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Distractions

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Red has been trying to move on with her life. She really has. Her first real relationship ended in disaster and she can’t muster the energy to leave the house. Her brother Brenden and their best friend, Gavin are sick of it. Guilting her into a night out, Red reluctantly agrees only to see her ex having the time of his life with another girl. Small town living would have it no other way. On the verge of a full blown panic attack, Gavin steps into to provide Red the distraction she needs to forget all about her ex. But as things quickly spiral out of control, will Red be able to keep her feelings for her best friend a secret in order to save their friendship?

*This book contains interracial sexual situations and explicit language.

This is Book 1 of the Distractions Series.

319 pages, Kindle Edition

First published January 27, 2015

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Bianca Dean

4 books32 followers

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Displaying 1 - 20 of 20 reviews
Profile Image for Nelly.
334 reviews1 follower
July 25, 2023
This book didn't hook me immediately, but I kept reading until I found it to be an entertaining story full of interesting characters and plot twists. This kept me interested throughout. It was also written well and the dialogue was clever and thoughtful.

Meet Gavin and Isabelle aka Red, two best friends. They meet at an unusual juncture in their lives and set out on a journey to discover themselves and their relationship. Along the way, they find themselves in unexpected situations that test their loyalty, courage, and relationship.

As well as being stubborn, both characters lacked the ability to communicate effectively. This made it challenging for them to understand each other and ultimately hindered their relationship. It was like two ships passing through the night, each unaware of the other's presence until they went their separate ways.

Gavin and Isabelle aka Red are such an adorable couple. They're definitely idiots, but they're lovable idiots. They both are stubborn, and hard headed -- which I wholeheartedly hated -- they both are a mess, they both keep their feelings hidden, and they're afraid to talk about how they feel about each other.

If you want high-angst, high-drama, this is not the book for you. It is a comforting, sexy, and reassuring book because it is filled with witty banter and absurd situations in a small town where everyone knows everyone.

As a whole, it is about a guy who is uneasy with showing emotions, who struggles with abandonment issues, who is surrounded by a sunlit girl who also suffers from issues, and who has no idea how to handle being in a relationship with someone who is so angry.

But despite all of that, they are drawn to each other, and their relationship develops slowly and steadily. I am eagerly anticipating part two to find out what happens to their relationship. I'm sure it will be full of surprises and I'm looking forward to what happens next.
Profile Image for Books Laid Bare.
2,275 reviews37 followers
February 16, 2015
How to you successfully turn a lifelong friendship into the something more that you have longed for? Can you lay your heart on the line and risk not only humiliation but also losing your best friend?
Red has always had Gavin by her side, along with her brother she has been protected by the pair of them for as long as she can remember, but nursing a broken heart from a cheating bastard of an ex- she is looking for love and doesn’t feel that she has too far to look.
Red can lean on Gavin for support, no matter the fact that she was watched a long line of women wander in and out of his life, Gavin has never hidden anything from her – they share everything and always have. The emotions between the pair of them cover the whole spectrum, they have laughed and cried together but it hasn’t and isn’t plain sailing. There are some moments that will set the hairs on the back of your neck on edge and others that will have you wiping the tears away with the back of your hand – it is an emotional ride through friendship that is trying its damnedest to convert into love.
I like Red, she was easy to connect with, she had a personality that I found easy to understand but that is not to say that I found everything she did easy to either understand or agree with. I mean I understand that she was a mess after the situation with her ex but she made some decisions that had me furrowing my brow at my kindle and shaking my head in not disgust but disbelief.
Gavin on the other hand was a fiery tempered sod, he was far from perfect but I have to say I loved him. He was honest an true, called a spade a spade type of guy with a history that had shaped him and was as plain as the nose on his face to understand.
I like the fact that together they worked well together, there past shaped them into a couple that has few secrets and skeletons to unearth.
The physical relationship between them was breath-taking – yes literally you will be slack jawed!! It was served up extra spicy!!!!
Overall the book was a fabulous first instalment of a new series and yes it leaves on a cliff-hanger- no surprise there. But with the usual plot twists and inevitable miscommunications, this is a love story that will keep you enthralled.
Profile Image for Brigitte .
1,611 reviews23 followers
February 4, 2017
I received this book via Indie Sage PR in exchange for an honest review.

Isobel aka Red, her brother Bren and best friend Gavin have known each other from childhood. Red is going through the unpleasantness of a break up with her ex boyfriend Wilson, and she hasn't socialise much since. Bren and Gavin talk her into joining them one evening and when she sees her ex, Gavin tries to distract her. This distraction reaffirms that their feelings for each other run deeper than friendship.

Red is reluctant to admit to how she really feels because she doesn't want to lose the friendship if things didn't work out. Gavin feels pretty much the same. There is a lack of trust from both parties as they appear to jump to conclusions instead of talking things over to establish what really happened instead of what they thought happened. Red is very indecisive and there is a lot of going back and forth from her part, whereas Gavin who had a tough childhood doesn't think he is good enough for her.

Red is presented with an opportunity which she accepts and it will be interesting to see how this affects her relationship with Gavin. This book would appeal to 18+ adults as it contains explicit sexual scenes.

Merged review:

I received this book via Indie Sage PR in exchange for an honest review.

Isobel aka Red, her brother Bren and best friend Gavin have known each other from childhood. Red is going through the unpleasantness of a break up with her ex boyfriend Wilson, and she hasn't socialise much since. Bren and Gavin talk her into joining them one evening and when she sees her ex, Gavin tries to distract her. This distraction reaffirms that their feelings for each other run deeper than friendship.

Red is reluctant to admit to how she really feels because she doesn't want to lose the friendship if things didn't work out. Gavin feels pretty much the same. There is a lack of trust from both parties as they appear to jump to conclusions instead of talking things over to establish what really happened instead of what they thought happened. Red is very indecisive and there is a lot of going back and forth from her part, whereas Gavin who had a tough childhood doesn't think he is good enough for her.

Red is presented with an opportunity which she accepts and it will be interesting to see how this affects her relationship with Gavin. This book would appeal to 18+ adults as it contains explicit sexual scenes.
Profile Image for Michelle.
189 reviews25 followers
February 15, 2015
I just want to scream and shout…read this, read this, READ THIS!!!

I love “Distractions” by Bianca Dean (2015). I was already familiar with red and Gavin's story by the previous version on Literotica. The concept of the new version is the same ...friends to lovers. However I do have to say this version exceeds the previous one. There are new scenes, new characters…and of course, familiar characters... the ones you love and the ones you love to hate (some are renamed). The story focuses on the relationship between Red and Gavin. The two have been best friends for years. Both have secret crushes on the other, but it has never led to anything… that is until Red’s recent break up…she’s feeling down, and Gavin believes he can be the perfect distraction to her problem. Things heat up between Red and Gavin after that incident… but both are plagued with self-doubt which threatens a potential romantic relationship between the two. I believe through her story, Bianca Dean has presented a realistic dilemma that a lot of individuals experience when contemplating a relationship with a friend. Do you take the safe choice and stay friends…knowing that person will be in your life…or do you take a gamble on love…knowing sex and intimacy will change the dynamics of the relationship…with no guarantees if the change will be for the better or worst. I did notice some typos and other issues…but overall I loved “Distractions”. Red and Gavin are hot together! The story does end with a cliffhanger…which I hate…only because I want more . I would definitely recommend this story. I can’t wait for “Distracted”, where Red and Gavin’s story continues. “Distractions” gets my stamp of approval, two thumps up and five stars!
Profile Image for Daphnie Bennett.
193 reviews8 followers
May 7, 2015


Everyone knows, or should know, that the best couples are the ones that start as friends. I'm about to get all old and wise here... but beauty fades, money can be taken in an instant. But good friends are forever and if you're lucky enough to fall in love, then that's even better. The draw back.... is what happens if things go south and you not only lose your lover, but also your friend. That's the predicament Red finds herself in with her best friend Gavin. She's wanted Gavin for eons but take into considering that Gavin is also her brother's friend and the fact that Gavin has no problems with getting the ladies... she doesn't want to move forward and risk the friendship. Until she does... and he does too.


I enjoyed this one. While I thought there was too much internal "I want him... I shouldn't want him, but I do, but it wouldn't work out", I liked the back and forth between Red and Gavin. Her brother was present enough, but not overbearing regarding the relationship. Throw in the the handsome, but obviously a player doctor that helps her get into medical school and the horribly cruel ex boyfriend and there's a whole lotta drama, but well written drama. Nicely set up for a sequel, I'm interested to see how Red and Gavin's relationship develops, what happens with the doctor and his strange brother!!

4.5 stars!!


Read more Review's from Jonelle over at Bound By Books Book Review


41 reviews2 followers
February 9, 2015
Everyone knows, or should know, that the best couples are the ones that start as friends. I'm about to get all old and wise here... but beauty fades, money can be taken in an instant. But good friends are forever and if you're lucky enough to fall in love, then that's even better. The draw back.... is what happens if things go south and you not only lose your lover, but also your friend. That's the predicament Red finds herself in with her best friend Gavin. She's wanted Gavin for eons but take into considering that Gavin is also her brother's friend and the fact that Gavin has no problems with getting the ladies... she doesn't want to move forward and risk the friendship. Until she does... and he does too.

I enjoyed this one. While I thought there was too much internal "I want him... I shouldn't want him, but I do, but it wouldn't work out", I liked the back and forth between Red and Gavin. Her brother was present enough, but not overbearing regarding the relationship. Throw in the the handsome, but obviously a player doctor that helps her get into medical school and the horribly cruel ex boyfriend and there's a whole lotta drama, but well written drama. Nicely set up for a sequel, I'm interested to see how Red and Gavin's relationship develops, what happens with the doctor and his strange brother!! 4.5 stars!!
Profile Image for Erica.
1,311 reviews32 followers
February 26, 2015
4.5 stars

Distractions is an amazing read. From the beginning it hooks you and it doesn't take long to fall head over heels for Gavin.
Red's been dealt a crummy hand with her ex and as has been true most of her life, her best friend Gavin is there to help her through it and get back to the land of the living.
Now I know Red refers to Brenden and Gavin as man whores but he doesn't sleep around so much throughout the story though his past and little black book are referenced.
As much as I adored Gavin for what he was trying to do I was glad we didn't get to hear about all of his conquests in between spending time with Red.
I think now that Red's issues are basically handled that she's going to be so good for Gavin. He has his own demons to overcome and I'm thrilled that we get another book.
I can't wait to see where these characters lives are headed and what they will have to work through next.
Profile Image for Elle1986.
456 reviews31 followers
October 12, 2015
Okay... so here is the deal... I actually really liked the book. HOWEVER again with the lack of damn communication. I promise red was on my nerves, like seriously you didn't need glasses to see what he way saying. I actually enjoy BFF turn BF... cool concept.

Now those sex scenes.... HELLA HOT. I was like oh. my... wait what..NO NO he isn't gonna..YES HE IS...OHHH SNAP. LOL.

Then the end of the book happened and I was like...PAUSE What the hell is happening. and then it was like... BOOK 2. GRRRRR

BUT BUT BUT I was all Giddy because I looked at the release date for book 2... IT'S tomorrow so I don't have to wait forever to finish up this story. I am very interested in knowing how this all is going to work out.. and let it be known... I was HOPING for a pregnancy in this one.. GRRR wish didn't come true BOOO.
2,670 reviews23 followers
February 13, 2015
Just Awesome!!!

This was such a good story from beginning to end.The character development is spot on that you imagine that you know them personally.I love the chemistry that you pick up on as.soon as the story begins.This is more than an romance it's drama done so very well.I think what is so refreshing is that you get just enough drama considering these are young adults.My first time reading this author and I have to say.I was pleasantly surprised.I'm on pins waiting for the next installment.For some.reason through out this story I just kept hearing Kelly Rowland's Motivation.I think quite the right song. Get a little distracted.
71 reviews
February 27, 2015
Red found her bf cheated on her. She has been dealing with it for a few days an her long time bff Gavin an her brother invited her to the bar. Red has noticed the feelings she has for gavin never went away not even her distraction from her 13month relationship helped.between red an Gavin they each have been trying to figure out if they want more than a friendship an been trying hard to distract themselves from it becoming more than friends. Love red an Gavin an how they stop fighting their feelings for each other. A great love story.
30 reviews
January 30, 2015
Impressive read...I really didn't know what to expect, being that this is my first read from Ms. Dean. Isabelle (Red) and Gavin have been best friends since childhood along with her older brother. Red has always had a crush on Gavin as all the other girls, but, unfortunately Red's douchbag boyfriend, brought out Gavin's protectiveness and other feelings for her. The storyline was very well fleshed out and has nice Adult Content!!!
Profile Image for Renay.
345 reviews
October 26, 2015
I must start off by saying this is a cliffhanger...Now this was a great find. It was packed with so much emotion and drama I found this story full surprises of twists and second guessing, I enjoyed the characters and their friendship. Readers, please have a drink close by because there are some great spicy, love scenes. This book has humor and an emotional ride with this compelling relationship between best friends.
Profile Image for Brenda Demko.
269 reviews61 followers
February 24, 2015
There are some surprising twists and decisions, second guessing, steamy scenes, friendship, and good characters. I especially liked Gavin.

There is a cliff hanger. Be prepared to be left wanting more. I hope the next book comes soon! I may just be distracted until then.

I received an ecopy in exchange for my honest opinion. It was a hot NA read and not appropriate for the kiddies.
Profile Image for Kat.
229 reviews17 followers
December 16, 2015
I tried really hard to finish this book but I just can't. Even at 79% I can't keep going. Gavin and Red are stubborn and immature. I am at the point where I could careless if they work things out and get back together. This back and forth is exasperating.
Profile Image for Miranda.
201 reviews6 followers
Read
October 16, 2015
Good

This book was good, there are definitely some twist that you didn't see coming, I really can't wait for the second book.
Profile Image for Sassy Southern Book Affair.
294 reviews20 followers
February 7, 2015
3.5 stars

It's not that I didn't like this story, I did. I just did not LOVE this story. This story was great up until the last few chapters. The adult content was too much for me. Other than that, this was great read.

Red has always been best friends with the guys. Mainly because of her brother and his best friend. She always tagged along with them and was considered one of them. Then as we all we, we grow up but her brother, Brenden, and his best friend, Gavin, help to protect her. These two know how boys can be and know what some of the boys think of Red.

When Red finally gets a relationship and it ends, her two best boys help her out. She mopes around but finally agrees to go out again. But being from a small town, she's bound to run into her ex. I can understand this situation. Being from a small town myself, after a break up, the last thing you want to do is be out and see your ex with someone else. Fortunately for Red, she has a distraction....Gavin. But things spin out of control and take a turn she never thought would happen. Red has always had feelings for Gavin but knew to keep them buried deep down. Is it time to finally open up about how she feels? Will this ruin her relationship and friendship she has had for so long? Or should she just keep her feeling buried to ensure she keeps their friendship?

Even though I didn't fall in love with the story. I am excited to read the next book in the series. There is a cliffhanger and I can't wait to see what Red decides next.

~Jade
Profile Image for Jordan.
694 reviews
February 18, 2015
I Was Provided A ARC In Exchange For A Honest Review



A great story of walking the line between friendship and something so much more.

Isabella "Red" is moving on from a terrible relationship. She was humiliated and left by a cheating boyfriend. Needing to overcome the heartache, she sets out for a night on the town with her brother and there best friend, Gavin.

Problems at the bar arise, and things between Red and Gavin become extremely complicated and set off a roller coaster of emotions between the two.

They share a kiss.

Not just any kiss, a scoring hot, more than friends kiss.

Gavin and Red have had feelings for each other for some time now.

But with miscommunication, mixed signals, and both of there pasts holding them back,
Gavin and Red, may never have a future together.

And they may not even be able to salvage there friendship.

A book packed with, lots of emotion & drama.

And a compelling relationship between best friends.


I have always been a fan of friends to lovers stories, and Distractions does not disappoint. Great job Bianca Dean.
Profile Image for Shronda.
133 reviews
March 8, 2015
Friends become lovers

How many of us haven't crossed the friend zone? Bianca Dean is vastly becoming one of my go to authors. I enjoyed this book like crazy. I understand the angst of having feelings for your friend that you have put in the friend zone. This story had friendship, love, passion angst and a somewhat happy ending. Red and Gavin were hot together. Cannot wait until the second book.
Displaying 1 - 20 of 20 reviews