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The Brightside #2
Blushing
My name is Olivia Bloom and I. Am. Engaged.
When Berkeley proposed I thought we’d live happily ever after—we’d plan our wedding and he’d tour with the Brightside while I continued designing lingerie. But instead he dropped a bombshell that turned my life upside down: he’s set to star in a movie with, who else, his gorgeous ex, Christina Carlton. And what’s more? I’ve been erased from the public eye. All anyone can talk about is #Berkstina.
Berkeley wants me to work on set as a costume designer—a dream come true—but there’s a catch; we have to keep our relationship secret. I’m okay with not being photographed, but the sneaking around, the lies, the love scenes; it’s not how I imagined our engagement. I know Berkeley is passionate and driven, but he has so much going on—I don’t know if we can take it. I’m starting to wonder how well I know him.
I love him, but am I ready to drop everything and decide the rest of my life? To become Olivia Dalton?
When Berkeley proposed I thought we’d live happily ever after—we’d plan our wedding and he’d tour with the Brightside while I continued designing lingerie. But instead he dropped a bombshell that turned my life upside down: he’s set to star in a movie with, who else, his gorgeous ex, Christina Carlton. And what’s more? I’ve been erased from the public eye. All anyone can talk about is #Berkstina.
Berkeley wants me to work on set as a costume designer—a dream come true—but there’s a catch; we have to keep our relationship secret. I’m okay with not being photographed, but the sneaking around, the lies, the love scenes; it’s not how I imagined our engagement. I know Berkeley is passionate and driven, but he has so much going on—I don’t know if we can take it. I’m starting to wonder how well I know him.
I love him, but am I ready to drop everything and decide the rest of my life? To become Olivia Dalton?
405 pages, ebook
First published February 23, 2015
18 people are currently reading
432 people want to read
About the author
Katie Delahanty
6 books331 followersGrowing up in Pittsburgh, Katie loved old movies and playing dress up, but never considered telling stories of her own until she was asked to start a blog for the sleepwear company she worked for. Unsure what to say about lingerie, she wrote a fictional serial about a girl chasing her costume design dreams who fell in love with a rock star along the way. And that’s when Katie fell in love with storytelling. That blog became the first book in "The Brightside Series" and she’s been waking before dawn to write ever since. Katie lives in Los Angeles with her husband and three children and is currently working on book #3 in "The Keystone Series", which will release in 2022.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 61 reviews
February 4, 2015
This is going to be a short one.
I don't think I'm the intended audience for this book. I requested this on NetGalley because the blurb sounded really good, and the book delivered.
That said, I requested this thinking this was a standalone or at least the first book of a series. This was the second book, and I didn't get to read the first book. When I read the title on NG, I didn't find any indication it was part of a continuing series. That was my first mistake. I'm reading about these characters who have a history together, one that I didn't care about because I didn't read any of it. It's not the book's fault though, it's totally mine.
Second, the characters were really just too immature for my age. They created too many unnecessary drama for my liking. I found myself hating every character in this book at one point or another. The only character I liked was Boots. The rest of the cast annoyed me.
Still, I found the story oddly fascinating and engaging. Hence, the three stars! It's a quick one, too with mild steamy scenes.
ARC provided by the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
I don't think I'm the intended audience for this book. I requested this on NetGalley because the blurb sounded really good, and the book delivered.
That said, I requested this thinking this was a standalone or at least the first book of a series. This was the second book, and I didn't get to read the first book. When I read the title on NG, I didn't find any indication it was part of a continuing series. That was my first mistake. I'm reading about these characters who have a history together, one that I didn't care about because I didn't read any of it. It's not the book's fault though, it's totally mine.
Second, the characters were really just too immature for my age. They created too many unnecessary drama for my liking. I found myself hating every character in this book at one point or another. The only character I liked was Boots. The rest of the cast annoyed me.
Still, I found the story oddly fascinating and engaging. Hence, the three stars! It's a quick one, too with mild steamy scenes.
ARC provided by the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
March 31, 2016
Great series...Can't wait for book 3 !! Love these two !!
February 23, 2015
ARC provided by publisher in exchange of honest review
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Olivia and Berkeley are BACK and they are engaged!!!! Blushing picks off where it last left off In Bloom, and Katie Delahanty once again has me smitten with her writing and story-telling. The beloved cast of characters that brought laughter, life, and fun into the lives of Olivia and Berkeley are back with a few new secondary characters to liven up the story.
When Berkeley is cast for a lead role opposite of his ex-girlfriend, problems soon begin to arise since in this "Hollywood business," the truth of his actual real-life relationship with Olivia must be kept hidden from the public. And to top it, due to scheduling conflicts, sometimes these two found themselves separated. This is not how the newly engaged couple want to start off their engagement so Berkeley was able to manage to get Olivia a job on the movie set so they can be together. But when there are outside forces trying to sabotage their relationship, can Olivia and Berkeley stand firm in their relationship and show that love can conquer all?
Blushing was a gem of a read. I enjoyed this book and it was a great follow-up to the first book. Ms. Delahanty did an amazing job in keeping this book fresh, light, and innovative. She was able to add humor, wit, and sassiness into the story-line with it quirky cast of characters. What I love about this book was that I was able to see the love of Olivia and Berkeley continue to grow and mature. Overall, for all you Olivia and Berkeley fans this book will leave you having a big fat smile on your face.
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Review can also be found on Four Chicks Flipping Pages: http://fourchicksflippingpages.weebly...
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Olivia and Berkeley are BACK and they are engaged!!!! Blushing picks off where it last left off In Bloom, and Katie Delahanty once again has me smitten with her writing and story-telling. The beloved cast of characters that brought laughter, life, and fun into the lives of Olivia and Berkeley are back with a few new secondary characters to liven up the story.
When Berkeley is cast for a lead role opposite of his ex-girlfriend, problems soon begin to arise since in this "Hollywood business," the truth of his actual real-life relationship with Olivia must be kept hidden from the public. And to top it, due to scheduling conflicts, sometimes these two found themselves separated. This is not how the newly engaged couple want to start off their engagement so Berkeley was able to manage to get Olivia a job on the movie set so they can be together. But when there are outside forces trying to sabotage their relationship, can Olivia and Berkeley stand firm in their relationship and show that love can conquer all?
Blushing was a gem of a read. I enjoyed this book and it was a great follow-up to the first book. Ms. Delahanty did an amazing job in keeping this book fresh, light, and innovative. She was able to add humor, wit, and sassiness into the story-line with it quirky cast of characters. What I love about this book was that I was able to see the love of Olivia and Berkeley continue to grow and mature. Overall, for all you Olivia and Berkeley fans this book will leave you having a big fat smile on your face.
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Review can also be found on Four Chicks Flipping Pages: http://fourchicksflippingpages.weebly...
March 4, 2015
Aaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaah I can't wait :))
Edit: Yihouuuuuuuuuuu just got an ARC :))
Edit 2 : Review to come
Katie Delahanty is a very talented writer. I loved the first book in the serie and when I saw that the 2nd was available on NetGalley I did not hesitate for a minute.
I loved this book even though I preferred the 1st one. Here we find the same characters as the first except that Olivia and Berkeley are now engaged ... but it's not all happiness. Olivia leaves her work to work on set for the new movie of Berkeley. Berkeley took a break from his singing career and began as a producer and actor. The problem is that his co star is his ex girlfriend, with whom he had to pretend to have a relationship. Olivia and Berkeley are forced to hide their relationship,and that they're engaged which of course will make a lot of trouble and misunderstandings.
My problem with this book is Olivia. I don't unterstand her, She reacted like a teenager. So I struggled to appreciate her character. Some scenes have frustrated me. Even Berk is not that sweet in this book! I didn't find in this book what I loved so much in the 1rst one.
This book is very well written, the characters are interesting, some parts are very funny. I still love the Twitter part.
big ++++ for the epilogue ^^
I can't wait for the next one
4/5
http://lilisbooks.canalblog.com/archi...
Edit: Yihouuuuuuuuuuu just got an ARC :))
Edit 2 : Review to come
Katie Delahanty is a very talented writer. I loved the first book in the serie and when I saw that the 2nd was available on NetGalley I did not hesitate for a minute.
I loved this book even though I preferred the 1st one. Here we find the same characters as the first except that Olivia and Berkeley are now engaged ... but it's not all happiness. Olivia leaves her work to work on set for the new movie of Berkeley. Berkeley took a break from his singing career and began as a producer and actor. The problem is that his co star is his ex girlfriend, with whom he had to pretend to have a relationship. Olivia and Berkeley are forced to hide their relationship,and that they're engaged which of course will make a lot of trouble and misunderstandings.
My problem with this book is Olivia. I don't unterstand her, She reacted like a teenager. So I struggled to appreciate her character. Some scenes have frustrated me. Even Berk is not that sweet in this book! I didn't find in this book what I loved so much in the 1rst one.
This book is very well written, the characters are interesting, some parts are very funny. I still love the Twitter part.
big ++++ for the epilogue ^^
I can't wait for the next one
4/5
http://lilisbooks.canalblog.com/archi...
April 22, 2015
4.5 stars
Did I enjoy this book: I really did. It was a great read, just as good as the first book, In Bloom. I read it every free chance I had!
It was great to catch up with Olivia and Berkeley. We pick up where In Bloom lets off, with their engagement!!! It is so exciting. Olivia is still a bit naive and a bit shy, until a certain point in the movie. I don’t want to give too much away, so I won’t go into detail. But there were quite a few moments that left me a bit shocked. There were quite a few moments that left me worried. And many moments that left me with a smile. This book had so many swoon-worthy, giddy-worthy, smile-worthy, cringe-worthy moments. I loved that Berkeley’s movie is filmed in Pittsburgh, and I loved that Olivia slipped into Pittsburghese easily. There were quite a few more Yinzer instances in this book . . . and I loved every one of them! I loved the supporting cast as well–Parker, Psychic Mom, Boots, and Dig. All great.
Even now, days after I finished this book, I still get this giddy feeling and I can’t stop smiling. It was so good!
Would I recommend it: Definitely! Be sure to read book one of the Brightside series, In Bloom, first.
Disclosure: I received a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
http://everyfreechance.com/2015/04/bl...
Did I enjoy this book: I really did. It was a great read, just as good as the first book, In Bloom. I read it every free chance I had!
It was great to catch up with Olivia and Berkeley. We pick up where In Bloom lets off, with their engagement!!! It is so exciting. Olivia is still a bit naive and a bit shy, until a certain point in the movie. I don’t want to give too much away, so I won’t go into detail. But there were quite a few moments that left me a bit shocked. There were quite a few moments that left me worried. And many moments that left me with a smile. This book had so many swoon-worthy, giddy-worthy, smile-worthy, cringe-worthy moments. I loved that Berkeley’s movie is filmed in Pittsburgh, and I loved that Olivia slipped into Pittsburghese easily. There were quite a few more Yinzer instances in this book . . . and I loved every one of them! I loved the supporting cast as well–Parker, Psychic Mom, Boots, and Dig. All great.
Even now, days after I finished this book, I still get this giddy feeling and I can’t stop smiling. It was so good!
Would I recommend it: Definitely! Be sure to read book one of the Brightside series, In Bloom, first.
Disclosure: I received a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
http://everyfreechance.com/2015/04/bl...
April 2, 2015
Liv and Berkeley are BACK, baby! And they're engaged! I feel like I've waited forever for Blushing, and I was super excited to receive an early copy when the time came! I might have done a little happy dance when I got my greedy little hands on this sequel, since In Bloom was one of my favorite reads last year. While I wasn't as insanely obsessed with this book as I was with book one, it was still fantastic and I loved every bit of seeing Liv, Berkeley and all their friends again! I'm having trouble deciding how to go about this review, as I would hate to spoil anything, and you really need to read it for yourself to see just how their story played out this time around. But here goes...
We ended book one on a happy note. Liv and Berkeley got engaged! Book two starts off right where the last book ended, after that super adorable, achingly romantic proposal. Only it seems as if their happily-ever-after might be a little harder to attain than they thought. Because Berkeley is headed off to film a movie. A movie in which he stars alongside little miss trouble maker and Berkeley's ex, Christina. And here's the catch-- he has to keep Liv, and their relationship, a secret. Rather than embracing her new blushing bride-to-be status, Liv agrees to keep her lips sealed. She's all too eager to keep herself out of the spotlight, but she gets a bit more than she bargained for. Sneaking around and keeping their secret proves to be harder than either imagined, and quite a few problems pop up because of this.
We get to see a new side of Berkeley this time around. The sexy rock star is pushed aside to make room for a suave, charismatic movie star. I don't even know which Berkeley I prefer, they're both drool-worthy. As much as I understood Berkeley's reasons behind needing to keep Liv and their engagement a secret, I wished he would have fought for her more. Yes, Liv agreed to the demands of his "people," but it should have been clear to him that she was doing that mostly for him. And yes, he did try to stand up for her when ridiculous expectations were being placed on her, but he should have tried harder, I felt. Liv deserved better than to be treated like some dirty little secret. She deserved better than to have to hide her identity, alter information about herself, and become a mere observer in his crazy life. I know he tried, and I couldn't fault him much, but the whole situation made me feel dejected on Liv's behalf. After all, he was such a huge Liv advocate in In Bloom.
As for Liv, I wished she would have stood up for herself more. There were times in this book when she was lonely, discouraged, and basically just down in the dumps, and she should have spoken up! It's one thing to agree to keep your engagement a secret, but some of what they asked of her was ridiculous! It also seemed like a bit of a step back for her. She worked so hard in book one to become this confident, accomplished version of herself, and I wanted so much more of that. Luckily for us, Live comes through in the end, and I had so much fun with those parts of the story! She brings back that resilient woman we love and then some, and it was great to see. Really, they come through it together, and it made for a great moment in the story!
As for the supporting characters, this author is amazing at writing endearing, hilarious characters that compliment her hero and heroine perfectly. Psychic Mom was a riot, as usual, and Mark was extra dreamy this time around. I'm dying to know what will come of Mark as this series continues. There was a hint of something deeper there, and I can't wait to see where the author takes his story! He continues to be one of my favorite characters in this series. One character that surprised me this time around was Blair. And not in a good way. Blair gets an amazing job opportunity in Blushing, which makes it possible for her to support Liv during this hectic time in her life. But supportive she was not. I'm all for flawed characters, and Katie did an excellent job with Blair in this book, but holy crap did I want to strangle her at times! She was so frustrating, and, as someone who absolutely loved her up until now, I was very disappointed in her behavior for a good portion of this book. Thankfully, Parker was able to knock some sense into her, because she was being a horrible friend. We didn't see as much of Parker this time around as I would have liked, but he still managed to steal the show with every appearance.
Overall, I think Blushing was definitely worth the wait! It was nearly impossible for me to put this one down. I will say it took me a little while to get into the story in the beginning, but I was completely hooked once I did. I'm still a huge fan of the whole concept of this story as a whole-- the tweets, the lingerie line, etc-- and it really does add an extra layer of authenticity to these books. As I've come to expect from this author, there was an abundance of silly, laugh-out-loud moments, frank, honest moments between friends, and heart-to-hearts with loved ones. It all blends together to create an fun, endearing story with characters that you'll want to be friends with, and that will stick with you long after you've turned the last page. I'm very much looking forward to reading more from this author, and this series, and I highly recommend this one!
We ended book one on a happy note. Liv and Berkeley got engaged! Book two starts off right where the last book ended, after that super adorable, achingly romantic proposal. Only it seems as if their happily-ever-after might be a little harder to attain than they thought. Because Berkeley is headed off to film a movie. A movie in which he stars alongside little miss trouble maker and Berkeley's ex, Christina. And here's the catch-- he has to keep Liv, and their relationship, a secret. Rather than embracing her new blushing bride-to-be status, Liv agrees to keep her lips sealed. She's all too eager to keep herself out of the spotlight, but she gets a bit more than she bargained for. Sneaking around and keeping their secret proves to be harder than either imagined, and quite a few problems pop up because of this.
We get to see a new side of Berkeley this time around. The sexy rock star is pushed aside to make room for a suave, charismatic movie star. I don't even know which Berkeley I prefer, they're both drool-worthy. As much as I understood Berkeley's reasons behind needing to keep Liv and their engagement a secret, I wished he would have fought for her more. Yes, Liv agreed to the demands of his "people," but it should have been clear to him that she was doing that mostly for him. And yes, he did try to stand up for her when ridiculous expectations were being placed on her, but he should have tried harder, I felt. Liv deserved better than to be treated like some dirty little secret. She deserved better than to have to hide her identity, alter information about herself, and become a mere observer in his crazy life. I know he tried, and I couldn't fault him much, but the whole situation made me feel dejected on Liv's behalf. After all, he was such a huge Liv advocate in In Bloom.
As for Liv, I wished she would have stood up for herself more. There were times in this book when she was lonely, discouraged, and basically just down in the dumps, and she should have spoken up! It's one thing to agree to keep your engagement a secret, but some of what they asked of her was ridiculous! It also seemed like a bit of a step back for her. She worked so hard in book one to become this confident, accomplished version of herself, and I wanted so much more of that. Luckily for us, Live comes through in the end, and I had so much fun with those parts of the story! She brings back that resilient woman we love and then some, and it was great to see. Really, they come through it together, and it made for a great moment in the story!
As for the supporting characters, this author is amazing at writing endearing, hilarious characters that compliment her hero and heroine perfectly. Psychic Mom was a riot, as usual, and Mark was extra dreamy this time around. I'm dying to know what will come of Mark as this series continues. There was a hint of something deeper there, and I can't wait to see where the author takes his story! He continues to be one of my favorite characters in this series. One character that surprised me this time around was Blair. And not in a good way. Blair gets an amazing job opportunity in Blushing, which makes it possible for her to support Liv during this hectic time in her life. But supportive she was not. I'm all for flawed characters, and Katie did an excellent job with Blair in this book, but holy crap did I want to strangle her at times! She was so frustrating, and, as someone who absolutely loved her up until now, I was very disappointed in her behavior for a good portion of this book. Thankfully, Parker was able to knock some sense into her, because she was being a horrible friend. We didn't see as much of Parker this time around as I would have liked, but he still managed to steal the show with every appearance.
Overall, I think Blushing was definitely worth the wait! It was nearly impossible for me to put this one down. I will say it took me a little while to get into the story in the beginning, but I was completely hooked once I did. I'm still a huge fan of the whole concept of this story as a whole-- the tweets, the lingerie line, etc-- and it really does add an extra layer of authenticity to these books. As I've come to expect from this author, there was an abundance of silly, laugh-out-loud moments, frank, honest moments between friends, and heart-to-hearts with loved ones. It all blends together to create an fun, endearing story with characters that you'll want to be friends with, and that will stick with you long after you've turned the last page. I'm very much looking forward to reading more from this author, and this series, and I highly recommend this one!
March 16, 2015
I absolutely adored the fairytale-esque style of In Bloom and jumped at the chance to read the second installment of Olivia and Berkley’s relationship. Blushing picks up at the exact moment In Bloom ends providing amazing continuity of both the story and the emotions it invokes.
The continued use of twitter updates in Blushing adding visually dynamic interludes at the chapter headings. While the psychic predictions and use of new age ‘therapies’ often add humour to the plot while re-enforcing the idea of fate/destiny/serendipity within the narrative. Everything happens for a reason leading a person to where they should be even if they had never envisaged that place before :)
Olivia is a fabulous character, she really doesn’t see herself clearly, beautiful both inside and out she draws people to her. Her inner monologues are utterly adorable and very relatable, often tugging at the heartstrings. Everyone has moments of self-doubt, add to that the situation Olivia finds herself in and you can’t help but feel for her.
The stress and demands on a person with celebrity status is portrayed very well. Adding a great number of unnecessary obstacles to building a ‘real’ relationship add in the amount of ‘spin’ within the media and you have a recipe for disaster. My heart was literally dropping with elements of this plot :(
Olivia and Berkley’s relationship moves extremely quickly adding to the feeling of unease within the story. Secrecy regarding their relationship added to the fact that Olivia doesn’t know Berkeley all that well increases the sense of foreboding. I’ve got to be honest but I found myself liking Berkeley less and less as the story progressed. There are a number of sides to him, that Olivia points out, you have to question which one is real and what is his motivation. Revelations within the narrative, true or false, add to the sense of impending doom. You question what to believe and who to trust in a world where everyone has their own agenda.
I cannot imagine having to watch someone I loved kissing another person, even if it was only for fictional purposes; it has to play on your mind/emotions especially if they had a previous relationship with that person.
Alternative romantic interest are introduced, alongside old flames intent on stirring the pot. In all honesty, I adored Justin to the point I would have happily seen Olivia with him as opposed to Berkeley (I KNOW RIGHT) For me, Berkeley just didn’t cut it, I don’t feel as if I know him at all with all his secrets and differing personalities. He needs to be consistent with Olivia, which at this point he just isn’t :(
While the romantic aspects of Blushing left me a little defeated, Olivia’s character development more than made up for it. The friendships she has stood the strain of celebrity status while professionally Olivia has a whole new world open up to her. The stuff dreams are made of.
Blushing is most definitely an adult fairytale – one I hope continues with the other characters taking centre stage ♥
The continued use of twitter updates in Blushing adding visually dynamic interludes at the chapter headings. While the psychic predictions and use of new age ‘therapies’ often add humour to the plot while re-enforcing the idea of fate/destiny/serendipity within the narrative. Everything happens for a reason leading a person to where they should be even if they had never envisaged that place before :)
Olivia is a fabulous character, she really doesn’t see herself clearly, beautiful both inside and out she draws people to her. Her inner monologues are utterly adorable and very relatable, often tugging at the heartstrings. Everyone has moments of self-doubt, add to that the situation Olivia finds herself in and you can’t help but feel for her.
The stress and demands on a person with celebrity status is portrayed very well. Adding a great number of unnecessary obstacles to building a ‘real’ relationship add in the amount of ‘spin’ within the media and you have a recipe for disaster. My heart was literally dropping with elements of this plot :(
Olivia and Berkley’s relationship moves extremely quickly adding to the feeling of unease within the story. Secrecy regarding their relationship added to the fact that Olivia doesn’t know Berkeley all that well increases the sense of foreboding. I’ve got to be honest but I found myself liking Berkeley less and less as the story progressed. There are a number of sides to him, that Olivia points out, you have to question which one is real and what is his motivation. Revelations within the narrative, true or false, add to the sense of impending doom. You question what to believe and who to trust in a world where everyone has their own agenda.
I cannot imagine having to watch someone I loved kissing another person, even if it was only for fictional purposes; it has to play on your mind/emotions especially if they had a previous relationship with that person.
Alternative romantic interest are introduced, alongside old flames intent on stirring the pot. In all honesty, I adored Justin to the point I would have happily seen Olivia with him as opposed to Berkeley (I KNOW RIGHT) For me, Berkeley just didn’t cut it, I don’t feel as if I know him at all with all his secrets and differing personalities. He needs to be consistent with Olivia, which at this point he just isn’t :(
While the romantic aspects of Blushing left me a little defeated, Olivia’s character development more than made up for it. The friendships she has stood the strain of celebrity status while professionally Olivia has a whole new world open up to her. The stuff dreams are made of.
Blushing is most definitely an adult fairytale – one I hope continues with the other characters taking centre stage ♥
February 24, 2015
"Sometimes you have to risk it all to make a dream come true. #BeBrave"
Here comes the bride...
Just kidding! Ms. Olivia Bloom is only engaged to the hottest man on the planet. Heheh. Yup, I'm talking about Berkeley. The rock god with an insanely sweet side to him that you can't help but swooooooon. I've been waiting for this book for only about...oh, ever since I finished the first book, In Bloom. I remember the feels when I delved deep into the Hollywood life with Olivia. How lucky is it that she caught the eye of of a rock star? How many of us wish this could happen to us? There's a reason musician type books are my personal favorite. Blushing is a story of love, Hollywood, crazy mean bitches, and some insanely hot & steamy scenes from the newly engaged couple!
"I know it’s him, recognize his clean scent, the tugging in my core, the buzzing at the base of my spine. Finding my mouth, he coaxes my lips open."
Berkeley is up for a role in an up and coming movie adaption of the Keystone series. He's actually up for the lead and all the while he's been trying to get out of it... But here's the thing, he can't. There's a been a contract signed and his leading lady is none other than Christina (dang I truly dislike her...okay, I hate her!). His contract won't let him get out of playing in the movie without losing millions. And of course Christina doesn't want to negotiate with him. It's all or nothing. Olivia being the sweet person and not over dramatic or jealous, pushes Berkeley to do the movie or else he may regret it for the rest of his life.
"The kiss is slow and sweet and grateful. I squeeze his face in my hands, slowly becoming aware of everyone else on the movie set, watching us."
Well, he decides to take the movie and make Liv an assistant costume designer. Bad news though, she has to change her name and appearance, all in the name of love. And losing out on lots of money of the media were to find out that she and Berkeley are engaged. This is cause for sneaking around like teenagers. Will the two be able to handle the pressure? How much can one take until it's too much and you start questioning the others motivations?
There is some serious angst and drama in Blushing. Berkeley and Olivia will be tested beyond belief. It has you wondering if their love is truly meant to be. If it's any consolation I think I fell more in love with ex story and characters. I'm sure it's not easy being linked to a mega star and I think it takes a special kind of someone to put up with it. I know for a fact I probably wouldn't be one of those specials ones. Which is precisely why I'd rather read about it instead. Boys in books ARE better, right?
Olivia. Liv. Whatever you call her, she's an awesome female lead. I love her innocence & purity in a world full of greed & assholery. (Yes, I just made up a word!) you can see the light shining from within her; no wonder Berkeley has fallen head over heels in love with her!
"I mean, I would prefer to make out with Tux Nicholas, but even I am in love with you. And men will fall in love with you every day for the rest of your life.-Parker
Overall, I think that the book couldn't have been better and I fully recommend picking up anything & everything that involves the Brightside series. Liv, Berkeley, and gang feel like life long friends. I'll be sad when I have to say goodbye to them.
"Do you have any idea how much I love you?"
"I think so. And you know it was always only you," he says, those familiar blue eyes boring into mine. I will always hold out only for you."
Here comes the bride...
Just kidding! Ms. Olivia Bloom is only engaged to the hottest man on the planet. Heheh. Yup, I'm talking about Berkeley. The rock god with an insanely sweet side to him that you can't help but swooooooon. I've been waiting for this book for only about...oh, ever since I finished the first book, In Bloom. I remember the feels when I delved deep into the Hollywood life with Olivia. How lucky is it that she caught the eye of of a rock star? How many of us wish this could happen to us? There's a reason musician type books are my personal favorite. Blushing is a story of love, Hollywood, crazy mean bitches, and some insanely hot & steamy scenes from the newly engaged couple!
"I know it’s him, recognize his clean scent, the tugging in my core, the buzzing at the base of my spine. Finding my mouth, he coaxes my lips open."
Berkeley is up for a role in an up and coming movie adaption of the Keystone series. He's actually up for the lead and all the while he's been trying to get out of it... But here's the thing, he can't. There's a been a contract signed and his leading lady is none other than Christina (dang I truly dislike her...okay, I hate her!). His contract won't let him get out of playing in the movie without losing millions. And of course Christina doesn't want to negotiate with him. It's all or nothing. Olivia being the sweet person and not over dramatic or jealous, pushes Berkeley to do the movie or else he may regret it for the rest of his life.
"The kiss is slow and sweet and grateful. I squeeze his face in my hands, slowly becoming aware of everyone else on the movie set, watching us."
Well, he decides to take the movie and make Liv an assistant costume designer. Bad news though, she has to change her name and appearance, all in the name of love. And losing out on lots of money of the media were to find out that she and Berkeley are engaged. This is cause for sneaking around like teenagers. Will the two be able to handle the pressure? How much can one take until it's too much and you start questioning the others motivations?
There is some serious angst and drama in Blushing. Berkeley and Olivia will be tested beyond belief. It has you wondering if their love is truly meant to be. If it's any consolation I think I fell more in love with ex story and characters. I'm sure it's not easy being linked to a mega star and I think it takes a special kind of someone to put up with it. I know for a fact I probably wouldn't be one of those specials ones. Which is precisely why I'd rather read about it instead. Boys in books ARE better, right?
Olivia. Liv. Whatever you call her, she's an awesome female lead. I love her innocence & purity in a world full of greed & assholery. (Yes, I just made up a word!) you can see the light shining from within her; no wonder Berkeley has fallen head over heels in love with her!
"I mean, I would prefer to make out with Tux Nicholas, but even I am in love with you. And men will fall in love with you every day for the rest of your life.-Parker
Overall, I think that the book couldn't have been better and I fully recommend picking up anything & everything that involves the Brightside series. Liv, Berkeley, and gang feel like life long friends. I'll be sad when I have to say goodbye to them.
"Do you have any idea how much I love you?"
"I think so. And you know it was always only you," he says, those familiar blue eyes boring into mine. I will always hold out only for you."
February 22, 2015
4 Angst filled stars!
This book was generously provided by the publisher via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
This book is the second book in the bright side series. I would recommend reading the first book In Bloom before Blushing as this book is a continuation of the In Bloom.
Since this was a series I read the first book immediately before this starting Blushing. I enjoyed In Bloom. There are some unrealistic, sometimes outlandish parts (thought not many) in each, but hey.... that's what fiction is about! Despite those elements I thought In Bloom was a fun and entertaining book. Blushing was so much better for me.
I love the kind of story that has all your emotions involved. The kind that has you invested in the story and the characters. I found Blushing to be just that kind of book. I like angst filled books... and boy was Blushing angst filled. I felt like I was on an emotional roller coaster.
Blushing continues the story of Oliva bloom and Berkeley. It picks right up from the engagement. Olivia's life takes a wild turn as she goes to work as an assistant costume director on Berkeley's new film... to be close to him. What they don't county on is all the craziness involved in making a movie, keeping up appearances for the fans, meddlesome exes, new love interests, and a cast of people that seem completely set on destroying their would be happily ever after.
Because of the filming schedule and PR demands they end up never seeing each other and distance not just physically but emotionally is imminent. Doubts become prevalent and Olivia wonders if it is worth it all. Olivia is also trying to figure out who she really is and what she is meant to do.
This is one of those stories that feels like there is so much going on at once.... yet not what needs to happen. There is definitely some communication break down that had me wanting to shake both Olivia and Berkeley.
One thing I did not like, is that it is hard to feel connected to Berkeley in this book because we don't really get much from him. He is so non-existent through so much of this story that I was either really angry at him, my heart was breaking for him, or I was thinking "Berkeley who?". I missed his character!!
The same likeable characters from the first book are still present in Blushing, some seem different, and there are new characters to add to the mix.
Over all Blushing was a pleasant surprise, kept me on the edge of my seat, annoyed me some, made me laugh some, and had me smiling at the end. A win win combination. On a side note, I would love Mark's story! Katie Delahanty this reader needs more Mark!!
This book was generously provided by the publisher via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
This book is the second book in the bright side series. I would recommend reading the first book In Bloom before Blushing as this book is a continuation of the In Bloom.
Since this was a series I read the first book immediately before this starting Blushing. I enjoyed In Bloom. There are some unrealistic, sometimes outlandish parts (thought not many) in each, but hey.... that's what fiction is about! Despite those elements I thought In Bloom was a fun and entertaining book. Blushing was so much better for me.
I love the kind of story that has all your emotions involved. The kind that has you invested in the story and the characters. I found Blushing to be just that kind of book. I like angst filled books... and boy was Blushing angst filled. I felt like I was on an emotional roller coaster.
Blushing continues the story of Oliva bloom and Berkeley. It picks right up from the engagement. Olivia's life takes a wild turn as she goes to work as an assistant costume director on Berkeley's new film... to be close to him. What they don't county on is all the craziness involved in making a movie, keeping up appearances for the fans, meddlesome exes, new love interests, and a cast of people that seem completely set on destroying their would be happily ever after.
Because of the filming schedule and PR demands they end up never seeing each other and distance not just physically but emotionally is imminent. Doubts become prevalent and Olivia wonders if it is worth it all. Olivia is also trying to figure out who she really is and what she is meant to do.
This is one of those stories that feels like there is so much going on at once.... yet not what needs to happen. There is definitely some communication break down that had me wanting to shake both Olivia and Berkeley.
One thing I did not like, is that it is hard to feel connected to Berkeley in this book because we don't really get much from him. He is so non-existent through so much of this story that I was either really angry at him, my heart was breaking for him, or I was thinking "Berkeley who?". I missed his character!!
The same likeable characters from the first book are still present in Blushing, some seem different, and there are new characters to add to the mix.
Over all Blushing was a pleasant surprise, kept me on the edge of my seat, annoyed me some, made me laugh some, and had me smiling at the end. A win win combination. On a side note, I would love Mark's story! Katie Delahanty this reader needs more Mark!!
February 21, 2015
I LOVED book 1 in this series - In Bloom - and I stalked Katie Delahanty's FB, twitter etc desperate for news on when the next book would come. The longer I waited the more desperate and excited I got. I couldn't wait to read more about the wonderful characters we met in In Bloom and to overload on the delicious feels that Berkeley and Olivia generate. So, you can imagine my super embarrassing fan-girl display when I granted an ARC by the author.
Blushing picks up pretty much immediately where In Bloom left off, so I wouldn't recommend reading it unless you've read In Bloom. Too much of who the characters are is invested there and thus I feel you'd loose too much of the connection and back story to truly appreciate Blushing.
Katie's writing is wonderful. She has a real gift at making the characters feel alive. It makes it so easy to lose yourself in the story as it doesn't feel like you are reading about fictional characters. It feels like you are reading about real people, people you know, friends, and it makes these books so addictive!
Blushing moves from music to movies - proper Hollywood - but most of it is spent on set in Pittsburgh so we get to see a lot more of Olivia's family! (Psychic mom! Legend.)
I loved the drama and tension, the ups and downs, the general ridiculousness of celebrity and PR that the book presents.
Olivia and Berkeley were all kinds of awesome. I wanted to smack 'em both upside the head a few times but they got themselves sorted in the end and provided loads of yummy feels throughout.
The secondary characters each have their own developments and I enjoyed catching up with the gang. I hope to see more of them as the POV of the books moves from Olivia and Berkeley to Mark, the Brightside's Bassist.
Especially Boots - Olivia's cousin - she is so funny and weird, I'd love to read more of her!
My only complaint would be that the book is... I don't know how to phrase it. More clunky(?) than the first book in the series and, for me, lacks some of the sparkle, but I still enjoyed it immensely and will read it over and over again so I guess it' not much of an issue or a complaint. Just needed to be stated for the sake of honest reviewing.
100% recommended, and if you enjoy books from the likes of Sophie Kinsella and Lindsey Kelk then I think you'd definitely like Katie Delahanty's Brightside Series.
(ARC granted via Netgalley)
Blushing picks up pretty much immediately where In Bloom left off, so I wouldn't recommend reading it unless you've read In Bloom. Too much of who the characters are is invested there and thus I feel you'd loose too much of the connection and back story to truly appreciate Blushing.
Katie's writing is wonderful. She has a real gift at making the characters feel alive. It makes it so easy to lose yourself in the story as it doesn't feel like you are reading about fictional characters. It feels like you are reading about real people, people you know, friends, and it makes these books so addictive!
Blushing moves from music to movies - proper Hollywood - but most of it is spent on set in Pittsburgh so we get to see a lot more of Olivia's family! (Psychic mom! Legend.)
I loved the drama and tension, the ups and downs, the general ridiculousness of celebrity and PR that the book presents.
Olivia and Berkeley were all kinds of awesome. I wanted to smack 'em both upside the head a few times but they got themselves sorted in the end and provided loads of yummy feels throughout.
The secondary characters each have their own developments and I enjoyed catching up with the gang. I hope to see more of them as the POV of the books moves from Olivia and Berkeley to Mark, the Brightside's Bassist.
Especially Boots - Olivia's cousin - she is so funny and weird, I'd love to read more of her!
My only complaint would be that the book is... I don't know how to phrase it. More clunky(?) than the first book in the series and, for me, lacks some of the sparkle, but I still enjoyed it immensely and will read it over and over again so I guess it' not much of an issue or a complaint. Just needed to be stated for the sake of honest reviewing.
100% recommended, and if you enjoy books from the likes of Sophie Kinsella and Lindsey Kelk then I think you'd definitely like Katie Delahanty's Brightside Series.
(ARC granted via Netgalley)
March 7, 2015
Three Girls and a Book Obsession @threegirlsbooks
Totally loved Blushing by @KTDelahanty. Hope we see more from The Brightside. #threegirlstoprec
I am going to be straight-up here and say that I literally did not know how to use Twitter until I read In Bloom (Katie’s first book). So I feel my above tweet is completely necessary. Also, I am so beyond excited that we got more of Olivia and Berkeley. I thought the ending of In Bloom was a bit rushed and now I am completely satisfied.
Blushing begins where In Bloom ends. Olivia and Berkeley are engaged. Unbeknownist to Olivia, Berkeley has been cast in a movie and will be moving to Pittsburgh for a couple of months. Thankfully, with some finessing Olivia was able to get a job on-set (an assistant assistant wardrobe girl). But due to contracts, Olivia and Berkeley have to keep their relationship under-wraps. Plus, his ex-girlfriend has been cast as the lead and also his love interest in the movie.
Olivia goes through a lot in this movie. Having to hide her identity and take on a new one (with a different name and hairstyle) messes with her a bit. I think what she goes through is completely normal and realistic. I wish we got to see a bit more of Berkeley. I wanted to know what he was going through. I spent a portion of the book a bit mad at him. I wish we would’ve gotten just a chapter in his POV. (Hint hint). I think I may have understood him a bit better. BUT…he totally redeemed himself by the end of the book. I actually teared up a bit-which is a hard fete.
I will say, there was a lot going on in the book. All the secrets, twists, and turns were perfect. Can we also talk about the secondary characters? Parker? Tux? Mark! I demand we get a book about Mark stat! I want him to find love…as well as find out what he was eluding to at the bar with Olivia. I also got a kick out of the ridiculousness that was Scarlett.
As you know, I love all things Hollywood, so this book was right up my alley. Ms. Delahanty painted such a realistic portrayal of what actually happens in the entertainment business. There is so much drama, half-truths, lies that is fed to the fans. I actually laughed at some of the ridiculousness but know without a doubt that it happens all the time.
I recommend this series if you are looking for a fun romantic series with a Hollywood backdrop. Plus…did I tell you that Berkeley is a rockstar?
Totally loved Blushing by @KTDelahanty. Hope we see more from The Brightside. #threegirlstoprec
I am going to be straight-up here and say that I literally did not know how to use Twitter until I read In Bloom (Katie’s first book). So I feel my above tweet is completely necessary. Also, I am so beyond excited that we got more of Olivia and Berkeley. I thought the ending of In Bloom was a bit rushed and now I am completely satisfied.
Blushing begins where In Bloom ends. Olivia and Berkeley are engaged. Unbeknownist to Olivia, Berkeley has been cast in a movie and will be moving to Pittsburgh for a couple of months. Thankfully, with some finessing Olivia was able to get a job on-set (an assistant assistant wardrobe girl). But due to contracts, Olivia and Berkeley have to keep their relationship under-wraps. Plus, his ex-girlfriend has been cast as the lead and also his love interest in the movie.
Olivia goes through a lot in this movie. Having to hide her identity and take on a new one (with a different name and hairstyle) messes with her a bit. I think what she goes through is completely normal and realistic. I wish we got to see a bit more of Berkeley. I wanted to know what he was going through. I spent a portion of the book a bit mad at him. I wish we would’ve gotten just a chapter in his POV. (Hint hint). I think I may have understood him a bit better. BUT…he totally redeemed himself by the end of the book. I actually teared up a bit-which is a hard fete.
I will say, there was a lot going on in the book. All the secrets, twists, and turns were perfect. Can we also talk about the secondary characters? Parker? Tux? Mark! I demand we get a book about Mark stat! I want him to find love…as well as find out what he was eluding to at the bar with Olivia. I also got a kick out of the ridiculousness that was Scarlett.
As you know, I love all things Hollywood, so this book was right up my alley. Ms. Delahanty painted such a realistic portrayal of what actually happens in the entertainment business. There is so much drama, half-truths, lies that is fed to the fans. I actually laughed at some of the ridiculousness but know without a doubt that it happens all the time.
I recommend this series if you are looking for a fun romantic series with a Hollywood backdrop. Plus…did I tell you that Berkeley is a rockstar?
February 9, 2015
This is book # 2 in The Brightside series by Katie Delahanty. Berkeley Dalton and Olivia Bloom's story is fantastic.....and totally complicated. They are engaged to be married but the contract to make his new movie states that no one can find out. The fine for the reveal is a million dollars!
Berkeley is very much in love with Olivia. He wants her with him all the time. He offers her a position of assistant to the assistant costumer on the set of his new movie. Well the title is something like that. Olivia is so excited for such an opportunity she leaves her great job designing lingerie for this chance and to be closer to her fiance'.
Liv and Berk are serious about one another but there are other forces at work against them. Ex-girlfriends, paparazzi, publicists, contracts, pretend friends and more!
Liv starts to have doubts. She never sees Berk, and when she does he is really good at pretending he does not know her! Berk on the other hand has so much going on.... and he starts to regret taking time away from his music career too. What should a rock star do?
Liv also has a new love interest. One who wants to see her in his future and asks her out repeatedly. Berk is not sure he can stop the doubts either. Is there too much there to come between them? Add in fanatical family and it just seems like too much?!
I think true love will win this time. Berkeley and Olivia have so much energy and sparks fly when they are in the same room. This book can be read as a stand alone story but I feel it is a better read if you can get your hands on the first book, In Bloom from The Brightside series. There is so much more to the other characters and it is worth the read. I cannot wait to see where the author goes for the next book!!
Beware the surprise ending and one should totally enjoy the sizzle that literally jumps out of the book to the reader. The chemistry for these two is huge!
***This ARC story was FREE from Netgalley.com for review purposes. My honest opinion does not reflect Netgalley nor its affiliates.
Berkeley is very much in love with Olivia. He wants her with him all the time. He offers her a position of assistant to the assistant costumer on the set of his new movie. Well the title is something like that. Olivia is so excited for such an opportunity she leaves her great job designing lingerie for this chance and to be closer to her fiance'.
Liv and Berk are serious about one another but there are other forces at work against them. Ex-girlfriends, paparazzi, publicists, contracts, pretend friends and more!
Liv starts to have doubts. She never sees Berk, and when she does he is really good at pretending he does not know her! Berk on the other hand has so much going on.... and he starts to regret taking time away from his music career too. What should a rock star do?
Liv also has a new love interest. One who wants to see her in his future and asks her out repeatedly. Berk is not sure he can stop the doubts either. Is there too much there to come between them? Add in fanatical family and it just seems like too much?!
I think true love will win this time. Berkeley and Olivia have so much energy and sparks fly when they are in the same room. This book can be read as a stand alone story but I feel it is a better read if you can get your hands on the first book, In Bloom from The Brightside series. There is so much more to the other characters and it is worth the read. I cannot wait to see where the author goes for the next book!!
Beware the surprise ending and one should totally enjoy the sizzle that literally jumps out of the book to the reader. The chemistry for these two is huge!
***This ARC story was FREE from Netgalley.com for review purposes. My honest opinion does not reflect Netgalley nor its affiliates.
March 30, 2015
I have a huge problem with the blurb of this book. There is NO indication what so ever that this is a continuation of a previously written story. You see, the relationship between out H/h (Berkeley and Olivia) started in the first book of this series, In Bloom. That being said, you can see how difficult it was for me to REALLY enjoy the story. I missed the whole 'falling in love' part! I was a little perturbed, but since it was me that requested the book to read from NetGalley, and it was me that did not investigate the book well enough before requesting it, I didn't think it fair to just NOT read it.
Despite everything I have just stated, the book ended up being pretty good. It was my first read by Katie Delahanty and her writing skills engaged me from page one. I didn't care too much for the all the drama that really didn't have to take place throughout the story, but despite rolling my eyes on more than one occasion, I kept reading. Because I really really like Olivia and Berkeley! LOL
So the gist goes like this: Olivia and Berkeley are engaged, but because he is starring in a major film alongside his ex, they have to keep their entire relationship under wraps. Olivia gets a job on the set so she can at least be close to Berkeley. Now, on top of having to hide their relationship, we have a lot drama drama trying to break them up. SO, can Olivia handle all this drama and hiding? Will their relationship stand up to all these outside forces that really don't want them together? You are gonna have to read to find out! :) But be warned, the actions of the characters within these pages are VERY 'young' and immature on a lot of occasions. You WILL roll your eyes, but I promise you will love Olivia and Berkeley in the end :)
ARC provided by Entangled Publishing, LLC via NetGalley for an honest review.
Despite everything I have just stated, the book ended up being pretty good. It was my first read by Katie Delahanty and her writing skills engaged me from page one. I didn't care too much for the all the drama that really didn't have to take place throughout the story, but despite rolling my eyes on more than one occasion, I kept reading. Because I really really like Olivia and Berkeley! LOL
So the gist goes like this: Olivia and Berkeley are engaged, but because he is starring in a major film alongside his ex, they have to keep their entire relationship under wraps. Olivia gets a job on the set so she can at least be close to Berkeley. Now, on top of having to hide their relationship, we have a lot drama drama trying to break them up. SO, can Olivia handle all this drama and hiding? Will their relationship stand up to all these outside forces that really don't want them together? You are gonna have to read to find out! :) But be warned, the actions of the characters within these pages are VERY 'young' and immature on a lot of occasions. You WILL roll your eyes, but I promise you will love Olivia and Berkeley in the end :)
ARC provided by Entangled Publishing, LLC via NetGalley for an honest review.
May 5, 2015
This book is brilliant. Full review up soon!
***
First off, let me say two things. One, I am kicking myself for not having read In Bloom before reading Blushing, but obviously I wasn’t paying attention to good books a while back. And two, I did not expect this book to be so good. Blushing was refreshing, it’s not everyday you start reading a romance novel where the couple is already pretty much established. Blushing was fabulous. I stayed up through the night to read it and when i was done, i immediately took to Twitter, because I had to gush about this book.
And that’s exactly what this book is. It’s gushy (is that even a word?), it’s funny and it’s a fantastic fun, feel-good read. I laughed through so many pages, I cried through a few parts and I admit, I had my doubts about the hero. Katie Delahanty managed to completely convince me that at one stage he was the bad guy. I was happy that this book did not essentially follow the “romance novel rules”. It did it’s best to keep the book funny and light, being essentially a chick-lit book, but it had an element of unpredictability, that I was happy to encounter.
I loved the “tweets” at the start of each chapter, it showed little tidbits of the heroine’s life that the reader wouldn’t have encountered any other way. It was a refreshing way to start each chapter and I started looking forward to reading them every time I got to the end of a chapter. Olivia’s voice perfectly captured what I think an average NA female should act, speak, think and sound like.
This book was one of the more entertaining romance/chick-lit books I have read in a while, so much so that I struggled to read anything else for about three days after reading this book. I’ll happy reread it (after reading In Bloom, of course) and I’m patiently (translation:consistently stalking Entangled Publishing and KatieDelahanty’s websites) waiting for the next in The Brightside Series.
***
First off, let me say two things. One, I am kicking myself for not having read In Bloom before reading Blushing, but obviously I wasn’t paying attention to good books a while back. And two, I did not expect this book to be so good. Blushing was refreshing, it’s not everyday you start reading a romance novel where the couple is already pretty much established. Blushing was fabulous. I stayed up through the night to read it and when i was done, i immediately took to Twitter, because I had to gush about this book.
And that’s exactly what this book is. It’s gushy (is that even a word?), it’s funny and it’s a fantastic fun, feel-good read. I laughed through so many pages, I cried through a few parts and I admit, I had my doubts about the hero. Katie Delahanty managed to completely convince me that at one stage he was the bad guy. I was happy that this book did not essentially follow the “romance novel rules”. It did it’s best to keep the book funny and light, being essentially a chick-lit book, but it had an element of unpredictability, that I was happy to encounter.
I loved the “tweets” at the start of each chapter, it showed little tidbits of the heroine’s life that the reader wouldn’t have encountered any other way. It was a refreshing way to start each chapter and I started looking forward to reading them every time I got to the end of a chapter. Olivia’s voice perfectly captured what I think an average NA female should act, speak, think and sound like.
This book was one of the more entertaining romance/chick-lit books I have read in a while, so much so that I struggled to read anything else for about three days after reading this book. I’ll happy reread it (after reading In Bloom, of course) and I’m patiently (translation:consistently stalking Entangled Publishing and KatieDelahanty’s websites) waiting for the next in The Brightside Series.
May 5, 2015
I really appreciate the story behind this series. In an effort to salvage her career in fashion, after the company with whom she'd started out was purchased by a large conglomerate, author Katie Delahanty was offered the opportunity (forced, really) to create an eCommerce site for the line she represented. With no knowledge about how to drive business to a commercial website, Katie become frustrated and decided to start a blog about wedding planning, since the fashion line she was left representing designed wedding lingerie. She created a fictional character, named Olivia Bloom, who'd just become engaged. By the end of the story, she had an 80,000 word serial and ended up with a 3-book deal to publish it all.
In the first novel of the Brightside Series, In Bloom, Olivia moves to Hollywood to test her mettle as a costume designer; she ends up working for a lingerie company (the same one Delahanty blogged for in real life!) and building her design skills. Under the tutelage of her neighbors, who happen to be Hollywood insiders, Olivia meets one of her favorite lead singers and the romance begins. The characters in the series are very likable; one of my favorites is Olivia's cousin, nicknamed Boots, who is a medical student and lives somewhat vicariously through Olivia's adventures in Hollywood.
The story of Olivia's budding romance continues in this second installment of the series, with a few twists and turns thrown in to keep readers interested in Olivia's future and that of her impending marriage to a celebrity, which brings its own complications. As an "outsider," Olivia begins to wonder what her role will be and whether she will ever truly be able to connect with her fiance. Delahanty provides readers with a delightful glimpse into the Hollywood scene, injected with wit and humor, and I look forward to the final novel in the Brightside Series. This is an easy, fun read that provided a great distraction during some horrible weather!
In the first novel of the Brightside Series, In Bloom, Olivia moves to Hollywood to test her mettle as a costume designer; she ends up working for a lingerie company (the same one Delahanty blogged for in real life!) and building her design skills. Under the tutelage of her neighbors, who happen to be Hollywood insiders, Olivia meets one of her favorite lead singers and the romance begins. The characters in the series are very likable; one of my favorites is Olivia's cousin, nicknamed Boots, who is a medical student and lives somewhat vicariously through Olivia's adventures in Hollywood.
The story of Olivia's budding romance continues in this second installment of the series, with a few twists and turns thrown in to keep readers interested in Olivia's future and that of her impending marriage to a celebrity, which brings its own complications. As an "outsider," Olivia begins to wonder what her role will be and whether she will ever truly be able to connect with her fiance. Delahanty provides readers with a delightful glimpse into the Hollywood scene, injected with wit and humor, and I look forward to the final novel in the Brightside Series. This is an easy, fun read that provided a great distraction during some horrible weather!
March 22, 2015
Totally sudsy and you'll enjoy the ride...
I bought Delahanty's first Brightside book when it came out and because I am a book hoarder who will never read everything she buys I hadn't read it yet when BLUSHING came across my reviewer pile. But I was told it could stand alone so I figured why not, it sounded kinda fun and I'm pleased to say that I was correct on both accounts!
While there's an obvious lot of information that would be helpful to know to read BLUSHING Delahanty does a great job of filling in most of the blanks without info dumping. This book is so far out of my genre preferences it isn't even funny but sometimes you just need a good soapy, guilty pleasure stroking kind of read. I liked the idea that these characters were working on a movie being made from a book and their ridiculously over-the-top lifestyle. It's ridiculous and a tiny bit campy and that's what makes it so much fun.
Liv is not a character I would normally gravitate to but it's hard not to like her. She's so in love but so out of her element. I wanted to like Berkley and at times I did, he's handsome and hard working, but I also felt like all of the turmoil and drama could have been avoided if he'd just sucked it up and eaten his losses. The idea of someone jeopardizing their relationship over money and then expecting their new fiance to be okay just really made me angry. Alas, it is this angst that keeps the plot moving and ultimately makes it a hefty but fun read. There was rarely a dull moment and I loved Delahanty's voice.
If you haven't yet read IN BLOOM I would certainly recommend reading it first but if you really can't wait you should give BLUSHING a read. Hollywood A-lister hijnks, New Adult wangst, and a will-they-survive-this-together storyline make it a great way to fill a rainy day.
Notes: Review copy received via publisher.
I bought Delahanty's first Brightside book when it came out and because I am a book hoarder who will never read everything she buys I hadn't read it yet when BLUSHING came across my reviewer pile. But I was told it could stand alone so I figured why not, it sounded kinda fun and I'm pleased to say that I was correct on both accounts!
While there's an obvious lot of information that would be helpful to know to read BLUSHING Delahanty does a great job of filling in most of the blanks without info dumping. This book is so far out of my genre preferences it isn't even funny but sometimes you just need a good soapy, guilty pleasure stroking kind of read. I liked the idea that these characters were working on a movie being made from a book and their ridiculously over-the-top lifestyle. It's ridiculous and a tiny bit campy and that's what makes it so much fun.
Liv is not a character I would normally gravitate to but it's hard not to like her. She's so in love but so out of her element. I wanted to like Berkley and at times I did, he's handsome and hard working, but I also felt like all of the turmoil and drama could have been avoided if he'd just sucked it up and eaten his losses. The idea of someone jeopardizing their relationship over money and then expecting their new fiance to be okay just really made me angry. Alas, it is this angst that keeps the plot moving and ultimately makes it a hefty but fun read. There was rarely a dull moment and I loved Delahanty's voice.
If you haven't yet read IN BLOOM I would certainly recommend reading it first but if you really can't wait you should give BLUSHING a read. Hollywood A-lister hijnks, New Adult wangst, and a will-they-survive-this-together storyline make it a great way to fill a rainy day.
Notes: Review copy received via publisher.
August 9, 2016
2-1/2 stars. Or 2. I'm not sure.
Picking up after the first book in The Brightside series by Katie Delahanty, In Bloom, Blushing has Berkeley and Olivia happy and engaged when Berkeley is making the leap from rock god to movie star. Determined to keep up his heartthrob persona, his people don't want anyone to know about his engagement to Olivia. How can they have their happily ever after when Berkeley is doing sex scenes with his ex and they're spending most of their time apart?
Good question. And the answer to that would be that they're adults. My whole issue with this book is that Berkeley was a celebrity before he met Olivia--she was already used to millions of women lusting after her man. She was already into the scene. I'm not saying it wouldn't be hard, but she already had to establish trust in order to be with him in the first place. One of the things that I liked the most about In Bloom was that it was relatively fluffy. In fact, I wanted a little more drama. This book had that, but it felt stupid and unnecessary. I missed the romance and swoon that I felt in In Bloom, too, though there was some of that here. Overall, I just didn't like this one as much as the first one, and I kind of wish I had left it with that.
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For more reviews and bookish talk, visit our blog at Pretty Sassy Cool
Picking up after the first book in The Brightside series by Katie Delahanty, In Bloom, Blushing has Berkeley and Olivia happy and engaged when Berkeley is making the leap from rock god to movie star. Determined to keep up his heartthrob persona, his people don't want anyone to know about his engagement to Olivia. How can they have their happily ever after when Berkeley is doing sex scenes with his ex and they're spending most of their time apart?
Good question. And the answer to that would be that they're adults. My whole issue with this book is that Berkeley was a celebrity before he met Olivia--she was already used to millions of women lusting after her man. She was already into the scene. I'm not saying it wouldn't be hard, but she already had to establish trust in order to be with him in the first place. One of the things that I liked the most about In Bloom was that it was relatively fluffy. In fact, I wanted a little more drama. This book had that, but it felt stupid and unnecessary. I missed the romance and swoon that I felt in In Bloom, too, though there was some of that here. Overall, I just didn't like this one as much as the first one, and I kind of wish I had left it with that.
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For more reviews and bookish talk, visit our blog at Pretty Sassy Cool
February 6, 2015
Katie Delahanty is so very talented! I loved In Bloom and couldn't wait for the chance to read more of Berkeley and Olivia's story. They, together with all of the supporting characters, are the kind of characters you wish you could hang out with and actually be around. They're wonderfully written to be realistic (Twitter accounts included - look up the @ names at the beginnings of each chapter and prepare yourself for a night of Twitter stalking). This blurring of the line between real and fictional makes the books and the characters even more enjoyable.
I'm also super impressed by Katie's ability to write a quick moving, thoroughly enjoyable romance that also proves to be inspirational - Liv's transformation from the beginning of In Bloom to the end of Blushing is beautiful.
The bottom line is that both In Bloom and Blushing should be bestsellers. Personally, I'm all in for whatever Katie writes in the future... Though I do really hope it will involve more Berkeley. ❤️
I'm also super impressed by Katie's ability to write a quick moving, thoroughly enjoyable romance that also proves to be inspirational - Liv's transformation from the beginning of In Bloom to the end of Blushing is beautiful.
The bottom line is that both In Bloom and Blushing should be bestsellers. Personally, I'm all in for whatever Katie writes in the future... Though I do really hope it will involve more Berkeley. ❤️
February 23, 2015
This book picks up where In Bloom, book 1 in the series, leaves off. Brilliantly written, Ms. Delahanty creates characters that are realistic and relatable. I was riveted from the very beginning; and even shed a few tears at the end. I loved the use of tweets at the beginning of each chapter and the length of the chapters. There is a bit of mystery and several surprises in this installment. I loved it! I hope there will be many more novels in this series. I would love to read more about Parker, Gemma, Boots, Mark and Blair. And, look forward to reading many more books by Ms. Delahanty.
ARC provided by Entangled Publishing in exchange for an honest review.
ARC provided by Entangled Publishing in exchange for an honest review.
February 5, 2015
This is the 2nd book in the Brightside series and picks up from the first book after Berkeley proposed to Liv. I really don't believe you can read this one without reading the first as too much has been set up with the main and side characters.
I read the first one the night before and jumped at the chance to read this ARC. I have mixed feelings, but the positive 90% outweighs what I may not have enjoyed, so please don't misunderstand that I didn't like or would recommend this book.
Here’s what I liked:
*What I really liked about the first book is still prevalent in this one. There is just something about the way the author has written Liv and Berkeley that makes me want more and more of them. Yes, they're an instalove couple. Eh, that doesn't bother me and it does happen in real life, too. Typically, I'm more of a fan of getting both points of view so I know exactly what my hero is thinking. Although this series has only been from Liv’s POV, I never felt like I didn't know how taken and in love Berkeley was with Liv (although a few scenes from his POV would have cleared up some issues in this book). The chemistry between these two (beyond the obvious sexual one) comes off the pages and leaves me craving more and more of them.
*In the first book I got tired of the multiple scenes with Liv’s friends and their Melrose Place courtyard. I never could get a feel for Parker and Blaire's real intentions and sincerity towards Liv. It surprised me how much I really liked the scenes with the friends in this book. I think part of that was how isolated Liv became in the book and I wanted to hug her and get her out of the drama.
1. Parker isn't in this one very much, but when he did appear he shined! I never doubted Parker’s loyalty towards Liv. In fact, he served as the voice of reason a few times in this story and I cheered when he called someone out. #TeamParker
2. I started to put this one in the “frustrated” category, but realized the author got a reaction out of me and it worked even if I didn't like it. One word – Blaire. She plays a much bigger role in this book. Although it all comes out roses in the end, even I felt hurt by her lack of friendship and decency. Again, #TeamParker!!
3. Amanda/Boots. Again, the first book had too many friend scenes for my tastes, but I couldn't get enough of Parker and Boots in this one. She is sassy, quick, and I love her sense of humor. If I was only in like with her, I fell in love with her for her actions at the shower.
4. I even didn't mind Justin. I didn't always love him, but I liked him in the end.
*Someone in this book gets their comeuppance. I know I wanted it, but figured nothing was going to happen. Total satisfaction this person got what was coming to him/her in the last few chapters.
*Go Pittsburgh! My parents lived there for many years and it was refreshing to read something other than the usual LA/NYC/etc.
*The first book educated me on the garment industry and how you go from a concept to production. This book gave me insight into costuming on move set. The author did a great job weaving this into the story, making it unique to other stories, and never did I feel like it was a big info-dump.
*Oh! This book made me think about the 2nd Thor movie so that made me happy. At the end of Thor he flies in on Natalie Portman’s patio and they immediately go into a scorching and swoon-worthy clench. I love that the woman was not Natalie, but actually Chris Hemsworth’s real wife which explains the extra scorch. The kissing scene where Liv has to step in as a body double? Totally made me think about Thor.
Here’s what frustrated me:
*It all comes down to me needing more scenes with our couple together AND interacting. Similar to the first book, there’s a quick resolution and then it’s over which left me wanting a little more time with them.
*The book followed the same pattern as the first – just insert Christina in place of Lisa and ratchet up the drama and immaturity. Obviously, as soon as the arrangement is made for them to hide their relationship you know it’s not going to go as planned (shocker). I’m not naïve and expect books to not have a conflict (kinda the whole point of a book), but there may have been a scene or two too many. A LOT of time was spent with them being separated due to other people’s agendas and misunderstandings. I may have misunderstood, but it seemed like days and then weeks would go by where they “weren't allowed” to see each other and would minimally text or phone. It hurt my heart how Berkeley let a lot of it happen (ignoring and pushing her away, letting others dictate him) and although he has to maintain an image and/or reputation with the others (such as an Instagramming dresser), I think it went too far more me to say I walked away fully enjoying and feeling good in the end. Maybe a page or two more with them back to even seeing each would have soothed 90% of the drama from earlier in the book?
*There are 2 people out to sabotage our couple. One is bad and although they get their comeuppance, I wanted to read that confrontation rather than it quickly summarized on the last few pages. And I would have loved to see that scene for both people who went to toe with him/her. The other “sabotager” comes out at the end as well. Although the person’s intentions were not evil, it annoyed me that it was the motivation and source of the conflict throughout the story. I would rather it not been manipulated by a single source and for the reasons revealed.
I’m left a little unsure about a few things. Maybe future books will address these?
1. Alison and Mark bring up how driven, single minded and a perfectionist Berkeley can be about his career. Without a doubt we see that in this book. Of course when the movie is completed he has time once again to focus on Liv, but how do I know she’s not going to be pushed to the back again? Given her future career path, how will that work with his?
2. Mark. I loved him in the first book – such a polite young man! We don't see a lot of him here, but the last scene in the bar left me very confused. Although Gemma interacts with Mark, I REALLY want to see Boots/Amanda and Mark together. I mean I really, really want that!
Overall, this book made me smile and only want to gently tear a few strands of my hair out. Fortunately, I stayed immersed (and up to 2am to finish) due to the author’s excellent writing and ability to make me feel like I'm right there with Liv and Berkeley. I'm looking forward to the next book in the series... about Mark and Boots, right???
Thank you to NetGalley and the author/publisher for providing me with an ARC of this story for an honest review!
I read the first one the night before and jumped at the chance to read this ARC. I have mixed feelings, but the positive 90% outweighs what I may not have enjoyed, so please don't misunderstand that I didn't like or would recommend this book.
Here’s what I liked:
*What I really liked about the first book is still prevalent in this one. There is just something about the way the author has written Liv and Berkeley that makes me want more and more of them. Yes, they're an instalove couple. Eh, that doesn't bother me and it does happen in real life, too. Typically, I'm more of a fan of getting both points of view so I know exactly what my hero is thinking. Although this series has only been from Liv’s POV, I never felt like I didn't know how taken and in love Berkeley was with Liv (although a few scenes from his POV would have cleared up some issues in this book). The chemistry between these two (beyond the obvious sexual one) comes off the pages and leaves me craving more and more of them.
*In the first book I got tired of the multiple scenes with Liv’s friends and their Melrose Place courtyard. I never could get a feel for Parker and Blaire's real intentions and sincerity towards Liv. It surprised me how much I really liked the scenes with the friends in this book. I think part of that was how isolated Liv became in the book and I wanted to hug her and get her out of the drama.
1. Parker isn't in this one very much, but when he did appear he shined! I never doubted Parker’s loyalty towards Liv. In fact, he served as the voice of reason a few times in this story and I cheered when he called someone out. #TeamParker
2. I started to put this one in the “frustrated” category, but realized the author got a reaction out of me and it worked even if I didn't like it. One word – Blaire. She plays a much bigger role in this book. Although it all comes out roses in the end, even I felt hurt by her lack of friendship and decency. Again, #TeamParker!!
3. Amanda/Boots. Again, the first book had too many friend scenes for my tastes, but I couldn't get enough of Parker and Boots in this one. She is sassy, quick, and I love her sense of humor. If I was only in like with her, I fell in love with her for her actions at the shower.
4. I even didn't mind Justin. I didn't always love him, but I liked him in the end.
*Someone in this book gets their comeuppance. I know I wanted it, but figured nothing was going to happen. Total satisfaction this person got what was coming to him/her in the last few chapters.
*Go Pittsburgh! My parents lived there for many years and it was refreshing to read something other than the usual LA/NYC/etc.
*The first book educated me on the garment industry and how you go from a concept to production. This book gave me insight into costuming on move set. The author did a great job weaving this into the story, making it unique to other stories, and never did I feel like it was a big info-dump.
*Oh! This book made me think about the 2nd Thor movie so that made me happy. At the end of Thor he flies in on Natalie Portman’s patio and they immediately go into a scorching and swoon-worthy clench. I love that the woman was not Natalie, but actually Chris Hemsworth’s real wife which explains the extra scorch. The kissing scene where Liv has to step in as a body double? Totally made me think about Thor.
Here’s what frustrated me:
*It all comes down to me needing more scenes with our couple together AND interacting. Similar to the first book, there’s a quick resolution and then it’s over which left me wanting a little more time with them.
*The book followed the same pattern as the first – just insert Christina in place of Lisa and ratchet up the drama and immaturity. Obviously, as soon as the arrangement is made for them to hide their relationship you know it’s not going to go as planned (shocker). I’m not naïve and expect books to not have a conflict (kinda the whole point of a book), but there may have been a scene or two too many. A LOT of time was spent with them being separated due to other people’s agendas and misunderstandings. I may have misunderstood, but it seemed like days and then weeks would go by where they “weren't allowed” to see each other and would minimally text or phone. It hurt my heart how Berkeley let a lot of it happen (ignoring and pushing her away, letting others dictate him) and although he has to maintain an image and/or reputation with the others (such as an Instagramming dresser), I think it went too far more me to say I walked away fully enjoying and feeling good in the end. Maybe a page or two more with them back to even seeing each would have soothed 90% of the drama from earlier in the book?
*There are 2 people out to sabotage our couple. One is bad and although they get their comeuppance, I wanted to read that confrontation rather than it quickly summarized on the last few pages. And I would have loved to see that scene for both people who went to toe with him/her. The other “sabotager” comes out at the end as well. Although the person’s intentions were not evil, it annoyed me that it was the motivation and source of the conflict throughout the story. I would rather it not been manipulated by a single source and for the reasons revealed.
I’m left a little unsure about a few things. Maybe future books will address these?
1. Alison and Mark bring up how driven, single minded and a perfectionist Berkeley can be about his career. Without a doubt we see that in this book. Of course when the movie is completed he has time once again to focus on Liv, but how do I know she’s not going to be pushed to the back again? Given her future career path, how will that work with his?
2. Mark. I loved him in the first book – such a polite young man! We don't see a lot of him here, but the last scene in the bar left me very confused. Although Gemma interacts with Mark, I REALLY want to see Boots/Amanda and Mark together. I mean I really, really want that!
Overall, this book made me smile and only want to gently tear a few strands of my hair out. Fortunately, I stayed immersed (and up to 2am to finish) due to the author’s excellent writing and ability to make me feel like I'm right there with Liv and Berkeley. I'm looking forward to the next book in the series... about Mark and Boots, right???
Thank you to NetGalley and the author/publisher for providing me with an ARC of this story for an honest review!
March 11, 2019
Keeps Getting Better
I devoured this book! It's currently 2AM and I pushed through to the end. This might be a new favorite author!
I devoured this book! It's currently 2AM and I pushed through to the end. This might be a new favorite author!
February 23, 2015
So as I stated previously, I LOVED Katie's first book. I was very excited to be given the opportunity to read her book before publication. Sometimes with sequels to movie or books there is the possibility of the letdown, but honestly, I wasn't worried about that at all with Katie Delahanty's newest book. I enjoyed the story of Liv and Berkeley so much, that I was anxious (in a good way!) to continue reading about their story.
This book pretty much picks up right where the last one ended. There is not any significant amount of time that has elapsed. (Thank goodness, I'd hate to miss anything!) Berkeley and Liv are now engaged and trying to figure out the details. However, because Berkeley is starring in a movie with an old (and very famous & very liked) girlfriend, the two have to keep their engagement secret. Berkeley has a lot at stake with this movie, so it is very important that Liv, who will be working as a costume designer on the movie, isn't recognized or seen with him. Liv has to go under a transformation to keep a low profile. At first, Liv can handle it, but the longer this charade goes on, the harder keeping it up (and their relationship) becomes. Liv eventually becomes very secluded where doubts start creeping in.
Gosh, I wish I could dive more into the plot of this, but I do not want to give any of the major events away. (And I DESPERATELY need someone to discuss this book with!) I will tell you that I loved it (shocker, I know...)! Like any relationship, Liv and Berkeley are still trying to figure out their relationship and each other. They have a few added obstacles with the fame and now having to keep their engagement to themselves. We get to explore different cities (New York and Pittsburgh) with these two and get to catch up with Liv's our old friends, Blair, Parker, Boots and Mark! There are a few different twists to this book and people's REAL personalities also are revealed.
I was very happy with the ending, but if certain circumstances did not come to light, I would have been content with it going in the complete opposite direction. I think this is due to Katie's writing. I think the way she writes these characters makes you want to root and support them in any decision that they make. They just feel REAL, that's really all there is to it. She also makes it possible to feel the emotions that Liv is experiencing. I remember being almost as anxious as Liv was in some of the scenes when she was interacting with certain characters. I'm pretty sure I haven't been this anxious about a character since I stayed up late in college reading the 5th Harry Potter book that featured Professor Umbridge (ugh, that women...)! I just could empathize with Liv as some things started unraveling. I take that as a good thing, because I was able to become so engrossed with this story. These characters are not overly dramatic, but they do have real life circumstances and events happening to them. I cannot comprehend Hollywood or the movie/music scene, but I felt like what is happening between Liv and Berkeley is relatable. Even though at times Liv struggles and has burdens to deal with, she becomes a stronger person in the end for it. I wish I was part of the Brightside gang!
One thing I was happy to see again in this book was the tweets and messages from the characters before each chapter. They seem to give a little insight into what you will be reading about. They don't give too much away, but they keep you wondering what you, as the reader, will be experiencing in the next chapter. (Plus, you can never get too much of Liv & the gang!) I think it's great to see Liv grow as a person and realize what she wants to do and needs out of life. She has to figure out some of the logistics of her life that she has not contemplated before. And also like the first book, I went back to reread some of the major happenings to experience them again. Some books just stick with you and never get old - this is one of those books & series. Again, like the first book, I stayed up way too late reading this and ignoring other things I should have been doing. (Sorry husband for not feeding you! I am sure he TOTALLY understands!) If you want a fun read with GREAT characters in it, make sure and check this one out! Even though I received a gift copy of this book, I purchased one to send to my kindle. You should too!
p.s. I have heard that there will be a third book in this series, but not sure who or what that entails - either way, I am sold and counting down the days until it comes out! *HAPPY DANCE!*
This book pretty much picks up right where the last one ended. There is not any significant amount of time that has elapsed. (Thank goodness, I'd hate to miss anything!) Berkeley and Liv are now engaged and trying to figure out the details. However, because Berkeley is starring in a movie with an old (and very famous & very liked) girlfriend, the two have to keep their engagement secret. Berkeley has a lot at stake with this movie, so it is very important that Liv, who will be working as a costume designer on the movie, isn't recognized or seen with him. Liv has to go under a transformation to keep a low profile. At first, Liv can handle it, but the longer this charade goes on, the harder keeping it up (and their relationship) becomes. Liv eventually becomes very secluded where doubts start creeping in.
Gosh, I wish I could dive more into the plot of this, but I do not want to give any of the major events away. (And I DESPERATELY need someone to discuss this book with!) I will tell you that I loved it (shocker, I know...)! Like any relationship, Liv and Berkeley are still trying to figure out their relationship and each other. They have a few added obstacles with the fame and now having to keep their engagement to themselves. We get to explore different cities (New York and Pittsburgh) with these two and get to catch up with Liv's our old friends, Blair, Parker, Boots and Mark! There are a few different twists to this book and people's REAL personalities also are revealed.
I was very happy with the ending, but if certain circumstances did not come to light, I would have been content with it going in the complete opposite direction. I think this is due to Katie's writing. I think the way she writes these characters makes you want to root and support them in any decision that they make. They just feel REAL, that's really all there is to it. She also makes it possible to feel the emotions that Liv is experiencing. I remember being almost as anxious as Liv was in some of the scenes when she was interacting with certain characters. I'm pretty sure I haven't been this anxious about a character since I stayed up late in college reading the 5th Harry Potter book that featured Professor Umbridge (ugh, that women...)! I just could empathize with Liv as some things started unraveling. I take that as a good thing, because I was able to become so engrossed with this story. These characters are not overly dramatic, but they do have real life circumstances and events happening to them. I cannot comprehend Hollywood or the movie/music scene, but I felt like what is happening between Liv and Berkeley is relatable. Even though at times Liv struggles and has burdens to deal with, she becomes a stronger person in the end for it. I wish I was part of the Brightside gang!
One thing I was happy to see again in this book was the tweets and messages from the characters before each chapter. They seem to give a little insight into what you will be reading about. They don't give too much away, but they keep you wondering what you, as the reader, will be experiencing in the next chapter. (Plus, you can never get too much of Liv & the gang!) I think it's great to see Liv grow as a person and realize what she wants to do and needs out of life. She has to figure out some of the logistics of her life that she has not contemplated before. And also like the first book, I went back to reread some of the major happenings to experience them again. Some books just stick with you and never get old - this is one of those books & series. Again, like the first book, I stayed up way too late reading this and ignoring other things I should have been doing. (Sorry husband for not feeding you! I am sure he TOTALLY understands!) If you want a fun read with GREAT characters in it, make sure and check this one out! Even though I received a gift copy of this book, I purchased one to send to my kindle. You should too!
p.s. I have heard that there will be a third book in this series, but not sure who or what that entails - either way, I am sold and counting down the days until it comes out! *HAPPY DANCE!*
February 18, 2015
Note: This ARC was provided by Entangled Publishing via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Olivia Bloom is in love with and engaged to Berkeley Dalton and they would want nothing more than to shout it out to the rest of the world. Only they can't. Berkeley's evil publicist wants to keep everything secret, believing that news of the engagement will hurt the film that Berkeley is producing and supposed to star in with none other than his ex-girlfriend. Berkeley is ready to step aside and simply be a producer on the film but Olivia insists that he take the starring role, believing he'd be perfect for it.
Not wanting to be apart during filming, Berkeley suggests that Olivia work as part of the production's costume department, an opportunity Olivia jumps at because it's always been her dream to be a costume designer. With her needing to change her hair color and her name so that she isn't recognized as Berkeley's girlfriend, having to pretend she doesn't know Berkeley, and watching her fiancé work with his ex, Olivia quickly realizes that this is going to be way more difficult than she had initially thought.
As filming begins, Olivia and Berkeley are forced to sneak around since Berkeley's publicist has warned them to not be seen together in public. Olivia's close friend, Blair Hamilton, is also working as a junior publicist of sorts and is becoming too chummy with Berkeley's ex-girlfriend and current co-star. Add to that an overly flirtatious and Instagram-obsessed costume assistant who thinks Berkeley wants her and the director's assistant who has a thing for Olivia and things spiral out of control.
In the middle of all the stress surrounding their secret engagement and her presence on the film set, Olivia is beginning to be overwhelmed by the idea of marrying Berkeley. She's not sure if she'll ever be enough for him, seeing that she's still searching for something she's passionate about to, at the very least, come close to her fiancé's passion for music. Will their relationship survive Olivia's insecurities and nagging feelings of doubt and guilt or are they destined to fizzle out by the end of filming?
Blushing is the second book in The Brightside series by Katie Delahanty and picks up soon after Berkeley's marriage proposal in the first book, In Bloom. I can just imagine how difficult it would be for two people who are very much in love to have to hide their feelings and the fact that they're already engaged from everyone around them. Forced to stay apart from each other, meddlesome individuals strain things further for the two for their own self-serving and, basically, thoughtless reasons.
One of the great things about this series is the cast of characters. In addition to Parker Mifflin and Mrs. Kat Bloom being my favorite supporting characters, I loved that there was more of Amanda "Boots" Conrad, Olivia's cousin and BFF, and the introduction of Justin, whose last name I can't recall. A suspicion of mine regarding Mark VanCleer, Berkeley's band mate and best friend, from something Berkeley said in book one was somewhat confirmed here. I hope his story will be featured soon. ^.^
Can I just point out that Berkeley Dalton has got to be one of the nicest and most understanding fictional celebrities I've encountered? Goodness, if this guy actually existed, people would really go nuts for him. He's pretty close to perfect and Olivia's doubts in the book had me wanting to knock some sense into her. Berkeley is prime book boyfriend material and I wouldn't be surprised if he already had his own legion of fans in the wonderful world of new adult (NA) books. If only he were real... Le sigh.
This story still had that humorous tone with a hint of mystery (all those strange notes!) and drama. If this is the last book in the series focusing on Olivia and Berkeley, it was a fitting end, but I'm looking forward to the next book, regardless if it's still about Olivia and Berkeley or the other supporting characters. ^.^ Blushing more than lived up to my high expectations, earning it 4.5 stars. ♥ I've already pre-ordered the book, so make sure you do the same. Books one and two are only 99 cents each! ♥
Release Date: 23 February 2015
Olivia Bloom is in love with and engaged to Berkeley Dalton and they would want nothing more than to shout it out to the rest of the world. Only they can't. Berkeley's evil publicist wants to keep everything secret, believing that news of the engagement will hurt the film that Berkeley is producing and supposed to star in with none other than his ex-girlfriend. Berkeley is ready to step aside and simply be a producer on the film but Olivia insists that he take the starring role, believing he'd be perfect for it.
Not wanting to be apart during filming, Berkeley suggests that Olivia work as part of the production's costume department, an opportunity Olivia jumps at because it's always been her dream to be a costume designer. With her needing to change her hair color and her name so that she isn't recognized as Berkeley's girlfriend, having to pretend she doesn't know Berkeley, and watching her fiancé work with his ex, Olivia quickly realizes that this is going to be way more difficult than she had initially thought.
As filming begins, Olivia and Berkeley are forced to sneak around since Berkeley's publicist has warned them to not be seen together in public. Olivia's close friend, Blair Hamilton, is also working as a junior publicist of sorts and is becoming too chummy with Berkeley's ex-girlfriend and current co-star. Add to that an overly flirtatious and Instagram-obsessed costume assistant who thinks Berkeley wants her and the director's assistant who has a thing for Olivia and things spiral out of control.
In the middle of all the stress surrounding their secret engagement and her presence on the film set, Olivia is beginning to be overwhelmed by the idea of marrying Berkeley. She's not sure if she'll ever be enough for him, seeing that she's still searching for something she's passionate about to, at the very least, come close to her fiancé's passion for music. Will their relationship survive Olivia's insecurities and nagging feelings of doubt and guilt or are they destined to fizzle out by the end of filming?
Blushing is the second book in The Brightside series by Katie Delahanty and picks up soon after Berkeley's marriage proposal in the first book, In Bloom. I can just imagine how difficult it would be for two people who are very much in love to have to hide their feelings and the fact that they're already engaged from everyone around them. Forced to stay apart from each other, meddlesome individuals strain things further for the two for their own self-serving and, basically, thoughtless reasons.
One of the great things about this series is the cast of characters. In addition to Parker Mifflin and Mrs. Kat Bloom being my favorite supporting characters, I loved that there was more of Amanda "Boots" Conrad, Olivia's cousin and BFF, and the introduction of Justin, whose last name I can't recall. A suspicion of mine regarding Mark VanCleer, Berkeley's band mate and best friend, from something Berkeley said in book one was somewhat confirmed here. I hope his story will be featured soon. ^.^
Can I just point out that Berkeley Dalton has got to be one of the nicest and most understanding fictional celebrities I've encountered? Goodness, if this guy actually existed, people would really go nuts for him. He's pretty close to perfect and Olivia's doubts in the book had me wanting to knock some sense into her. Berkeley is prime book boyfriend material and I wouldn't be surprised if he already had his own legion of fans in the wonderful world of new adult (NA) books. If only he were real... Le sigh.
This story still had that humorous tone with a hint of mystery (all those strange notes!) and drama. If this is the last book in the series focusing on Olivia and Berkeley, it was a fitting end, but I'm looking forward to the next book, regardless if it's still about Olivia and Berkeley or the other supporting characters. ^.^ Blushing more than lived up to my high expectations, earning it 4.5 stars. ♥ I've already pre-ordered the book, so make sure you do the same. Books one and two are only 99 cents each! ♥
Release Date: 23 February 2015
February 23, 2015
Blushing (The Brightside 2), Katie Delahanty
Genre: New adult, Contemporary romance
Review from Jeannie Zelos book reviews
Having had this for review I decided to buy the first book In Bloom too, as its only 99p, and its connected to this one although both can be read as standalones. I really enjoyed that – it was what to me NA should be, a HEA romance with plenty of drama and angst. I love those set in rock/film world too so that’s a bonus.
This book – a great follow up. At the end of the last Berkeley had just proposed, and its was happy, happy, happy all the way – then comes something he’s been trying to get out of. He’s lead singer for the band but also branching out into acting, and having purchased the film right for a popular new book series he’s cast as the lead, with his ex as the female lead and romantic interest. Liv wants him to take the role, she thinks he’s perfect for it and that the fact her and Berkeley's romance has to be kept quiet will keep her out of the media for a while. She’s had a taste of that when they first got together and it was awful.
Berkeley can’t bear for them to be apart though for two months, and she’s delighted that he helps her secure a role in the costume dept so she can come with him. Its something she’s been aiming at career wise, and she hated the thought of him being away so long. Sounds good doesn't it – but his publicity agent Shar demands she change her name and appearance, so she’s not associated with the Olivia Bloom that was with Berkeley in the press so recently. There’s some strong clauses in the contracts that mean if the story breaks that he and co star Christina aren’t really together he could lose a huge amount of money....
Liv thinks she’ll be fine and she would – except it soon seems everyone is out to sabotage her. Add in that Berkeley is distracted with the film, Christina is a bitch, she’s offering Liv “friendly” advice, but telling her also the Berkeley still loves her ( Christina) and they’re soul mates and poor Liv is struggling. She and Berkeley see even less of each other than they hoped, due to some revelations in the media that are leaked and that shake the arrangement badly. Shar demands Liv stay away, stay off the set and hotel, and lodge with her parents, and things seem to be drifting apart for them....and there’s never a chance for them to talk about what’s wrong. Liv wonders if Berkeley regrets getting engaged. I felt so sad for her, she was trying her best and yet it seemed someone – or more than one person - were out to set her up to fail. Her colleague Scarlett keeps intimating she and Berkeley are together, Christina the ex tells her Berkeley still wants her, is leaving little notes for her and she’s tweeting all the things he’s supposed to be doing for her. Even Christina’s solicitor Alison has secrets...Throw in that Blair, Liv’s close friend who has got a job as Shar’s assistant, has also dropped her to join “team Christina” and poor Liv feels so alone. Its hard then not to read more into things. I did wonder about Berkeley, couldn’t really believe he’d stray, or let her down like this but the evidence seems to be mounting up. Liv too, gets into a couple of situations she doesn’t want that look bad, and the drama and tension grows. Can they get through or will the circumstances break them apart?
I loved this just as much as the first book – sometimes once the couple are together the magic has gone for me and it shows, but here the drama and tension is kept up right to the very end – and its a perfect ending!!
Stars:Five, classic NA romance.
ARC provided by Netgalley and publishers.
February 19, 2015
When I saw Blushing on netgalley I immediately put my request in and waited to be approved, but once I picked it up I was worried that I would not remember things from the previous book as it's been a long time, and lots of books since I last read In Bloom. I needn't have worried, I fell back into this world hard and fast, and within a few pages remembered how much I love Liv's quirky, psychic mum, Liv's friends, and Liv herself.
This is the love that we see between Liv and Berkeley, it makes you smile, it makes your heart melt, but as the story progresses we don't always see this as this duo lose focus on what they really mean to each other.
Blushing takes Liv away from the safety of her home and her friends, and thrusts her into the movie industry as an assistant costume designer for Berkeley's new movie, of course he helped get her there, and told an enormous lie in order to maintain the gag order placed on everyone in the know about himself and Liv's relationship status.. But what she thought was going to be fun and a great way to spend more time with Berkeley, soon turns out wrong and she finds herself having to deal with the adoring fans in the form of fellow assistants, and Christina's pseudo friendship. The time she thought she would get to spend with Berkeley becomes less and less, putting a strain on their relationship and making Liv doubt his feelings for her, but also her ability to deal with the fame and fortune that comes with him.
Reading Blushing I felt so sorry for Liv, she is lost and out of her depth, and even though Blair is there, Liv is still alone and friendless while Blair lets her working partnership with Christina get in the way. The feelings of loss and loneliness come across easily in the pages, and it made it so easy to want to pick Liv up and hug her, and push everyone else away for acting the way they do. Everyone is getting sucked into the fickleness of the movie industry, and poor Liv is having to deal with the fallout of it all, being left out or pushed away as the movie making continues.
Blushing also gives us the chance to really see into Berkeley's life as a pop star and as an actor. We see the lengths he has to go through to be normal, disguising himself, having bodyguards around all the time, and even being careful with who he is seen with. We also see how much this business can really affect a relationship and the strain and tension is portrayed through the eyes of Liv, and the actions of those around her, including Berkeley.
Blushing was just as good as In Bloom, and not only did the ending surprise Liv, it also surprised me. At this moment of posting the review there don't seem to be any plans for a new book, but I would love to see what happens next for this duo, especially after Liv's offer and actions in Blushing.
I also want to mention quickly how much I love the covers for these books and how they represent both Liv and Berkeley's lives. The top being Liv and her job as lingerie designer, the bottom for Berkeley, for his fame in the band and as an actor.
Final Verdict
Another great book for this series, with a well deserved ending.....I just need to know if a next book is in the works?
"I'll do my best not to trip," I reply, imagining my feet getting tangled in my dress and the inevitable face-plant.
"I'll catch you if you do." He smiles. "I promise. I'll always be there."
This is the love that we see between Liv and Berkeley, it makes you smile, it makes your heart melt, but as the story progresses we don't always see this as this duo lose focus on what they really mean to each other.
Blushing takes Liv away from the safety of her home and her friends, and thrusts her into the movie industry as an assistant costume designer for Berkeley's new movie, of course he helped get her there, and told an enormous lie in order to maintain the gag order placed on everyone in the know about himself and Liv's relationship status.. But what she thought was going to be fun and a great way to spend more time with Berkeley, soon turns out wrong and she finds herself having to deal with the adoring fans in the form of fellow assistants, and Christina's pseudo friendship. The time she thought she would get to spend with Berkeley becomes less and less, putting a strain on their relationship and making Liv doubt his feelings for her, but also her ability to deal with the fame and fortune that comes with him.
Reading Blushing I felt so sorry for Liv, she is lost and out of her depth, and even though Blair is there, Liv is still alone and friendless while Blair lets her working partnership with Christina get in the way. The feelings of loss and loneliness come across easily in the pages, and it made it so easy to want to pick Liv up and hug her, and push everyone else away for acting the way they do. Everyone is getting sucked into the fickleness of the movie industry, and poor Liv is having to deal with the fallout of it all, being left out or pushed away as the movie making continues.
Blushing also gives us the chance to really see into Berkeley's life as a pop star and as an actor. We see the lengths he has to go through to be normal, disguising himself, having bodyguards around all the time, and even being careful with who he is seen with. We also see how much this business can really affect a relationship and the strain and tension is portrayed through the eyes of Liv, and the actions of those around her, including Berkeley.
Blushing was just as good as In Bloom, and not only did the ending surprise Liv, it also surprised me. At this moment of posting the review there don't seem to be any plans for a new book, but I would love to see what happens next for this duo, especially after Liv's offer and actions in Blushing.
I also want to mention quickly how much I love the covers for these books and how they represent both Liv and Berkeley's lives. The top being Liv and her job as lingerie designer, the bottom for Berkeley, for his fame in the band and as an actor.
Final Verdict
Another great book for this series, with a well deserved ending.....I just need to know if a next book is in the works?
February 24, 2015
ARC provided by NetGalley for an honest review.
** Berkeleyaddict 4 brightside stars.**
********************************************************
I loved Katie Delahanty’s first book, In Bloom. I discovered such endearing and great characters. Olivia and Berkeley were amazing together and I was thrilled to read about them again!
Her writing is refreshing and she created a great world around these two lovers, between the craziness of being in the side of a famous actor/singer and the constant reminder of the media and how social media took an important place into fame.
This time, we followed them into their journey of happiness and Olivia is engaged to Berkeley.
But when he’s set to star in a movie with his crazy ex Christina, it ’s the beginning of a crazy time for Olivia and she couldn’t tell anyone that she was engaged to the love of her life. And I felt bad for her.
I loved how late showed up the background of a creation of a movie, through the performance of the actors, the costume designers, the technicians, everything!
The story was
Back to one of fave couples, and I had definitely a thing for Berkeley! This man was so honest, caring, completely and insanely in love with Olivia. I loved how he considered her as a partner and always put her first. He made me swoon, but he had some flaws but I forgave you Katie, he made him more sexier!:-)
Olivia was very tough, patient, stubborn, but this girl could stand against everyone. But she really had to be tough this time, careful because Berkeley would lose a lot if they went public. She was overwhelmed by all of this, things went too fast, too soon.
Get ready for a game of hiding, secrets encounters, avoiding the press and hot and sexy moments!
In the way to protect Berkeley’s interests she kind of lose her way and we could sense that it was very hard for her to be alone against the world, she felt alone even if she was surrounded by a sea of people out there. She lost her spark!
I was kind of scared by the turn of the events because Olivia and Berkeley are EPIC and there was so much passion, intensity in their relationship, that totally melt my heart. But in the way, they found people they could trust, the ones who betrayed them and how anyone could throw you under a bus in order to get some celebrity time!
Hopefully, they found their way back in a passionate, romantic, intense way. Reading Blushing was kind of watching a movie (a great "mise en abyme" by the way) and I loved The Brightside world! Thank you Katie for this sequel, but I had just one warning: even if you could read it as a standalone, it would be so much better to advise people to read the first one because that the one who made me fall in love with these two.
If you’re looking for a refreshing, entertaining, sexy and hot romance, this one (and obviously In Bloom too), is for you! #Berkeleyaddict #Brightsiderocks #Berkliviaforever!
Review here : http://aalyandthebooks.canalblog.com/...
** Berkeleyaddict 4 brightside stars.**
********************************************************
I loved Katie Delahanty’s first book, In Bloom. I discovered such endearing and great characters. Olivia and Berkeley were amazing together and I was thrilled to read about them again!
Her writing is refreshing and she created a great world around these two lovers, between the craziness of being in the side of a famous actor/singer and the constant reminder of the media and how social media took an important place into fame.
This time, we followed them into their journey of happiness and Olivia is engaged to Berkeley.
But when he’s set to star in a movie with his crazy ex Christina, it ’s the beginning of a crazy time for Olivia and she couldn’t tell anyone that she was engaged to the love of her life. And I felt bad for her.
I loved how late showed up the background of a creation of a movie, through the performance of the actors, the costume designers, the technicians, everything!
The story was
Back to one of fave couples, and I had definitely a thing for Berkeley! This man was so honest, caring, completely and insanely in love with Olivia. I loved how he considered her as a partner and always put her first. He made me swoon, but he had some flaws but I forgave you Katie, he made him more sexier!:-)
Olivia was very tough, patient, stubborn, but this girl could stand against everyone. But she really had to be tough this time, careful because Berkeley would lose a lot if they went public. She was overwhelmed by all of this, things went too fast, too soon.
Get ready for a game of hiding, secrets encounters, avoiding the press and hot and sexy moments!
In the way to protect Berkeley’s interests she kind of lose her way and we could sense that it was very hard for her to be alone against the world, she felt alone even if she was surrounded by a sea of people out there. She lost her spark!
I was kind of scared by the turn of the events because Olivia and Berkeley are EPIC and there was so much passion, intensity in their relationship, that totally melt my heart. But in the way, they found people they could trust, the ones who betrayed them and how anyone could throw you under a bus in order to get some celebrity time!
Hopefully, they found their way back in a passionate, romantic, intense way. Reading Blushing was kind of watching a movie (a great "mise en abyme" by the way) and I loved The Brightside world! Thank you Katie for this sequel, but I had just one warning: even if you could read it as a standalone, it would be so much better to advise people to read the first one because that the one who made me fall in love with these two.
If you’re looking for a refreshing, entertaining, sexy and hot romance, this one (and obviously In Bloom too), is for you! #Berkeleyaddict #Brightsiderocks #Berkliviaforever!
Review here : http://aalyandthebooks.canalblog.com/...
February 25, 2015
After falling for Olivia and Berkeley while reading In Bloom, I was excited for the next part of their love story. I am thrilled to say that Blushing absolutely blew away all of my expectations. Katie Delahanty has written an incredible follow up with this novel and I was absolutely enthralled from the moment it began. Picking up where In Bloom left off, Blushing immediately swept me back into the A-list lifestyle of Berkeley Dalton. As Olivia tries to find her place in his star-studded world, unexpected twists and turns ensure that the journey is anything but smooth sailing. New faces and professional challenges color this story, testing Olivia and Berkeley’s relationship. The ride was exciting and definitely worth every bit of angst along the way. Katie Delahanty keeps the chemistry between Berkeley and Olivia blazing, and I couldn’t help but get a little addicted to the heat.
Both Berkeley and Olivia underwent significant transformation in Blushing. Katie Delahanty really put these two to the test and the result was two unique and definitive characters you can’t help but love. We really get to see so many sides to Berkeley in this book and it really gave his character a three-dimensional feel. Seeing his faults, vulnerabilities, and distinctive personality traits (both good and bad) really gave him an authenticity that I could appreciate. He became so much more than another Hollywood BBF. While Berkeley seems to know what he wants and runs after it full speed, Olivia’s journey of self-discovery is more gradual. I could really relate to her evolving ideas of what she wants out of her life, career, and relationship. Her struggle to define herself was unquestionably genuine to any twenty-something trying to make their mark on the world.
Experiencing a character’s emotions while you read is a deeply satisfying feeling, but there is something about being able to feel them almost viscerally that is simply magical. Katie Delahanty’s writing has grown by leaps and bounds since In Bloom. I felt like she’d hooked into me and held me hostage until the book was finished. Her voice is relevant, fresh, and socially in-tune. She doesn’t overlook the little details that really pull a story together, allowing me to completely lose myself in it. She had my stomach filling with nerves as Olivia and Berkeley snuck around and I found myself worrying incessantly, wracking my brain for how Olivia could cope with everything that was happening. I’m so excited about this author and I’m looking forward to watching her polish her craft and continue to blow me away with her storytelling. Blushing was everything I could have wanted for Berkeley and Olivia and then some!
Both Berkeley and Olivia underwent significant transformation in Blushing. Katie Delahanty really put these two to the test and the result was two unique and definitive characters you can’t help but love. We really get to see so many sides to Berkeley in this book and it really gave his character a three-dimensional feel. Seeing his faults, vulnerabilities, and distinctive personality traits (both good and bad) really gave him an authenticity that I could appreciate. He became so much more than another Hollywood BBF. While Berkeley seems to know what he wants and runs after it full speed, Olivia’s journey of self-discovery is more gradual. I could really relate to her evolving ideas of what she wants out of her life, career, and relationship. Her struggle to define herself was unquestionably genuine to any twenty-something trying to make their mark on the world.
Experiencing a character’s emotions while you read is a deeply satisfying feeling, but there is something about being able to feel them almost viscerally that is simply magical. Katie Delahanty’s writing has grown by leaps and bounds since In Bloom. I felt like she’d hooked into me and held me hostage until the book was finished. Her voice is relevant, fresh, and socially in-tune. She doesn’t overlook the little details that really pull a story together, allowing me to completely lose myself in it. She had my stomach filling with nerves as Olivia and Berkeley snuck around and I found myself worrying incessantly, wracking my brain for how Olivia could cope with everything that was happening. I’m so excited about this author and I’m looking forward to watching her polish her craft and continue to blow me away with her storytelling. Blushing was everything I could have wanted for Berkeley and Olivia and then some!
February 17, 2015
I fell in love with Olivia Bloom and her crazy friends and family in the first book in this Brightside series and I was not disappointed in this second novel that follows their antics. BLUSHING has the same wonderful, fresh voice and snappy dialogue that captured me in the first book, but with higher stakes and more to lose.
This book picks up where the last left off but doesn’t skip a beat in putting Olivia and Berkeley in hot water. With an engagement on the line and public appearances to keep up, Olivia isn’t sure who to trust as she embarks on a new career opportunity and tries to keep her love affair a secret. All of that sneaking around makes for some seriously sexy moments between Olivia and Berkeley and I loved the tension that keeping their love a secret added to this novel.
Besides romantic tension, there’s also friendship tension as Blair gets her big chance to shine and her loyalties get tested. I wanted more of Parker in this novel since I loved him so much in IN BLOOM, but once he arrives I was more than pleased with his addition to the storyline. He’s a great character with a ton of heart and I loved seeing him come to Olivia’s rescue. The bridal shower scene with Parker playing shower games with the ladies is EVERYTHING- so funny.
I also loved seeing more interaction with Boots in this book and have high, high hopes for a Boots-Mark love story in the future. Do I hear a book three? Pretty, pretty please? Those two are just s creaming to be lovers and I’d give anything to see that story written.
With a wonderful inside look at film making and costuming, this book delivers on all of the promises set up in the first book. There’s a fresh, sexy romance, wonderful friendships, one crazy mom, and more than enough backstabbing and tension to carry the plot. Be sure to read IN BLOOM first- but then dive right in and enjoy BLUSHING.
Katie Delahanty has been moved to my insta-buy list. I’d read anything she writes!
This book picks up where the last left off but doesn’t skip a beat in putting Olivia and Berkeley in hot water. With an engagement on the line and public appearances to keep up, Olivia isn’t sure who to trust as she embarks on a new career opportunity and tries to keep her love affair a secret. All of that sneaking around makes for some seriously sexy moments between Olivia and Berkeley and I loved the tension that keeping their love a secret added to this novel.
Besides romantic tension, there’s also friendship tension as Blair gets her big chance to shine and her loyalties get tested. I wanted more of Parker in this novel since I loved him so much in IN BLOOM, but once he arrives I was more than pleased with his addition to the storyline. He’s a great character with a ton of heart and I loved seeing him come to Olivia’s rescue. The bridal shower scene with Parker playing shower games with the ladies is EVERYTHING- so funny.
I also loved seeing more interaction with Boots in this book and have high, high hopes for a Boots-Mark love story in the future. Do I hear a book three? Pretty, pretty please? Those two are just s creaming to be lovers and I’d give anything to see that story written.
With a wonderful inside look at film making and costuming, this book delivers on all of the promises set up in the first book. There’s a fresh, sexy romance, wonderful friendships, one crazy mom, and more than enough backstabbing and tension to carry the plot. Be sure to read IN BLOOM first- but then dive right in and enjoy BLUSHING.
Katie Delahanty has been moved to my insta-buy list. I’d read anything she writes!
September 4, 2015
Original can be found @ Books & Swoons
4.5 stars out of 5 stars
*I received an eARC of this title from the publisher but it did not influenced this review in any way.*
I was so excited to get to read Blushing! I absolutely loved catching up with all of my favorite characters! I was starting to have Berkley and Liv withdrawls like seriously.
The Story:
I love the concept of this novel. The plot is a little predictable but there are definitely some plot twists that left me in shock. I like the mystery component of the story. I didn't really know who is causing all the trouble on set, which made me suspicious of everyone. There were times I really felt bad for Liv because man it just seemed like everyone was against her, like she didn't have anyone on her side. I am glad she was able to over come those obstacles. What really has me hooked on this story is the wonderful characters. I love to read about their lives and Ms. Delahanty does a great job of making the reader feel like a part of their story.
The Characters:
I am really happy with Liv's character growth, although there were times I just wanted to slap her because I swear she's used the same tactic before and it didn't go so well the first time either. I forgave her because she grew a pair of balls by the end of the story and when after what she wanted. I was really annoyed with Berkley for a lot of the story and we don't get to see him as much as I would have liked but he was acting like a douche canoe for most of the story but I forgave him by the end too. Really, both Berkley and Liv were at fault for their communication issues.
I enjoyed getting lost between the pages of Blushing. It is a great story that will leave you feeling good.
4.5 stars out of 5 stars
*I received an eARC of this title from the publisher but it did not influenced this review in any way.*
I was so excited to get to read Blushing! I absolutely loved catching up with all of my favorite characters! I was starting to have Berkley and Liv withdrawls like seriously.
The Story:
I love the concept of this novel. The plot is a little predictable but there are definitely some plot twists that left me in shock. I like the mystery component of the story. I didn't really know who is causing all the trouble on set, which made me suspicious of everyone. There were times I really felt bad for Liv because man it just seemed like everyone was against her, like she didn't have anyone on her side. I am glad she was able to over come those obstacles. What really has me hooked on this story is the wonderful characters. I love to read about their lives and Ms. Delahanty does a great job of making the reader feel like a part of their story.
The Characters:
I am really happy with Liv's character growth, although there were times I just wanted to slap her because I swear she's used the same tactic before and it didn't go so well the first time either. I forgave her because she grew a pair of balls by the end of the story and when after what she wanted. I was really annoyed with Berkley for a lot of the story and we don't get to see him as much as I would have liked but he was acting like a douche canoe for most of the story but I forgave him by the end too. Really, both Berkley and Liv were at fault for their communication issues.
I enjoyed getting lost between the pages of Blushing. It is a great story that will leave you feeling good.
March 18, 2015
4.5 Stars
#LovingThisDebutAuthor’sBooks
Blushing picks up right after Liv and Berkeleys’ engagement with him moving on to begin an acting gig – in Pittsburgh, no less – and Liv hired on as a wardrobe assistant’s assistant. As much as they’re working together on the same set their relationship remains a secret and their only contact comes from after-hours hook-ups or brief encounters on set or in trailers. Top it off with Blair's mid-shoot no contact edict [she's hired on to handle production PR] and Berkeley's all-consuming focus on the film and his on-screen persona and Olivia's feeling more like a lonely, friendless outcast than a fiance. But she still has her mother's planned family-only engagement party to get through even without the true groom-to-be's presence.
There’s a lot more going on in this book and a few unexpected reveals to really spice things up and hike up the angst factor. But what really makes this story IMHO are the amazing follow-through characters - especially that of Olivia Bloom who is a fantastic H. She may have been in over her head when it came to the whole Hollywood movie and engaged to a rockstar scene – but she always remained true to herself and to her friends, and in particular to Berkeley, who on his own was a great character, never coming across as the arrogant, self-absorbed persona sometimes typical of the mega famous rockstar.
I’m hoping this series still has more books to come as there remains a South African winery wedding ceremony, a High School good luck charm to reveal [or did I miss it?] and maybe a Boots – Mark hook-up. I just hope this author writes a whole lot faster than I can read.
* 4.5 Stars *
#LovingThisDebutAuthor’sBooks
Blushing picks up right after Liv and Berkeleys’ engagement with him moving on to begin an acting gig – in Pittsburgh, no less – and Liv hired on as a wardrobe assistant’s assistant. As much as they’re working together on the same set their relationship remains a secret and their only contact comes from after-hours hook-ups or brief encounters on set or in trailers. Top it off with Blair's mid-shoot no contact edict [she's hired on to handle production PR] and Berkeley's all-consuming focus on the film and his on-screen persona and Olivia's feeling more like a lonely, friendless outcast than a fiance. But she still has her mother's planned family-only engagement party to get through even without the true groom-to-be's presence.
There’s a lot more going on in this book and a few unexpected reveals to really spice things up and hike up the angst factor. But what really makes this story IMHO are the amazing follow-through characters - especially that of Olivia Bloom who is a fantastic H. She may have been in over her head when it came to the whole Hollywood movie and engaged to a rockstar scene – but she always remained true to herself and to her friends, and in particular to Berkeley, who on his own was a great character, never coming across as the arrogant, self-absorbed persona sometimes typical of the mega famous rockstar.
I’m hoping this series still has more books to come as there remains a South African winery wedding ceremony, a High School good luck charm to reveal [or did I miss it?] and maybe a Boots – Mark hook-up. I just hope this author writes a whole lot faster than I can read.
* 4.5 Stars *
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