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Ikana College #1
Tangled Up in Blue
The first time I saw him, he was shirtless and sexy and sprawled on my front porch. He gave me this sizzling look that, I swear, sent shivers through my soul. Then his panty-melting grin made me tingle in places people don't talk about at parties. Right there, I was done for. Right there, I got tangled up in Blue. And my life will never be the same...
Tangled Up in Blue is Book 1 in the Ikana College series by J.D. Brick. It tells the first part of the searing and sexy love story of Keegan and Blue. Book 2, Shelter from the Storm, concludes the story.
Tangled Up in Blue is Book 1 in the Ikana College series by J.D. Brick. It tells the first part of the searing and sexy love story of Keegan and Blue. Book 2, Shelter from the Storm, concludes the story.
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First published March 14, 2015
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About the author
J.D. Brick
3 books62 followersJ.D. Brick (AKA Jackie Meeks) lives in Florida but dreams of spending summers in a mountain cabin. She loves great books and good coffee. Or vice versa.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 61 reviews
August 13, 2015
Title: Tangled up in Blue
Series: Ikana College #1
Author: J.D. Brick
Release date: March 15, 2015
Cliffhanger: Yes
HEA
Tangled Up in Blue is my first read by J.D. Brick. It's told in dual POV which is always nice, but unfortunately there is a dreaded cliffhanger, guys. So if you're one who needs to avoid them at all costs, you're going to want to wait until book two, Shelter From the Storm is released. This will be the conclusion to Keegan and Blue's story with more books in the series to follow for the secondary characters. I must admit, I had an extremely hard time getting into this book. Whether it was just a personal issue with my book funk or not, this New Adult book had several things that push my reader buttons, and not in a good way. However, as a debut author, I think J.D. Brick has a lot of potential and with a little bit of growth I believe her writing will really flourish.
This story is about Blue, a 25 year old man living in the campus party house who's trying to forget the painful past he left behind after leaving the military. He spends his time on his guitar playing music and taking advantage of the constant parties to blur the pain that haunts him.
He's hiding a secret about the events surrounding the deaths of his best friends while serving in Afghanistan. Keegan soothes him and quiets the storm of emotion in him from the very beginning.
I breathe in and close my eyes, willing all the voices out of my head. The hell with it. I only want to hear from Keegan. She needs me. And God help us both, I need her.
I appreciated the fact that this ex-military hero had a different conflict than the norm. The majority of the time, it's PTSD and while that's a very real problem, it was nice to see something outside the box.
Keegan is a young woman who comes from a rich family. Her grandmother raised her after her mother passed away and they had a difficult relationship. When she left to college she thought she'd gain freedom but now as a sophomore in College, she's dealing with a threatening stalker and is forced to move into Blue's house as a roommate. The set up is one that intrigued me, but unfortunately, I felt that the feelings between Blue and Keegan moved at light speed. He was saying things like this within a few days of knowing her:
I want you to be ready. I want you to be sure. I'll wait for you, Keegan. I'll always wait for you."
If you're not a fan of insta-love, you're not going to be a fan of this couple. This is one of my pet peeves, therefore I wasn't loving the progression of their emotional attachment. The moment they met, he started to become obsessed with her and needy. Maybe it was his "White Knight Syndrome", his need to protect and save people. Because she was a heroine who was being attacked from an unknown person, he immediately latched on to her.
I can't help feeling protective around women. Mama tells me it's because I am one of the good guys. But that instinct sure has gotten me into plenty of trouble.
Between the secret he was hiding, and her stalker, there was a considerable amount of drama going on. I would have liked to have seen more development on them falling in love and getting to know one another, but with everything going on, it was easy for that to get minimized.
The secondary characters were developed nicely with rich personalities, I was impressed with that. Even the unlikable characters were fleshed out enough to intrigue me about their future books.
If you're looking for a quick New Adult read, this might fit the bill. I struggled with it, but overall, my issues aside it was a decent debut book for new author J.D. Brick. I'm curious to see the direction she takes with some of the secondary characters.
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September 22, 2016
Clear your mind and open your heart to a story that could have been the typical college romance filled with the requisite excessive sex and romantic angst, but it’s not. You are about to enter into a world where two people find the strength to depend on and truly trust in each other when things look their bleakest and the past is the most haunting.
J.D. Brick’s Tangled Up in Blue is true love at its finest as Keegan and Blue meet just when Keegan needed someone most. She is being stalked, her reputation and her accomplishments are on the line and all she has worked for could be taken away in a heartbeat. Blue becomes her knight in tarnished armor, her protector, her strength and everything her heart could want.
Blue is ex-military, currently disguised as a party boy with a keen sense of responsibility and a quirky sense of musical taste. He also lives every day with a nightmare from his past in Afghanistan when he lost his best friends, the soldiers who tried to have his back in a land where you trust no one, nothing you see and realize that every minute you breathe could be your last. He came home a decorated hero with PTSD and a cowardly lie deep in his gut. Keegan soothes his inner demons and he vows to become the man she deserves, at any price. Heros aren’t born, and their heroism isn’t always obvious, but sometimes just the courage to own the truth deserves recognition.
Prepare to be gutted by the pain of lies, blackmail and the consequences of deceit as two souls face losing the most precious gift they have found, love. What J.D. Brick wrote as a contemporary romance, I call true romantic brilliance with heart, characters that will rock your world and the discovery of how far one’s heart will take them to hold on to love.
I received this copy from H.D. Brick in exchange for my honest review.
Series: Ikana College - Book 1
Publisher: J.D. Brick (March 14, 2015)
Publication Date: March 14, 2015
Genre: Contemporary Romance NA
Print Length: 258 pages
Available from: Amazon
For Reviews & More: http://tometender.blogspot.com
J.D. Brick’s Tangled Up in Blue is true love at its finest as Keegan and Blue meet just when Keegan needed someone most. She is being stalked, her reputation and her accomplishments are on the line and all she has worked for could be taken away in a heartbeat. Blue becomes her knight in tarnished armor, her protector, her strength and everything her heart could want.
Blue is ex-military, currently disguised as a party boy with a keen sense of responsibility and a quirky sense of musical taste. He also lives every day with a nightmare from his past in Afghanistan when he lost his best friends, the soldiers who tried to have his back in a land where you trust no one, nothing you see and realize that every minute you breathe could be your last. He came home a decorated hero with PTSD and a cowardly lie deep in his gut. Keegan soothes his inner demons and he vows to become the man she deserves, at any price. Heros aren’t born, and their heroism isn’t always obvious, but sometimes just the courage to own the truth deserves recognition.
Prepare to be gutted by the pain of lies, blackmail and the consequences of deceit as two souls face losing the most precious gift they have found, love. What J.D. Brick wrote as a contemporary romance, I call true romantic brilliance with heart, characters that will rock your world and the discovery of how far one’s heart will take them to hold on to love.
I received this copy from H.D. Brick in exchange for my honest review.
Series: Ikana College - Book 1
Publisher: J.D. Brick (March 14, 2015)
Publication Date: March 14, 2015
Genre: Contemporary Romance NA
Print Length: 258 pages
Available from: Amazon
For Reviews & More: http://tometender.blogspot.com
August 21, 2015
**You can see this full review and more at Book Briefs: http://bookbriefs.net**Tangled Up in Blue is the first book in the new adult contemporary romance series, Ikana College by author J.D. Brick. I really liked that Tangled Up in Blue was told in dual narrative, and I really did like the two main characters- Blue and Keegan. But the story fell a little flat for me. On one hand, the romance was interesting and the story was solidly good. Fans of new adult will enjoy the romance and the college setting. But people who are getting burnt out on new adult, or who dislike new adult that is all the same, this may not be the book for you.
For the record, let me say, that I am not burnt out on New Adult. New Adult contemporary romance is my favorite age group for contemporary romance. But Tangled up in Blue felt very generic as far as new adult romances went. It was good, but it wasn't anything different to make it stand out in my mind. But now, let's talk about what I did like in Tangled up in Blue. I liked the set up. I liked that Keegan was thrown into this big party house, which was totally not her scene. It made for lots of built in roommates (characters) for the story. I liked the way J.D. Brick used dramatic elements in this story. She didn't just keep throwing drama in your face, but it was kind of there in the background, in the form of a kind of sort of ex, Blue's mysterious past and Keegan's stalker of course.
The stalker storyline, by the way...totally creeped me out! I would have flipped if that happened to me. Keegan way handling it too calmly in my opinion. So why wasn't this story a bigger hit with me? Something about Blue's connection with Keegan felt off. Cheesy maybe? I'm not exactly sure. I liked it, and it has all the ingredients that would make this a new adult hit with me. And while the end result was something that I enjoyed, it didn't become the home run I was hoping for. The story felt long in parts.
Bottom Line: This is a good, but kind of generic new adult contemporary romance. If you can't get enough of the new adult genre and like your romances a little on the cheesy side, Tangled up in Blue would be a great pick for you. If you are a little worn out on New Adult, I would say pass on this one. Will I be continuing on in the series? Maybe. I am interested in what is going to happen next, so we will see.
This review was originally posted on Book Briefs
For the record, let me say, that I am not burnt out on New Adult. New Adult contemporary romance is my favorite age group for contemporary romance. But Tangled up in Blue felt very generic as far as new adult romances went. It was good, but it wasn't anything different to make it stand out in my mind. But now, let's talk about what I did like in Tangled up in Blue. I liked the set up. I liked that Keegan was thrown into this big party house, which was totally not her scene. It made for lots of built in roommates (characters) for the story. I liked the way J.D. Brick used dramatic elements in this story. She didn't just keep throwing drama in your face, but it was kind of there in the background, in the form of a kind of sort of ex, Blue's mysterious past and Keegan's stalker of course.
The stalker storyline, by the way...totally creeped me out! I would have flipped if that happened to me. Keegan way handling it too calmly in my opinion. So why wasn't this story a bigger hit with me? Something about Blue's connection with Keegan felt off. Cheesy maybe? I'm not exactly sure. I liked it, and it has all the ingredients that would make this a new adult hit with me. And while the end result was something that I enjoyed, it didn't become the home run I was hoping for. The story felt long in parts.
Bottom Line: This is a good, but kind of generic new adult contemporary romance. If you can't get enough of the new adult genre and like your romances a little on the cheesy side, Tangled up in Blue would be a great pick for you. If you are a little worn out on New Adult, I would say pass on this one. Will I be continuing on in the series? Maybe. I am interested in what is going to happen next, so we will see.
This review was originally posted on Book Briefs
March 16, 2015
Tangled Up in Blue is amazing. It's realistic, funny, and absolutely heartwarming. Unlike most books I've read, J.D. Brick's characters have a "real" quality about them. They have depth like actual people.
*possible spoiler alert*
The love between Kendall and Blue is so beautiful and feels undeniably real. Instead of the perfect happily ever after that most fictional romances have, Blue did something that is almost never seen. He selflessly took responsibility for his actions in order to save Keegan from giving up everything. But he did this without making her doubt his love for her.
Obviously, their story isn't over yet; there's still a sequel in the works. I absolutely cannot wait to experience the rest of this couple's journey in the next book.
*possible spoiler alert*
The love between Kendall and Blue is so beautiful and feels undeniably real. Instead of the perfect happily ever after that most fictional romances have, Blue did something that is almost never seen. He selflessly took responsibility for his actions in order to save Keegan from giving up everything. But he did this without making her doubt his love for her.
Obviously, their story isn't over yet; there's still a sequel in the works. I absolutely cannot wait to experience the rest of this couple's journey in the next book.
March 22, 2015
This book was phenomenal! The characters were well developed, and they were not annoying. The plot is great, and the cliffhanger is going to make me rush out to buy the second. The PoV changes from Keegan and Blue were very decipherable. You could tell who was who so kudos! Loved it 100% recommend it.
Want to read
June 16, 2015Okay.... it sounds like a good read, but that cover? He looks like he's eating her face!
June 6, 2015
All I can say is JD Brick you better be writing.
June 17, 2015
Loved this book. It was amazing. Can't wait for the second one. Hopefully it will be out soon.
August 9, 2015
ARC provided in exchange of an honest review
Review original post:
http://collectorofbookboyfriends.com/...
Tangled Up In Blue made me completely Tangled Up In Blue!! And it’s so good!
I really don’t know what to say about this book. The whole plot was really intriguing and very interesting and al these things that were happening had me shocked and open-mouthed more than once! Although, for some reason, this story just didn’t click in my brain. And that’s why I gave 3 stars……..
Of course, what I found the most irresistible thing inside this story was the names that the characters had. Especially, its lovely BBF: Blue Danube !! And what a genius idea to give him and his girl such bizarre and unique names! Also, It was a pleasure to see how these two were using the root of their names which made those moments event more sweet and amazing!
But, honestly, this kind of cliffhanger injured me inside!! How am I supposed to make myself wait for the second book to see how the love story of Blue and Keegan is going to unfold? My heart is actually crying right now because it needs the conclusion in this story……
Please, J. D. Brick!! Hurry!! :)
P. S. :
Review original post:
http://collectorofbookboyfriends.com/...
Tangled Up In Blue made me completely Tangled Up In Blue!! And it’s so good!
I really don’t know what to say about this book. The whole plot was really intriguing and very interesting and al these things that were happening had me shocked and open-mouthed more than once! Although, for some reason, this story just didn’t click in my brain. And that’s why I gave 3 stars……..
Of course, what I found the most irresistible thing inside this story was the names that the characters had. Especially, its lovely BBF: Blue Danube !! And what a genius idea to give him and his girl such bizarre and unique names! Also, It was a pleasure to see how these two were using the root of their names which made those moments event more sweet and amazing!
And then, as easily as if I’d said them dozens of times, the words sipped out: “I love you.” And just as easily, the words came back: “I love you too”
But, honestly, this kind of cliffhanger injured me inside!! How am I supposed to make myself wait for the second book to see how the love story of Blue and Keegan is going to unfold? My heart is actually crying right now because it needs the conclusion in this story……
Blue is my knight, my hero, my Romeo.
Please, J. D. Brick!! Hurry!! :)
P. S. :
I’ll wait for you Keegan. I’ll always wait for you.
July 4, 2015
Once I started reading Tangled Up in Blue I couldn't put it down. It is beautifully written with well-developed characters. College life springs off this page in this New Adult romance. Keegan moves to the Canadian Embassy not realizing it had a party reputation. She is an A student with career ambitions in journalism. She instantly has feelings for one of her roommates Blue. Former military he is studying music at the college. They have natural chemistry and build a touching and moving relationship.
This book has mystery, suspense, romance and complex characters. While Keegan had her moments, Blue stole the book. He is intense and caring. Keegan's stalker drew me into the story. I really felt for her, and once Blue got involved with the stalker things heated up. I didn't want this book to end. Readers are left hanging a bit, but I am looking forward to reading the next book in the series. In fact, I can see myself wanting to reread this book in the future. I thought it was that good.
This book has mystery, suspense, romance and complex characters. While Keegan had her moments, Blue stole the book. He is intense and caring. Keegan's stalker drew me into the story. I really felt for her, and once Blue got involved with the stalker things heated up. I didn't want this book to end. Readers are left hanging a bit, but I am looking forward to reading the next book in the series. In fact, I can see myself wanting to reread this book in the future. I thought it was that good.
December 21, 2015
I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Romance is a tricky genre for me. Most people want to read about drama and get a thrill out of the suspense in wondering whether or not two people will get together. But I tend to struggle through the obstacles and the ups and downs of fictional relationships. I just want to see two people happily in love with no baggage and no roller coaster ride.
But that's just not how fiction works, and rightly so.
Tangled Up in Blue is a great example of the romance genre. Despite the cliff hanger ending, I thought it was excellently written, had wonderfully developed characters, and consisted of some great "coming of age" type situations as both main characters struggled to overcome personal hurdles.
Romance is a tricky genre for me. Most people want to read about drama and get a thrill out of the suspense in wondering whether or not two people will get together. But I tend to struggle through the obstacles and the ups and downs of fictional relationships. I just want to see two people happily in love with no baggage and no roller coaster ride.
But that's just not how fiction works, and rightly so.
Tangled Up in Blue is a great example of the romance genre. Despite the cliff hanger ending, I thought it was excellently written, had wonderfully developed characters, and consisted of some great "coming of age" type situations as both main characters struggled to overcome personal hurdles.
April 23, 2015
There are no words in the dictionary that can sum up my feelings when I read this book. I can't seem to get it out of my mind no matter how hard I try and I even dream about Blue and Keegan at night. I have spoken non stop about it to my friends and mom. I have never enjoyed a book as much as I enjoyed Tangled Up in Blue. I was so upset when it ended with a cliff hanger, but then I was relieved to know there was more. I actually read it on Wattpad, but I went and bought the kindle version and read it again. I just wanted to let you know that you have completely inspired me.
March 18, 2015
This book drew me in from the first page. The dialog and characters felt realistic and believable and as I got to know them and get further into the pages I began to wish the Embassy and its inhabitants were living down the street (well most of them - okay maybe just Blue). I could feel the tension and mystery between the characters and unlike some romances I've read lately drama used as a plot device worked well and added to the mystery. Can't wait to get my hands on the sequel.
March 18, 2015
Read this on Wattpad…couldn't believe it was there. It the best one I've read on that site and cannot wait for next installment. The characters are well developed and the storyline gets better and better. J.D. Brick
March 24, 2015
Best book I've read in a long time!! Can't wait for the next one!!
March 25, 2015
this novel is simply amazing!can't wait for the update! please please how soon is the next episode??
March 16, 2015
Its a must read . Could not put the book down. A love story of all time.
April 18, 2015
I absolutely loved this story can't wait for book two...
Read
June 30, 2021Enjoyable story with plenty of twists. This is a clean romance story where the romantic scenes fade to black after the kissing. I realize some people prefer that type of book and this is certainly one to read. Even without the detailed intimate scenes, this book holds a lot of passion.
Blue, full name Blue Danube, is a great romantic hero. He’s military fit, plays guitar, sings, and writes music. Yeah, he’s easy to fall for. He’s not perfect. He’s made mistakes in the past, but that just makes him more lovable because he’s not conceited.
Keegan is intelligent and independent and isn’t afraid to voice her opinion. However, she’s very naive.
I like the symmetry of Blue and Keegan’s relationship as he writes music and she’s a journalist.
***Beware of Cliffhanger*** Okay, I don’t like cliffhangers. I’m impatient and on a constant hunt for a happily ever after. I most definitely will be reading the next book, Shelter From the Storm, which promises to be the completion of the story.
Blue, full name Blue Danube, is a great romantic hero. He’s military fit, plays guitar, sings, and writes music. Yeah, he’s easy to fall for. He’s not perfect. He’s made mistakes in the past, but that just makes him more lovable because he’s not conceited.
Keegan is intelligent and independent and isn’t afraid to voice her opinion. However, she’s very naive.
I like the symmetry of Blue and Keegan’s relationship as he writes music and she’s a journalist.
***Beware of Cliffhanger*** Okay, I don’t like cliffhangers. I’m impatient and on a constant hunt for a happily ever after. I most definitely will be reading the next book, Shelter From the Storm, which promises to be the completion of the story.
July 28, 2018
Short and sweet because this was ended on a cliffhanger the rating lost a whole point.
As for Blue and Keegan's story it was nicely executed right up until that ending which spoiled my appreciation at the same time it whetted my appetite for knowing how things ended up for these two.
As for Blue and Keegan's story it was nicely executed right up until that ending which spoiled my appreciation at the same time it whetted my appetite for knowing how things ended up for these two.
May 2, 2016
Review originally posted at Ramblings From This Chick
Tangled Up in Blue is the first book in the Ikana College series by J.D. Brick. I have to say that the blurb is what drew me in here, as I didn't like either cover I have seen for this book. I wasn't digging the guitar cover, and while the other one looks good at first glance it also looks as though the guy is trying to eat the poor girl's face. But after reading the blurb, I knew I wanted to read this one despite the covers. I will also say that this book does end with a cliffhanger. Not sure how I missed that before starting this one, but suffice it to say I was shocked when this one ended and wasn't over.
When Keegan needs to move out of the dorms quickly, she ends up at the one place she can quickly find with a vacancy. She is the youngest editor ever for her campus newspaper, and besides the paper she also needs to focus on her grades. So when she realizes that her new house and roommates are known for their parties, she immediately knows that she is in for a change. But Keegan and Blue are instantly drawn to one another, and though they know they should stay away from one another find themselves unable to fight the connection between them. With Keegan's reason for leaving her dorm room still out there though, these two will have more to worry about than just falling for the last person that they expected.
I liked Keegan and Blue. I didn't necessarily care for their crazy names, but I did like that they had a story behind them and that the author made that such a large part of the story. As much as I liked these characters though, I have to say that for some reason I just didn't ever feel connected to them. Not sure what it was, but there was just this disconnect there between me and their story and it had me wanting to put this book down more than once. I did like them and it wasn't as though there was anything bad about them, I just never truly felt invested in their story. Keegan was smart and dedicated to being successful at what she did. She was pretty straight-laced and even a bit naive at times. Blue was pretty easy-going and liked to have a good time, yet beneath the surface he had a lot he was dealing with. He didn't let others in easily and yet he found it easy to with Keegan. I liked these two together, and it was clear that they had a lot of chemistry and a connection that just kept getting stronger.
There were a few things that kept this story from being one that I loved besides just my disconnect from the characters. I found things to be a bit over the top at times with the dialogue and stories, and it just didn't feel natural to me. Things felt a bit forced, and I just didn't enjoy that. I also hated the repeated use of the word "loins". I have no idea why that was necessary to this story, but it seriously got on my nerves and just felt odd. This wasn't some old school bodice ripper, but yet every time that word appeared it just gave this book a cheap cliched feel and I hated it. I will say that while there were enjoyable parts here, overall this story wasn't my favorite. It does end with a cliffhanger, so there is a chance that I will read the next book just to see how things finish for Blue and Keegan. But with no release date in sight and no information about when to expect the next book, I have to say that I am not sure I will still feel the need to read it depending on when it does finally arrive. If you are okay with cliffhangers and can handle no knowing when the next book is coming, you might give this one a shot if you think it sounds like something you are interested in. But if you are waiting for a complete story before starting, you might want to keep an eye out for the sequel to this one before you dive in.
**Review Copy Provided by AToMR Tours**
Tangled Up in Blue is the first book in the Ikana College series by J.D. Brick. I have to say that the blurb is what drew me in here, as I didn't like either cover I have seen for this book. I wasn't digging the guitar cover, and while the other one looks good at first glance it also looks as though the guy is trying to eat the poor girl's face. But after reading the blurb, I knew I wanted to read this one despite the covers. I will also say that this book does end with a cliffhanger. Not sure how I missed that before starting this one, but suffice it to say I was shocked when this one ended and wasn't over.
When Keegan needs to move out of the dorms quickly, she ends up at the one place she can quickly find with a vacancy. She is the youngest editor ever for her campus newspaper, and besides the paper she also needs to focus on her grades. So when she realizes that her new house and roommates are known for their parties, she immediately knows that she is in for a change. But Keegan and Blue are instantly drawn to one another, and though they know they should stay away from one another find themselves unable to fight the connection between them. With Keegan's reason for leaving her dorm room still out there though, these two will have more to worry about than just falling for the last person that they expected.
I liked Keegan and Blue. I didn't necessarily care for their crazy names, but I did like that they had a story behind them and that the author made that such a large part of the story. As much as I liked these characters though, I have to say that for some reason I just didn't ever feel connected to them. Not sure what it was, but there was just this disconnect there between me and their story and it had me wanting to put this book down more than once. I did like them and it wasn't as though there was anything bad about them, I just never truly felt invested in their story. Keegan was smart and dedicated to being successful at what she did. She was pretty straight-laced and even a bit naive at times. Blue was pretty easy-going and liked to have a good time, yet beneath the surface he had a lot he was dealing with. He didn't let others in easily and yet he found it easy to with Keegan. I liked these two together, and it was clear that they had a lot of chemistry and a connection that just kept getting stronger.
There were a few things that kept this story from being one that I loved besides just my disconnect from the characters. I found things to be a bit over the top at times with the dialogue and stories, and it just didn't feel natural to me. Things felt a bit forced, and I just didn't enjoy that. I also hated the repeated use of the word "loins". I have no idea why that was necessary to this story, but it seriously got on my nerves and just felt odd. This wasn't some old school bodice ripper, but yet every time that word appeared it just gave this book a cheap cliched feel and I hated it. I will say that while there were enjoyable parts here, overall this story wasn't my favorite. It does end with a cliffhanger, so there is a chance that I will read the next book just to see how things finish for Blue and Keegan. But with no release date in sight and no information about when to expect the next book, I have to say that I am not sure I will still feel the need to read it depending on when it does finally arrive. If you are okay with cliffhangers and can handle no knowing when the next book is coming, you might give this one a shot if you think it sounds like something you are interested in. But if you are waiting for a complete story before starting, you might want to keep an eye out for the sequel to this one before you dive in.
**Review Copy Provided by AToMR Tours**
March 24, 2016
This story pulled me in right away and had me sucked in all the way through. Yes it does end in a cliffhanger, but don't let that stop you from reading it! It will just make you want the next book immediately, trust me!
We get introduced to Keegan as she's about ready to move into a house off campus. Not because she wanted to leave her dorm room and the security of her best friend, but because she's scared out of her mind due to a stalker. She's worked hard for her position as editor at her college paper, trying not to let her past and her family history have any bearing on what she does with her life. Trying not to let this stalker situation ruin that one positive in her life is proving to take its toll. Walking up to her new home, she meets Blue--a former soldier that is now a music major. Blue's easy ways suck her into his orbit immediately, something that has never happened to her before with anyone. His charming smile and easy on the eyes body has her knees buckling, but she tries to keep her head and body from thinking about Blue; she's got too much else to focus on.
As for Blue, he's never felt drawn to a girl like he is drawn to Keegan. He jokes around with her easily about teaching her about music, since she is so "uneducated in real music", as he likes to put it. But their easy flirtation leads to more, and neither can stop how they feel or what they so obviously desire from one another. As a former soldier, he's trying to keep his demons at bay, not wanting them to taint his relationship with Keegan. As he gets to know her, he thinks that if she ever found out the truth about his family and his time in Afghanistan, she'll turn her back on him--and that is something that his mind and slowly his heart cannot take.
When Blue finds out about Keegan's stalker, his protective instincts kick in to high gear. He wants to be the only man for her, but he's too scared of his past. Will he be able to keep Keegan safe with him, or will he have to push her away to protect her from his own demons.
Their is high drama in this book between the two main characters relationship, what goes on with the other roommates, not to mention her stalker. Trying to be brave and keep her head held high is not easy for Keegan, and she can't help breaking down and letting her true feelings show around Blue. I loved the storyline in this book as well as the side relationships going on. Trying to figure out who the stalker is before it is revealed will keep you on the edge of your seat! I've always loved mysteries, and the suspense of this book is great. Even though I figured out who the stalker was before it was revealed, it's still one of those situations where you hope you're wrong!
Great read from J.D. Brick and I cannot wait to find out how the story ends in the next book!!
**I was given an ARC in exchange for an honest review**
We get introduced to Keegan as she's about ready to move into a house off campus. Not because she wanted to leave her dorm room and the security of her best friend, but because she's scared out of her mind due to a stalker. She's worked hard for her position as editor at her college paper, trying not to let her past and her family history have any bearing on what she does with her life. Trying not to let this stalker situation ruin that one positive in her life is proving to take its toll. Walking up to her new home, she meets Blue--a former soldier that is now a music major. Blue's easy ways suck her into his orbit immediately, something that has never happened to her before with anyone. His charming smile and easy on the eyes body has her knees buckling, but she tries to keep her head and body from thinking about Blue; she's got too much else to focus on.
As for Blue, he's never felt drawn to a girl like he is drawn to Keegan. He jokes around with her easily about teaching her about music, since she is so "uneducated in real music", as he likes to put it. But their easy flirtation leads to more, and neither can stop how they feel or what they so obviously desire from one another. As a former soldier, he's trying to keep his demons at bay, not wanting them to taint his relationship with Keegan. As he gets to know her, he thinks that if she ever found out the truth about his family and his time in Afghanistan, she'll turn her back on him--and that is something that his mind and slowly his heart cannot take.
When Blue finds out about Keegan's stalker, his protective instincts kick in to high gear. He wants to be the only man for her, but he's too scared of his past. Will he be able to keep Keegan safe with him, or will he have to push her away to protect her from his own demons.
Their is high drama in this book between the two main characters relationship, what goes on with the other roommates, not to mention her stalker. Trying to be brave and keep her head held high is not easy for Keegan, and she can't help breaking down and letting her true feelings show around Blue. I loved the storyline in this book as well as the side relationships going on. Trying to figure out who the stalker is before it is revealed will keep you on the edge of your seat! I've always loved mysteries, and the suspense of this book is great. Even though I figured out who the stalker was before it was revealed, it's still one of those situations where you hope you're wrong!
Great read from J.D. Brick and I cannot wait to find out how the story ends in the next book!!
**I was given an ARC in exchange for an honest review**
August 24, 2016
Originally posted on lampshadereader.com
Part 1: Tangled up in Blue Review:
The suspense is killing me!
Okay, well, I know we can all handle a little suspense, right? Keegan, or Kee Kee as her friend Megz calls her, is in trouble from the beginning. Not only does she meet trouble, whose name is Blue, she’s in trouble. She’s being threatened and stalked.
Naturally, that peaked my interest in Keegan’s story and I also wanted to know how her foray into the most raving party house on campus would go. Trouble really is the theme of the storyline and it seems that Keegan becomes more entangled in it as story progresses. The suspense is thick and even though I was able to guess who was behind the threats, it was still a bit shocking to read. It had a sort of grittiness to it. Everyone is out for their own interests and poor Keegan is in the way. It also doesn’t help that her grandmother is the most hated person in Oklahoma.
Romance with Blue is hot!
Ah, Blue. A troubled soul, ex military, toting a guitar, hero. Wait, he doesn’t like to be called that. He’s no hero and the reason why would make any girl feel sad. He has his issues to overcome, like Keegan, and their relationship is sparked when he gets involved with her drama. Their dialogue is cute and their love story might carry a bit of a star crossed lovers vibe.
We get first person narration from both Blue’s and Keegan’s point of view. It was a little different because it had been awhile since I read anything in that style. The secondary characters each have their stories and are interesting as well.
Beware: This does end in a cliffhanger.
This is just Book 1 and continues and concludes in Shelter From the Storm.
*I received a copy in exchange for an honest review.*
Part 1: Tangled up in Blue Review:
The suspense is killing me!
Okay, well, I know we can all handle a little suspense, right? Keegan, or Kee Kee as her friend Megz calls her, is in trouble from the beginning. Not only does she meet trouble, whose name is Blue, she’s in trouble. She’s being threatened and stalked.
Naturally, that peaked my interest in Keegan’s story and I also wanted to know how her foray into the most raving party house on campus would go. Trouble really is the theme of the storyline and it seems that Keegan becomes more entangled in it as story progresses. The suspense is thick and even though I was able to guess who was behind the threats, it was still a bit shocking to read. It had a sort of grittiness to it. Everyone is out for their own interests and poor Keegan is in the way. It also doesn’t help that her grandmother is the most hated person in Oklahoma.
Romance with Blue is hot!
Ah, Blue. A troubled soul, ex military, toting a guitar, hero. Wait, he doesn’t like to be called that. He’s no hero and the reason why would make any girl feel sad. He has his issues to overcome, like Keegan, and their relationship is sparked when he gets involved with her drama. Their dialogue is cute and their love story might carry a bit of a star crossed lovers vibe.
We get first person narration from both Blue’s and Keegan’s point of view. It was a little different because it had been awhile since I read anything in that style. The secondary characters each have their stories and are interesting as well.
Beware: This does end in a cliffhanger.
This is just Book 1 and continues and concludes in Shelter From the Storm.
*I received a copy in exchange for an honest review.*
April 15, 2016
Tangled Up in Blue by J.D. Brick
Keegan Crenshaw comes from a privileged background but really doesn’t see herself as different from any other college student her age. She’s been through some tough experiences but has fought hard to keep her grades up. Her scholastic efforts have awarded her the coveted position of head editor for the campus newspaper, The Daily, over an equally qualified senior student. Recently though she has become the target of a stalker who is sending threatening text messages, emails, and recently a phone call. Keegan’s hardline determination starts to waiver as the stress of the stalker weighs heavier on her psyche. Desperate to hide, she moves out of the dorm and into an off-campus party house known as The Canadian Embassy. What was she thinking?
Blue Danube, head resident of the Embassy, is an ex-military upper-classman studying music at Ikana College. Blue has a complicated history he keeps hidden deep in his soul and suffers PTSD. The instant sparks between Blue and Keegan come across as pure lust. I had trouble buying into the love at first sight storyline, however I enjoyed having both Keegan’s and Blue’s dual perspectives. It gives the reader a sense of Keegan’s insecurities and naïveté as well as Blue’s inner strengths and struggles. A few of the secondary characters are also well developed and some are still in the process of full disclosure. Personally, I would love to know more of Keegan’s grandmother’s thoughts and feelings.
This turned in to a much more complicated and twisted storyline than I was expecting. There is a helluva cliffhanger at the end, which I guess I overlooked in the blurb. If you are looking for a happily-ever-after story you won’t find it in this book as it stands. Perhaps the sequel will be able to deliver? It’s hard to say at this point.
FYI: Tangled Up in Blue is Book 1 in Ms. Brick’s Ikana College series. This book also contains adult language and mild adult sexual situations that may be offensive to some readers. **Originally written for "BigAl’s Books and Pals" book blog. May have received a free review copy.** April 4, 2016
Format/Typo Issues: I ran across a small number of proofing errors during my reading.
Keegan Crenshaw comes from a privileged background but really doesn’t see herself as different from any other college student her age. She’s been through some tough experiences but has fought hard to keep her grades up. Her scholastic efforts have awarded her the coveted position of head editor for the campus newspaper, The Daily, over an equally qualified senior student. Recently though she has become the target of a stalker who is sending threatening text messages, emails, and recently a phone call. Keegan’s hardline determination starts to waiver as the stress of the stalker weighs heavier on her psyche. Desperate to hide, she moves out of the dorm and into an off-campus party house known as The Canadian Embassy. What was she thinking?
Blue Danube, head resident of the Embassy, is an ex-military upper-classman studying music at Ikana College. Blue has a complicated history he keeps hidden deep in his soul and suffers PTSD. The instant sparks between Blue and Keegan come across as pure lust. I had trouble buying into the love at first sight storyline, however I enjoyed having both Keegan’s and Blue’s dual perspectives. It gives the reader a sense of Keegan’s insecurities and naïveté as well as Blue’s inner strengths and struggles. A few of the secondary characters are also well developed and some are still in the process of full disclosure. Personally, I would love to know more of Keegan’s grandmother’s thoughts and feelings.
This turned in to a much more complicated and twisted storyline than I was expecting. There is a helluva cliffhanger at the end, which I guess I overlooked in the blurb. If you are looking for a happily-ever-after story you won’t find it in this book as it stands. Perhaps the sequel will be able to deliver? It’s hard to say at this point.
FYI: Tangled Up in Blue is Book 1 in Ms. Brick’s Ikana College series. This book also contains adult language and mild adult sexual situations that may be offensive to some readers. **Originally written for "BigAl’s Books and Pals" book blog. May have received a free review copy.** April 4, 2016
Format/Typo Issues: I ran across a small number of proofing errors during my reading.
May 12, 2015
I realy liked and enjoy this story. I found it at the wattapp and I started reading it because it was a complete storie without waiting and all. Few chapters after I started it I decide to buy it and have it in my kindle, not only because it was in good price but because this story made me cry and laught, made me feel every single feeling of them, every single thoughts they had. That kind of stories are my favorites and I have to support J.D. and her work for that. She deserves it!
So, about the story! It's a love story between two colleges student(of course) which they have personal problems and a past who hunt them. Colleges not my fav subject but....when the story is well written then wtf I will read it anyway!
Buck to my comment. Keegan is a nice girl, down to earth but she lives in her own bubble not aware what is going on with the people in her life. ( Don't want to say much more about it and spoil the story). And there is Blue! A man with blue eyes and a lickable body! Of course it would be a man like him...always have! Former military, came back from Afganistan, down to earth guy too, love music and I think he studies music at the university. Don't know exactly. They meet at the Canadian Empassy, a house Blue lives with three other collages and Keegan is the new roommate. The chemistry was instand and things went natural but fast. They definitely look like it meant to be together 4ever but.....
So, 4 stars! I realy wanted to put 5 but in the middle of the story I wanted more. So much more! About the personal moments they shared, and to be more open with their feelings. They did but at some point it had to be more honesty. Hope the second book will have that.
Thank you J.D for the beautiful story and I can't wait for the next book to come.
So, about the story! It's a love story between two colleges student(of course) which they have personal problems and a past who hunt them. Colleges not my fav subject but....when the story is well written then wtf I will read it anyway!
Buck to my comment. Keegan is a nice girl, down to earth but she lives in her own bubble not aware what is going on with the people in her life. ( Don't want to say much more about it and spoil the story). And there is Blue! A man with blue eyes and a lickable body! Of course it would be a man like him...always have! Former military, came back from Afganistan, down to earth guy too, love music and I think he studies music at the university. Don't know exactly. They meet at the Canadian Empassy, a house Blue lives with three other collages and Keegan is the new roommate. The chemistry was instand and things went natural but fast. They definitely look like it meant to be together 4ever but.....
So, 4 stars! I realy wanted to put 5 but in the middle of the story I wanted more. So much more! About the personal moments they shared, and to be more open with their feelings. They did but at some point it had to be more honesty. Hope the second book will have that.
Thank you J.D for the beautiful story and I can't wait for the next book to come.
January 4, 2017
This is a new adult romance. The first book in the Ikana College Series. For adults only due to the sexual content and language. First and foremost I really loved the names of the characters, they stood out and made it so easy to remember them. Second, I hate the best friend. I can not believe what she did. Third, this book kept me wondering the whole time, even though I had my suspicions. Yes, this book is full of so many surprises, and lastly I truly hope the grandmother has an awesome trick up her sleeve. Off, to the read the second book!
Keegan is in desperate need of saving, she just does not realize it... yet. But Blue is just the person to help this damsel in distress. Keegan and Blue have an instant connection and even though she is very shy at first with him. In the end Blue wins her over. Honestly they are good for each other. Keegan soothes the hurt in Blue from the military, well, until certain memories are rehashed. Will they be able to overcome all obstacles? Or was this all for nothing?
favorite passages:
"She is a word nerd, like me."
"Unless you want to be punished, of course."
"Keegan kisses me, and the poison part inside I've been battling for a long time shrink just a little, seem just a bit less painful." <3
"We'll ride the crazy train together."
"It's crazy-train kissing, up on the roof, out in a storm."
"And just beyond the rocks, a ring of fiery maple trees encircles the pool."
"Could be it's my heart, seeping like blood from a bullet-sized hole and then oozing out, thick and coagulated, until like I'm drowning."
"I put my hand out as if I can grab the words out of her mouth and stuff them back in."
Keegan is in desperate need of saving, she just does not realize it... yet. But Blue is just the person to help this damsel in distress. Keegan and Blue have an instant connection and even though she is very shy at first with him. In the end Blue wins her over. Honestly they are good for each other. Keegan soothes the hurt in Blue from the military, well, until certain memories are rehashed. Will they be able to overcome all obstacles? Or was this all for nothing?
favorite passages:
"She is a word nerd, like me."
"Unless you want to be punished, of course."
"Keegan kisses me, and the poison part inside I've been battling for a long time shrink just a little, seem just a bit less painful." <3
"We'll ride the crazy train together."
"It's crazy-train kissing, up on the roof, out in a storm."
"And just beyond the rocks, a ring of fiery maple trees encircles the pool."
"Could be it's my heart, seeping like blood from a bullet-sized hole and then oozing out, thick and coagulated, until like I'm drowning."
"I put my hand out as if I can grab the words out of her mouth and stuff them back in."
August 5, 2016
Keegan Crenshaw is a 19-year-old straight laced college student that doesn’t do parties, isn’t experienced in sex and much prefers spending her time in the college newspaper office where she is the youngest ever editor that Inkana has had. With her Grandma being the president pro tempore of Oklahoma state senate Keegans life is full of drama including the recent blackmail and threats that lead her to moving into Canadian house notorious for their all night parties. This is where she meets Blue.
Blue Danube is a 25-year-old music student, band member, singer and Keegans new roommate. Before blue came to Inkana college he was in the army and did two tours of Afghanistan. He is described as having scars on his shoulder and back with tattoos on his shoulders.
Throughout the book it keeps you guessing as to either they will get together or not but when they do its explosive and you can see that they are made for each other. Although its not till the last 20% of the book it really starts to get interesting when keegan discovers the identity of her stalker and blue explains what happened to him in Afghanistan. The book leaves you wanting more and needing to read the next book to find out if Keegan and Blue will finally get there HEA.
This review was written on behalf of Amo & Sarah's book corner.
Blue Danube is a 25-year-old music student, band member, singer and Keegans new roommate. Before blue came to Inkana college he was in the army and did two tours of Afghanistan. He is described as having scars on his shoulder and back with tattoos on his shoulders.
Throughout the book it keeps you guessing as to either they will get together or not but when they do its explosive and you can see that they are made for each other. Although its not till the last 20% of the book it really starts to get interesting when keegan discovers the identity of her stalker and blue explains what happened to him in Afghanistan. The book leaves you wanting more and needing to read the next book to find out if Keegan and Blue will finally get there HEA.
This review was written on behalf of Amo & Sarah's book corner.
June 9, 2016
It book started out okay for me. I like the mysterious effect on Keegan, and I find Blue quite adorable. But I don't really felt any emotional connection between the two of them. I like their characters but I don't like them together. I felt like the romance build up was a little force and I didn't really feel like they're real. I mean, it's like they're too actors acting their part well but they are not really together.
The story as a whole was good. I like that aside from the romance side, it includes an element of suspense and thrill. However, I don't know if it's because I'm burned out of reading too much but I felt like the pacing was too slow. Like the author wants to hold it in to keep the reader's attention but somehow it didn't work that way for me. And the story is not done yet. I know it says book one but I thought it's one of those series that features a different set of main characters per book. So yeah, the ending kind of had me feeling torn like I want to read the next one because I want to find out if my guesses were right.
If you're into New Adult or college romance, you'll probably enjoy this much more than I did.
The story as a whole was good. I like that aside from the romance side, it includes an element of suspense and thrill. However, I don't know if it's because I'm burned out of reading too much but I felt like the pacing was too slow. Like the author wants to hold it in to keep the reader's attention but somehow it didn't work that way for me. And the story is not done yet. I know it says book one but I thought it's one of those series that features a different set of main characters per book. So yeah, the ending kind of had me feeling torn like I want to read the next one because I want to find out if my guesses were right.
If you're into New Adult or college romance, you'll probably enjoy this much more than I did.
September 16, 2016
Tangled Up in Blue was a decent enough read. It felt a bit like a new adult romance cliche in a lot of ways, but it kept my attention and I didn't roll my eyes too much (I could have done without reading the word "loins" so many times). I can definitely see how many people will love this book, even if I felt more lukewarm towards it.
The biggest downfall of Tangled Up in Blue for me was the insta-love. I'm just not a fan of it in any book. What I found comical was that Keegan even says their relationship had turned into some sort of insta-love that she despises. I agree, Keegan, I despise it, too. I like my relationships to have some depth and emotional connection. It just seems that Blue has white knight syndrome and wants to save Keegan (and have sex with her).
Though this book ends in a cliffhanger, I'm interested enough in the story to read the second book, Shelter from the Storm. Hopefully it will have a satisfying ending (though, I'd like to point out that satisfying doesn't necessarily mean HEA for me).
The biggest downfall of Tangled Up in Blue for me was the insta-love. I'm just not a fan of it in any book. What I found comical was that Keegan even says their relationship had turned into some sort of insta-love that she despises. I agree, Keegan, I despise it, too. I like my relationships to have some depth and emotional connection. It just seems that Blue has white knight syndrome and wants to save Keegan (and have sex with her).
Though this book ends in a cliffhanger, I'm interested enough in the story to read the second book, Shelter from the Storm. Hopefully it will have a satisfying ending (though, I'd like to point out that satisfying doesn't necessarily mean HEA for me).
August 24, 2016
When I picked up this book I was excited to read it takes place in Oklahoma because I'm from Oklahoma! We first meet Keegan who is running from a "stalker" moves out of her dorm in the middle of the night to the Canadian embassy where she meets blue! They have a instant connection but she is very skittish of him. They come from two different worlds she can have anything she wants her grandmother is the vice senator of the state blue is a two tour war vet who lives with nightmares. Blue teaches her to throw caution to wind not give a damn what other people think or say if it feels right just go with it!! That's what Keegan does! She morphs from a girl who has no back bone scared runs from everything to a women who stands her ground. The book takes you on flashbacks to war with blue to loosing best friends in war to Keegan's flashbacks of her mother dying of cancer. It ends in a cliff hanger!!!
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