count: 321 pages
Heat Level: 2 flames out of 5
Rating: 3.6 stars out of 5
Blurb:
Review:
Review Copy of It's Not My Favorite provided by the Author, Rue for an honest Review. Reviewed by Mollien from Alpha Book Club
Author: Rue
Series: The Lake Effect
Publisher: Sittin' On A Goldmine Productions LLC
Reviewer: Mollien
Release Date: May 28, 2014
Genre(s): Gay Lesbian Male Female Romance
Page Count: 321 pages
Heat Level: 2 flames out of 5
Rating: 3.6 stars out of 5
Blurb:
"An irreverent, modern-day, romantic comedy!"
The Hutchinson sisters grew up under the piercing, pious stare of a preacher’s wife. Plagued by her ever-disappointed refrain, “Well, it’s not my favorite.” Their search to find their own way in the world has not been a screaming success.
Gwenn is a good girl, a responsible girl…a miserable girl. Her steady diet of vivid fantasies is the only part of her life she enjoys. She daydreams of new parents, a more exciting job and an actual love life. She struggles to run a business as The Organizer, while she stacks relationship carcasses in the closet of her own completely unorganized life. Her only real friend is her younger sister, Rachel.
Rachel is outgoing, risqué and happily gay. The only people who don’t know this little secret are her judgmental parents, Pastor Ed and Shirley. Rachel struggles mightily to dodge her mother’s constant attempts to set her up with “nice Christian boys”; while holding down a job at the bakery and keeping up with her rock-star girlfriend!
Gwenn uncovers a photo that brings her imaginary world careening into reality. She’s forced to ask herself if wealthy artist, Daniel Gregory is the answer she’s been seeking or a grand delusion.
Break-ups, meltdowns, family secrets, wild nights and finally a journey of self-discovery to exotic New Zealand keep Gwenn and Rachel stumbling toward independence.
So grab your parka and join the Hutchinson girls, as they experience the Lake Effect in Duluth, Minnesota!
Review:
This is the first book of The Lake Effect Series. It starts off really good. I like the idea of the two sisters finding love on their own terms and how they were always there for the other. The them against their controlling mother was great. As the story progressed however I started getting sidetracked with all the jumping around from Gwenn to Rachel to Daniel. I was expecting a fun romantic comedy. Yes there were funny parts, but for the most part these girls were depressing.
The Plot was good, but I found the story disjointed. I really didn’t feel the chemistry between the characters, except for the love of two sisters. The pacing was a little all over the place. The story got better at the end. Loved the showdown. The characters did end up being so much stronger at the end of the story. I wish there was more about Rachel.
Review Copy of It's Not My Favorite provided by the Author, Rue for an honest Review. Reviewed by Mollien from Alpha Book Club
March 16, 2016
Title:it’s not my favorite
Author: Rue
Series:The Lake Effect Series
Publisher: Sittin' On A Goldmine Productions LLC
Reviewer: Heather
Release Date:May 28, 2016
Genre(s):Romance
Page Count:321
Heat Level: 3 flames out of 5
Rating: 4 stars out of 5
Gwenn and Rachel are very close sisters. Gwenn is single, and looking for love. Rachel is a lesbian, and has been keeping it from her parents. He mother is a very strong Christian, and is always trying to find the two girls “good Christian guys”.
Gwenn meets this man, Daniel. They have only met a couple of times, but when she goes to New Zealand to find herself, he follows her. She finds herself believing Daniel might be her father, only for him not to be. He seemed to have fallen in love with Gwenn in the few times they were together.
This was a very hard story to follow. I felt like Rachel should have a little more in the story. Her whole coming out, break-up and make-up was a little rushed for me.
I did enjoy the story, and I found it to be funny and a cute read. I haven’t read Rue before, but I would be interested in reading more.
Reviewed by Heather from Alpha Book Club
Please provide: (Please put N/A if Not available yet)
ASIN: B00KMHFW04
Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/2...
Author Link: http://www.amazon.com/Rue/e/B00K5WB7Y...
All Romance Link: NA
SCORES on a scale of 1-5 Stars rate each of the Following 5 Categories
PLOT:4
CHEMISTRY:3
PACING:3
Author: Rue
Series:The Lake Effect Series
Publisher: Sittin' On A Goldmine Productions LLC
Reviewer: Heather
Release Date:May 28, 2016
Genre(s):Romance
Page Count:321
Heat Level: 3 flames out of 5
Rating: 4 stars out of 5
Gwenn and Rachel are very close sisters. Gwenn is single, and looking for love. Rachel is a lesbian, and has been keeping it from her parents. He mother is a very strong Christian, and is always trying to find the two girls “good Christian guys”.
Gwenn meets this man, Daniel. They have only met a couple of times, but when she goes to New Zealand to find herself, he follows her. She finds herself believing Daniel might be her father, only for him not to be. He seemed to have fallen in love with Gwenn in the few times they were together.
This was a very hard story to follow. I felt like Rachel should have a little more in the story. Her whole coming out, break-up and make-up was a little rushed for me.
I did enjoy the story, and I found it to be funny and a cute read. I haven’t read Rue before, but I would be interested in reading more.
Reviewed by Heather from Alpha Book Club
Please provide: (Please put N/A if Not available yet)
ASIN: B00KMHFW04
Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/2...
Author Link: http://www.amazon.com/Rue/e/B00K5WB7Y...
All Romance Link: NA
SCORES on a scale of 1-5 Stars rate each of the Following 5 Categories
PLOT:4
CHEMISTRY:3
PACING:3
July 9, 2014
Growing up , Gwen was the sister that did no wrong as it was pretty difficult to make a wayward step when your father happened to be the local Preacher. Now that Gwen and her sister Rachel who happens to be Gay but her parents aren't aware yet, though she has been out of the closet to all her friends for the past ten years. For the past few months, Gwen has been feeling restless and lost and she is about to discover why when she helps her parent's pack up for their next big move. Sitting in the garage is a box of painting and photos of her mother with her arms around a guy that isn't their dad and the dates suggest that the dad Gwen grew up with isn't necessarily her biological dad. Eager for a life change and a stab at the truth, the journey will lead Gwen into the arms of Daniel Gregory Junior - the son of the guy in the photo. There is a spark between these two, but when things start to go off-course it sends Gwen dropping everything and hightailing it to the land of the long white cloud otherwise known as New Zealand. I loved this part as being from New Zealand myself, I got to experience all the places Gwen went too as it stirred memories from the Huka falls in Taupo to the Gardens in Hamilton. It's not my Favorite is a chick lit novel that will have readers wanting to travel and experience the world as it shows readers that in order to grow , we must discover and take risks in life. This book is aimed at Chick Lit readers aged 20-30's and is a journey of discoveries awaiting to happen.
October 30, 2016
A REFRESHING STORY AND STORY-LINE.....
This is a good one to get the yummy feelings going. I thoroughly enjoyed the story-line, Gwenn and Daniel, Rachel and Anne, and who can forget the impressionable Todd and of course the holier-than-though parents, Ed and Shirley. Characters that are real and who you can relate to always turns out to be a good read. It was a joy being in their lives, and though it was 'short' (to me it was over way to quickly, maybe because i enjoyed it so much) I thoroughly enjoy it. I especially enjoyed the relationship they have as sisters and how it worked well with keeping them together.
This one was recommended by a friend and it was a really good choice for us to read together. It is a good buddy read.
Will be recommending to others to have a read. Don't think I will be going to the other books - just because I am happy with where the story ended and feel no need to complicate things.
As always Happy Reading.
Check out www.sliperyvowels.wordpress.com for more...
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This is a good one to get the yummy feelings going. I thoroughly enjoyed the story-line, Gwenn and Daniel, Rachel and Anne, and who can forget the impressionable Todd and of course the holier-than-though parents, Ed and Shirley. Characters that are real and who you can relate to always turns out to be a good read. It was a joy being in their lives, and though it was 'short' (to me it was over way to quickly, maybe because i enjoyed it so much) I thoroughly enjoy it. I especially enjoyed the relationship they have as sisters and how it worked well with keeping them together.
This one was recommended by a friend and it was a really good choice for us to read together. It is a good buddy read.
Will be recommending to others to have a read. Don't think I will be going to the other books - just because I am happy with where the story ended and feel no need to complicate things.
As always Happy Reading.
Check out www.sliperyvowels.wordpress.com for more...
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September 4, 2015
While there were some interesting characters and great banter at times in this story, all in all I found it to be choppy and all over the place. I think the author had way too much going on to be an enjoyable read. Really also found the 'father/brother/lover' twist a little disturbing.
** I received an e-copy of this book from the author in return for an honest review.
** I received an e-copy of this book from the author in return for an honest review.
June 17, 2015
I enjoyed the dynamics between the sisters and while the actions occasionally seemed a little over the top (for everyone involved - except maybe the parents, I've seen those parents) it was an enjoyable read.
November 27, 2014
I liked the book because it had me laughing through the whole book and I found myself loving the relationship between the sisters. I wanted a little more from the book, but overall I did enjoy it.
July 21, 2017
Not kindle unlimited
Has this linking thing that opens up a second window, showing you pictures of what is being described, so sort of neat {but not} as not sure it added that much to the story overall, so more of a gimmic. As for the rest...don't do chick lit, romances, anything with the word romance in it {including paranormal romance, because even though the paranormal is first it never is a major part of the story, so chick like romance}. The 2 sisters, one gay, did not bother me, but another reason I don't read lgbt, because it's basically chick lit romance, with no real story other than whatever romance and bare bones story all that is stuck in to. This story in particular was like watching a 90210 episode with the teen angst, the unbelievabe actions and choices of the people, and the parents {even though supposedly the main cause for much of what happens over time} seemed pretty much to be cardboard cutout props. The stalking parts I did have issue with, as they were basically more 90210 and brushed off as no big deal overall. So, unlike some of the other reviews I glanced at, I had no issue with just one sister or any of the characters being gay, no problem with the christian parents {just wondered why children's services agencies were never called}, and have been through most of the country so don't understand the point about the Minnisota accents, because everyone across the country has varying levels of accents. I had issues with the stalking, the characters not being fleshed out, the motivations being almost nonexistant, and once again it being chick lit with little to no redeeming value or use. The only reason gave it a 2 instead of 1 is that that for amazon 2 is didn't like, 1 is hate. By the way, the blurb for the goodreads version is totally different than the amazon version, and don't think either one really tells enough of the right details to ensure that readers know what they are getting. There are 2 more of these in the series, and even if it was on ku I wouldn't be getting them.
Has this linking thing that opens up a second window, showing you pictures of what is being described, so sort of neat {but not} as not sure it added that much to the story overall, so more of a gimmic. As for the rest...don't do chick lit, romances, anything with the word romance in it {including paranormal romance, because even though the paranormal is first it never is a major part of the story, so chick like romance}. The 2 sisters, one gay, did not bother me, but another reason I don't read lgbt, because it's basically chick lit romance, with no real story other than whatever romance and bare bones story all that is stuck in to. This story in particular was like watching a 90210 episode with the teen angst, the unbelievabe actions and choices of the people, and the parents {even though supposedly the main cause for much of what happens over time} seemed pretty much to be cardboard cutout props. The stalking parts I did have issue with, as they were basically more 90210 and brushed off as no big deal overall. So, unlike some of the other reviews I glanced at, I had no issue with just one sister or any of the characters being gay, no problem with the christian parents {just wondered why children's services agencies were never called}, and have been through most of the country so don't understand the point about the Minnisota accents, because everyone across the country has varying levels of accents. I had issues with the stalking, the characters not being fleshed out, the motivations being almost nonexistant, and once again it being chick lit with little to no redeeming value or use. The only reason gave it a 2 instead of 1 is that that for amazon 2 is didn't like, 1 is hate. By the way, the blurb for the goodreads version is totally different than the amazon version, and don't think either one really tells enough of the right details to ensure that readers know what they are getting. There are 2 more of these in the series, and even if it was on ku I wouldn't be getting them.
December 29, 2021
It’s Not My Favorite (Lake Effect Series # 1) — Rue (Prologue + 53 chapters + Epilogue) Dec. 27-28, 2021
OK. So this book not longer exists. It has been re-written and re-titled “Finding My Favorite.” But if you look for that, unless you have already downloaded it, good lucking finding it at the end of 2021. And good luck finding the prequel and the follow two books in the series.
It seems the author has left Amazon and I am unable to locate her recent YA fantasy series as well. (Not that I would want to read those.) Incidentally, I do have the re-written book on my Books app, but will hold of reading it for now.
Anywho, this review will only affect (or is it effect?) those of you that have in possession this original version and have not read it yet. Also, let me say that what I have read (albeit very briefly) of the re-written version, the two books are very similar. And it find it slightly interesting that while this book bombed, the re-written book appears to have well received.
So, here is my review: I liked it. It has something for both straight and lesbians. I am at the point in my life that have a well drawn lesbian without much sex is better than have a lesbian story that’s U-Haul after one chapter. And these characters, sisters, who have gone through hell and back with their very -er- I loathe to use “religious” because that is white-washing all people of these faiths, so let’s say their parents are narrow-minded (c)hristians. The parents are very suffocating to their children’s happiness and well-being. So to say they survive this is quite a feat.
This is their grown-up story, one a lesbian, one never having a fulfilling straight relationship and how they stumble into or through their relationships and come out stronger.
A very good story with strong, well written characters, both good and evil. It reads way faster than I original thought.
Four stars.
OK. So this book not longer exists. It has been re-written and re-titled “Finding My Favorite.” But if you look for that, unless you have already downloaded it, good lucking finding it at the end of 2021. And good luck finding the prequel and the follow two books in the series.
It seems the author has left Amazon and I am unable to locate her recent YA fantasy series as well. (Not that I would want to read those.) Incidentally, I do have the re-written book on my Books app, but will hold of reading it for now.
Anywho, this review will only affect (or is it effect?) those of you that have in possession this original version and have not read it yet. Also, let me say that what I have read (albeit very briefly) of the re-written version, the two books are very similar. And it find it slightly interesting that while this book bombed, the re-written book appears to have well received.
So, here is my review: I liked it. It has something for both straight and lesbians. I am at the point in my life that have a well drawn lesbian without much sex is better than have a lesbian story that’s U-Haul after one chapter. And these characters, sisters, who have gone through hell and back with their very -er- I loathe to use “religious” because that is white-washing all people of these faiths, so let’s say their parents are narrow-minded (c)hristians. The parents are very suffocating to their children’s happiness and well-being. So to say they survive this is quite a feat.
This is their grown-up story, one a lesbian, one never having a fulfilling straight relationship and how they stumble into or through their relationships and come out stronger.
A very good story with strong, well written characters, both good and evil. It reads way faster than I original thought.
Four stars.
July 18, 2017
Unfortunately this isn't quite the story I was hoping for. I saw it was tagged as LGBT on goodreads, and half the summary is devoted to the sister. The sister was a very small part of the book, as most of it features Gwen. from the cover, I thought maybe this was something like Candy Boy, two super-close sisters going through life together, but it wasn't really that either. With that said, I didn't like Daniel very much, and he didn't make me want to root for gwen.
On the upside, I definitely want to give Rue credit for the narration. Authors often make terrible narrators, but Rue really exceeded my expectations there and I can definitely associate her voice with Gwen.
This audiobook was provided by the author, narrator, or publisher at no cost in exchange for an unbiased review courtesy of AudiobookBoom dot com.
On the upside, I definitely want to give Rue credit for the narration. Authors often make terrible narrators, but Rue really exceeded my expectations there and I can definitely associate her voice with Gwen.
This audiobook was provided by the author, narrator, or publisher at no cost in exchange for an unbiased review courtesy of AudiobookBoom dot com.
May 9, 2017
Such a cute book to read
I was taken in really quick, the relationship between the two sisters was so believable I felt apart of their lives. This story was about the journey it took to find freedom with in their own lives and truly being themselves. The Author did a great job developing each sister and the many other characters. There was some room for growth in Rachel's life. Not sure her taking Anne back so fast was smart, but I understand it happens alot in life. But somehow I think this book was more about Gwen and her life conflict. It's nice she finally came out of shed shell. Looking forward to book 2 and 3.
I was taken in really quick, the relationship between the two sisters was so believable I felt apart of their lives. This story was about the journey it took to find freedom with in their own lives and truly being themselves. The Author did a great job developing each sister and the many other characters. There was some room for growth in Rachel's life. Not sure her taking Anne back so fast was smart, but I understand it happens alot in life. But somehow I think this book was more about Gwen and her life conflict. It's nice she finally came out of shed shell. Looking forward to book 2 and 3.
Read
May 11, 2018The storyline is fine - I liked both Gwen and Rachel, but the writing is clunky, with stilted dialogue and incredibly irritating 'links' to pictures etc.
The whole point of a fiction book is to show you 'in words' what the author wants you to see, not have to click a link to see a picture of some Aerial Lift Bridge. There were several of these links ( in bright blue) and I found it very distracting.
I didnt feel 'engaged' in the story - there were huge time hops (I think) and missing scenes and in the end I dnf'd at 24%
The whole point of a fiction book is to show you 'in words' what the author wants you to see, not have to click a link to see a picture of some Aerial Lift Bridge. There were several of these links ( in bright blue) and I found it very distracting.
I didnt feel 'engaged' in the story - there were huge time hops (I think) and missing scenes and in the end I dnf'd at 24%
March 2, 2024
Gwen and Rachel Hutchinson are sisters from Minnesota. Gwenn owns her own business and believes she was switched at birth and her parents are not her actual parents. Rachel came out as being gay except she still hasn't told her parents she is gay. Rachel and her girlfriend Annie are having relationship problems. Gwenn meets an artist Daniel Gregory and wonders if he is her prince charming and finds out he has his own demons haunting him. Todd, Gwenn’s assistant is in love with her, but Gwenn only sees him as a co-worker. I really enjoyed this fascinating contemporary romance novel.
February 4, 2018
Could not get into this.
First off, the story does have some good moments and interesting characters. Personally I found it boring, and not as compelling as I hoped it would be. But like I said there were some good moments, it just did not seem to have the smooth plot lines that I was hoping for, and I found some characters to be uninteresting. And a lot of the reminiscing just got kind of tiresome after a while.
First off, the story does have some good moments and interesting characters. Personally I found it boring, and not as compelling as I hoped it would be. But like I said there were some good moments, it just did not seem to have the smooth plot lines that I was hoping for, and I found some characters to be uninteresting. And a lot of the reminiscing just got kind of tiresome after a while.
September 29, 2019
This book is basically the beginning of a tale about two sisters, Gwendolyn aka Gwenny and Rachel aka Rache. It also is a duel between them and their highly devotional parents when it comes to their love lives. Don’t know where the next book in this series will take me but the sisters did find or discovered their own personal fulfillment with Daniel and Annie perspectively.
June 30, 2018
Not MY fave
I just couldn't get into this. I found myself having to go back and re-read parts because I'd just stop paying attention. I couldn't even get myself to finish the book. What a shame.
I just couldn't get into this. I found myself having to go back and re-read parts because I'd just stop paying attention. I couldn't even get myself to finish the book. What a shame.
August 7, 2020
She gets that MN accent down pat;
It took me 3/4 of the book to get interested, but I was amused and impressed by her ability to make Iron Range accent and culture believable and funny.
It took me 3/4 of the book to get interested, but I was amused and impressed by her ability to make Iron Range accent and culture believable and funny.
June 2, 2017
It was not my favorite.
December 20, 2017
Absolutely entertaining, captivating, and interesting sexy read. Wonderfully written with strong characters. I want to read more from this author.
January 2, 2019
Liked it
I liked it. I liked that it was a Minnesota author. I could relate to where it took place. Duluth.
I liked it. I liked that it was a Minnesota author. I could relate to where it took place. Duluth.
October 10, 2019
I thoroughly Enjoy it. Drama, mystery, humour and sex strewn throughout. It was a quick read as I couldn’t put it down.
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