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Summer Love #3
Truth & Temptation
She's a liar. He knows the truth.
Teagan Walker gets around. Ask anyone—hell, ask her. She'll own it with a smile. But beneath that smile is a girl whose parents didn't want her. Whose grandparents raised her without affection. Whose struggle with a burning anger threatens to consume her, though she'd rather punch someone in the face than talk about it. With a new job looming, she's determined to work her way into a better life. When she meets the sexiest guy she's ever seen, she decides to kick it off with a bang. And she makes her move.
But he's got moves of his own, and before the night is out, he strips her of way more than she means to reveal—without removing a single piece of clothing. That comes, too, of course. He's gotten under her skin like nobody before him, and what's the harm in one night with a sexy stranger? Exposed or not, she never has to see him again.
Except she does.
On Monday morning, they come face-to-face. He's the son of her new CEO—and her boss for the summer—and he threatens to bring her entire world crashing down, making her face every lie she's ever told.
Truth & Temptation is the third book in Riley Edgewood's Summer Love series, but can be read as a standalone.
Teagan Walker gets around. Ask anyone—hell, ask her. She'll own it with a smile. But beneath that smile is a girl whose parents didn't want her. Whose grandparents raised her without affection. Whose struggle with a burning anger threatens to consume her, though she'd rather punch someone in the face than talk about it. With a new job looming, she's determined to work her way into a better life. When she meets the sexiest guy she's ever seen, she decides to kick it off with a bang. And she makes her move.
But he's got moves of his own, and before the night is out, he strips her of way more than she means to reveal—without removing a single piece of clothing. That comes, too, of course. He's gotten under her skin like nobody before him, and what's the harm in one night with a sexy stranger? Exposed or not, she never has to see him again.
Except she does.
On Monday morning, they come face-to-face. He's the son of her new CEO—and her boss for the summer—and he threatens to bring her entire world crashing down, making her face every lie she's ever told.
Truth & Temptation is the third book in Riley Edgewood's Summer Love series, but can be read as a standalone.
365 pages, Paperback
First published July 23, 2015
28 people are currently reading
644 people want to read
About the author
Riley Edgewood
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Riley lives in the DC area and spends most of her time with her characters, playing with her toddler and husband, and pretending she knows how to be an adult. Former dancer. Current writer. Lifelong lover of accessories, books, and the beach. And cats. Can't forget the kitties. Of which she has two.
Riley lives in the DC area and spends most of her time with her characters, playing with her toddler and husband, and pretending she knows how to be an adult. Former dancer. Current writer. Lifelong lover of accessories, books, and the beach. And cats. Can't forget the kitties. Of which she has two.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 91 reviews
July 16, 2015
Alec Chambers owns a piece of my very being. 5 kitten, I'm going to love to make you beg stars. Riley Edgewood has blown me away with Truth & Temptation. I liked Rock & Release but crashed into love with this novel. I think Edgewood is like fine wine, continues to get better with time. This book completely captivates you from the very first few pages and part of it is because Teagan is a trip while the other part of it is because Alec is something to behold.
I can probably write this entire review on how much I love Alec Chambers but that wouldn't be fair because the book isn't only about him. Alec is witty, wickedly sexy, confident, charming, disarming, sweet, and vulnerable. He is probably one of the best fictional characters I've ever read outside of Gideon Cross (Sylvia Day), Jackson Stone (J. Kenner), and a few others. While Alec is the total package with the money, power, confidence, and looks, he is human and not some arrogant nitwit. He doesn't see those that aren't as wealthy or fortunate as him as beneath him and he has problems of his own. The most endearing thing about Alec is his stuttering problem! Alec is real and tangible and really someone I think every woman aspires to at least date once in their life. He's the walking dream and Edgewood gives us him.
Teagan is the kind of heroine that you either really like or really dislike. For me, I really liked her. She's complicated with her own share of secrets that not even those closest to her know. She's like an onion, definitely channeling Donkey from Shrek right now, in that she has many layers that need to be peeled back until you reach the real her. What I loved most about Teagan is how she didn't really run from Alec as much as she could have. She accepted that he wasn't going anywhere and her slipping off into the love trap.
The story really does well to show how the right kind of people can make all the difference. Teagan is a saving grace for Alec in that she doesn't want him for anything other than his kind heart and understanding nature in a world where most just want his money and status. Alec is the first person to truly see Teagan and understand her while making her want to be a better person. They make each other better through understanding, care, and love which is the best kind of story and what I think we all aspire to be. If someone doesn't make you the best version of yourself then you are settling.
I can probably write this entire review on how much I love Alec Chambers but that wouldn't be fair because the book isn't only about him. Alec is witty, wickedly sexy, confident, charming, disarming, sweet, and vulnerable. He is probably one of the best fictional characters I've ever read outside of Gideon Cross (Sylvia Day), Jackson Stone (J. Kenner), and a few others. While Alec is the total package with the money, power, confidence, and looks, he is human and not some arrogant nitwit. He doesn't see those that aren't as wealthy or fortunate as him as beneath him and he has problems of his own. The most endearing thing about Alec is his stuttering problem! Alec is real and tangible and really someone I think every woman aspires to at least date once in their life. He's the walking dream and Edgewood gives us him.
Teagan is the kind of heroine that you either really like or really dislike. For me, I really liked her. She's complicated with her own share of secrets that not even those closest to her know. She's like an onion, definitely channeling Donkey from Shrek right now, in that she has many layers that need to be peeled back until you reach the real her. What I loved most about Teagan is how she didn't really run from Alec as much as she could have. She accepted that he wasn't going anywhere and her slipping off into the love trap.
The story really does well to show how the right kind of people can make all the difference. Teagan is a saving grace for Alec in that she doesn't want him for anything other than his kind heart and understanding nature in a world where most just want his money and status. Alec is the first person to truly see Teagan and understand her while making her want to be a better person. They make each other better through understanding, care, and love which is the best kind of story and what I think we all aspire to be. If someone doesn't make you the best version of yourself then you are settling.
July 20, 2015
*ARC kindly provided by author in exchange for an honest review*
My first ARC? YAY!
Now it literally says up there "honest review" so I have to state that I absolutely did NOT like this book. If this wasn't my first ARC, I would have actually stopped reading it after chapter 3. I understand that you need to give a book a chance and this is what I did, every time I found myself doing things to avoid reading this book. Now I'm not saying that this book is horrible but I found it to be excruciatingly slow and painful.
Let me just give the run-down of how I read this book:
Basically this book is about a young woman named Teagan and she has .. issues to state the least. She feels the need to put up this fake facade to make herself feel more confident and sometimes she fibs to her friends about her life to make it seem more interesting. Basically to make herself seem more interesting. She's had a shitty family life for as long as she can remember, with a mother who's off somewhere pretending she doesn't have a family, and being raised by grandparents that treat her like absolute shit. Then one night, she meets Billionaire, Alec Chambers and everything changes. They have an almost one night stand and then she realizes he's her boss' son the next morning and sneaks out of his place. The rest is history and a predictable given.
Now my BIGGEST issue with this book was Teagan. I'm all for woman with a backbone, I'm down for the badass chicks with some spunk and attitude but Teagan was just.. a downright bitch. She was a spiteful, bitter bitch and I did NOT understand how she had such caring friends that put up with it. Throughout the book, there were things that added up and made sense to why she was a bitch but the thing is... You could live the shittiest life and let it define you or be a great person and not let the shitty things affect how you treat others. So to sum it up, she was a hard pill to swallow.
Next thing, the characters lacked depth. Yeah the whole thing with Jason and Alec's sister... I get it. It was tragic and I'm not trying to be a heartless bitch but NEWS FLASH, just because the characters have been through something sad/tragic does not give them character. These MC's did not speak to me and they didn't even seem like leads in their own story. They were flat and it was very hard for me to take them seriously. Teagan's relationship with Alec began in the most superficial hypocritical way. While Alec was taking Teagan up to his room in the beginning, he states "he doesn't sleep with people with a lack of feelings" yet that's what he was exactly doing at that moment and then when she asks if he's slept with other woman, he says "I'm not a priest" or something along the lines of that. Like WHAT?
And then Teagan states all the reasons why she should "convince Alec to sleep with her" and I kid you not. These were the reasons she stated:
- He's rich
- He's hot
- He's going away for a few months so I won't have to worry about something long term
This girl made me want to punch something. ESPECIALLY CONSIDERING HER "ISSUE".
The "plot twist" in this book shouldn't have even been considered a plot twist because from the second Alec tried to explain the "disaster" it was obvious and there was no mystery. At one point, I didn't even know if there was a plot anymore?????
WORST PART ABOUT THIS BOOK was the "dirty talk". It made me cringe so hard. It didn't even make it worth reading.
Now I apologize to ANYONE that liked this book but this was not my cup of tea and I'm very sad, my first ARC review was so negative but I don't think there was anything positive about this book.
"2 VERY SAD, PREDICTABLE, DISAPPOINTING STARS"
My first ARC? YAY!
Now it literally says up there "honest review" so I have to state that I absolutely did NOT like this book. If this wasn't my first ARC, I would have actually stopped reading it after chapter 3. I understand that you need to give a book a chance and this is what I did, every time I found myself doing things to avoid reading this book. Now I'm not saying that this book is horrible but I found it to be excruciatingly slow and painful.
Let me just give the run-down of how I read this book:
Basically this book is about a young woman named Teagan and she has .. issues to state the least. She feels the need to put up this fake facade to make herself feel more confident and sometimes she fibs to her friends about her life to make it seem more interesting. Basically to make herself seem more interesting. She's had a shitty family life for as long as she can remember, with a mother who's off somewhere pretending she doesn't have a family, and being raised by grandparents that treat her like absolute shit. Then one night, she meets Billionaire, Alec Chambers and everything changes. They have an almost one night stand and then she realizes he's her boss' son the next morning and sneaks out of his place. The rest is history and a predictable given.
Now my BIGGEST issue with this book was Teagan. I'm all for woman with a backbone, I'm down for the badass chicks with some spunk and attitude but Teagan was just.. a downright bitch. She was a spiteful, bitter bitch and I did NOT understand how she had such caring friends that put up with it. Throughout the book, there were things that added up and made sense to why she was a bitch but the thing is... You could live the shittiest life and let it define you or be a great person and not let the shitty things affect how you treat others. So to sum it up, she was a hard pill to swallow.
Next thing, the characters lacked depth. Yeah the whole thing with Jason and Alec's sister... I get it. It was tragic and I'm not trying to be a heartless bitch but NEWS FLASH, just because the characters have been through something sad/tragic does not give them character. These MC's did not speak to me and they didn't even seem like leads in their own story. They were flat and it was very hard for me to take them seriously. Teagan's relationship with Alec began in the most superficial hypocritical way. While Alec was taking Teagan up to his room in the beginning, he states "he doesn't sleep with people with a lack of feelings" yet that's what he was exactly doing at that moment and then when she asks if he's slept with other woman, he says "I'm not a priest" or something along the lines of that. Like WHAT?
And then Teagan states all the reasons why she should "convince Alec to sleep with her" and I kid you not. These were the reasons she stated:
- He's rich
- He's hot
- He's going away for a few months so I won't have to worry about something long term
This girl made me want to punch something. ESPECIALLY CONSIDERING HER "ISSUE".
The "plot twist" in this book shouldn't have even been considered a plot twist because from the second Alec tried to explain the "disaster" it was obvious and there was no mystery. At one point, I didn't even know if there was a plot anymore?????
WORST PART ABOUT THIS BOOK was the "dirty talk". It made me cringe so hard. It didn't even make it worth reading.
Now I apologize to ANYONE that liked this book but this was not my cup of tea and I'm very sad, my first ARC review was so negative but I don't think there was anything positive about this book.
"2 VERY SAD, PREDICTABLE, DISAPPOINTING STARS"
August 11, 2016
Rating: 4.25/5
Review coming soon!
Review coming soon!
August 13, 2015
Review by Trinette Dungee
Teagan Walker has a reputation, and she’s proud of it…she does guys and lots of them. She’s also got anger management issues and trust issues. Abandoned at birth by her mother, she grew up in a loveless home with grandparents who were more inclined to remind her what a burden she was than show her an ounce of affection. Teagan has no idea how to love or so she thinks.
When she sees Alec she decides he’s worth a ride on the “Teagan express” and then he’ll be forgotten like the rest of them, especially since she’s told him her name is “Cindy”. Things don’t go quite the way Teagan plans when she gets to Alec’s apartment and when she stumbles on the fact that Alec is non-other than, Alec Chambers, her new boss- she bolts with no explanation. That is until she shows up for work Monday morning and has to explain to Alec that she’s not “Cindy”. What’s worse, Alec has discovered Teagan’s deepest darkest secret.
When I first started this book I figured it would be “okay” and that the story line probably wouldn’t hold my attention very long. The synopsis of this book does not do it justice. This story delved way deeper than I expected it to. It touches on learning disabilities, depression, acceptance, guilt and regret…things that really make you think. While it may not be an actual emotional rollercoaster, there are moments that make you catch your breath and tug at your heart.
The connection to Teagan didn’t happen immediately but it did happen. When it did, you wanted her to conquer her demons, be proud of herself and love herself. Deep down she wants to be a different person and this new job is the ticket to help her become someone worthy of love and affection. In her eyes she could never be what Alec needs. To her they are worlds apart. He’s rich…really rich, he’s confident, well educated, and successful and his future is bright. She’s broke…really broke, she’s insecure, barely graduated high school and her future is bleak at best. Since Alec is only her boss for the summer, she figures what they share will probably be just a summer fling.
With this new job she sees a way to build her self up to become someone else-the person she wants to be, someone worthy of love and affection, someone worthy of being on the arm of Alec Chambers, but not because he’s rich but because he’s a really good guy. What I really liked about Teagan was as “hard” as she was, she was just that “soft”. She was the underdog and she let it be known that she was well aware of that. She didn’t pretend to be anyone she wasn’t. She didn’t make excuses or try to apologize for who she was but she explained why she was the way she was. With the right people (Alec and her two closest friends) her walls came down pretty easily.
Alec wasn’t without his own issues, just like Teagan, he has secrets of his own. Alec falls hard for Teagan almost immediately. He’s patient with her and he kind of sees through her BS almost immediately. While his “help” sometimes was a little overbearing his heart was always in the right place when it came to her. He's determined to make her understand that she is not just a summer fling to him. After he’s finished his final year of graduate school at Harvard, he’s coming back; not for her but to her. Honestly, Alec kind of deserved the girl and the girl kind of deserved him.
This is book three in Riley Edgewood’s Summer Love series. I haven’t read one and two but I think I will add them to my TBR list.
Teagan Walker has a reputation, and she’s proud of it…she does guys and lots of them. She’s also got anger management issues and trust issues. Abandoned at birth by her mother, she grew up in a loveless home with grandparents who were more inclined to remind her what a burden she was than show her an ounce of affection. Teagan has no idea how to love or so she thinks.
When she sees Alec she decides he’s worth a ride on the “Teagan express” and then he’ll be forgotten like the rest of them, especially since she’s told him her name is “Cindy”. Things don’t go quite the way Teagan plans when she gets to Alec’s apartment and when she stumbles on the fact that Alec is non-other than, Alec Chambers, her new boss- she bolts with no explanation. That is until she shows up for work Monday morning and has to explain to Alec that she’s not “Cindy”. What’s worse, Alec has discovered Teagan’s deepest darkest secret.
When I first started this book I figured it would be “okay” and that the story line probably wouldn’t hold my attention very long. The synopsis of this book does not do it justice. This story delved way deeper than I expected it to. It touches on learning disabilities, depression, acceptance, guilt and regret…things that really make you think. While it may not be an actual emotional rollercoaster, there are moments that make you catch your breath and tug at your heart.
The connection to Teagan didn’t happen immediately but it did happen. When it did, you wanted her to conquer her demons, be proud of herself and love herself. Deep down she wants to be a different person and this new job is the ticket to help her become someone worthy of love and affection. In her eyes she could never be what Alec needs. To her they are worlds apart. He’s rich…really rich, he’s confident, well educated, and successful and his future is bright. She’s broke…really broke, she’s insecure, barely graduated high school and her future is bleak at best. Since Alec is only her boss for the summer, she figures what they share will probably be just a summer fling.
With this new job she sees a way to build her self up to become someone else-the person she wants to be, someone worthy of love and affection, someone worthy of being on the arm of Alec Chambers, but not because he’s rich but because he’s a really good guy. What I really liked about Teagan was as “hard” as she was, she was just that “soft”. She was the underdog and she let it be known that she was well aware of that. She didn’t pretend to be anyone she wasn’t. She didn’t make excuses or try to apologize for who she was but she explained why she was the way she was. With the right people (Alec and her two closest friends) her walls came down pretty easily.
Alec wasn’t without his own issues, just like Teagan, he has secrets of his own. Alec falls hard for Teagan almost immediately. He’s patient with her and he kind of sees through her BS almost immediately. While his “help” sometimes was a little overbearing his heart was always in the right place when it came to her. He's determined to make her understand that she is not just a summer fling to him. After he’s finished his final year of graduate school at Harvard, he’s coming back; not for her but to her. Honestly, Alec kind of deserved the girl and the girl kind of deserved him.
This is book three in Riley Edgewood’s Summer Love series. I haven’t read one and two but I think I will add them to my TBR list.
Read
July 5, 2015I've been in a bit of a New Adult slump, so I went into Truth & Temptation a bit hesitant. But even though I was reading an early draft, I loved this book. And I shouldn't have, really. Not considering the number of things I generally heave great big not-for-me sighs over. The heroine has a troubled past. The love interest is her boss. Oh, and
I mean, I really, really shouldn't have liked this. But those things work here. Teagan does have a sad past (and present, for that matter) but she's no scared little girl. She's a fighter who pushes through her struggles, and I loved that about her. Alec, the love interest, is her boss, but he's not an alpha male a-hole, nor does he hold the only position of power in their relationship. And, well,
There were a lot of things to like about this book, but Teagan's voice is one of my favorites. She's hilarious, whether in dialog or inner monologue. She's brash and often bitchy—she'll admit the same—but she also loves deeply and is fiercely loyal. She's also angry. Really, really angry. And while this is something she's concerned about and wants to change, I have to admit: I liked it. She stood up for herself. She didn't take crap from anyone, whether that's a random side character or Alec. That's right—she doesn't let Alec walk all over her simply because he's hot or he's her boss. She's not a simpering girl who forgets who she is or what she wants simply because a hot guy likes her.
I also loved Alec. I was so worried here—being the Boss Man makes me think of controlling alpha males. I'm so over them. But Alec is sweet and kind. He's gentle when he needs to be and, more than that, he respects Teagan. He's the kind of guy who
The female relationships were particularly well done here. Teagan has Cassidy and Vera, but the one I loved most surprised me. And it must go inside a spoiler warning: Other side characters were great, too. Teagan's fellow intern is adorkable, and her interactions with him were among my favorites.
What it comes down to, though, is a mix of fully realized characters, some weighty issues, and a ton of humor. And heat, obviously. Because this book is hot.
I mean, I really, really shouldn't have liked this. But those things work here. Teagan does have a sad past (and present, for that matter) but she's no scared little girl. She's a fighter who pushes through her struggles, and I loved that about her. Alec, the love interest, is her boss, but he's not an alpha male a-hole, nor does he hold the only position of power in their relationship. And, well,
There were a lot of things to like about this book, but Teagan's voice is one of my favorites. She's hilarious, whether in dialog or inner monologue. She's brash and often bitchy—she'll admit the same—but she also loves deeply and is fiercely loyal. She's also angry. Really, really angry. And while this is something she's concerned about and wants to change, I have to admit: I liked it. She stood up for herself. She didn't take crap from anyone, whether that's a random side character or Alec. That's right—she doesn't let Alec walk all over her simply because he's hot or he's her boss. She's not a simpering girl who forgets who she is or what she wants simply because a hot guy likes her.
I also loved Alec. I was so worried here—being the Boss Man makes me think of controlling alpha males. I'm so over them. But Alec is sweet and kind. He's gentle when he needs to be and, more than that, he respects Teagan. He's the kind of guy who
The female relationships were particularly well done here. Teagan has Cassidy and Vera, but the one I loved most surprised me. And it must go inside a spoiler warning: Other side characters were great, too. Teagan's fellow intern is adorkable, and her interactions with him were among my favorites.
What it comes down to, though, is a mix of fully realized characters, some weighty issues, and a ton of humor. And heat, obviously. Because this book is hot.
January 2, 2016
2-1/2 stars.
This review also appears on Pretty Sassy Cool.
Teagan meets a hot, elusive stranger at a bar and after a night of flirting and a promise to keep everything anonymous, decides to go home with him, where she passes out before (almost) anything happens. She does the proverbial walk of shame back to the trailer she shares with her grandparents, hearing once again how much of a whore she is and is reminded that, with the exception of her two best friends, no one in her life truly loves her. A few days later, she sees him again--at work. He's home for the summer from Harvard and she's his new assistant. Despite Teagan's protests, Alec's thrilled that fate put them back together, and he won't back down until she realizes they could be perfect for each other.
I don't know how many stories I've read where an anonymous one night stand ends with the pair working together, but this one doesn't stand out to me. I appreciated that Edgewood wove Teagan's a hard life and the fact that she deals with anxiety and anger issues into this story--it made her more relatable for sure. Overall though, I thought she was bratty and bitchy to everyone, Alec included. Also, she has this secret that makes no sense to me at all. And what she says to her friend about it makes me want to slap her. Alec was a sweet guy--intense and driven, he knew that his life was changed when he met Teagan. He calls her Kitten and tells her she's pretty. I like him, but I don't feel like I really got to know him. He constantly tells her that she made him a better man, but how? *shrugs* I just didn't get it, tbh.
I really didn't like the unnecessary drama. Their big blow up didn't really make sense to me, and the stuff with his past didn't really amount to the drama I thought it would. I didn't read the other books in this series, and I think Truth & Temptation totally stands alone, but there's probably some stuff in Teagan's past that would make me feel more for her character. I hope so, at least. As it is, I just didn't feel a connection to anyone. I wasn't rooting for them to be together, and I felt underwhelmed by the whole thing. As it is, I just didn't feel a connection to anyone. I wasn't rooting for them to be together, and I felt underwhelmed by the whole thing.
This review also appears on Pretty Sassy Cool.
Teagan meets a hot, elusive stranger at a bar and after a night of flirting and a promise to keep everything anonymous, decides to go home with him, where she passes out before (almost) anything happens. She does the proverbial walk of shame back to the trailer she shares with her grandparents, hearing once again how much of a whore she is and is reminded that, with the exception of her two best friends, no one in her life truly loves her. A few days later, she sees him again--at work. He's home for the summer from Harvard and she's his new assistant. Despite Teagan's protests, Alec's thrilled that fate put them back together, and he won't back down until she realizes they could be perfect for each other.
I don't know how many stories I've read where an anonymous one night stand ends with the pair working together, but this one doesn't stand out to me. I appreciated that Edgewood wove Teagan's a hard life and the fact that she deals with anxiety and anger issues into this story--it made her more relatable for sure. Overall though, I thought she was bratty and bitchy to everyone, Alec included. Also, she has this secret that makes no sense to me at all. And what she says to her friend about it makes me want to slap her. Alec was a sweet guy--intense and driven, he knew that his life was changed when he met Teagan. He calls her Kitten and tells her she's pretty. I like him, but I don't feel like I really got to know him. He constantly tells her that she made him a better man, but how? *shrugs* I just didn't get it, tbh.
I really didn't like the unnecessary drama. Their big blow up didn't really make sense to me, and the stuff with his past didn't really amount to the drama I thought it would. I didn't read the other books in this series, and I think Truth & Temptation totally stands alone, but there's probably some stuff in Teagan's past that would make me feel more for her character. I hope so, at least. As it is, I just didn't feel a connection to anyone. I wasn't rooting for them to be together, and I felt underwhelmed by the whole thing. As it is, I just didn't feel a connection to anyone. I wasn't rooting for them to be together, and I felt underwhelmed by the whole thing.
August 14, 2015
**I was gifted with an ARC of this book in exchange for my honest review**
This is the 3rd book in the "Summer Love" series by Riley Edgewood. I was lucky enough to receive that previous book which is
and I fell in love with this series. I was hooked. I purchased the first book from the series which is
and wow again I was in love. So much more invested in the characters. When I saw that this book along with Teagens story was available i was ecstatic about reading it because well I was dying to get her story and also because I have loved the other 2 books and let me just say IT DOES NOT DISAPPOINT!!!! I loved everything about Teagen and you can see how her thoughts are all just bundled up and you can't help but sympathize with her and what she is going through. I loved that again you see growth within the character. True character development and more so in this book because it was emotional and mental specially due to it always battling each other. Thank you for bringing this story to life. I feel like it brings light to situations and it helps others see a little into the mind of someone who is suffering. Those who suffer that most are the ones who are hiding it in the best way possible. This was amazing and like i have said before I hope there are many many more stories to come from series. Thank you for the opportunity to have read this story.
Summer Love Series
This is the 3rd book in the "Summer Love" series by Riley Edgewood. I was lucky enough to receive that previous book which is
and I fell in love with this series. I was hooked. I purchased the first book from the series which is
and wow again I was in love. So much more invested in the characters. When I saw that this book along with Teagens story was available i was ecstatic about reading it because well I was dying to get her story and also because I have loved the other 2 books and let me just say IT DOES NOT DISAPPOINT!!!! I loved everything about Teagen and you can see how her thoughts are all just bundled up and you can't help but sympathize with her and what she is going through. I loved that again you see growth within the character. True character development and more so in this book because it was emotional and mental specially due to it always battling each other. Thank you for bringing this story to life. I feel like it brings light to situations and it helps others see a little into the mind of someone who is suffering. Those who suffer that most are the ones who are hiding it in the best way possible. This was amazing and like i have said before I hope there are many many more stories to come from series. Thank you for the opportunity to have read this story.
Summer Love Series
July 24, 2015
*I received an eARC of this book via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
First let me tell you something, this is a new adult book that contains some mature content. So if you’re too young or you’re not comfortable with this type of books well this book isn’t for you. I started this book with an open mind without knowing what to expecting. Let me tell that my first impressions of the main character weren’t the best. Teagan is a complete b*tch. I’m sorry if you don’t like to hear this kind of things but it’s true. Throughout the book we start to understand that she’s not really like that and she’s only like this to protect herself because she really had a difficult life. Basically Teagan lies to her best friends and pretends to be someone she’s not. In the middle of all this she meets Alec who after a lot of drinks finds out one of Teagan’s secrets. Everything gets worse when Teagan discovers that she’s going to work for Alec during summer. You can see where everything is going in this book. This book had a good plot and I liked to read about Teagan and Alec’s problems and how they tried to solve them. Actually I would love to know more about something that happened in the end of the book. I would love to know how she would handle the situation.
Now let’s talk about some of my problems with this book. First of all I didn’t like Teagan. I understand that she had a difficult life but sometimes she would be a pain in the ass and I don’t even understand how her friends would stand her. There was also a lot of sex in this book. I wasn’t expecting that half of the book was mostly sex and sometimes it would be too much. And believe me, I’m not someone against sex in books. I’ve read books were sex was implicit but the way that it’s in almost all the book was getting to my nerves. Most of the times they were in work and flirting to each other and thinking about sex.
One thing I liked about this book was Teagan’s development and how she overcame her problems and insecurities and how both she and Alec helped each other to be better people.
Overall this was an OK book. The book was well written and it had an interesting plot. If you like this type of books you should give it a try.
First let me tell you something, this is a new adult book that contains some mature content. So if you’re too young or you’re not comfortable with this type of books well this book isn’t for you. I started this book with an open mind without knowing what to expecting. Let me tell that my first impressions of the main character weren’t the best. Teagan is a complete b*tch. I’m sorry if you don’t like to hear this kind of things but it’s true. Throughout the book we start to understand that she’s not really like that and she’s only like this to protect herself because she really had a difficult life. Basically Teagan lies to her best friends and pretends to be someone she’s not. In the middle of all this she meets Alec who after a lot of drinks finds out one of Teagan’s secrets. Everything gets worse when Teagan discovers that she’s going to work for Alec during summer. You can see where everything is going in this book. This book had a good plot and I liked to read about Teagan and Alec’s problems and how they tried to solve them. Actually I would love to know more about something that happened in the end of the book. I would love to know how she would handle the situation.
Now let’s talk about some of my problems with this book. First of all I didn’t like Teagan. I understand that she had a difficult life but sometimes she would be a pain in the ass and I don’t even understand how her friends would stand her. There was also a lot of sex in this book. I wasn’t expecting that half of the book was mostly sex and sometimes it would be too much. And believe me, I’m not someone against sex in books. I’ve read books were sex was implicit but the way that it’s in almost all the book was getting to my nerves. Most of the times they were in work and flirting to each other and thinking about sex.
One thing I liked about this book was Teagan’s development and how she overcame her problems and insecurities and how both she and Alec helped each other to be better people.
Overall this was an OK book. The book was well written and it had an interesting plot. If you like this type of books you should give it a try.
June 28, 2015
Lucky me! I got to read Riley Edgewood’s up-and-coming contemporary new adult novel early and it’s predictably amazing. Remember Teagan from Riley’s debut, Rock & Release? Well, she’s telling her own story now, one that’s sexy and fun, but also multifaceted and deep. Teagan’s childhood was not exactly charmed, and now she’s struggling with anger issues, plus a multitude of other complications that are uncovered as the story progresses. But things aren’t all bad. Teagan’s got a new job, a couple of fantastically loyal friends (Cassidy and Vera – yay!), and a new guy, Alec, who’s the perfect combination of steamy and sweet. Honest confession: I didn’t exactly love Teagan when I read R&R. She struck me as petty and, sometimes, downright mean. But T&T sheds so much light on her backstory and the personality it fostered, and it didn’t take me but a few pages to find myself firmly on Teagan’s side. I desperately wanted to see her successful and happy and at peace with herself. If you’re into NA that’s weighty as well as hot, check out Truth & Temptation when it releases in late July.
July 15, 2015
Alec is a considerate guy, "stop." He pauses before continuing. "The thought of you touching me in any capacity makes me so effing hard I could break concrete. But you need a break. So let's lie here for a while. All night. I'll be fine—he'll be fine." There are times you need to boost your man's ego, "you've got a nice a**," I say, admiring the way his briefs shape it. "God, even yours has more shape than mine, all flat." I sigh, all dramatically." I liked this book more than I thought it would the blurb really didn't do it justice. I think I may have to go back and read the other books in this sees, even though they can be read as stand alones.
July 17, 2015
3 - 3.5 stars
Full review to follow.
***ARC received via NetGalley for an honest review***
Full review to follow.
***ARC received via NetGalley for an honest review***
June 22, 2017
I had the pleasure of meeting Riley at an author invasion back in April and we quickly bonded over our love for Nora Roberts and my wedding. I asked her which one of the three books in this series that she recommended and she said this one seemed to be her most popular, so I decided to check it out! I am so glad that I did because I loved it! Between teaching, planning a wedding, and working on renewing my teaching license, I didn't have any time to read. I saved this book and took it with me on my honeymoon. This was the perfect book to read while on a honeymoon/vacation! I begin reading this book on our long 4 and a half hour flight from Charlotte, NC to the beautiful island St. Lucia and read it over the course of the week and I finished it before we flew home. Okay enough about me and now onto the book...I loved how we got to hear this book from Teagan's point of view and get inside her head. Her thoughts made me laugh, but sometimes I feel like that's exactly how I sound when I talk to myself in my head. Not only did this book have all the hot and sexy scenes that we love in a New Adult book, but it also touches a little on some real issues like anger management, depression, and learning disabilities. I love that Alec and Teagan make each other better through understanding, care, and love which is the best kind of story. I highly recommend this book and I can't wait to read the other two books in this series! This was a good book to kick off my summer reading!
July 22, 2017
I was gifted a print copy of one of the summer love series books through a book blog , that being said I had never read a Riley Edgewood story before and didn't know what would happen considering it was book # 3 in the series.
I thought the story was beautifully written with just the right amount of sweet & spicy .It's a bit contemp romance / NA which I don't usually read much , but this one I loved.
Teagan and Alec were perfect for each other ,I loved the secondary characters like they were my own friends and it didn't matter that it was book 3, because I jumped right into the storyline and devoured page after page until the end .
I thought the story was beautifully written with just the right amount of sweet & spicy .It's a bit contemp romance / NA which I don't usually read much , but this one I loved.
Teagan and Alec were perfect for each other ,I loved the secondary characters like they were my own friends and it didn't matter that it was book 3, because I jumped right into the storyline and devoured page after page until the end .
June 8, 2017
This was my favorite of the three! Omygosh the buildup in this story was really too much too handle! It was sexy and sweet and I liked it a lot.
January 19, 2019
Good read
This was a good read with likeable characters, i didn't really understand all Teagans issues but i still enjoyed the story and the hero was fantastic.
This was a good read with likeable characters, i didn't really understand all Teagans issues but i still enjoyed the story and the hero was fantastic.
August 19, 2015
Actual rating: 6/5 stars
SPOILERS AHEAD. PROCEED WITH CAUTION:
Teagan and her girlfriends are off having a girls night out at a pool bar and having a pretty good time. Right off the bat we learn that Tea is actually really hard on others, but even more so on herself. It’s abundantly clear that she has so much going on in her head and she’s gone through more than we can tell in her past, and your heart reaches out for her. Usually I don’t like the overly bitchy female leads who sleep their way through their problems, but Teagan holds a place in my heart right away.
Enter this beautiful man who we don’t learn the name of right away, who is immediately intrigued by the fiery, feisty attitude and personality of Teagan, who is now known as Cindy due to her refusal at telling “Frank” (who we later learn is Alec) her real name. She doesn’t accept a real name from him either, so we know him as Frank for a while. This is the start of a relationship that we as the readers can already assume is going to help “Cindy” better herself and let go of this dark fire burning inside of her.
They start off getting to know each other by playing Two Truths, and both are pretty set on getting the other home. But Frank/Alec doesn’t want to be another screen door – someone she just sleeps with and tosses aside like she said she had in the past.
In the end, he ends up getting her home with him and they’re both extremely turned on at this point. Nearly ready to rip each other’s clothes off, they do a little bit of truth telling in which we learn that Teagan, despite being known to have slept with more men than she can count, is actually a virgin.
WHAT??
Then she passes out.
And then she wakes up, and it’s the next morning, and Alec is waiting for her to fess up. As they begin that conversation, Alec lets her know that his full name is actually Alec Chambers, who she then realizes is her boss for the summer.
LOVE IT.
So instead of actually sitting down for the conversation, as planned, she finds a way to get him out of the room and makes a run for it. Knowing that it won’t be long before she sees him again – which is Monday at work.
Okay at this point I’m so in love with Alec it’s ridiculous. I mean come on. A successful future CEO and he’s SWEET? Good. And he’s charming???? I can’t deal with it.
I’m still waiting for Teagan to come forward with her past but you see so much progress in these few chapters and it just makes me so happy. And her relief when she gets the health insurance from the company? Oh boy I had so much happiness.
I was so mad when the fiancée twist was thrown in there. I do not appreciate a cheater.. ever. I know that there are stories behind certain cases that are acceptable but if you are in a relationship and you knowingly cheat… not. Okay. I don’t care how hot they are or how hot the sex is, do your thing with someone who is not already attached to another.
But of course Alec has a story behind this in which he explains that him and Piper, his fiancée, are together to make her look good. But are in no way a true couple and if either meets someone that they are serious about, the engagement is off.
Now Alec is serious… and he reveals that he’s already discussed calling it off with Piper, because he’s now found someone he’s serious about.
EEEEEE!!!
In the end I’m so happy that they overcame their problems almost immediately. I’m also really happy that no one made the other feel like what they did wasn’t a big deal. They had so much love and respect for each other and it warmed my heart. Honestly, this is one of my favourite romance novels to date and I would read it another 30 times.
Truth & Temptation takes the heartbreaking story of Teagan’s awful past and shows you that even if you grow up with a shitty upbringing, you still deserve happiness, no matter what anyone tells you. You can find it in your work, your friends, who you end up loving and who ends up loving you. Happiness is not unattainable. The storyline of Truth & Temptation had me right away. I’m a sucker for a guy, or a girl, who is able to see through all the bullshit and sticks around to see the truth. Teagan and Alec were so lovely to read and Riley Edgewood did a remarkable job in portraying Teagan’s rage and pain while also showing her willingness to become a better version of herself. I also really appreciated Teagan’s friends Cassidy and Vera. They were so patient and didn’t give up on their friend. I’ve heard and read and seen so many cases where the friends up and leave because they “didn’t sign up for this shit”. I adored this book and I just saw that it was part of a series so I’m going to hope on the Riley Edgewood bandwagon and read more of her stuff.
I’d give this 6 stars if I could.
SPOILERS AHEAD. PROCEED WITH CAUTION:
Teagan and her girlfriends are off having a girls night out at a pool bar and having a pretty good time. Right off the bat we learn that Tea is actually really hard on others, but even more so on herself. It’s abundantly clear that she has so much going on in her head and she’s gone through more than we can tell in her past, and your heart reaches out for her. Usually I don’t like the overly bitchy female leads who sleep their way through their problems, but Teagan holds a place in my heart right away.
Enter this beautiful man who we don’t learn the name of right away, who is immediately intrigued by the fiery, feisty attitude and personality of Teagan, who is now known as Cindy due to her refusal at telling “Frank” (who we later learn is Alec) her real name. She doesn’t accept a real name from him either, so we know him as Frank for a while. This is the start of a relationship that we as the readers can already assume is going to help “Cindy” better herself and let go of this dark fire burning inside of her.
They start off getting to know each other by playing Two Truths, and both are pretty set on getting the other home. But Frank/Alec doesn’t want to be another screen door – someone she just sleeps with and tosses aside like she said she had in the past.
In the end, he ends up getting her home with him and they’re both extremely turned on at this point. Nearly ready to rip each other’s clothes off, they do a little bit of truth telling in which we learn that Teagan, despite being known to have slept with more men than she can count, is actually a virgin.
WHAT??
Then she passes out.
And then she wakes up, and it’s the next morning, and Alec is waiting for her to fess up. As they begin that conversation, Alec lets her know that his full name is actually Alec Chambers, who she then realizes is her boss for the summer.
LOVE IT.
So instead of actually sitting down for the conversation, as planned, she finds a way to get him out of the room and makes a run for it. Knowing that it won’t be long before she sees him again – which is Monday at work.
Okay at this point I’m so in love with Alec it’s ridiculous. I mean come on. A successful future CEO and he’s SWEET? Good. And he’s charming???? I can’t deal with it.
I’m still waiting for Teagan to come forward with her past but you see so much progress in these few chapters and it just makes me so happy. And her relief when she gets the health insurance from the company? Oh boy I had so much happiness.
I was so mad when the fiancée twist was thrown in there. I do not appreciate a cheater.. ever. I know that there are stories behind certain cases that are acceptable but if you are in a relationship and you knowingly cheat… not. Okay. I don’t care how hot they are or how hot the sex is, do your thing with someone who is not already attached to another.
But of course Alec has a story behind this in which he explains that him and Piper, his fiancée, are together to make her look good. But are in no way a true couple and if either meets someone that they are serious about, the engagement is off.
Now Alec is serious… and he reveals that he’s already discussed calling it off with Piper, because he’s now found someone he’s serious about.
EEEEEE!!!
In the end I’m so happy that they overcame their problems almost immediately. I’m also really happy that no one made the other feel like what they did wasn’t a big deal. They had so much love and respect for each other and it warmed my heart. Honestly, this is one of my favourite romance novels to date and I would read it another 30 times.
Truth & Temptation takes the heartbreaking story of Teagan’s awful past and shows you that even if you grow up with a shitty upbringing, you still deserve happiness, no matter what anyone tells you. You can find it in your work, your friends, who you end up loving and who ends up loving you. Happiness is not unattainable. The storyline of Truth & Temptation had me right away. I’m a sucker for a guy, or a girl, who is able to see through all the bullshit and sticks around to see the truth. Teagan and Alec were so lovely to read and Riley Edgewood did a remarkable job in portraying Teagan’s rage and pain while also showing her willingness to become a better version of herself. I also really appreciated Teagan’s friends Cassidy and Vera. They were so patient and didn’t give up on their friend. I’ve heard and read and seen so many cases where the friends up and leave because they “didn’t sign up for this shit”. I adored this book and I just saw that it was part of a series so I’m going to hope on the Riley Edgewood bandwagon and read more of her stuff.
I’d give this 6 stars if I could.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 11, 2015
***REVIEW ORIGINALLY POSTED ON EMILIE'S BOOK WORLD***
There are some stories it feels like I’ve waited such a long time to read, even when in reality, it hasn’t actually been that long. That was the case with Teagan’s story in Riley Edgewood’s Truth & Temptation. And after the wait, this story totally delivered.
Teagan has a reputation. Everyone will tell you so, herself included. But just because she has a reputation and she’s not afraid to admit it doesn’t mean that she’s happy with who she is. In fact, Teagan hates how angry she gets, how big of a bitch she can be even when she doesn’t mean to. But she’s determined to do better, especially now that she’s starting a new job. Out celebrating with her friends, Teagan meets the sexiest guy she’s ever seen and decides to just go for it. But the night doesn’t go quite as planned when Teagan starts to spill all her secrets. But it’s okay, it’s not like Teagan is ever going to see him again. Until she walks in to her new job on Monday morning and comes face-to-face with her new boss. Who just happens to be the guy from a few nights earlier. And he’s ready to call her out on everything she told him.
It feels like I had been waiting for Truth & Temptation, or at least Teagan’s story, since I first met her right at the beginning of Riley Edgewood’s debut, Rock & Release. I knew that she had her own story to tell and I couldn’t wait to read it. So to say I was excited about Truth & Temptation would be a bit of an understatement. I was so freaking excited to read this book, and just like with Riley Edgewood’s previous books, it was so completely addicting. I got sucked into the story, wanting to see where the night would take Teagan and her mysterious sexy man. And once that night was over, I wanted to know everything that happened, everything that Teagan had told Alec. And of course, I wanted to see everything that would come after that. Because if nothing else, I have come to expect from pretty fantastic romance from Riley Edgewood. Needless to say that Truth & Temptation delivered on the romance front. Just like it delivered when it comes to emotional punches. Because there were plenty of those too thanks to Teagan.
I knew from the moment I met her two book ago that Teagan had a lot going on. It was clear that she was dealing with a lot of stuff, and I wanted to know what it all was, especially since it kept being alluded to by Teagan herself and by her best friend. Getting to read her story, I now know that there was so much more to Teagan than I ever thought. And so much of it hit a chord with me, because half of it I could relate to and the other half I wouldn’t wish on my worst enemy. Tegan just deserved something good in her life, more than I can even possibly begin to explain. So Teagan completely broke my heart more than once, and so many times I just wanted to give her a hug. And cue Alec. Alec wasn’t who I expected. Kind of like Teagan, I made certain assumptions about him that turned out to be completely wrong. Alec was a good guy, plain and simple. But he was also so much more than that. Like Teagan, he had his own set of issues he needed to deal with. And while dealing with those, he was the perfect person for Teagan. He was the person who finally showed her that she was worthy and that she wasn’t doomed to become her mother. He loved her and he wanted her and that’s really all Teagan was asking for. So Alec Chambers was pretty freaking incredible. And I may love him. And I would also like to take this moment to lay claim to Alec Chambers. Because reasons.
Riley Edgewood’s Truth & Temptation was so much more than the story I had hoped it would be. More than being a story about romance, it was a story about finding yourself and accepting yourself for who you are, regardless of who that is or where you come from. And that’s a pretty damn important message.
There are some stories it feels like I’ve waited such a long time to read, even when in reality, it hasn’t actually been that long. That was the case with Teagan’s story in Riley Edgewood’s Truth & Temptation. And after the wait, this story totally delivered.
Teagan has a reputation. Everyone will tell you so, herself included. But just because she has a reputation and she’s not afraid to admit it doesn’t mean that she’s happy with who she is. In fact, Teagan hates how angry she gets, how big of a bitch she can be even when she doesn’t mean to. But she’s determined to do better, especially now that she’s starting a new job. Out celebrating with her friends, Teagan meets the sexiest guy she’s ever seen and decides to just go for it. But the night doesn’t go quite as planned when Teagan starts to spill all her secrets. But it’s okay, it’s not like Teagan is ever going to see him again. Until she walks in to her new job on Monday morning and comes face-to-face with her new boss. Who just happens to be the guy from a few nights earlier. And he’s ready to call her out on everything she told him.
It feels like I had been waiting for Truth & Temptation, or at least Teagan’s story, since I first met her right at the beginning of Riley Edgewood’s debut, Rock & Release. I knew that she had her own story to tell and I couldn’t wait to read it. So to say I was excited about Truth & Temptation would be a bit of an understatement. I was so freaking excited to read this book, and just like with Riley Edgewood’s previous books, it was so completely addicting. I got sucked into the story, wanting to see where the night would take Teagan and her mysterious sexy man. And once that night was over, I wanted to know everything that happened, everything that Teagan had told Alec. And of course, I wanted to see everything that would come after that. Because if nothing else, I have come to expect from pretty fantastic romance from Riley Edgewood. Needless to say that Truth & Temptation delivered on the romance front. Just like it delivered when it comes to emotional punches. Because there were plenty of those too thanks to Teagan.
I knew from the moment I met her two book ago that Teagan had a lot going on. It was clear that she was dealing with a lot of stuff, and I wanted to know what it all was, especially since it kept being alluded to by Teagan herself and by her best friend. Getting to read her story, I now know that there was so much more to Teagan than I ever thought. And so much of it hit a chord with me, because half of it I could relate to and the other half I wouldn’t wish on my worst enemy. Tegan just deserved something good in her life, more than I can even possibly begin to explain. So Teagan completely broke my heart more than once, and so many times I just wanted to give her a hug. And cue Alec. Alec wasn’t who I expected. Kind of like Teagan, I made certain assumptions about him that turned out to be completely wrong. Alec was a good guy, plain and simple. But he was also so much more than that. Like Teagan, he had his own set of issues he needed to deal with. And while dealing with those, he was the perfect person for Teagan. He was the person who finally showed her that she was worthy and that she wasn’t doomed to become her mother. He loved her and he wanted her and that’s really all Teagan was asking for. So Alec Chambers was pretty freaking incredible. And I may love him. And I would also like to take this moment to lay claim to Alec Chambers. Because reasons.
Riley Edgewood’s Truth & Temptation was so much more than the story I had hoped it would be. More than being a story about romance, it was a story about finding yourself and accepting yourself for who you are, regardless of who that is or where you come from. And that’s a pretty damn important message.
July 21, 2015
Truth & Temptation is the long awaited story of Teagan, the bitchy friend from the previous Summer Love books Rock & Release and Surf & Surrender. You know, the one who makes us wonder, "What the hell is HER problem?!". Well, this Thursday, July 23rd, we finally get into Teagan's mind--and what a fascinatingly broken and beautiful place it is!
We've all wondered about the seemingly irrational bursts of anger that make Teagan explode at the drop of a hat. At least, I know I've certainly been intrigued. In my experience, very few people are that blindly and startlingly furious without some sort of back story. Turns out? Teagan is actually quite cognizant of her anger management issues.
"My jokes about my sex life might kill Cassidy, but this? This cycle of meaningless anger I can't find my way out of is what's killing me."
Curiouser and curiouser. The question remains (even, it would seem, in Teagan's own mind): WHY is Teagan so disturbed? We know Teagan's grandparents, with whom she has lived her entire life, are raging assholes. And, obviously, that could cause some emotional issues (I know it'd make me a bit bitchy and unstable to be treated like she is on a daily basis). But still...there's a piece of the puzzle still missing.
"Sometimes it's like I'm only a projection of myself. Like the real me actually lives inside my brain, rattling around in there, pounding to get out."
Enter Alec (nee Frank), the sexy man she meets in a bar and decides to have a "Before I Begin My New Life" chapter closing fling with. The lifestyle and socio-economic differences between Teagan and Alec are immediately apparent.
"This guy has a driver? God. The closest I've ever come to having a driver is when my car breaks down again and I have to ride with a tow-truck driver to the repair shop."
Beyond the status differences though, there's just...something about Alec that is different. Something that, while stirring and challenging the defensive part of Teagan also sparks a heat of an entirely different nature--a fire that no one else has managed to stoke.
"The worst is when he catches me and I look away immediately, because I freaking hate looking away, hate giving him that power. But he's got something in his stare that startles my system. Makes my skin flush and my chin go up, even though I can't maintain eye contact."
It turns out that, rather than being a chapter closer (or maybe in addition to?), Alec ends up being that catalyst that opens up some very interesting chapters in the book of Teagan. He unlocks something within her that nobody else has been able to reach, and when he does? It will take your breath away.
"He tastes like mint and whiskey.
He smells like soap and leather.
He feels like home. Like trust."
What I loved most about this installment in the Summer Love series was how Riley Edgewood managed to show not just the beauty and chemistry of the relationship between Teagan and Alec (because, really, that's essential in any romance, right?), but the way she perfectly captures the inner turmoil and emotions that go along with mental illness of any kind. And best of all? She shows us that even an imperfect heroine can find her fairytale happily ever after. As a reader, that means more to me than anything else. Because it makes it heartbreakingly real. After all, aren't we all a little imperfect?
If you haven't yet read the first two Summer Love books, go ahead and one-click them now so you can read Truth & Temptation the moment it releases on July 23rd!
Happy reading!
*I received an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review, but all opinions are my own.*
We've all wondered about the seemingly irrational bursts of anger that make Teagan explode at the drop of a hat. At least, I know I've certainly been intrigued. In my experience, very few people are that blindly and startlingly furious without some sort of back story. Turns out? Teagan is actually quite cognizant of her anger management issues.
"My jokes about my sex life might kill Cassidy, but this? This cycle of meaningless anger I can't find my way out of is what's killing me."
Curiouser and curiouser. The question remains (even, it would seem, in Teagan's own mind): WHY is Teagan so disturbed? We know Teagan's grandparents, with whom she has lived her entire life, are raging assholes. And, obviously, that could cause some emotional issues (I know it'd make me a bit bitchy and unstable to be treated like she is on a daily basis). But still...there's a piece of the puzzle still missing.
"Sometimes it's like I'm only a projection of myself. Like the real me actually lives inside my brain, rattling around in there, pounding to get out."
Enter Alec (nee Frank), the sexy man she meets in a bar and decides to have a "Before I Begin My New Life" chapter closing fling with. The lifestyle and socio-economic differences between Teagan and Alec are immediately apparent.
"This guy has a driver? God. The closest I've ever come to having a driver is when my car breaks down again and I have to ride with a tow-truck driver to the repair shop."
Beyond the status differences though, there's just...something about Alec that is different. Something that, while stirring and challenging the defensive part of Teagan also sparks a heat of an entirely different nature--a fire that no one else has managed to stoke.
"The worst is when he catches me and I look away immediately, because I freaking hate looking away, hate giving him that power. But he's got something in his stare that startles my system. Makes my skin flush and my chin go up, even though I can't maintain eye contact."
It turns out that, rather than being a chapter closer (or maybe in addition to?), Alec ends up being that catalyst that opens up some very interesting chapters in the book of Teagan. He unlocks something within her that nobody else has been able to reach, and when he does? It will take your breath away.
"He tastes like mint and whiskey.
He smells like soap and leather.
He feels like home. Like trust."
What I loved most about this installment in the Summer Love series was how Riley Edgewood managed to show not just the beauty and chemistry of the relationship between Teagan and Alec (because, really, that's essential in any romance, right?), but the way she perfectly captures the inner turmoil and emotions that go along with mental illness of any kind. And best of all? She shows us that even an imperfect heroine can find her fairytale happily ever after. As a reader, that means more to me than anything else. Because it makes it heartbreakingly real. After all, aren't we all a little imperfect?
If you haven't yet read the first two Summer Love books, go ahead and one-click them now so you can read Truth & Temptation the moment it releases on July 23rd!
Happy reading!
*I received an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review, but all opinions are my own.*
September 9, 2015
I swear, I've been waiting for Truth & Temptation since the end of part 1 of book 1. I flippin' loved Rock & Release, but it left me wanting to know what in the everlovinghell was up with Teagan.
When book 2 did NOT feature Teagan, I was a little disgruntled. As it turns out, I really liked it, too, but I needed Teagan's story. AND I loved it.
Overall Rating: 5 stars - Screw sleep! I’ll let the kids watch TV and eat hot dogs tomorrow.
Some of the best parts of getting to know an author personally is that when you get to something in one of their books you can text them with freak outs. Things like "I'm hating you so much right now." or "OMG.. She -------" Oh wait, that would be a spoiler. I don't do spoilers. Trust that Riley got a few texts during my reading of Truth & Temptation.
"Shut your beautiful mouth."
By all rights, I should tell you that I didn't like Teagan. Because I didn't - for books 1 & 2. But Truth & Temptation? She won me over. I admit it. She's so screwed in the head, but once we actually get to see inside it? I loved her. She's an extremely flawed character in all the best ways.
"Being tough only works if the other person doesn't know you well enough to know you're full of shit."
And Alec? Oh man. Oh swoon. Ack, I can't even tell you. He's perfect, but not. Riley has this way of weaving tales about characters so real you feel like they are a real part of your life. Yeah, he's rich and handsome, but he also has his own issues, his own flaws, his own insecurities. And they all make you love him more.
"But I've been such a bitch."
"Yep."
"Ad you haven't deserved at least half of it."
"Nope."
"And you still want --"
"Everything."
Really, Truth & Temptation could be a very heavy book. There a lot of not-so-light topics within its cover, but they are handled with such sincerity and respect and sprinkled with humor and hotness that it just feels like hearing a really great story about people you really know. Do not miss this one.
"You're the sweet drug I never knew I needed. I will never not need you."
Smut Factor: 5 stars - Had to wake my husband at 2am to quench my “need.”
Character likability: 4 stars - I wish we were friends.
Storytelling: 5 stars - I wake up thinking this really happened.
Writing and editing quality: 5 stars - Excellent!
September 11, 2015
Why I Read This Book: To be honest, I kind of liked the idea of a virgin pretending to be promiscuous and also, a heroine with anger issues. These aren’t things we see often in the Romance genre and I had hoped that maybe it would freshen up the “I Accidentally Slept With My New Boss” trope.
In a Nutshell: New Adult, but same old story. Truth & Temptation follows the “I Accidentally Slept With My New Boss” trope with several variations.
What I Liked: The character of Teagan Walker has a lot going on, a fake string of lovers, crippling dyslexia, anger and depression and a crushing family situation.
Obviously, those aren’t the things I liked, but what I do like is how Riley Edgewood handles each of these issues. In the beginning of Truth & Temptation we watch Teagan wield her false bravado and rage like twin swords to keep people from getting close to her. She believes herself to be unlovable because of her family history and so keeps others from loving her. Throughout the book Teagan both on her own and at the prodding of Alec, our hero begins dealing with her myriad of issues.
Where some books would deal with Teagan’s issues by having love (and Alec’s magic penis) solve all things, Riley Edgewood actually has her character find practical help and assistance through therapy, medication and accessibility tools for dyslexia. This is both empowering for Romance readers who may possibly be facing similar issues and gives more authenticity to Teagan’s character and Truth & Temptation in general.
What I Didn’t Like: Even with the variations Teagan’s character brings to the table, Truth & Temptation is still a very “I Accidentally Slept With My New Boss” book. This premise has been done over and over and over again and I’m kind of over it. I’m even more over it in the New Adult genre, which, in my opinion, Truth & Temptation is part of. A romantic rendezvous with a boss or boss’ son in your 20s can leave you blackballed in your chosen career and with your peers. I guess for me I can’t get past the idea that these young women aren’t just screwing their boss they’re potentially screwing themselves, which makes it super difficult for me to thoroughly enjoy these types of books.
Wrap Up: Truth & Temptation adds some interesting variations to the “I Accidentally Slept With My New Boss” trope, but fails to truly differentiate itself from other books of this vein. Nice try though.
I received this book from the author for review.
Review published at http://www.thebookvixen.com/2015/09/book-review-truth-temptation-by-riley.html?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+TheBookVixen+%28The+Book+Vixen%29
In a Nutshell: New Adult, but same old story. Truth & Temptation follows the “I Accidentally Slept With My New Boss” trope with several variations.
What I Liked: The character of Teagan Walker has a lot going on, a fake string of lovers, crippling dyslexia, anger and depression and a crushing family situation.
Obviously, those aren’t the things I liked, but what I do like is how Riley Edgewood handles each of these issues. In the beginning of Truth & Temptation we watch Teagan wield her false bravado and rage like twin swords to keep people from getting close to her. She believes herself to be unlovable because of her family history and so keeps others from loving her. Throughout the book Teagan both on her own and at the prodding of Alec, our hero begins dealing with her myriad of issues.
Where some books would deal with Teagan’s issues by having love (and Alec’s magic penis) solve all things, Riley Edgewood actually has her character find practical help and assistance through therapy, medication and accessibility tools for dyslexia. This is both empowering for Romance readers who may possibly be facing similar issues and gives more authenticity to Teagan’s character and Truth & Temptation in general.
What I Didn’t Like: Even with the variations Teagan’s character brings to the table, Truth & Temptation is still a very “I Accidentally Slept With My New Boss” book. This premise has been done over and over and over again and I’m kind of over it. I’m even more over it in the New Adult genre, which, in my opinion, Truth & Temptation is part of. A romantic rendezvous with a boss or boss’ son in your 20s can leave you blackballed in your chosen career and with your peers. I guess for me I can’t get past the idea that these young women aren’t just screwing their boss they’re potentially screwing themselves, which makes it super difficult for me to thoroughly enjoy these types of books.
Wrap Up: Truth & Temptation adds some interesting variations to the “I Accidentally Slept With My New Boss” trope, but fails to truly differentiate itself from other books of this vein. Nice try though.
I received this book from the author for review.
Review published at http://www.thebookvixen.com/2015/09/book-review-truth-temptation-by-riley.html?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+TheBookVixen+%28The+Book+Vixen%29
August 30, 2015
See more of my reviews on my blog Thoughts At One In The Morning.
Upon finishing, my initial reaction:
This story completely took me by surprise--I was overcome with emotion and feelings at the depth and the style. Very impressive writing from the author.
My Thoughts (full review):
While I was still reading this book, I talked to others about how overcome I was with the book. When you read a synopsis, it gives you a decent idea of what to generally expect. The synopsis for this book was definitely spot on, but there was so much more below the surface that I was, as I said, overcome. With emotions, with how impressed I was with what the author wrote. Just everything.
I will admit that straight off the bat, I didn't like Teagan. There was something about her that just didn't sit right with me. As the book progressed, I grew to like her, then love her. Teagan has this outward appearance that can grate at someone, but when you discover what lies beneath, you understand her fully. And then there's Alec--sweet, kind, thoughtful, passionate, loving. When they meet, they don't know that they'll be working together, so when they do find this out, they know it should change the dynamic of what their "relationship" was that one night. This, obviously, is going to be a problem because something is hanging in the air between them.
Despite all the things Teagan does to sabotage herself, Alec shows amazing character by being willing to find out what causes her to act the way she does. Usually when someone is unlikeable, people aren't willing to be around them, much less try to be friends with them. But Alec was perceptive. I loved that about him. Teagan learns a lot about herself throughout the book and I enjoyed watching her grow and become a better person even though it was very difficult for her. Their friendship turned relationship blossomed in a precious way, often in a deliciously hot way, but still very sweet just the same.
Truth & Temptation is a brilliantly written novel. I still can't get over how impressive the story is--from the perfectly flawed characters to the unexpected backstory. Everything unraveled in the best way possible. I loved the depth of the characters. I cheered for them, I cried with them, I believed in them. It was altogether just amazingly great. Riley Edgewood, I tip my hat to you.
My Rating: Exceptional
Upon finishing, my initial reaction:
This story completely took me by surprise--I was overcome with emotion and feelings at the depth and the style. Very impressive writing from the author.
My Thoughts (full review):
While I was still reading this book, I talked to others about how overcome I was with the book. When you read a synopsis, it gives you a decent idea of what to generally expect. The synopsis for this book was definitely spot on, but there was so much more below the surface that I was, as I said, overcome. With emotions, with how impressed I was with what the author wrote. Just everything.
I will admit that straight off the bat, I didn't like Teagan. There was something about her that just didn't sit right with me. As the book progressed, I grew to like her, then love her. Teagan has this outward appearance that can grate at someone, but when you discover what lies beneath, you understand her fully. And then there's Alec--sweet, kind, thoughtful, passionate, loving. When they meet, they don't know that they'll be working together, so when they do find this out, they know it should change the dynamic of what their "relationship" was that one night. This, obviously, is going to be a problem because something is hanging in the air between them.
Despite all the things Teagan does to sabotage herself, Alec shows amazing character by being willing to find out what causes her to act the way she does. Usually when someone is unlikeable, people aren't willing to be around them, much less try to be friends with them. But Alec was perceptive. I loved that about him. Teagan learns a lot about herself throughout the book and I enjoyed watching her grow and become a better person even though it was very difficult for her. Their friendship turned relationship blossomed in a precious way, often in a deliciously hot way, but still very sweet just the same.
Truth & Temptation is a brilliantly written novel. I still can't get over how impressive the story is--from the perfectly flawed characters to the unexpected backstory. Everything unraveled in the best way possible. I loved the depth of the characters. I cheered for them, I cried with them, I believed in them. It was altogether just amazingly great. Riley Edgewood, I tip my hat to you.
My Rating: Exceptional
August 13, 2015
I received this book as an ARC from Net Galley for my honest review
Teagan Walker spends her life hiding behind her snarky attitude and ready for the world persona. Until one man walks in and rocks her world so much that her carefully crafted façade falls apart and left behind was .... the real Teagan Walker.
Can Alex handle when the real Teagan Walker stands up or will his past..present and future make her walls slam right back up? Read and find out!
My review:
I want to start by saying I loved this book. I also want to follow up and explain exactly why..I loved that Riley Edgewood took a chance and touched on a lot of the negative things that can happen in life that are completely out of our control.
Riley Edgewood could have wrote this bubbly romance like so many other authors this summer but she kept it real and gritty without being too dark or making the reader feel overwhelmed. I honestly was taken on an emotional roller coaster from chapter one where I was laughing out loud.. to confused ..to crying ..back to laughing.. to heartbroken and angry and then simply in love with the whole book. Great job!!!
I was definitely team Teagen in this book, my heart really went out to her. I wanted to hug her and hold her in my arms and give her the love she deserved. I loved and respected that Teagen did not just fall apart when life gave her lemons she made lemonade and then made lemon meringue pie with the rest of it.
If you think it stops there...nope...because when you get to Alex he is the perfect example of the saying that all that glitters is not gold. You would think that he lives the perfect life but he has his own skeletons in his closet. The real moment of truth is when he realizes that money cant solve every problem; and has to dig deep in his heart and not his wallet to figure things out.
As you can see I can go on and on about this book and the greatness that is Riley. This book is selling right now on Kindle Amazon for 3.99 and I would pay more for it. This book is funny and romantic with a couple that is perfectly imperfect but together they make their lives just right. Great book cant wait for the next one!
Teagan Walker spends her life hiding behind her snarky attitude and ready for the world persona. Until one man walks in and rocks her world so much that her carefully crafted façade falls apart and left behind was .... the real Teagan Walker.
Can Alex handle when the real Teagan Walker stands up or will his past..present and future make her walls slam right back up? Read and find out!
My review:
I want to start by saying I loved this book. I also want to follow up and explain exactly why..I loved that Riley Edgewood took a chance and touched on a lot of the negative things that can happen in life that are completely out of our control.
Riley Edgewood could have wrote this bubbly romance like so many other authors this summer but she kept it real and gritty without being too dark or making the reader feel overwhelmed. I honestly was taken on an emotional roller coaster from chapter one where I was laughing out loud.. to confused ..to crying ..back to laughing.. to heartbroken and angry and then simply in love with the whole book. Great job!!!
I was definitely team Teagen in this book, my heart really went out to her. I wanted to hug her and hold her in my arms and give her the love she deserved. I loved and respected that Teagen did not just fall apart when life gave her lemons she made lemonade and then made lemon meringue pie with the rest of it.
If you think it stops there...nope...because when you get to Alex he is the perfect example of the saying that all that glitters is not gold. You would think that he lives the perfect life but he has his own skeletons in his closet. The real moment of truth is when he realizes that money cant solve every problem; and has to dig deep in his heart and not his wallet to figure things out.
As you can see I can go on and on about this book and the greatness that is Riley. This book is selling right now on Kindle Amazon for 3.99 and I would pay more for it. This book is funny and romantic with a couple that is perfectly imperfect but together they make their lives just right. Great book cant wait for the next one!
September 9, 2015
Truth & Temptation by Riley Edgewood
Review: Kayla
Synopsis: She's a liar. He knows the truth.
Teagan Walker gets around. Ask anyone—hell, ask her. She'll own it with a smile. But beneath that smile is a girl whose parents didn't want her. Whose grandparents raised her without affection. Whose struggle with a burning anger threatens to consume her, though she'd rather punch someone in the face than talk about it. With a new job looming, she's determined to work her way into a better life. When she meets the sexiest guy she's ever seen, she decides to kick it off with a bang. And she makes her move. But he's got moves of his own, and before the night is out, he strips her of way more than she means to reveal—without removing a single piece of clothing. That comes, too, of course. He's gotten under her skin like nobody before him, and what's the harm in one night with a sexy stranger? Exposed or not, she never has to see him again. Except she does. On Monday morning, they come face-to-face. He's the son of her new CEO—and her boss for the summer—and he threatens to bring her entire world crashing down, making her face every lie she's ever told.
Review: I was given a copy of Truth & Temptation by Reading Bliss and the author for an honest review.
Teagan gets around. But she owns it. But beneath all that is a girl whose parents didn’t want her and her grandparents raised her with no affection. She struggles with the anger burning inside her and she would rather hit someone than talk about any of it. But she has a new job she is starting and is determined to have a better life. But when Teagan meets a sexy guy, she wants to start her new life off with a bang. He gets under her skin but they can’t see each other again even though she wants to. When she gets to work on Monday, she finds out that he is the son of her new CEO and her boss for the summer. He threatens to bring down her life and makes her face every lie she has ever told.
This book was good and I enjoyed it. I think that the author did a great job on it and I would read more books by her. I give it 4 out of 5 stars!
Review: Kayla
Synopsis: She's a liar. He knows the truth.
Teagan Walker gets around. Ask anyone—hell, ask her. She'll own it with a smile. But beneath that smile is a girl whose parents didn't want her. Whose grandparents raised her without affection. Whose struggle with a burning anger threatens to consume her, though she'd rather punch someone in the face than talk about it. With a new job looming, she's determined to work her way into a better life. When she meets the sexiest guy she's ever seen, she decides to kick it off with a bang. And she makes her move. But he's got moves of his own, and before the night is out, he strips her of way more than she means to reveal—without removing a single piece of clothing. That comes, too, of course. He's gotten under her skin like nobody before him, and what's the harm in one night with a sexy stranger? Exposed or not, she never has to see him again. Except she does. On Monday morning, they come face-to-face. He's the son of her new CEO—and her boss for the summer—and he threatens to bring her entire world crashing down, making her face every lie she's ever told.
Review: I was given a copy of Truth & Temptation by Reading Bliss and the author for an honest review.
Teagan gets around. But she owns it. But beneath all that is a girl whose parents didn’t want her and her grandparents raised her with no affection. She struggles with the anger burning inside her and she would rather hit someone than talk about any of it. But she has a new job she is starting and is determined to have a better life. But when Teagan meets a sexy guy, she wants to start her new life off with a bang. He gets under her skin but they can’t see each other again even though she wants to. When she gets to work on Monday, she finds out that he is the son of her new CEO and her boss for the summer. He threatens to bring down her life and makes her face every lie she has ever told.
This book was good and I enjoyed it. I think that the author did a great job on it and I would read more books by her. I give it 4 out of 5 stars!
September 26, 2015
Honest review of Truth and Temptation by: Riley Edgewood 4.5 Stars
WOW! Riley Edgewood has an amazing way with her choice of words and how she chooses to express them! Truth and Temptation totally captured me from line one. I feel Riley was writing about me when she wrote this amazing book! Full of secrets, lies, love, and of course a sexy, powerful, rich man who struggles with his own inner demons, Truth and Temptation will have you hooked and on the edge of your seat!
Meet Teagan, or as she prefers “Cindy.” She is so not your typical girl! She never backs down from a fight, she speaks her mind, and she likes to keep things short and simple, especially her men, who she prefers to just let come through her “screen door.” She has some serious anger issues and she is a little or maybe a lot self-conscious. Most of her issues stem from her so called “mother,�� “father,” and grand-parents who never felt the need to show her any compassion.
Of course, walks in Alec or as “Cindy” calls him, Frank. A sexy smooth talker if you ask me. He was supposed to be another man walking through the revolving screen door of “Cindy’s” legs, but Alec has other plans, he strips her of her clothes and of quite a few secrets. After a night of no sex and Teagan running to safety away from this man who seems to know all her truths, she thinks she is safe.
Absolutely not!!!! Teagan’s new job on Monday morning proves there is no safety. Alec is her boss and he is not very happy with her.
Forgiveness only comes after a couple trying conversations and even then, the trust isn’t there! Even after some incredibly blissful weeks, Alec knows how he feels, and he really wishes Teagan could figure out how she feels for him. But once she does, her horrible past comes back to haunt her. Can she get passed her past and finally be happy? You will have to read this amazing book to find out of course!!!
I'm telling you this is an amazingly fantastic book. Riley has the characters, the plot, and all emotions under the sun down to a science! Go One-Click this mind boggling read!!!
WOW! Riley Edgewood has an amazing way with her choice of words and how she chooses to express them! Truth and Temptation totally captured me from line one. I feel Riley was writing about me when she wrote this amazing book! Full of secrets, lies, love, and of course a sexy, powerful, rich man who struggles with his own inner demons, Truth and Temptation will have you hooked and on the edge of your seat!
Meet Teagan, or as she prefers “Cindy.” She is so not your typical girl! She never backs down from a fight, she speaks her mind, and she likes to keep things short and simple, especially her men, who she prefers to just let come through her “screen door.” She has some serious anger issues and she is a little or maybe a lot self-conscious. Most of her issues stem from her so called “mother,�� “father,” and grand-parents who never felt the need to show her any compassion.
Of course, walks in Alec or as “Cindy” calls him, Frank. A sexy smooth talker if you ask me. He was supposed to be another man walking through the revolving screen door of “Cindy’s” legs, but Alec has other plans, he strips her of her clothes and of quite a few secrets. After a night of no sex and Teagan running to safety away from this man who seems to know all her truths, she thinks she is safe.
Absolutely not!!!! Teagan’s new job on Monday morning proves there is no safety. Alec is her boss and he is not very happy with her.
Forgiveness only comes after a couple trying conversations and even then, the trust isn’t there! Even after some incredibly blissful weeks, Alec knows how he feels, and he really wishes Teagan could figure out how she feels for him. But once she does, her horrible past comes back to haunt her. Can she get passed her past and finally be happy? You will have to read this amazing book to find out of course!!!
I'm telling you this is an amazingly fantastic book. Riley has the characters, the plot, and all emotions under the sun down to a science! Go One-Click this mind boggling read!!!
July 15, 2015
I was generously given and ARC copy of Truth and Temptation. I was a little unsure when the book started out and Teagan was talking about all of the “screen doors” she had gone through in the past when Mr. Amazing (Alec aka Frank) decides he is going to be a part of her life…and not as a “screen door.” There was so much more than meets the eye with both Alec and Teagan. Turns out after finding out that Frank is really Alec Chambers (Teagan’s new boss) she pulls a disappearing act knowing she will have to face him soon enough when she starts work. With out giving anything away (because this is a definite must read this summer) I was about 33% through the book when there was a major shock thrown at me. I had to put the book down and go grab some ice cream.
After surviving the shock I was able to get through the book with out wanting to hurt any of the characters. Alec was so amazing, he went out of his way to take care of Teagan. Looking at Alec, he was a bit of a pushover, but that totally worked for him. I absolutely love when the female characters are full of sass…Teagan is by far one of the sassiest characters, and I loved every minute of it. There were a few times I wanted to yell at Teagan and tell her to stop being stubborn and pushing people away (if a book doesn’t make you angry at some point it isn’t challenging your emotions). One of my favorite parts of the book was when Alec and Teagan are out on their first real date and he orders a bowl of cherries so that they can practice tying the stems with their tongues…
“It’s a lovely jaw, but it’s moving as though your’re chewing cud.”
“Um, did you call me a cow?”
Enough about what I loved…what I didn’t like was that I was not ready for the book to end. While it ended at a good point, I feel like there was something missing, there was no Epilogue…I need to know that in a few months or a few years the characters will still be happy. That’s it…those are my complaints. All in all this was an amazing book, and I will be reading it again.
After surviving the shock I was able to get through the book with out wanting to hurt any of the characters. Alec was so amazing, he went out of his way to take care of Teagan. Looking at Alec, he was a bit of a pushover, but that totally worked for him. I absolutely love when the female characters are full of sass…Teagan is by far one of the sassiest characters, and I loved every minute of it. There were a few times I wanted to yell at Teagan and tell her to stop being stubborn and pushing people away (if a book doesn’t make you angry at some point it isn’t challenging your emotions). One of my favorite parts of the book was when Alec and Teagan are out on their first real date and he orders a bowl of cherries so that they can practice tying the stems with their tongues…
“It’s a lovely jaw, but it’s moving as though your’re chewing cud.”
“Um, did you call me a cow?”
Enough about what I loved…what I didn’t like was that I was not ready for the book to end. While it ended at a good point, I feel like there was something missing, there was no Epilogue…I need to know that in a few months or a few years the characters will still be happy. That’s it…those are my complaints. All in all this was an amazing book, and I will be reading it again.
October 6, 2015
I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
For Mature Readers: 18+
"Truth & Temptation" is book three in Riley Edgewood’s "Summer Love" series, but it can be read as a stand alone. This book was smoking hot!
Teagan is my new favorite protagonist. I love the fact she’s flawed and very aware of all of her imperfections. You have to love a character who is self-aware AND acts to fix the things she can. Plus, this girl has serious backbone. No matter what the obstacle, she managed to lift her chin and press on. Teagan is like Cinderella with attitude. Love her!
I loved Alec too–he can be my book boyfriend any time! His heart makes him the perfect man. Sure, he has his issues as well, but he cares so deeply. His ‘station’ in life doesn’t define him. If anything, he works hard to be better than his financial status.
The villains in this story are truly despicable. A person expects their family to love them and watch their backs not sharpen the blade and plunge deep. Edgewood did a great job depicting people who were hateful and just plain selfish.
The best thing I loved about Edgewood’s story is how she twisted the standard tale of someone from the wrong side of the tracks. It’s not a story of a gold digger. And, it’s not a story about someone delighted they’ve hit the jackpot. The girl from the south side of the tracks doesn’t want fame nor fortune. She does want to keep her own bootstraps attached and see how far she can go on her own. That is so admirable.
Be prepared when you read this book. The scenes in "Truth & Temptation" are vivid (they almost burnt a hole in my tablet). I loved how Edgewood wrote them. They were well-written without an ounce of cheese (smile). The graphic details did what they should do in any well-developed story–move the story along.
"Truth & Temptation" is a page-turner. I read it in a little under two days. Now, I need to read the rest of the series!
I highly recommend this book to anyone (over the age of 18, please) who wants a good read and doesn’t mind a little ‘edge’ to the story.
For Mature Readers: 18+
"Truth & Temptation" is book three in Riley Edgewood’s "Summer Love" series, but it can be read as a stand alone. This book was smoking hot!
Teagan is my new favorite protagonist. I love the fact she’s flawed and very aware of all of her imperfections. You have to love a character who is self-aware AND acts to fix the things she can. Plus, this girl has serious backbone. No matter what the obstacle, she managed to lift her chin and press on. Teagan is like Cinderella with attitude. Love her!
I loved Alec too–he can be my book boyfriend any time! His heart makes him the perfect man. Sure, he has his issues as well, but he cares so deeply. His ‘station’ in life doesn’t define him. If anything, he works hard to be better than his financial status.
The villains in this story are truly despicable. A person expects their family to love them and watch their backs not sharpen the blade and plunge deep. Edgewood did a great job depicting people who were hateful and just plain selfish.
The best thing I loved about Edgewood’s story is how she twisted the standard tale of someone from the wrong side of the tracks. It’s not a story of a gold digger. And, it’s not a story about someone delighted they’ve hit the jackpot. The girl from the south side of the tracks doesn’t want fame nor fortune. She does want to keep her own bootstraps attached and see how far she can go on her own. That is so admirable.
Be prepared when you read this book. The scenes in "Truth & Temptation" are vivid (they almost burnt a hole in my tablet). I loved how Edgewood wrote them. They were well-written without an ounce of cheese (smile). The graphic details did what they should do in any well-developed story–move the story along.
"Truth & Temptation" is a page-turner. I read it in a little under two days. Now, I need to read the rest of the series!
I highly recommend this book to anyone (over the age of 18, please) who wants a good read and doesn’t mind a little ‘edge’ to the story.
July 23, 2015
The very first few words in the book blew me away. Teagan boasted about her sexual prowess by liking it to banging a screen door. She didn't know someone had heard her comment and soon she came face-to-face with him, Alec, the man that made her heart beat like firecracker. A few flirty moments with him, Teagan became Cindy and Alex became Frank and soon, the fireworks between them exploded like a volcano. Yeah, they worked it much harder than a screen door does during a hurricane.
A few days later, Teagan started her new job and got the surprise of her life when she finally learned that Alex was actually her boss. And what's up with him already engaged to someone else?
Whoa! This book really got me. I mean, all those emotional outbursts, anger management, insatiable sexual attraction, unnerving secrets and blazing hot intimate scenes, all in one erotically romantic novel.
I read about Teagan in Riley Edgewood's first Summer Love book, Rock & Release and I must admit, I really didn't get her nor liked her at all. I thought she was quite aggressive and angsty. After getting to know more about her, her family and her anger issues in this book, I finally understood. I think I have never met such character as fierce and stubborn and wild as her.
Alec was another thing. He had this apprehension issues towards mirrors and it was quite intriguing. When I've read his side of the story, my heart went out to him.
The way these issues were tackled and handled made this book more appealing to me. How anger management, a learning disability and anxiety disorder played a big role in the characters' personalities.
I can't explain how much I was touched by the ending, too. It was actually everything I have hoped for. An ending with a promise of now and forever. Riley Edgewood had promised an unforgettable series and she delivered. Edgewood is undeniably a brilliant New Adult author to watch out for.
A few days later, Teagan started her new job and got the surprise of her life when she finally learned that Alex was actually her boss. And what's up with him already engaged to someone else?
Whoa! This book really got me. I mean, all those emotional outbursts, anger management, insatiable sexual attraction, unnerving secrets and blazing hot intimate scenes, all in one erotically romantic novel.
I read about Teagan in Riley Edgewood's first Summer Love book, Rock & Release and I must admit, I really didn't get her nor liked her at all. I thought she was quite aggressive and angsty. After getting to know more about her, her family and her anger issues in this book, I finally understood. I think I have never met such character as fierce and stubborn and wild as her.
Alec was another thing. He had this apprehension issues towards mirrors and it was quite intriguing. When I've read his side of the story, my heart went out to him.
The way these issues were tackled and handled made this book more appealing to me. How anger management, a learning disability and anxiety disorder played a big role in the characters' personalities.
I can't explain how much I was touched by the ending, too. It was actually everything I have hoped for. An ending with a promise of now and forever. Riley Edgewood had promised an unforgettable series and she delivered. Edgewood is undeniably a brilliant New Adult author to watch out for.
July 11, 2016
I gave this book 2 1/2 stars. I initially was going to give it 4 stars before it dropped below 3 stars. Then there were several things that ended up happening in the book that turned me off that brought it down drastically. I really did start off not just liking this book but loving it. As much I didn't totally like the heroine early on, I was able to look past her behavior and still enjoy the book. The book started losing my interest a bit shortly after Teagan left Alec'scondo and found out she was his assistant. The story started becoming so slow and boring because the author was showing the reader everything but Teagan and Alec's interactions. It became just so pointless and began to lack a plot and storyline.
As the story progressed I began to HATE Tegan so much because of all her stupid lies and bichiness. I'm all for a sassy strong female who refuses to be a doormat but there is a difference between being that and sassy and just a straight up bitch. I hated how mean she was to her friends and Alec at times for no reason. It's no way I would still be friends or still want someone who acted like that around me. She complained too much as well. And I mostly hated how she could never be real with Alec even when she said she would start being honest. How she would say one thing but would mean the opposite. It annoyed me to no end. It's like grow up and put on your big girl panties and stop playing games with him. If you loved him just tell him and stop being so standoffish to him at times.
But all in all I hated this book not for the clichéd premise but for how it was done. There was nothing in this book intriguing or that stood out. A typical "oops I banged (or in this books case almost banged) my boss" story minus the storyline and plot.
There were a lot of other things I hated about this book and heroine but I don't really feel like listing and explaining them.
As the story progressed I began to HATE Tegan so much because of all her stupid lies and bichiness. I'm all for a sassy strong female who refuses to be a doormat but there is a difference between being that and sassy and just a straight up bitch. I hated how mean she was to her friends and Alec at times for no reason. It's no way I would still be friends or still want someone who acted like that around me. She complained too much as well. And I mostly hated how she could never be real with Alec even when she said she would start being honest. How she would say one thing but would mean the opposite. It annoyed me to no end. It's like grow up and put on your big girl panties and stop playing games with him. If you loved him just tell him and stop being so standoffish to him at times.
But all in all I hated this book not for the clichéd premise but for how it was done. There was nothing in this book intriguing or that stood out. A typical "oops I banged (or in this books case almost banged) my boss" story minus the storyline and plot.
There were a lot of other things I hated about this book and heroine but I don't really feel like listing and explaining them.
August 5, 2015
Truth & Temptation was such a pleasant surprise! Even more importantly, it rescued me from a major book slump!
Just for fun, my main points align with the alliteration of the title. :)
Transformation: Teagan is hard to like at first. But getting to know the angry, anxious side of her made her transformation throughout the novel that much more beautiful and profound.
Treatment: Teagan and Alec’s respective issues are well-researched and treated with deference and care. They’re not tacked on as “props,” but actually add depth to the main characters, their relationship, and the storyline.
Terms: Several literary terms came to mind as I read! Truth & Temptation is an example of figurative language done right. The comparisons and descriptions are so unique, so artfully done, that they stand out long after I’ve finished reading.
There were parts of this novel that made me laugh out loud.
There were parts that completely surprised me.
There were parts written so perfectly that I wanted to discuss them with someone right then.
Oh, and I loved chapter 51 (so much said with so little)!
Truth & Temptation might have been my first from author Riley Edgewood, but it won’t be my last. If you’re looking for steamy romance with a good dose of conflict, give Truth & Temptation a look. (Narrated in first person by the heroine; can be read as a standalone.)
*Copy generously provided via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Just for fun, my main points align with the alliteration of the title. :)
Transformation: Teagan is hard to like at first. But getting to know the angry, anxious side of her made her transformation throughout the novel that much more beautiful and profound.
“I’m usually the best grudge-holder I know. This moment, this realization that I don’t have to be… It’s jarring. In the best way.”
Treatment: Teagan and Alec’s respective issues are well-researched and treated with deference and care. They’re not tacked on as “props,” but actually add depth to the main characters, their relationship, and the storyline.
Terms: Several literary terms came to mind as I read! Truth & Temptation is an example of figurative language done right. The comparisons and descriptions are so unique, so artfully done, that they stand out long after I’ve finished reading.
There were parts of this novel that made me laugh out loud.
There were parts that completely surprised me.
There were parts written so perfectly that I wanted to discuss them with someone right then.
Oh, and I loved chapter 51 (so much said with so little)!
Truth & Temptation might have been my first from author Riley Edgewood, but it won’t be my last. If you’re looking for steamy romance with a good dose of conflict, give Truth & Temptation a look. (Narrated in first person by the heroine; can be read as a standalone.)
*Copy generously provided via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
February 15, 2017
I wanted to read Truth & Temptation ever since I first heard that Riley Edgewood was writing it. I was lucky to have had the opportunity to read it before its release.
Within the first few pages I was already crushing on Alec Chambers. His personality came alive within the writing and grew more with every page. Just when I thought I had him figured out, more of his personality popped out and I loved all his different dimensions.
Teagan Walker also came alive through the writing. I felt the struggle she went through with the way her grandparents raised her. It made her an angry person and she build up walls to protect herself from getting hurt. The subject of depression and the initiative to seek help was nicely explored with subtly.
The novel was told through Teagan’s point of view which gave great insight into her mind. That is one thing that I wished we would’ve gotten from Alec, to get inside his head. Even so, I enjoyed how both characters progressed throughout the story and how each had struggles to deal with.
The chemistry between Teagan and Alec was intoxicating; the intimate scenes were sexy and written very well. The characters had a great connection; they challenged each other without overdoing it.
Truth & Temptation can be read as a standalone but I definitely encourage everyone to start with Rock & Release and look out for any future work that comes from Riley Edgewood.
Check out my other reviews at http://avidreads.blogspot.com.
I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Within the first few pages I was already crushing on Alec Chambers. His personality came alive within the writing and grew more with every page. Just when I thought I had him figured out, more of his personality popped out and I loved all his different dimensions.
Teagan Walker also came alive through the writing. I felt the struggle she went through with the way her grandparents raised her. It made her an angry person and she build up walls to protect herself from getting hurt. The subject of depression and the initiative to seek help was nicely explored with subtly.
The novel was told through Teagan’s point of view which gave great insight into her mind. That is one thing that I wished we would’ve gotten from Alec, to get inside his head. Even so, I enjoyed how both characters progressed throughout the story and how each had struggles to deal with.
The chemistry between Teagan and Alec was intoxicating; the intimate scenes were sexy and written very well. The characters had a great connection; they challenged each other without overdoing it.
Truth & Temptation can be read as a standalone but I definitely encourage everyone to start with Rock & Release and look out for any future work that comes from Riley Edgewood.
Check out my other reviews at http://avidreads.blogspot.com.
I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
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