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Double Blind Study #4
The Hope That Starts
You can never have too much music... or mayonnaise.
It's sort of been Harrison O'Neil's credo for the better part of his life.
At least since he first discovered his love for playing the guitar and developed a taste for gourmet sandwiches. He couldn't pinpoint which one happened first, and it didn't matter to him. Food and music have always been equally important.
If there's one thing Zelda Fitzpatrick is good at, it's fandom. She can out-nerd the nerdiest, her devotion knows no bounds. Her love is true, her motives pure. Oh, and she's also a talented freelance photographer, newly hired to go on the road with her favorite band, Double Blind Study. All she has to do is not ruin this opportunity with her plethora of Tolkien references (which are in abundance), or the fan girl inside who has a mind of her own.
And she definitely shouldn't fall madly in love with lead guitarist, Harrison O'Neil... who is taken. Unfortunately.
Zelda is more than the band's new photographer. She loves Star Trek, Doctor Who, and making gourmet sandwiches. This puts Harrison O'Neil in the very awkward position of loving Zelda's sandwiches—with their perfect ingredients, and impeccable construction, and their ability to make his heart happy without even trying—and being in a relationship with another woman... who thinks he should cut out eating sandwiches entirely.
Which one will win out, his heart or his stomach?
Is there a difference?
This story is an ode to a fan girl. Because, male or female, we all have one inside of us. And sometimes, on the rarest and most wonderful of occasions, the fan girl's dream gets displayed in all of it's beauty.
The Double Blind Study series continues. Each book in the series focuses on one band member at a time and they can all be read on their own.
If this book were a movie, it would be rated PG-13.
It's sort of been Harrison O'Neil's credo for the better part of his life.
At least since he first discovered his love for playing the guitar and developed a taste for gourmet sandwiches. He couldn't pinpoint which one happened first, and it didn't matter to him. Food and music have always been equally important.
If there's one thing Zelda Fitzpatrick is good at, it's fandom. She can out-nerd the nerdiest, her devotion knows no bounds. Her love is true, her motives pure. Oh, and she's also a talented freelance photographer, newly hired to go on the road with her favorite band, Double Blind Study. All she has to do is not ruin this opportunity with her plethora of Tolkien references (which are in abundance), or the fan girl inside who has a mind of her own.
And she definitely shouldn't fall madly in love with lead guitarist, Harrison O'Neil... who is taken. Unfortunately.
Zelda is more than the band's new photographer. She loves Star Trek, Doctor Who, and making gourmet sandwiches. This puts Harrison O'Neil in the very awkward position of loving Zelda's sandwiches—with their perfect ingredients, and impeccable construction, and their ability to make his heart happy without even trying—and being in a relationship with another woman... who thinks he should cut out eating sandwiches entirely.
Which one will win out, his heart or his stomach?
Is there a difference?
This story is an ode to a fan girl. Because, male or female, we all have one inside of us. And sometimes, on the rarest and most wonderful of occasions, the fan girl's dream gets displayed in all of it's beauty.
The Double Blind Study series continues. Each book in the series focuses on one band member at a time and they can all be read on their own.
If this book were a movie, it would be rated PG-13.
361 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 29, 2015
30 people are currently reading
174 people want to read
About the author
Heidi Hutchinson
35 books381 followersHeidi Hutchinson writes slow burn rock star romances for contemporary readers who like humor with their hotties. She has both open and closed door series filled with relatable characters and swooney yumminess. Double Blind Study, her go-to series, is closed door and follows a band in emotional turmoil and the women who love them.
When she’s not writing about wild hearted women and hunky heroes, she’s watching Doctor Who or trying to find the perfect gluten free pizza crust for her pizza shaped celiac heart. She lives in the Black Hills with her alarmingly handsome husband, their fearless child, and a rather large (and spoiled) dog.
She’s fueled by messages from her readers and too much coffee.
And a whole lotta love.
Visit her website or social media for upcoming releases!
heidih.net
Email: heidih.writer@gmail.com
IN BETWEEN DUET SERIES (IN PROGRESS)—
Book 1: In Between the Earth and Sky
Book 2: Love of a Wild Thing (TBD)
Book 4: TBA
DOUBLE BLIND STUDY SERIES (IN PROGRESS)—
Book 1: Learn to Fly
Book 2: In Your Honor
Book 3: Tectonic
Book 4: Deepest Blues
Book 5: The Hope That Starts
Book 6: Brand New Sky
Book 7: Into the Night We Shine (Bonus Novella)
Book 8: Born to Resist (Bonus Novella- in progress)
Book 9: Matter of Fact (holiday novella)
DOUBLE BLIND STUDY WORLD CROSSOVER
Things That Shine (written with Bria Quinlan)
SOARING BIRD SERIES (IN PROGRESS)—
Book 1: Like the Back of My Halo
Book 2: Sushi and Sun Salutations
Book 3: Puppy Love and Peanut Butter
Book 4: Rope a Dope
Book 5: Caught a Vibe (May 2024)
Book 6: TBA
IN COLD MUD SERIES (IN PROGRESS)—
Book 1: Stubborn Hearts (prequel to DBS book 6 Brand New Sky)
Book 2:
THE DOUBLE BLIND STUDY SERIES is an exciting romance series about rock stars in recovery. The Double Blind Study band has already lived the rock and roll cliché. This is life after. Full of humor, heart, and slow burn romance. Each book can be read alone but it is best if read in order. Cliffhanger free.
THE SOARING BIRD SERIES follows a group of extreme sports enthusiasts as they navigate life and love living on the California coast. Slow burn romantic comedies that can be read individually, but best if read in order. Cliffhanger free.
THE IN BETWEEN DUET SERIES is a slow burn unconventional romance that explores the connections of science and poetry. Occasionally intense moments of personal clarity and heartfelt confessions. Filled with touches of humor and real world obstacles. Cliffhanger free.
IN COLD MUD SERIES is a small series revolving around the politics and relationships of horse racing. Not a romance series. Definitely family drama.
NOTE: All of Heidi Hutchinson’s books take place in the Double Blind Study series. Each series can be read on their own but there are often crossover characters you may recognize.
When she’s not writing about wild hearted women and hunky heroes, she’s watching Doctor Who or trying to find the perfect gluten free pizza crust for her pizza shaped celiac heart. She lives in the Black Hills with her alarmingly handsome husband, their fearless child, and a rather large (and spoiled) dog.
She’s fueled by messages from her readers and too much coffee.
And a whole lotta love.
Visit her website or social media for upcoming releases!
heidih.net
Email: heidih.writer@gmail.com
IN BETWEEN DUET SERIES (IN PROGRESS)—
Book 1: In Between the Earth and Sky
Book 2: Love of a Wild Thing (TBD)
Book 4: TBA
DOUBLE BLIND STUDY SERIES (IN PROGRESS)—
Book 1: Learn to Fly
Book 2: In Your Honor
Book 3: Tectonic
Book 4: Deepest Blues
Book 5: The Hope That Starts
Book 6: Brand New Sky
Book 7: Into the Night We Shine (Bonus Novella)
Book 8: Born to Resist (Bonus Novella- in progress)
Book 9: Matter of Fact (holiday novella)
DOUBLE BLIND STUDY WORLD CROSSOVER
Things That Shine (written with Bria Quinlan)
SOARING BIRD SERIES (IN PROGRESS)—
Book 1: Like the Back of My Halo
Book 2: Sushi and Sun Salutations
Book 3: Puppy Love and Peanut Butter
Book 4: Rope a Dope
Book 5: Caught a Vibe (May 2024)
Book 6: TBA
IN COLD MUD SERIES (IN PROGRESS)—
Book 1: Stubborn Hearts (prequel to DBS book 6 Brand New Sky)
Book 2:
THE DOUBLE BLIND STUDY SERIES is an exciting romance series about rock stars in recovery. The Double Blind Study band has already lived the rock and roll cliché. This is life after. Full of humor, heart, and slow burn romance. Each book can be read alone but it is best if read in order. Cliffhanger free.
THE SOARING BIRD SERIES follows a group of extreme sports enthusiasts as they navigate life and love living on the California coast. Slow burn romantic comedies that can be read individually, but best if read in order. Cliffhanger free.
THE IN BETWEEN DUET SERIES is a slow burn unconventional romance that explores the connections of science and poetry. Occasionally intense moments of personal clarity and heartfelt confessions. Filled with touches of humor and real world obstacles. Cliffhanger free.
IN COLD MUD SERIES is a small series revolving around the politics and relationships of horse racing. Not a romance series. Definitely family drama.
NOTE: All of Heidi Hutchinson’s books take place in the Double Blind Study series. Each series can be read on their own but there are often crossover characters you may recognize.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 40 reviews
May 6, 2015
This is the first book i've read of this book and right now i am beating myself up for not having found about this author earlier because i freakin' LOVED IT!!
It had everything i loved in it in just the right amounts. Like the weird nerdy but totally adorable heroine Zelda, a sweet rockstar hero Harrison and just the right amount of humor and angst. I loved the epilogue but it made me crave for more.
It has made me eager to start reading the rest of the books in the series. This book has definitely found its place among my all-time-favourites.
It had everything i loved in it in just the right amounts. Like the weird nerdy but totally adorable heroine Zelda, a sweet rockstar hero Harrison and just the right amount of humor and angst. I loved the epilogue but it made me crave for more.
It has made me eager to start reading the rest of the books in the series. This book has definitely found its place among my all-time-favourites.
May 14, 2015
How does Heidi do it?! How does she wrote such interesting characters. I loved this book. LOVED it. Any book that references my fandom and especially Doctor who will be a fast favorite. I read this book in less the 8 hours. The story moved well and I will definitely be telling the duck/elephant joke to my niece this weekend.
January 31, 2015
WARNING! Do not read this book in a public place if you are prone (like me) to ugly crying.
I was lucky enough to receive an advance copy of this book from the author, and I took to messaging her as I was reading. You know, just so she knew I was reading it.
As a bookworm with nerdish tendencies and a total love of this series, I must say that this book hit all the right notes for me. (Yes, I know that joke was lame, but I'm leaving it in).
Although the story is lighter than the others, it still has all the feels. Genuinely touching. Beautifully crafted. Wonderfully deft humour and nerdiness. I mean, who can resist a character who says "Thank you for being the light in the dark today, when all other lights had gone out." It's a story to fill the hearts of a Time Lord.
And who can resist the writer who writes "On a scale of one to Tolkien, you're Minas Tirith at dawn"
I will tell you precisely what I told Heidi. I love Harrison’s story. I loved reading it, crying to it and if I’m honest, I’m not looking forward to Sway's story being the end. At all.
I was lucky enough to receive an advance copy of this book from the author, and I took to messaging her as I was reading. You know, just so she knew I was reading it.
As a bookworm with nerdish tendencies and a total love of this series, I must say that this book hit all the right notes for me. (Yes, I know that joke was lame, but I'm leaving it in).
Although the story is lighter than the others, it still has all the feels. Genuinely touching. Beautifully crafted. Wonderfully deft humour and nerdiness. I mean, who can resist a character who says "Thank you for being the light in the dark today, when all other lights had gone out." It's a story to fill the hearts of a Time Lord.
And who can resist the writer who writes "On a scale of one to Tolkien, you're Minas Tirith at dawn"
I will tell you precisely what I told Heidi. I love Harrison’s story. I loved reading it, crying to it and if I’m honest, I’m not looking forward to Sway's story being the end. At all.
September 17, 2015
I feel like The Hope That Starts is a whole tardis moment wrapped in a pretty little blue book. I think my favorite line is when Zelda says,
"It's bigger on the inside,"
The doctor who references alone are so wonderfully placed, maybe because I love River Song and the Doctor. I may have had my own geek moment where tears streaming down my face, when they were mentioned.
I laughed out loud and cried quietly at different moments throughout, which honestly I'm not sure why some of them touched me so much. I think it's the genius writing of Heidi. But I was most certainly feeling all sorts of lovely emotions! I still don't think I've processed all the sweet moments and I'll probably have to go back and reread them.
I loved Zelda for all her geeky quotes, quote shirts and yoga pants (I may have my own addiction with them), and shiny happy wrap yourself around others' hearts and never let go actions. I loved how she lived her life, seriously who wouldn't want to have her as their best friend. Harrison is so cuddly sweet at times, but he also has this tough exterior. There are moments in this book I really wanted to smack him! I only wished I could see Zelda's pictures, it would of been amazing to see it through her eyes. The romance in this story is a slow burn and worth the build up.
The Hope That Starts is perfectly named and no, I can't decide if it's my favorite, although the Deepest Blue still has me thinking and pondering about it....
"It's bigger on the inside,"
The doctor who references alone are so wonderfully placed, maybe because I love River Song and the Doctor. I may have had my own geek moment where tears streaming down my face, when they were mentioned.
I laughed out loud and cried quietly at different moments throughout, which honestly I'm not sure why some of them touched me so much. I think it's the genius writing of Heidi. But I was most certainly feeling all sorts of lovely emotions! I still don't think I've processed all the sweet moments and I'll probably have to go back and reread them.
I loved Zelda for all her geeky quotes, quote shirts and yoga pants (I may have my own addiction with them), and shiny happy wrap yourself around others' hearts and never let go actions. I loved how she lived her life, seriously who wouldn't want to have her as their best friend. Harrison is so cuddly sweet at times, but he also has this tough exterior. There are moments in this book I really wanted to smack him! I only wished I could see Zelda's pictures, it would of been amazing to see it through her eyes. The romance in this story is a slow burn and worth the build up.
The Hope That Starts is perfectly named and no, I can't decide if it's my favorite, although the Deepest Blue still has me thinking and pondering about it....
December 30, 2014
I could not put it down!
And no, I am not saying so because I received it in advance in exchange for an honest review.
I can honestly say that these two main characters, like all the others, have been well developed and I laughed out loud and cried silent - and not so silent - tears with them. The disappointment when things looked bleak may very well have been more devastating for me and the box of tissues next to me than for Zelda and Harrison.
Zelda's honesty and 'wear your heart on your sleeve' approach to life is so refreshing and the fact that she is completely comfortable in her own 'weird and nerdy' skin makes her all the more lovable. Harrison makes me want to believe that super hot, super cool stars CAN actually also be wonderfully honourable. And Kiley? Well, we all know girls like her...
From clumsy moments to clueless and hapless exes to jealousy and solid friendships - and the all important sci-fi references - all these ingredients have found their way into this fifth Double Blind Study novel.
On a more personal note, although it is not at all necessary to have read the preceding novels, I felt that having read 'Learn to fly' and skipped 2-4, I have missed something. Something I aim to find in the not so distant future!
If you haven't already marked it as a 'want to read', DO IT NOW. This definitely is a must read!
And no, I am not saying so because I received it in advance in exchange for an honest review.
I can honestly say that these two main characters, like all the others, have been well developed and I laughed out loud and cried silent - and not so silent - tears with them. The disappointment when things looked bleak may very well have been more devastating for me and the box of tissues next to me than for Zelda and Harrison.
Zelda's honesty and 'wear your heart on your sleeve' approach to life is so refreshing and the fact that she is completely comfortable in her own 'weird and nerdy' skin makes her all the more lovable. Harrison makes me want to believe that super hot, super cool stars CAN actually also be wonderfully honourable. And Kiley? Well, we all know girls like her...
From clumsy moments to clueless and hapless exes to jealousy and solid friendships - and the all important sci-fi references - all these ingredients have found their way into this fifth Double Blind Study novel.
On a more personal note, although it is not at all necessary to have read the preceding novels, I felt that having read 'Learn to fly' and skipped 2-4, I have missed something. Something I aim to find in the not so distant future!
If you haven't already marked it as a 'want to read', DO IT NOW. This definitely is a must read!
August 16, 2015
I don't know what more I can say that I haven't already said about this author. Her writing is brilliant. Heidi Hutchinson has a gift that develops and grows stronger with each book she writes. I'm a huge fan of the DBS series and I have fallen in love with each band member and their significant others. I've always said that reading Heidi's books is like a breath of fresh air and I stand by those words. She doesn't need to add all that drama and sex to deliver a truly amazing intense and passionate story.
Harrison and Zelda are incredibly adorable, funny and yes a tad bit weird but I loved everything about them. Heidi's stories always has the perfect amount of everything that keeps you on your toes and totally consumed. The quirky weird Zelda and adorable sweet Harrison will have you feeling giddy inside and a silly grin on your face. That epilogue though!! *happy dance* loved it! Loved it! Loved it!!!!
Another great addition to the DBS series that definitely needs to be read. And I'm totally stoked yet sad for the next but last book to the series. Can't wait to read Sway's story and yet I'm not ready to say goodbye to DBS. I'll definitely be keeping my eyes out for more of Heidi's stories.
Harrison and Zelda are incredibly adorable, funny and yes a tad bit weird but I loved everything about them. Heidi's stories always has the perfect amount of everything that keeps you on your toes and totally consumed. The quirky weird Zelda and adorable sweet Harrison will have you feeling giddy inside and a silly grin on your face. That epilogue though!! *happy dance* loved it! Loved it! Loved it!!!!
Another great addition to the DBS series that definitely needs to be read. And I'm totally stoked yet sad for the next but last book to the series. Can't wait to read Sway's story and yet I'm not ready to say goodbye to DBS. I'll definitely be keeping my eyes out for more of Heidi's stories.
January 24, 2015
I've read the whole Double Blind Study series, and I think this may just be my favorite. I thought it was Luke, but now I'm not so sure. Though each time Heidi releases a new one, I swear that one is my favorite. Her writing is just that dam good that it gets better and better with each book.
Heidi seriously upped the swoon factor with Harrison, and she upped it BIG TIME. who knew the insecurities the poor guy was hiding, but then he meets Zelda and it's like this she'll cracks and he's just so ... Amazing. Poor Sway, with the bar this high, he may need to start taking notes from all those books Zelda has him reading. I will not mention Sway again, in fear of ruining and giving spoilers. But omg Heidi! Sway!!!
Heidi has such a smooth writing style that I can't help but be sucked in everytime I read her books. This time she had me up til the ass crack of dawn because I just could not put this book down. There was if and or butts, I couldn't stop til the end. Absolutely amazing. And the way she bounced between points of view is so effortless.
Heidi seriously upped the swoon factor with Harrison, and she upped it BIG TIME. who knew the insecurities the poor guy was hiding, but then he meets Zelda and it's like this she'll cracks and he's just so ... Amazing. Poor Sway, with the bar this high, he may need to start taking notes from all those books Zelda has him reading. I will not mention Sway again, in fear of ruining and giving spoilers. But omg Heidi! Sway!!!
Heidi has such a smooth writing style that I can't help but be sucked in everytime I read her books. This time she had me up til the ass crack of dawn because I just could not put this book down. There was if and or butts, I couldn't stop til the end. Absolutely amazing. And the way she bounced between points of view is so effortless.
January 4, 2015
I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
As a blogger you come across a lot of different kinds of books. Many different genres, many different writing styles. You get asked to review great books, and then you get asked to review the mediocre to the sometimes sadly not too great at all books.
Probably one of the best series I have ever been asked to review, this installment of the Double Blind Study series is another Medal of Honor to the series. Fantastically written, my favorite characters all join together yet again as we follow the story of Harrison. He's one of my favorite characters and I fell in love with him more and more as the story progressed. I fan girled at references throughout the entire book. With a twist that completely knocked me on my behind (like I walked into a wall while I was reading it and I fell on my behind), I was hooked in from beginning to end. I think I have already found my favorite read of 2015, I know it just started but sometimes you just know.
As a blogger you come across a lot of different kinds of books. Many different genres, many different writing styles. You get asked to review great books, and then you get asked to review the mediocre to the sometimes sadly not too great at all books.
Probably one of the best series I have ever been asked to review, this installment of the Double Blind Study series is another Medal of Honor to the series. Fantastically written, my favorite characters all join together yet again as we follow the story of Harrison. He's one of my favorite characters and I fell in love with him more and more as the story progressed. I fan girled at references throughout the entire book. With a twist that completely knocked me on my behind (like I walked into a wall while I was reading it and I fell on my behind), I was hooked in from beginning to end. I think I have already found my favorite read of 2015, I know it just started but sometimes you just know.
January 9, 2015
I am rather obsessed with this series. I am always a little bit amazed when I get an ARC instead of, well, a restraining order;)
I thought that Deepest Blues was very secure in its spot as my favorite, but I am so in love with Nerd Love right now!! I laughed SO HARD! I wished evil upon a certain character! I cried! I had a big, stupid grin on my face in the end!
Harrison and Zelda are just as insanely awesome as the rest of the gang, but as the "cute" one and the "weird" one they are unaware of their awesomeness. Their insecurities make you love them that much more. You want to wrap your arms around them and protect them from everything bad. I had the same reaction to their happiness as I would for my best friend's happiness.
The book is full of geek and nerd references, but you do not need to be one to fully enjoy it. I am not a geek ( clearly a weirdo but not that specific type of geek) and I absolutely loved it! If you have had any geek/nerd exposure through a spouse, relative, or even Facebook friend, you will be able to figure out many of the references!
I thought that Deepest Blues was very secure in its spot as my favorite, but I am so in love with Nerd Love right now!! I laughed SO HARD! I wished evil upon a certain character! I cried! I had a big, stupid grin on my face in the end!
Harrison and Zelda are just as insanely awesome as the rest of the gang, but as the "cute" one and the "weird" one they are unaware of their awesomeness. Their insecurities make you love them that much more. You want to wrap your arms around them and protect them from everything bad. I had the same reaction to their happiness as I would for my best friend's happiness.
The book is full of geek and nerd references, but you do not need to be one to fully enjoy it. I am not a geek ( clearly a weirdo but not that specific type of geek) and I absolutely loved it! If you have had any geek/nerd exposure through a spouse, relative, or even Facebook friend, you will be able to figure out many of the references!
March 29, 2016
OMG!!!!!!! I can't thank you enough Heidi Hutchinson. I had just finished a dark romance and needed something light. You took a very dark day and made it shine so bright. The Hope That Starts is my favorite book in the series, and I have loved them all. I have been looking forward to Harrison's story since book one. Harrison is such a wonderful character and such a gorgeous geek. He is so easy to love, but seemed to struggle with how to love. Bring in Zelda and the relationship battle begins. Zelda, the new photographer, was named after the game and is just as geeky. Harrison and Zelda just click, but they keep having to click the refresh button to complete the game of love. I can't tell you how many times I thought it was game over. Thank goodness for the talented author that knew how to get them through the difficult challenges. Can't wait to see what Heidi comes up with next.
November 22, 2018
Innocent nirdy love.
I loved it, enjoyed it and when I thought that this book might be my least favorite, Ms. Hutchinson did her deed and turned it over! And left me with one shame. How dare me to doubt her?
Her writings keep my heart's flame burning.
I loved it, enjoyed it and when I thought that this book might be my least favorite, Ms. Hutchinson did her deed and turned it over! And left me with one shame. How dare me to doubt her?
Her writings keep my heart's flame burning.
June 18, 2019
Perfection!
February 26, 2015
I loved this book! the characters were perfect together and the story was amazing!
April 19, 2024
Zelda is an oddball
The band is ready to ho on tour again and Carl recruits a photographer to help get the bands reputation back on track. Zelda joins the tour and is on Sway and Harrison's bus. Harrison a self proclaimed nerd, lover of sandwiches, Doctor Who, Star Wars, Star Trek and all that. Sway a lover of video games and reading and confused but most of the nerd talk, but sensitive and sweet. Zelda fits right in to there little group.
Zelda breaks her lease tells the boyfriend that he is an ex and should have been an ex months ago and grabs all her stuff and heads out on tour with all her worldly possessions and her cat. I love that she is a free spirit and just goes where the wind takes her really. Zelda lover of her cat , all things nerd and making gourmet sandwiches.
Harrison is in love at first site basically but in denial since he is seeing someone and she is not really worthy of him. She is a user, manipulator, cheater and liar.
Harrison and Zelda form a sweet and playful relationship even though it is obvious to everyone Zelda is smitten with the rocker.
Harrison's ex gives them a challenge but they come out unscathed.
Rating: 3.5 Stars
The band is ready to ho on tour again and Carl recruits a photographer to help get the bands reputation back on track. Zelda joins the tour and is on Sway and Harrison's bus. Harrison a self proclaimed nerd, lover of sandwiches, Doctor Who, Star Wars, Star Trek and all that. Sway a lover of video games and reading and confused but most of the nerd talk, but sensitive and sweet. Zelda fits right in to there little group.
Zelda breaks her lease tells the boyfriend that he is an ex and should have been an ex months ago and grabs all her stuff and heads out on tour with all her worldly possessions and her cat. I love that she is a free spirit and just goes where the wind takes her really. Zelda lover of her cat , all things nerd and making gourmet sandwiches.
Harrison is in love at first site basically but in denial since he is seeing someone and she is not really worthy of him. She is a user, manipulator, cheater and liar.
Harrison and Zelda form a sweet and playful relationship even though it is obvious to everyone Zelda is smitten with the rocker.
Harrison's ex gives them a challenge but they come out unscathed.
Rating: 3.5 Stars
March 4, 2018
To be completely honest, even though I've been reading the series in chronological order, THIS was the book I reallyreally wanted to read.
Ever since getting to know Zelda and Harrison in Things That Shine, I wanted to read their story, because I had fallen in love with these two nerds. :)
And I was not disappointed: the story was funny, heart-wrenching, geeky and sweet, and it made this simple nerd very happy.
If I had to decide on one favorite moment or quote, I'd really be in trouble becaue there are just so many. But this one is definitely one of them:
6/5 fangirl stars. (And yes, I, too, own a shirt declaring that 'I'll be in my bunk.' :D )
Thank you! <3 <3
Ever since getting to know Zelda and Harrison in Things That Shine, I wanted to read their story, because I had fallen in love with these two nerds. :)
And I was not disappointed: the story was funny, heart-wrenching, geeky and sweet, and it made this simple nerd very happy.
If I had to decide on one favorite moment or quote, I'd really be in trouble becaue there are just so many. But this one is definitely one of them:
“Who knew you were the one who would end up seeing what my heart looks like on the inside?”
She swallowed as her chest warmed and it spread slowly to her limbs. “Well,” she whispered. “Just so you know, it's bigger on the inside.”
6/5 fangirl stars. (And yes, I, too, own a shirt declaring that 'I'll be in my bunk.' :D )
Thank you! <3 <3
September 6, 2023
My fav of the series so far!
January 29, 2015
Jodie's Review
So here I go again saying THIS IS MY FAVORITE, I’m a book whore these things happen!!! But hands down I could not put this book down once I started it and I might have tried to claim I was sick at work just so I could get in some Harrison and Zelda in the bathroom! It happens don’t judge me. You know those books you just have to know the ending and you contemplate reading said ending but you don’t because you love all the feelings you are feeling. THAT IS WHAT HAPPENS WITH THIS BOOK!!
“On a scale of one to Tolkien, you’re Minas Tirith at dawn.”
It’s Nerd Love and I LOVED IT!!! Harrison and Zelda are just as perfect as I hoped they would be!! Their cute on that level that they don’t know they are perfect. They are that sweet couple you watched from afar and wished you could experience. And when these two say I love you, I swear I felt like that girl in high school the first time I experienced the words. IT WAS PERFECTION!!
“Was it possible to swoon when you were already laying down?”
I am not lying I was in bed swooning!! But truly that is what Heidi accomplished with each book in this series, with each book I fall more and more in love and with each book I swear it can’t get any better but each time it does. I truly recommend this book to anyone that loves a beautifully touching love story and for those who don’t need a lot of sex but like to have a deep connection with the characters. BONUS if you have a little inner nerd girl this one is for you!!!
“I’ve been looking for you my whole life,” he whispered. “I’m sorry it took me so long to find you.”
December 27, 2014
You know a book is good when you can’t put it down until it’s finished, I have had several books I have read that were truly amazing that my eyes wouldn't close until I finished it. Even when my eyes started to burn and droop from fatigue, I persevered because that’s what a good book will do to you. That is why I stayed up until 3:00 am to finish your book. I had to know how it ended! Let’s start by talking about Zelda. Love the name, recognized where it came from immediately since I used to play it with my older brother all the time. Zelda has this spunk in her and a never ending brightness that shines that she shares with everyone who are near her. It is hard not to absolutely love her and want to be her friend.And all of her fandoms? Fantastic! For all those fan girls out there, they can relate to Zelda on a personal level. Personally I share a lot of those fandoms myself (Star Trek, Sherlock, Star Wars…) I love that she is not ashamed of who she is and embraces it. That is why her and Harry fit so well together! Oh Harry… that man definitely is adorable but the way you describe him throughout the book and his feelings, makes me swoon! I like how you make the readers know that these two are perfect for each other but it’s not so easy just to let them get together right away because life isn’t like that. You make them work for it, make it a little complicated which is good. Very good book! I would recommend it to anyone!
December 30, 2014
*I received an ARC from the author in exchange for an honest review
Let me just start by saying I have been a fan of Double Blind Study since book #1, and I would classify myself as a "Zelda", complete fan girl and nerd.
I adored Zelda and all her weirdness! She was a very likable and relate-able character. I loved that she was not afraid to be herself- but at the same time, we got to look into her past and have a couple of sweet paragraphs with her parents that explain how she came to behave like this. Everybody goes through awkward phases in their lives and I'm glad Heidi portrayed Zelda as someone who had to learn in competely embrace who she is. She isn't perfect but as the reader you can see her growth as a character throughout the book.
Harrison is one of my favorite band members. Sweet, caring, and nerdy Harry! I have been waiting for his book since we were first introduced to all the band members in book #1, and it did not disappoint!
I loved that Harrison and Zelda had to over come personal struggles before they were able to be together. All of Heidi's books have been like that, which is one of the reasons I love them so much. They are very believable. I would recommend this series (especially this book) to anyone who loves good, sweet love stories. If I could give this book (&series) more then 5 stars I would! Well done Heidi, well done!
Let me just start by saying I have been a fan of Double Blind Study since book #1, and I would classify myself as a "Zelda", complete fan girl and nerd.
I adored Zelda and all her weirdness! She was a very likable and relate-able character. I loved that she was not afraid to be herself- but at the same time, we got to look into her past and have a couple of sweet paragraphs with her parents that explain how she came to behave like this. Everybody goes through awkward phases in their lives and I'm glad Heidi portrayed Zelda as someone who had to learn in competely embrace who she is. She isn't perfect but as the reader you can see her growth as a character throughout the book.
Harrison is one of my favorite band members. Sweet, caring, and nerdy Harry! I have been waiting for his book since we were first introduced to all the band members in book #1, and it did not disappoint!
I loved that Harrison and Zelda had to over come personal struggles before they were able to be together. All of Heidi's books have been like that, which is one of the reasons I love them so much. They are very believable. I would recommend this series (especially this book) to anyone who loves good, sweet love stories. If I could give this book (&series) more then 5 stars I would! Well done Heidi, well done!
January 29, 2015
I have loved all the Double Blind Study books but I must say this one is my favorite. I was a little worried because I was told this one was different from the others. It was but in a great way. I was in love with Zelda from the start. She was fun and sweet and not the typical lead in the books I have been reading. She just seemed like the girl next door and I wanted to be friends with her. I could see myself being friends with her she was just so fun and down to earth. The best thing about her was she didn’t really care what others thought of her and I loved it about her.
Harrison has always been my favorite of the guys and if he wasn’t he is without a doubt now. He is such a sweet guy and just needs someone to love him. I was a little surprised at all the insecurities he has but it just made me love him more.
This story is filled with feels and a fantastic read. It is going to be hard to take the top read away from this one. It is at the top of my best read list and it is a must read. I know you will love it and you need to get just be prepared to stay up all night reading because once you start it you will not want to put it down. It was that amazing.
Harrison has always been my favorite of the guys and if he wasn’t he is without a doubt now. He is such a sweet guy and just needs someone to love him. I was a little surprised at all the insecurities he has but it just made me love him more.
This story is filled with feels and a fantastic read. It is going to be hard to take the top read away from this one. It is at the top of my best read list and it is a must read. I know you will love it and you need to get just be prepared to stay up all night reading because once you start it you will not want to put it down. It was that amazing.
March 28, 2015
RATING: 4 STARS
Incredible, hooking, heartfelt, with just a touch of nerd. OK, a lot of nerd.
Zelda Fitzgerald, photographer, nerd, fangirl. Harrison O'Neil, adorable, rock star, nerd. Zelda lands a job as an exclusive photographer for the band- her favourite band "Double Blind Study" during their next tour. And as she's incredibly stealthy, Harrison saves her from falling flat on her face on the first day of the cross-country tour, letting the love story unfold as it may from there.
For real though, this was a great story. It had a great combination of drama and laughter, characters that were easily liked, and easily hated, because what's a story without a villain, right? If you're looking for the happily ever after, super easy and not over-the-top steamy romance, then feast on this one!
Side note- this is actually the 5th book in the "Double Blind Study" series, but as the main characters are different (albeit interwoven), you can read it as a standalone and still love the heck out of it like I did. ;)
Keri
(Copy provided in exchange for an honest review.)
Incredible, hooking, heartfelt, with just a touch of nerd. OK, a lot of nerd.
Zelda Fitzgerald, photographer, nerd, fangirl. Harrison O'Neil, adorable, rock star, nerd. Zelda lands a job as an exclusive photographer for the band- her favourite band "Double Blind Study" during their next tour. And as she's incredibly stealthy, Harrison saves her from falling flat on her face on the first day of the cross-country tour, letting the love story unfold as it may from there.
For real though, this was a great story. It had a great combination of drama and laughter, characters that were easily liked, and easily hated, because what's a story without a villain, right? If you're looking for the happily ever after, super easy and not over-the-top steamy romance, then feast on this one!
Side note- this is actually the 5th book in the "Double Blind Study" series, but as the main characters are different (albeit interwoven), you can read it as a standalone and still love the heck out of it like I did. ;)
Keri
(Copy provided in exchange for an honest review.)
July 20, 2018
I loved this book!
Confession time: I fell in love immediately with both leading characters, but specially with Zelda (I already liked Harrison a lot from previous books in this series): extraordinaire photographer, a bit clumsy, reader and lover of almost every possible fandom.
Between quoting Tolkien, sharing a bus during the tour and mayyybe planning to go to Comic Con, these two are so perfect for each other that it becomes almost ridiculous. Their dynamics and interactions are great, and as good (fictional) human beings there is room for improvement here and there.
Finally, this book also had what I enjoyed the most in this series: the bromance! The band is a family, their significant others are part of the family and their interactions are fun and nice to see.
If it was not clear until now, I would highly recommend this book (already wrote to some of my friends while reading).
Confession time: I fell in love immediately with both leading characters, but specially with Zelda (I already liked Harrison a lot from previous books in this series): extraordinaire photographer, a bit clumsy, reader and lover of almost every possible fandom.
Between quoting Tolkien, sharing a bus during the tour and mayyybe planning to go to Comic Con, these two are so perfect for each other that it becomes almost ridiculous. Their dynamics and interactions are great, and as good (fictional) human beings there is room for improvement here and there.
Finally, this book also had what I enjoyed the most in this series: the bromance! The band is a family, their significant others are part of the family and their interactions are fun and nice to see.
If it was not clear until now, I would highly recommend this book (already wrote to some of my friends while reading).
January 3, 2015
Is there a way to give more than 5 stars?!
If you are like me, you thought you liked the Double Blind Study series before, you were wrong. Okay, you weren't wrong, but you just didn't know how much more it was possible to LOVE a series, a couple, and a group of friends.
Zelda is a fly-off-the-page ball of fun! Then you add Harrison to that {swoon}! Then add a dollop of Sway on the same bus and you find yourself with a whole new level of adoration! I think that Heidi Hutchinson creates the best characters in this series. They are real people with quirks-deep and complete. Their stories are breath-taking and heart-wrenching.
I absolutely cannot wait to hear Sway's story!
If you are like me, you thought you liked the Double Blind Study series before, you were wrong. Okay, you weren't wrong, but you just didn't know how much more it was possible to LOVE a series, a couple, and a group of friends.
Zelda is a fly-off-the-page ball of fun! Then you add Harrison to that {swoon}! Then add a dollop of Sway on the same bus and you find yourself with a whole new level of adoration! I think that Heidi Hutchinson creates the best characters in this series. They are real people with quirks-deep and complete. Their stories are breath-taking and heart-wrenching.
I absolutely cannot wait to hear Sway's story!
June 8, 2018
If there's one thing Zelda Fitzpatrick is good at, it's fandom. She can out-geek the geekiest. Her devotion knows no bounds. Her love is true, her motives pure. Oh, and she's also a talented freelance photographer, newly hired to go on the road with one of her favorite bands, Double Blind Study. All she has to do is not ruin this opportunity with her nerdy references (which are in abundance) or her devout klutziness. And she probably shouldn't fall madly in love with lead guitarist, Harrison O'Neil... who is taken. Unfortunately.
Loved.
Loved.
May 19, 2015
I <3 Zelda. I think I might fangirl her. Harrison wasn't my favorite, but I still liked him, especially since he's perfect for Zeldy.
Since I know you always read your reviews, Heidi, I have to let you know I LOVE this series. I may cry ugly tears when it's over. I don't want it to end, but at the same time, I want Sway's book now. Like right NOW! :)
Since I know you always read your reviews, Heidi, I have to let you know I LOVE this series. I may cry ugly tears when it's over. I don't want it to end, but at the same time, I want Sway's book now. Like right NOW! :)
February 6, 2015
When Harry Met Zeldy. ;)
On the surface, The Hope That Starts is a sweet love story of a rockstar and a fangirl. But it is so much more than simply that. This band of brothers, the women they love and their respective stories are so uniquely created and thoughtfully developed by Heidi.
4.5 Rock Stars for the latest installment in the Double Blind Study series.
On the surface, The Hope That Starts is a sweet love story of a rockstar and a fangirl. But it is so much more than simply that. This band of brothers, the women they love and their respective stories are so uniquely created and thoughtfully developed by Heidi.
4.5 Rock Stars for the latest installment in the Double Blind Study series.
September 7, 2015
I received this book in exchange for a honest review from United Indie Book Blog
Book 5 of the series. Omg so good.. I cried and I don't cry. Harrison and Zelda, nerd heaven. The story has moments where you laugh,groan, cry and sigh. I love this series.it should be on every book shelf of anyone who loves romance. It's EPIC
Reviewed by Jenni
Book 5 of the series. Omg so good.. I cried and I don't cry. Harrison and Zelda, nerd heaven. The story has moments where you laugh,groan, cry and sigh. I love this series.it should be on every book shelf of anyone who loves romance. It's EPIC
Reviewed by Jenni
September 7, 2015
I received this book in exchange for a honest review from United Indie Book Blog
Book 5 of the series. Omg so good.. I cried and I don't cry. Harrison and Zelda, nerd heaven. The story has moments where you laugh,groan, cry and sigh. I love this series.it should be on every book shelf of anyone who loves romance. It's EPIC
Book 5 of the series. Omg so good.. I cried and I don't cry. Harrison and Zelda, nerd heaven. The story has moments where you laugh,groan, cry and sigh. I love this series.it should be on every book shelf of anyone who loves romance. It's EPIC
August 1, 2015
Loved this series! Loved reading about Zelda and Harrison. Can't wait to read about Sway. I loved the story plot, the characters everything about even how stubborn these guys are. Thanks Heidi for introducing me to them.
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