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A Love Story #2
Candidate
If only life were as simple as choosing between Toaster Strudel and Fruit Loops.
Katherine Galloway is two years divorced and still living out of boxes. Between her brothers (cops that work with her ex) and her mother’s constant reminders that her clock is ticking, Kate is trying to hold it all together. But the truth is, she’s eating Toaster Strudel for dinner, and living and breathing her PR career.. When it comes to public relations, there’s nothing she can’t handle . . . or at least that’s what she thinks.
Grady Malendar, the only son of United States Senator Patrick Malendar, has a reputation as a playboy who likes to have a little too much fun. The senator is running for re-election and needs Grady’s help with the youth vote. But what they want is a new and improved, headline-free Grady, so they hire a PR firm. Grady is willing to participate in the dog and pony show to help his father win, but there are some things about Grady’s life he wants to keep hidden. Especially from his snoopy new PR “babysitter,” Kate Galloway.
Somewhere between campaign stops and fundraisers, Kate and Grady discover that neither of them are what they appear to be on the surface. Tensions between them grow until there is no denying they are falling in love behind the scenes of a façade they both need to keep in place. Will scandal, old wounds, and secrets tear them apart, or will Kate and Grady realize, despite appearances, they are both candidates for love?
Katherine Galloway is two years divorced and still living out of boxes. Between her brothers (cops that work with her ex) and her mother’s constant reminders that her clock is ticking, Kate is trying to hold it all together. But the truth is, she’s eating Toaster Strudel for dinner, and living and breathing her PR career.. When it comes to public relations, there’s nothing she can’t handle . . . or at least that’s what she thinks.
Grady Malendar, the only son of United States Senator Patrick Malendar, has a reputation as a playboy who likes to have a little too much fun. The senator is running for re-election and needs Grady’s help with the youth vote. But what they want is a new and improved, headline-free Grady, so they hire a PR firm. Grady is willing to participate in the dog and pony show to help his father win, but there are some things about Grady’s life he wants to keep hidden. Especially from his snoopy new PR “babysitter,” Kate Galloway.
Somewhere between campaign stops and fundraisers, Kate and Grady discover that neither of them are what they appear to be on the surface. Tensions between them grow until there is no denying they are falling in love behind the scenes of a façade they both need to keep in place. Will scandal, old wounds, and secrets tear them apart, or will Kate and Grady realize, despite appearances, they are both candidates for love?
300 pages, ebook
First published November 13, 2012
71 people are currently reading
793 people want to read
About the author
Tracy Ewens
15 books191 followersTracy Ewens is the contemporary romance author of fifteen Love Story books.
She lives and writes in Arizona, has a dog named Jack, and takes her tea with almond milk.
Stop by www.tracyewens.com to sign up for updates and news.
She lives and writes in Arizona, has a dog named Jack, and takes her tea with almond milk.
Stop by www.tracyewens.com to sign up for updates and news.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 87 reviews
May 25, 2017
3.5 Push/Pull Stars
*Some Spoilers*
"Do I make you uncomfortable, Kate?"-Grady
"We don't need dinner to talk strategy. Here it is: Behave, keep your zipper up, smile, and keep your mouth closed unless your brain is engaged. That's it. You'll be thirty next week; this shouldn't be too difficult. I'll handle the rest. Just act like you have something to lose and you're not a completely spoiled... well, ass."-Kate
Candidate A love Story was a pretty good book. The reason I didn't enjoy it more was it made me like it , and frustrated me in equal measure! I loved Kate and wanted to choke Kate also in equal measure. Kate felt real. I could understand her pain, and fear, from being cheated on by her ex husband. So I understood her not wanted to get close to Grady. But I felt she held on to that fear for far too long. The push/pull she did drove me a little crazy, and at times made me want rip my hair out! I loved the other sides of Kate where she was strong, took charge, and smart. I loved that she stood up for herself to her family when they didn't really have her back over divorcing Nick (her cheating ex).
"So let me get this straight. You grew up in a blue-collar family; you work for a living and know how to save money and balance that chip on your shoulder. You are solid and in the real world your life is incredibly complicated. I, on the other hand, was given a trust fund and therefore lack all substance and complexities? Did I get that right, Kate?"-Grady
"Kate, look at me. I don't need to love you or have sex with you to pump myself up or mend my ego. I need... want to be around you. To hold you, laugh with you, and even fight with you. And you're right, you do make me better, that's true, but I can offer you something too. I have things you need. You need me, I can feel it and believe me, no one has ever needed me. They've needed my money or my family connections, but never me. You need me, Kate, and God, over the last couple of months I've needed you."-Grady
Grady was the star of the book for me. He was a very deep, dynamic, and complex character. He shows the world his slacker, rich , playboy side, but there is so much to Grady. I really felt for him. For the hurt teenage boy that walked in and caught his father cheating with his math teacher, and lost his childhood hero-dad. The man that helped so many, but didn't want any of the fame. I especially loved the side of him that seen what he wanted and went after it, fought for it. Grady was very thoughtful. When he let his guard down and let Kate in he was this sexy, playful, smart-ass that was easy in his own skin, and I fell in love with him!
"I'm not scared of being with you." She leaned forward again and softly spoke into his chest what she couldn't bear to admit to his face. "I'm scared of what it will be like, what I will be like, when you're gone. When it falls apart and I..."-Kate
"I'm not perfect, but I did not do this. You know I'm yours Kate, and you're mine. You of all people know that I did not do this. I love you. Can't you just let me..." He touched her shoulder and she went back behind the safety of her desk. Kate never looked up, never looked at him. "Love me back, all the way. I'm worth it, I promise."-Grady
The author did such a good job building up their relationship. You could feel them fall for each other. I did get frustrated with Kate kissing Grady, making love with him, or telling him she loved him and then holding him at arms length. I could understand, to a point, that she was fearful, but she held that fear for far to long. She hurt Grady over what her ex did, and I loved Grady's character so much, that I felt protective of him. I liked most of the other characters. I didn't really care for Grady's father. Besides the fact that he cheated on his wife, he seemed self-center. Other than the push/pull relationship the only other thing I didn't like in this book was the ending. It was so abrupt. No epilogue, just fight, time apart, make up, and bam over. It didn't give me any real closure. Over all this was a sweet, but some what angsty love story. I would like to read more from this author.
http://jessicasoverthetopbookobsessio...
*Some Spoilers*
"Do I make you uncomfortable, Kate?"-Grady
"We don't need dinner to talk strategy. Here it is: Behave, keep your zipper up, smile, and keep your mouth closed unless your brain is engaged. That's it. You'll be thirty next week; this shouldn't be too difficult. I'll handle the rest. Just act like you have something to lose and you're not a completely spoiled... well, ass."-Kate
Candidate A love Story was a pretty good book. The reason I didn't enjoy it more was it made me like it , and frustrated me in equal measure! I loved Kate and wanted to choke Kate also in equal measure. Kate felt real. I could understand her pain, and fear, from being cheated on by her ex husband. So I understood her not wanted to get close to Grady. But I felt she held on to that fear for far too long. The push/pull she did drove me a little crazy, and at times made me want rip my hair out! I loved the other sides of Kate where she was strong, took charge, and smart. I loved that she stood up for herself to her family when they didn't really have her back over divorcing Nick (her cheating ex).
"So let me get this straight. You grew up in a blue-collar family; you work for a living and know how to save money and balance that chip on your shoulder. You are solid and in the real world your life is incredibly complicated. I, on the other hand, was given a trust fund and therefore lack all substance and complexities? Did I get that right, Kate?"-Grady
"Kate, look at me. I don't need to love you or have sex with you to pump myself up or mend my ego. I need... want to be around you. To hold you, laugh with you, and even fight with you. And you're right, you do make me better, that's true, but I can offer you something too. I have things you need. You need me, I can feel it and believe me, no one has ever needed me. They've needed my money or my family connections, but never me. You need me, Kate, and God, over the last couple of months I've needed you."-Grady
Grady was the star of the book for me. He was a very deep, dynamic, and complex character. He shows the world his slacker, rich , playboy side, but there is so much to Grady. I really felt for him. For the hurt teenage boy that walked in and caught his father cheating with his math teacher, and lost his childhood hero-dad. The man that helped so many, but didn't want any of the fame. I especially loved the side of him that seen what he wanted and went after it, fought for it. Grady was very thoughtful. When he let his guard down and let Kate in he was this sexy, playful, smart-ass that was easy in his own skin, and I fell in love with him!
"I'm not scared of being with you." She leaned forward again and softly spoke into his chest what she couldn't bear to admit to his face. "I'm scared of what it will be like, what I will be like, when you're gone. When it falls apart and I..."-Kate
"I'm not perfect, but I did not do this. You know I'm yours Kate, and you're mine. You of all people know that I did not do this. I love you. Can't you just let me..." He touched her shoulder and she went back behind the safety of her desk. Kate never looked up, never looked at him. "Love me back, all the way. I'm worth it, I promise."-Grady
The author did such a good job building up their relationship. You could feel them fall for each other. I did get frustrated with Kate kissing Grady, making love with him, or telling him she loved him and then holding him at arms length. I could understand, to a point, that she was fearful, but she held that fear for far to long. She hurt Grady over what her ex did, and I loved Grady's character so much, that I felt protective of him. I liked most of the other characters. I didn't really care for Grady's father. Besides the fact that he cheated on his wife, he seemed self-center. Other than the push/pull relationship the only other thing I didn't like in this book was the ending. It was so abrupt. No epilogue, just fight, time apart, make up, and bam over. It didn't give me any real closure. Over all this was a sweet, but some what angsty love story. I would like to read more from this author.
http://jessicasoverthetopbookobsessio...
November 1, 2015
4 Owning Who You Are Stars * * * *
I sometimes do things a little backwards. I found this gem of a book, Taste, https://www.goodreads.com/review/show..., and happen to enjoy it. I thought the author did a fine job, so I hunted down this book which was available on NetGalley, too. It didn't matter to me which book I read first, as they work as a stand alone. I even think knowing what I did from the book Taste actually added more because I understood these characters from that story. They overlap a bit but do not reveal too much to ruin the reading.
The story has Katherine Galloway, divorced two years from her ex, who is a cop. It was no surprise she married a cop as she comes from a family full of them. What she thought was a match, turned out to be a fraud. He cheated and then expected her to forgive and accept. The sad part was her family did too...oh, they punched him out and felt bad... but then it was she who was in the wrong in their eyes...after all, he was one of them.
Kate had worked hard and was part of a high profile PR firm who dealt in fixing reputations of the powerful, the famous and political. She is excellent at her job and partially due to her using it as the main focus of her life. The divorce hit her confidence and it took her a bit to start to be herself again. While all of her ducks are lined up in a row when working, she hasn't unpacked any of the boxes in her apartment...it is like she is stuck in limbo and Toaster Strudel is her lifeline.
On this day of work, she has her timing of getting out of the house down to a science. She was called in to an early meeting for a new project by her boss. She is multitasking; dressing, collecting files and putting on earrings as she is rushing out the door. Naturally her mother calls with the perfect dig and guilt trip about a family event for her niece. No, she cannot go as she is working... yes, she has told her brother and they are ok with it... No, she is not getting back with her ex who is going to be there...Kate hangs up, barely, and enters the conference room and sees the entire team already assembled.
As her boss starts talking about this important project, Kate gets the sense something is up...the other guys are holding back smirks. She listens as it is told to her she will be "handling" Grady Malendar personally, the Senator's son during this very important re-election. As more words are coming out of her bosses mouth sounding like Charlie Brown's Teacher, Wah, Wah, Wah....she is starting to fume... These chauvinist pigs have given her, A Columbia Graduate, a "Babysitting Job"! This Grady can't stay out of the spotlight if his life depended on it. Mr. Too Handsome for his own good is always doing something caught on phone video or worse...Kate hears the tail end of how the younger demographic is needed for the Senator to win so a schedule of events for Grady's participation will be needed.
Kate looks up and sees a sheepish boss and snickering coworkers...she asks well where is the spoiled little...And in walks the Senator and his people. Her boss steps in with a save... pleasantries are exchanged and they all move into a bigger conference room to discuss the agenda.
Kate is gathering all of her files- organization is key and Mr. Hunkalious leans in and asks is she coming, after all she doesn't want to miss how they are going to corral the "spoiled son"...Oh, he's going to play it that way, is he...Well, not if Kate has anything to do with it...
These two start a very feisty relationship of her pushing back and Grady zeroing in... He tests her and she passes at every turn. He is curious about this woman and sees much more than she lets on...Conversely, Kate starts noticing Grady is not the persona he puts out for all to see... there is a serious depth of character he purposely hides.
This story has charm, very smart banter and a different way of telling a story. Touchstones of childhood, things we all hold dear and relate to are used to bring these two characters together. It is the age old issue of people being pegged as one thing early- so of course, that is who they are... married to the specific of living a public life. When is it enough...when do public figures get to have privacy...and how does someone protect what is dear in those situations.
The other issue addressed so well is being able to recover from betrayal and hurt. To make it back to the person you were supposed to be all along. To stand up to those who are not supporting you and show them where they are wrong and then let it go. If they learn and stand by you great, if not...be strong on your own.
I would be remiss if I didn't share my sincere affection for Grady...This is a man who has lived a complicated life...and still has heart, charm, amazing sweetness and sex appeal...
In other words...May I have one of him to go please...
Even when he messes up...and he does...we are able to forgive and accept because this is also a man who understands owning up to his actions.
I appreciated the fresh take on this and think this author has a distinct voice in how she tells a story. I will look for more from her.
A gifted copy was provided by the author via NetGalley for an honest review.
For more Reviews, Free E-books and Giveaways
I sometimes do things a little backwards. I found this gem of a book, Taste, https://www.goodreads.com/review/show..., and happen to enjoy it. I thought the author did a fine job, so I hunted down this book which was available on NetGalley, too. It didn't matter to me which book I read first, as they work as a stand alone. I even think knowing what I did from the book Taste actually added more because I understood these characters from that story. They overlap a bit but do not reveal too much to ruin the reading.
The story has Katherine Galloway, divorced two years from her ex, who is a cop. It was no surprise she married a cop as she comes from a family full of them. What she thought was a match, turned out to be a fraud. He cheated and then expected her to forgive and accept. The sad part was her family did too...oh, they punched him out and felt bad... but then it was she who was in the wrong in their eyes...after all, he was one of them.
Kate had worked hard and was part of a high profile PR firm who dealt in fixing reputations of the powerful, the famous and political. She is excellent at her job and partially due to her using it as the main focus of her life. The divorce hit her confidence and it took her a bit to start to be herself again. While all of her ducks are lined up in a row when working, she hasn't unpacked any of the boxes in her apartment...it is like she is stuck in limbo and Toaster Strudel is her lifeline.
On this day of work, she has her timing of getting out of the house down to a science. She was called in to an early meeting for a new project by her boss. She is multitasking; dressing, collecting files and putting on earrings as she is rushing out the door. Naturally her mother calls with the perfect dig and guilt trip about a family event for her niece. No, she cannot go as she is working... yes, she has told her brother and they are ok with it... No, she is not getting back with her ex who is going to be there...Kate hangs up, barely, and enters the conference room and sees the entire team already assembled.
As her boss starts talking about this important project, Kate gets the sense something is up...the other guys are holding back smirks. She listens as it is told to her she will be "handling" Grady Malendar personally, the Senator's son during this very important re-election. As more words are coming out of her bosses mouth sounding like Charlie Brown's Teacher, Wah, Wah, Wah....she is starting to fume... These chauvinist pigs have given her, A Columbia Graduate, a "Babysitting Job"! This Grady can't stay out of the spotlight if his life depended on it. Mr. Too Handsome for his own good is always doing something caught on phone video or worse...Kate hears the tail end of how the younger demographic is needed for the Senator to win so a schedule of events for Grady's participation will be needed.
Kate looks up and sees a sheepish boss and snickering coworkers...she asks well where is the spoiled little...And in walks the Senator and his people. Her boss steps in with a save... pleasantries are exchanged and they all move into a bigger conference room to discuss the agenda.
Kate is gathering all of her files- organization is key and Mr. Hunkalious leans in and asks is she coming, after all she doesn't want to miss how they are going to corral the "spoiled son"...Oh, he's going to play it that way, is he...Well, not if Kate has anything to do with it...
These two start a very feisty relationship of her pushing back and Grady zeroing in... He tests her and she passes at every turn. He is curious about this woman and sees much more than she lets on...Conversely, Kate starts noticing Grady is not the persona he puts out for all to see... there is a serious depth of character he purposely hides.
This story has charm, very smart banter and a different way of telling a story. Touchstones of childhood, things we all hold dear and relate to are used to bring these two characters together. It is the age old issue of people being pegged as one thing early- so of course, that is who they are... married to the specific of living a public life. When is it enough...when do public figures get to have privacy...and how does someone protect what is dear in those situations.
The other issue addressed so well is being able to recover from betrayal and hurt. To make it back to the person you were supposed to be all along. To stand up to those who are not supporting you and show them where they are wrong and then let it go. If they learn and stand by you great, if not...be strong on your own.
I would be remiss if I didn't share my sincere affection for Grady...This is a man who has lived a complicated life...and still has heart, charm, amazing sweetness and sex appeal...
In other words...May I have one of him to go please...
Even when he messes up...and he does...we are able to forgive and accept because this is also a man who understands owning up to his actions.
I appreciated the fresh take on this and think this author has a distinct voice in how she tells a story. I will look for more from her.
A gifted copy was provided by the author via NetGalley for an honest review.
For more Reviews, Free E-books and Giveaways
July 10, 2015
I love when the perfect book falls into my lap and it keeps me enthralled and happy just to be reading it. Such was the case here and it was a wonderful surprise. Not exactly what I thought I would find but just what I needed and was looking for. A new-to-me author whose contemporary romance didn't include off-the-charts angst, death, sexual dominance, cheating, abuse, etc. etc. that so many of the top sellers feel are a must these days. I just needed to believe in love. And this was it wrapped in a sweet love story -- one that made my heart swoon and sigh and left me happy. And that's exactly what I found in Candidate. Of course there were a few roadblocks and uncomfortable moments before the happily-ever-after, but they were to be expected and not over melodramatic nor rip-the-heart-out-of-your-chest moments.
There's a senatorial campaign surrounding the events in this story. It doesn't distract from the love story, but only moves the story along. Truly, this is a solid romance from start to finish, and those private moments between two people are given enough power to provide readers with clarity and substantiate the beautiful relationship that is growing between these two. But the details are kept behind closed doors and between the two involved.
There are some really great secondary characters, along with excellent and exceptionally written passages of text. I loved this author's choice of wording and the wit and smart choices in her writing voice. Laughter will consume you as you read through this book. Nana's quirky sayings fit perfectly into the scenes just as they should. And the cereal testing between the two main characters turns into one of the sweetest and most tender moments. And I loved the trip to Washington, D.C. and the visit to Arlington National Cemetery with its sober meaning and the respect therein. And I must agree with our heroine and her most favorite thing about D.C. -- that being the cherry blossoms, "the pink in D.C.'s cheeks." There are so many lovely descriptive remarks that jump off the pages to be savored and enjoyed until you run out of pages and are left wanting more.
I will definitely be following this author's release dates and also taking a look at her backlist as well.
There's a senatorial campaign surrounding the events in this story. It doesn't distract from the love story, but only moves the story along. Truly, this is a solid romance from start to finish, and those private moments between two people are given enough power to provide readers with clarity and substantiate the beautiful relationship that is growing between these two. But the details are kept behind closed doors and between the two involved.
There are some really great secondary characters, along with excellent and exceptionally written passages of text. I loved this author's choice of wording and the wit and smart choices in her writing voice. Laughter will consume you as you read through this book. Nana's quirky sayings fit perfectly into the scenes just as they should. And the cereal testing between the two main characters turns into one of the sweetest and most tender moments. And I loved the trip to Washington, D.C. and the visit to Arlington National Cemetery with its sober meaning and the respect therein. And I must agree with our heroine and her most favorite thing about D.C. -- that being the cherry blossoms, "the pink in D.C.'s cheeks." There are so many lovely descriptive remarks that jump off the pages to be savored and enjoyed until you run out of pages and are left wanting more.
I will definitely be following this author's release dates and also taking a look at her backlist as well.
December 19, 2017
This was a cute, easy to read but still fun and nicely written Love Story.
What i loved most about this book was that the main girl - Kate- who tried to regain herself an move on from her cheating ex-husband, didn't just completely change herself or her life once she meets the main guy of this book. I hate it when women just completely change themselves to be more "perfect" for the right guy.
I also enjoyed that the guy - Grady - was more then he first seemed. Yes, he was a ladies man and enjoyed drinking and fun and being stupid, but he was more then that. And that he was also helpful to his father even if he was clearly not the biggest fan of him at the same time.
In short, i loved the to main characters because they had a depth to them that you rarely see in this kind of romance-y writing.
The story itself was cute as well, even if very predictable, so really don't go into this book expecting to be completely blown out of the water by its uniqueness (i didn't expect that and i loved this book so i am not saying don't expect to not love it but just don't expect to have a huge different romance plot!) because this is relatively basic in its romance building.
But the writing is wonderful, the main and side characters are great.
There is lots of family and friendship moments that are beautiful.
I loved how the romance evolved and while i found the rather typical fight scenes a bit overdone and unnecessary and the ending just slightly rushed, the overall book was fantastic and fun and a great read.
If you want a wonderful romance book that is cute but realistic and wonderful?
Give this book a read!
*I received my copy for free in exchange for a honest review - thanks to NetGalley, the Publishers and the author!*
What i loved most about this book was that the main girl - Kate- who tried to regain herself an move on from her cheating ex-husband, didn't just completely change herself or her life once she meets the main guy of this book. I hate it when women just completely change themselves to be more "perfect" for the right guy.
I also enjoyed that the guy - Grady - was more then he first seemed. Yes, he was a ladies man and enjoyed drinking and fun and being stupid, but he was more then that. And that he was also helpful to his father even if he was clearly not the biggest fan of him at the same time.
In short, i loved the to main characters because they had a depth to them that you rarely see in this kind of romance-y writing.
The story itself was cute as well, even if very predictable, so really don't go into this book expecting to be completely blown out of the water by its uniqueness (i didn't expect that and i loved this book so i am not saying don't expect to not love it but just don't expect to have a huge different romance plot!) because this is relatively basic in its romance building.
But the writing is wonderful, the main and side characters are great.
There is lots of family and friendship moments that are beautiful.
I loved how the romance evolved and while i found the rather typical fight scenes a bit overdone and unnecessary and the ending just slightly rushed, the overall book was fantastic and fun and a great read.
If you want a wonderful romance book that is cute but realistic and wonderful?
Give this book a read!
*I received my copy for free in exchange for a honest review - thanks to NetGalley, the Publishers and the author!*
December 3, 2015
This was okay. The characters were likeable, I just thought the overall writing had an unpolished edge to it. Ewens had solid ideas, but some of the sentences were very awkward and I felt like I was walking on an uneven brick sidewalk with small patches of smooth asphalt in between.
For example, instead of using "wh-what?" to display a character's verbal trip in the dialogue, Ewens had it written as "what, what *proceed with sentence"
It made it look like the person who typed the book up accidentally typed the word twice. I had to read those sentences over a few times to understand why it was written out that way.
The time in the books also moved by in a strange way. Not sure how I can really explain that, but it seemed choppy and forced. "one week later" "two days later" "two weeks later"
It just seemed like the author didn't know how to fill this time in a graceful manner so she just put those in somewhere in the first chapter line to make up for it. Unpolished.
Also, she would lead us up to an event: like the carnival in Grady's parent's backyard, and spend about 3 paragraphs really at the carnival, and describing it. Was a pretty big letdown, and yet other events had whole chapters and dialogues and descriptions and the like. It wasn't even, it was choppy and occasionally rushed.
Far from the worst writing I've ever read, but this story could have used a strong editor and multiple pairs of eyes, and probably a couple re-writes on some of the chapters. I felt like I was reading an ARC.
For example, instead of using "wh-what?" to display a character's verbal trip in the dialogue, Ewens had it written as "what, what *proceed with sentence"
It made it look like the person who typed the book up accidentally typed the word twice. I had to read those sentences over a few times to understand why it was written out that way.
The time in the books also moved by in a strange way. Not sure how I can really explain that, but it seemed choppy and forced. "one week later" "two days later" "two weeks later"
It just seemed like the author didn't know how to fill this time in a graceful manner so she just put those in somewhere in the first chapter line to make up for it. Unpolished.
Also, she would lead us up to an event: like the carnival in Grady's parent's backyard, and spend about 3 paragraphs really at the carnival, and describing it. Was a pretty big letdown, and yet other events had whole chapters and dialogues and descriptions and the like. It wasn't even, it was choppy and occasionally rushed.
Far from the worst writing I've ever read, but this story could have used a strong editor and multiple pairs of eyes, and probably a couple re-writes on some of the chapters. I felt like I was reading an ARC.
Want to read
November 29, 2017Can't wait to get some time to read this one!
I am featuring Tracy's series on my blog this week, check it out!
Carlene Inspired Blog
I am featuring Tracy's series on my blog this week, check it out!
Carlene Inspired Blog
July 5, 2015
It started a bit slow but I fell for Grady. I wish there had been a bite more groveling at the end but I really enjoyed their story. They got to know each other, became friends and finally fell in love.
June 16, 2017
**** 4 STARS ****
What a beautiful story... That's all I can really say. It wasn't cheesy, and it didn't have annoying drama. Everything flowed smoothly and elegantly.
Katherine is recovering from a failed marriage. Her ex-husband cheated on her multiple times. Part of her healing process was to focus all her energy on work. She works at a PR firm, and she and her team are hired to help the Senator to be reelected. Kate's main goal is to make sure the Senator's son, Grady, behave.
Grady has a reputation of being a bad boy, but he is hiding his true self from the public eye. Kate and Grady are both damaged and hiding. It's magical when they come together. There were times when it was so romantic, and then the hot tension turned into laughter. I loved it!
What a beautiful story... That's all I can really say. It wasn't cheesy, and it didn't have annoying drama. Everything flowed smoothly and elegantly.
Katherine is recovering from a failed marriage. Her ex-husband cheated on her multiple times. Part of her healing process was to focus all her energy on work. She works at a PR firm, and she and her team are hired to help the Senator to be reelected. Kate's main goal is to make sure the Senator's son, Grady, behave.
Grady has a reputation of being a bad boy, but he is hiding his true self from the public eye. Kate and Grady are both damaged and hiding. It's magical when they come together. There were times when it was so romantic, and then the hot tension turned into laughter. I loved it!
August 15, 2016
Review originally posted at
All Books Considered: THREE AND A HALF STARS
I really, really love political romances but I am a bit picky when it comes to them. Recently I read Flirting With Scandal and Special Interests, both of which I didn't love. That being said, Candidate was good! I really, really liked Grady and I loved Grady and Kate together -- this was no insta-love and there was a lot of push-pull without silly drama. An absence of both is seriously harder than hard to find these days in contemporary romance. Although the persona of Grady in the beginning of the book -- some sort of womanizing, irresponsible son of a Senator -- felt a bit disingenuous when we learn just how great a guy Grady is, it provided ample reason for Kate to do her job and watch Grady close allowing time for them to get to know each other and for that slow, slow build (which I love!) The only complaint I have with this one is the end -- it's not that it was unfinished but I felt like there were some loose threads that were dismissed a bit too casually. That being said, Grady is definitely a solid book boyfriend and I wouldn't hesitate to recommend this one.
I would recommend this to fans of political and contemporary romance. While Mary Whitney is still my favorite (and Off the Record by K.A. Linde is also awesome!!), I am definitely going to read more books by Tracy Ewens.
I really, really love political romances but I am a bit picky when it comes to them. Recently I read Flirting With Scandal and Special Interests, both of which I didn't love. That being said, Candidate was good! I really, really liked Grady and I loved Grady and Kate together -- this was no insta-love and there was a lot of push-pull without silly drama. An absence of both is seriously harder than hard to find these days in contemporary romance. Although the persona of Grady in the beginning of the book -- some sort of womanizing, irresponsible son of a Senator -- felt a bit disingenuous when we learn just how great a guy Grady is, it provided ample reason for Kate to do her job and watch Grady close allowing time for them to get to know each other and for that slow, slow build (which I love!) The only complaint I have with this one is the end -- it's not that it was unfinished but I felt like there were some loose threads that were dismissed a bit too casually. That being said, Grady is definitely a solid book boyfriend and I wouldn't hesitate to recommend this one.
I would recommend this to fans of political and contemporary romance. While Mary Whitney is still my favorite (and Off the Record by K.A. Linde is also awesome!!), I am definitely going to read more books by Tracy Ewens.
She was supposed to be keeping him together, making him look good, and here she was a total wreck. At that moment, Kate didn't have the energy to care. He touched her head, pushed the hair off her face, and she looked up into eyes that held nothing but kindness and sympathy. The kindness was a surprise, and she hated the sympathy. She was fine. Damn it, Kate. Be fine.
"I'm fine."
"Yeah, you are. Sure you are."
She put the lid on the water and swiveled back into the car. Grady closed the door and went back to the driver's seat.
"You know what you need?"
"I am truly afraid to ask."
"Will you just let me take care . . . Can I be in charge for a few hours?"
"I don't think--"
"Trust me, there will be ice cream involved." He smiled very gently. He was being so careful.
"Probably not a good idea to eat after I've just--"
"That was anguish throw up, not food related, so the food rule doesn't apply." She almost smiled.
"Excuse me? Did you just say anguish throw up?"
"I did. Falls under the reasons we throw up that have nothing to do with alcohol or bad eggs. Like when I found out Peter's dad killed himself, or the day I cam home early from school and found my father with some woman and they were both on the same side of the desk-- anguish throw up. So much the body can't handle it, so it yells, 'Everyone out!'"
Kate stared at him. There she was, sitting on the side of the road, feeling about as low as she had been in a while, and she could not take her eyes off of him. It had nothing to do with his looks. He was sharing himself, a piece of his own pain. It was so honest, and for a moment she forgot everything. The moments of light he was capable of, when the charm and bullshit slipped away, were brilliant.
August 31, 2015
Estoy segura de que esta historia tiene un público específico al que le va a encantar, aunque por desgracia, yo no soy parte del mismo…
Me ha resultado floja, muy plana y carente de emociones.
No hay nada nuevo ni original en esta historia. Otro caso de insta lust, de atracción física y descripciones de lo perfectos que son ambos protagonistas.
Los conflictos que surgen entre los protagonistas para no poder estar juntos son los de siempre…una vez que te ha salido mal una relación ya no confías en el sexo opuesto…un poco manido, la verdad.
Y, a pesar de todo lo anterior, la historia podría haber estado bien. Pero no he conseguido entender el punto de vista de la autora, así que tampoco he conectado con los personajes. Si los problemas personales de los protagonistas son tan graves (y lo son, la verdad) cómo es que la autora los soluciona en 3 líneas? Cómo es que después de tantos años (el problema se viene arrastrando hace 15 años) no hay consecuencias? Apenas se pide perdón y quedan perdonados, poco creíble, sobre todo si la autora al final decide que todos los secundarios culpen al protagonista de los problemas…no me ha resultado realista ese final con esas lágrimas de cocodrilo después de tantos años de dolor…
Y los malentendidos para las separaciones (dos a falta de una, por si fuese poco) son muy vagos, predecibles y se solucionan de un plumazo… me gusta ver que los personajes realmente luchan por arreglar los desaguisados que montan y me gusta cuando el perdón viene cuando se lo merecen, no gratuitamente.
Para mí ha sido demasiado superficial y demasiado empalagosa, pero si te gustan las historia con poco drama y resoluciones rápidas y dulces, esta te puede encantar.
I am sure that this story has a specific audience that will love it, but unfortunately, I'm not part of it...
It has been loose, shallow and without feelings.
There is nothing new or original in this story. Another case of insta lust or physical attraction and descriptions of how perfect are both characters.
The conflicts that arise between the MC´s for not being able to be together are the same as always... Once you had a relationship that went wrong and you do not trust in the opposite sex anymore... a little trite, IMHO.
And, despite all of the above, the story could have been good. But I have failed to understand the author´s point of view, so I have not connected with the characters. If the personal problems of the protagonists are so serious (as they are, truth be told) how can the author solves them in 3 lines? How is that after so many years (the problem have been carried for 15 years) there are no consequences? They just ask for forgiveness, and they are forgiven, little credible, especially if the author ultimately decides that the secondary characters are going to put the blame on the hero... and that end with those crocodile tears it did not seem realistic after so many years of pain...
And the misunderstandings for the separations (two because one was not enough) of the MC´s are very vague, predictable and are solved in the blink of an eye... I like to see that the characters really struggling to fix the misfortunes they created and I like when forgiveness comes when they deserve it, not for free.
For me it was too shallow and too sugary, but if you like your stories without too much drama and a fast a sugary end, you can find this one adorable.
ARC received via Netgalley.
Me ha resultado floja, muy plana y carente de emociones.
No hay nada nuevo ni original en esta historia. Otro caso de insta lust, de atracción física y descripciones de lo perfectos que son ambos protagonistas.
Los conflictos que surgen entre los protagonistas para no poder estar juntos son los de siempre…una vez que te ha salido mal una relación ya no confías en el sexo opuesto…un poco manido, la verdad.
Y, a pesar de todo lo anterior, la historia podría haber estado bien. Pero no he conseguido entender el punto de vista de la autora, así que tampoco he conectado con los personajes. Si los problemas personales de los protagonistas son tan graves (y lo son, la verdad) cómo es que la autora los soluciona en 3 líneas? Cómo es que después de tantos años (el problema se viene arrastrando hace 15 años) no hay consecuencias? Apenas se pide perdón y quedan perdonados, poco creíble, sobre todo si la autora al final decide que todos los secundarios culpen al protagonista de los problemas…no me ha resultado realista ese final con esas lágrimas de cocodrilo después de tantos años de dolor…
Y los malentendidos para las separaciones (dos a falta de una, por si fuese poco) son muy vagos, predecibles y se solucionan de un plumazo… me gusta ver que los personajes realmente luchan por arreglar los desaguisados que montan y me gusta cuando el perdón viene cuando se lo merecen, no gratuitamente.
Para mí ha sido demasiado superficial y demasiado empalagosa, pero si te gustan las historia con poco drama y resoluciones rápidas y dulces, esta te puede encantar.
I am sure that this story has a specific audience that will love it, but unfortunately, I'm not part of it...
It has been loose, shallow and without feelings.
There is nothing new or original in this story. Another case of insta lust or physical attraction and descriptions of how perfect are both characters.
The conflicts that arise between the MC´s for not being able to be together are the same as always... Once you had a relationship that went wrong and you do not trust in the opposite sex anymore... a little trite, IMHO.
And, despite all of the above, the story could have been good. But I have failed to understand the author´s point of view, so I have not connected with the characters. If the personal problems of the protagonists are so serious (as they are, truth be told) how can the author solves them in 3 lines? How is that after so many years (the problem have been carried for 15 years) there are no consequences? They just ask for forgiveness, and they are forgiven, little credible, especially if the author ultimately decides that the secondary characters are going to put the blame on the hero... and that end with those crocodile tears it did not seem realistic after so many years of pain...
And the misunderstandings for the separations (two because one was not enough) of the MC´s are very vague, predictable and are solved in the blink of an eye... I like to see that the characters really struggling to fix the misfortunes they created and I like when forgiveness comes when they deserve it, not for free.
For me it was too shallow and too sugary, but if you like your stories without too much drama and a fast a sugary end, you can find this one adorable.
ARC received via Netgalley.
December 16, 2015
This is probably one of the loveliest romances I've read lately. Nothing is rushed, everything happens naturally and you are drawn to characters that live pretty normal lives. This is the kind of romance that you believe can happen to you, not just the stuff you see in movies but never feels 100% real.
Grady Malendar's father is up for re-election to the Senate and Grady is, for once, asked to drop his bad boy reputation and behave, at least for as long as the campaign lasts. So much that his father, the senator, enlists a PR firm to take care of him, and Kate Galloway turns out to be the appointed "babysitter". I confess that I when I started reading the book Grady came across as a misbehaved teenager instead of a nearly thirty year old man. But, truth be told, after just one glitch at the beginning, he behaves pretty well and his reputation is just that, a reputation. We don't really see him misbehaving. We do see another side of Grady that he keeps hidden from everyone else and that really endeared him to me.
Kate, on the other hand, is the epitome of a good girl that puts work above everything else, including her life. That's why, two years after her divorce, she's still living in a nearly empty apartment populated with boxes of stuff she never bothered to unpack. Grady is the first that manages to crack the shell she has placed around her heart and her personal life, and that's beautiful to see. She's been hurt before by her unfaithful husband, but she's given a chance to heal and to grow. She finally understands that she doesn't have to carry her burdens alone, and neither does Grady.
There is a friendship developing before Grady and Kate become romantically involved, which, in a way, is a relief. Those books where the characters meet and five minutes later are rolling around in the sheets always throw me for a loop. I do believe in love, and even lust, at first sight, but I prefer the stories to have a bit more backbone than that, and the Candidate sure does have it.
Grady Malendar's father is up for re-election to the Senate and Grady is, for once, asked to drop his bad boy reputation and behave, at least for as long as the campaign lasts. So much that his father, the senator, enlists a PR firm to take care of him, and Kate Galloway turns out to be the appointed "babysitter". I confess that I when I started reading the book Grady came across as a misbehaved teenager instead of a nearly thirty year old man. But, truth be told, after just one glitch at the beginning, he behaves pretty well and his reputation is just that, a reputation. We don't really see him misbehaving. We do see another side of Grady that he keeps hidden from everyone else and that really endeared him to me.
Kate, on the other hand, is the epitome of a good girl that puts work above everything else, including her life. That's why, two years after her divorce, she's still living in a nearly empty apartment populated with boxes of stuff she never bothered to unpack. Grady is the first that manages to crack the shell she has placed around her heart and her personal life, and that's beautiful to see. She's been hurt before by her unfaithful husband, but she's given a chance to heal and to grow. She finally understands that she doesn't have to carry her burdens alone, and neither does Grady.
There is a friendship developing before Grady and Kate become romantically involved, which, in a way, is a relief. Those books where the characters meet and five minutes later are rolling around in the sheets always throw me for a loop. I do believe in love, and even lust, at first sight, but I prefer the stories to have a bit more backbone than that, and the Candidate sure does have it.
November 23, 2015
In Candidate I expected to find the requisite opposites attraction (contempt always leads to love or at least some decent between the sheets action in romance novels) and there is that. However, I did not expect for the entire plot to be laid out before the end of the first act, a little anticipation please. Nonetheless, I spot the author a couple points for going against the grain. The characters at first glance seem interesting. I love a strong heroine and a good guy masquerading as bad and Kate and Gandy certainly seemed to fit the bill, but the story needed an injection of energy and intensity. It plodded along at a glacial pace. I could have lived with that if I had some witty repartee and chemistry to tide me over, alas I didn’t find any. Candidate lacked flow, there was no buildup or emotional tension and the characters seemed stuck on repeat. An overall one-note feel equated to a boring read.
Thank you to NG & publisher for providing ARC.
Thank you to NG & publisher for providing ARC.
April 5, 2017
**Thank you Netgalley for the the free book.
I'm a sucker for a good cover and this one totally drew me in! This story was well-written with believable and likable characters--all of them! The story was evenly paced and very romantic without being smutty. The only thing that was a little un-relatable was the economic background of the characters, but it was in no way over the top--just something I personally could not relate to. There was no big explosion of drama in this book, but I love a solid, well-rounded romance!!!! It had a blip of a moment where you could tell a sequel would be in the works. That being said, I didn't even know it was a part 2--so I'm really psyched about that. It never felt like the author was trying to write a story just to lead up to another. Highly recommend!!!!
I'm a sucker for a good cover and this one totally drew me in! This story was well-written with believable and likable characters--all of them! The story was evenly paced and very romantic without being smutty. The only thing that was a little un-relatable was the economic background of the characters, but it was in no way over the top--just something I personally could not relate to. There was no big explosion of drama in this book, but I love a solid, well-rounded romance!!!! It had a blip of a moment where you could tell a sequel would be in the works. That being said, I didn't even know it was a part 2--so I'm really psyched about that. It never felt like the author was trying to write a story just to lead up to another. Highly recommend!!!!
January 9, 2016
3.5
Some plot issues and tense problems but the characters were worth rooting for.
The story was interesting and the push/pull was realistic making the inevitable that much sweeter.
It's a quick read but it keeps you hooked and this is a perfect vacation book.
Also, it definitely had its steamy moments.
I'd read the next one but I really didn't care for Kara so I might just skip it.
Also, I just realized that the cover is perfect. Read and you'll make the connection.
*ARC received from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review
Some plot issues and tense problems but the characters were worth rooting for.
The story was interesting and the push/pull was realistic making the inevitable that much sweeter.
It's a quick read but it keeps you hooked and this is a perfect vacation book.
Also, it definitely had its steamy moments.
I'd read the next one but I really didn't care for Kara so I might just skip it.
Also, I just realized that the cover is perfect. Read and you'll make the connection.
*ARC received from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review
July 1, 2015
A sweet read. Kate and Grady's story was as unique as it was tension-filled! I enjoyed the writing and the sensitive-yet -still-Alpha lead character. Overall a good book. Looking forward to the authors other titles in this series!
Full disclosure: I was provided an ARC of this title from the folks at NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Full disclosure: I was provided an ARC of this title from the folks at NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
June 23, 2019
For the most part, well written. Some of the conflict was too easily resolved, and the hero seemed a bit too perfect, but if you’re looking for a sweet romance without a lot of angst, this fits the bill. The characterization and writing were excellent.
August 28, 2016
Wasn't sure I would like this one because of the politics but I really did. Great book
October 11, 2025
I thought it was an okay read. It didn't read particularly excited and I was quite detached from the characters (I think it's because of how the author wrote it). Kate is hired to work her PR magic on a senator's son. As she works through her annoyance at his shenanigans, she realizes that there is something more inside him.
January 1, 2025
Brilliant. To the point I want this book in paperback.
June 14, 2015
Politics are tough and public image is everything for United States Senator Patrick Malendar of California. He’s up for re-election and his young Republican opponent is giving him a run for his money. To secure his seat, Malendar has hired Bracknell and Stevens to handle his PR campaign. But the big problem is what to do about Malendar’s errant son, Grady, a shameless playboy whose carousing is frequent fodder for the scandal-hungry media. Malendar knows his son is the key to the young demographic and he’s determined to whip Grady’s image into shape. Anything to help the vote. That’s his motto.
Meet Kate Galloway. She’s a rising star at Bracknell and Stevens and her boss knows she’s the solution to the Grady problem. But while Kate may be the best one for the job, she comes with a lot of romantic baggage and taming a wild playboy may be more than she can handle. It doesn’t help that Grady is a knock-down gorgeous charmer with ice-blue eyes, and as Ewens writes, “trouble in a linen shirt.” (What a great line!) Kate has a low tolerance for womanizers, and despite being divorced for two years, she’s still raw and shaky under her professional armor.
What a story setting! Romantic sparks fly from the get-go in Tracy Ewens’ latest modern romance. Ewens has taken Grady’s character from Premiere and put him in this wonderful story about a guy with a privileged past and a hard-working, but vulnerable Ivy Leaguer from a family of cops.
The attraction between Grady and Kate is undeniable, but, besides the required professional image, there are many personal barriers to their romance. Kate needs to let down her guard and move on with her life. It’s been two years since she left her cheating husband and she hasn’t even unpacked the boxes in her apartment! And Grady has his own issues. An unacknowledged rift between him and his father may be at the root of Grady’s reckless behavior. In addition, when Kate runs a background check she discovers some mysterious doings. Does this information point to the real Grady?
The story revolves around the senator’s campaign and it includes a full calendar of public appearances, during which Kate and Grady get to know each other. Their romance isn’t in fate’s hands, however. They will have to work to reach each other. Whether that’s possible waits to be seen.
I loved this story! It’s full of fun, tantalizing banter and romantic tension and lots of ups and downs. But Candidate isn’t all eye candy and fluff. Ewens tackles many serious subjects, including the price of public life, the damaging effects of family secrets, friendship, marriage and infidelity. While chance can set the stage, the key to love and happiness is making the right choices.
Here are a some of my favorite things about Candidate:
Characters from Premiere make brief appearances and there are fun references to that storyline, but Candidate stands on its own and can be read independently.
Great lines and some well-placed zingers invite readers to remember their own crazy highs and lows of the dating world.
References to technology and social media are well-placed and make Candidate a realistic and modern story.
Terrific descriptive scenes are easy to picture and follow. I can just imagine the Malendar’s backyard carnival and taste the cotton candy.
A very moving chapter segment on Kate’s failed marriage makes the emotions of Candidate real.
A lot happens during the campaign and many details still hang after the election. Not to worry. Ewens finishes with a fantastic resolution that will not disappoint romantic readers. If you’re looking for a classy romance with substance, Candidate is a great choice!
I received an ARC to review Candidate, which will be released on June 23, 2015.
I also enjoyed reading Tracy Ewens' first two books, Catalina Kiss and Premiere!
Meet Kate Galloway. She’s a rising star at Bracknell and Stevens and her boss knows she’s the solution to the Grady problem. But while Kate may be the best one for the job, she comes with a lot of romantic baggage and taming a wild playboy may be more than she can handle. It doesn’t help that Grady is a knock-down gorgeous charmer with ice-blue eyes, and as Ewens writes, “trouble in a linen shirt.” (What a great line!) Kate has a low tolerance for womanizers, and despite being divorced for two years, she’s still raw and shaky under her professional armor.
What a story setting! Romantic sparks fly from the get-go in Tracy Ewens’ latest modern romance. Ewens has taken Grady’s character from Premiere and put him in this wonderful story about a guy with a privileged past and a hard-working, but vulnerable Ivy Leaguer from a family of cops.
The attraction between Grady and Kate is undeniable, but, besides the required professional image, there are many personal barriers to their romance. Kate needs to let down her guard and move on with her life. It’s been two years since she left her cheating husband and she hasn’t even unpacked the boxes in her apartment! And Grady has his own issues. An unacknowledged rift between him and his father may be at the root of Grady’s reckless behavior. In addition, when Kate runs a background check she discovers some mysterious doings. Does this information point to the real Grady?
The story revolves around the senator’s campaign and it includes a full calendar of public appearances, during which Kate and Grady get to know each other. Their romance isn’t in fate’s hands, however. They will have to work to reach each other. Whether that’s possible waits to be seen.
I loved this story! It’s full of fun, tantalizing banter and romantic tension and lots of ups and downs. But Candidate isn’t all eye candy and fluff. Ewens tackles many serious subjects, including the price of public life, the damaging effects of family secrets, friendship, marriage and infidelity. While chance can set the stage, the key to love and happiness is making the right choices.
Here are a some of my favorite things about Candidate:
Characters from Premiere make brief appearances and there are fun references to that storyline, but Candidate stands on its own and can be read independently.
Great lines and some well-placed zingers invite readers to remember their own crazy highs and lows of the dating world.
References to technology and social media are well-placed and make Candidate a realistic and modern story.
Terrific descriptive scenes are easy to picture and follow. I can just imagine the Malendar’s backyard carnival and taste the cotton candy.
A very moving chapter segment on Kate’s failed marriage makes the emotions of Candidate real.
A lot happens during the campaign and many details still hang after the election. Not to worry. Ewens finishes with a fantastic resolution that will not disappoint romantic readers. If you’re looking for a classy romance with substance, Candidate is a great choice!
I received an ARC to review Candidate, which will be released on June 23, 2015.
I also enjoyed reading Tracy Ewens' first two books, Catalina Kiss and Premiere!
January 6, 2016
Politiek is niet echt mijn ding. Is het omdat ik het allemaal niet goed snap dat het mij niet interesseert of is het omdat het mij niet interesseert dat ik het niet goed snap? Geen idee eigenlijk. Het komt erop neer dat ik boeken die hierover gaan gewoonlijk links laat liggen. (niets met politiek te maken. Ik kon ze evengoed rechts laten liggen maar de uitdrukking is nu eenmaal zo ;) :) ). Ik had echter het gevoel dat het om meer dan de verkiezingen zou gaan en dat trok mij dan wel weer aan, dus besloot ik het toch te lezen.
Politics are not my cup of tea. I don't know if I'm not interested because I don't really understand them or maybe I don't get them because I'm not interested. No idea. Fact is that normally I don't read books about them. Here I had the feeling that politics was of secondary importance and that other aspects would play the main parts.
Ik heb er geen moment spijt van gehad. Het deel over politiek dat erin komt, is te verwaarlozen tegenover de rest. Het gaat vooral om hoe Kate het 'heropvoeden' van de rebelse zoon Grady aanpakt zodat hij de campagne van zijn vader niet om zeep helpt. Slaagt ze erin en zit er zelfs meer in dan ze oorspronkelijk wilde toelaten of loopt alles alsnog in het honderd?
I'm glad I decided to give it a go. Politics are mentioned but, as I thought, it's not really more than mentioned. It's all about how Kate has to go about 're-educating' the rebellious son, Grady, and keeping him from doing something to destroy his father's campaign. Will she succeed and will she get more than she bargained for or will disaster strike?
De titel is passend, de cover is mooi maar ik zie niet direct een connectie.
Het verhaal is vlot geschreven en alhoewel je natuurlijk weet hoe het zal eindigen, stoorde mij dat totaal niet. Het is een boek vol humor en het geeft je een kijkje achter de schermen van het reilen en zeilen van een verkiezingscampagne.
The title is well chosen. I like the cover but I don't really see a connection with the contents. You know in advance how the story will end, but that didn't annoy me. The author has written a lovely story, full of banter, and it shows you a little bit more about what's going on behind the scenes of the elections.
Conclusie
Leuk boek en alhoewel het deel twee was uit de serie heb ik niet het gevoel gehad iets gemist te hebben. Het heeft mij wel nieuwsgierig gemaakt naar deel 1 en dat hoop ik ook nog ergens op de kop te kunnen tikken. Deel drie wordt alvast mijn volgende om te lezen. 3,5 sterren
I liked the book and even though it was part two, I never got the feeling of missing something. Of course I am now anxious to read the first part too. But first I am going to enjoy part three. 3,5 stars.
Politics are not my cup of tea. I don't know if I'm not interested because I don't really understand them or maybe I don't get them because I'm not interested. No idea. Fact is that normally I don't read books about them. Here I had the feeling that politics was of secondary importance and that other aspects would play the main parts.
Ik heb er geen moment spijt van gehad. Het deel over politiek dat erin komt, is te verwaarlozen tegenover de rest. Het gaat vooral om hoe Kate het 'heropvoeden' van de rebelse zoon Grady aanpakt zodat hij de campagne van zijn vader niet om zeep helpt. Slaagt ze erin en zit er zelfs meer in dan ze oorspronkelijk wilde toelaten of loopt alles alsnog in het honderd?
I'm glad I decided to give it a go. Politics are mentioned but, as I thought, it's not really more than mentioned. It's all about how Kate has to go about 're-educating' the rebellious son, Grady, and keeping him from doing something to destroy his father's campaign. Will she succeed and will she get more than she bargained for or will disaster strike?
De titel is passend, de cover is mooi maar ik zie niet direct een connectie.
Het verhaal is vlot geschreven en alhoewel je natuurlijk weet hoe het zal eindigen, stoorde mij dat totaal niet. Het is een boek vol humor en het geeft je een kijkje achter de schermen van het reilen en zeilen van een verkiezingscampagne.
The title is well chosen. I like the cover but I don't really see a connection with the contents. You know in advance how the story will end, but that didn't annoy me. The author has written a lovely story, full of banter, and it shows you a little bit more about what's going on behind the scenes of the elections.
Conclusie
Leuk boek en alhoewel het deel twee was uit de serie heb ik niet het gevoel gehad iets gemist te hebben. Het heeft mij wel nieuwsgierig gemaakt naar deel 1 en dat hoop ik ook nog ergens op de kop te kunnen tikken. Deel drie wordt alvast mijn volgende om te lezen. 3,5 sterren
I liked the book and even though it was part two, I never got the feeling of missing something. Of course I am now anxious to read the first part too. But first I am going to enjoy part three. 3,5 stars.
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December 15, 2015
I received this book from Netgalley in exchange for a review.
Firstly, notice that I did not put this book on my fluffy-goodness shelf which is where I thought it would wind up when I requested it. A cheesy, light-hearted romance sounded great but unfortunately this book fell totally flat for me.
I pressed through about half of the book before realizing: I didn't care what Grady's secret was (which was referenced every other chapter), and I certainly had no connection to either of the main characters. I get having your heart broken but Kate, unpack a freakin' box, buy some real food and move on.
What really bothered me was the disjointed writing style. The first time it happened I thought I had skipped a chapter but no. It was impossible to connect to the characters because they were constantly referencing things that had happened, while the story was taking place, outside of the confines of the story.
It sounded something like this:
A: Well you didn't say that the other night at the bowling alley.
B: I didn't think you'd notice.
A: Just like I didn't notice at the staff meeting earlier? Come on, give me some credit.
B: I would if you would only grow up. Grown men don't play with action figures.
Now imagine the two characters having that conversation at a point in the plot that has occurred after the bowling alley, except you never got that scene, nor did you find out how B learned of A's action figure fetish. Basically a lot of incidents in recent past tense being discussed in the present tense. It left the story feeling choppy and as far as building tension (sexual or otherwise) it completely ruined it because you didn't really get to SEE them growing together as much as you heard them talking (or thinking) later about things that made them grow together. Very frustrating as a reader.
Firstly, notice that I did not put this book on my fluffy-goodness shelf which is where I thought it would wind up when I requested it. A cheesy, light-hearted romance sounded great but unfortunately this book fell totally flat for me.
I pressed through about half of the book before realizing: I didn't care what Grady's secret was (which was referenced every other chapter), and I certainly had no connection to either of the main characters. I get having your heart broken but Kate, unpack a freakin' box, buy some real food and move on.
What really bothered me was the disjointed writing style. The first time it happened I thought I had skipped a chapter but no. It was impossible to connect to the characters because they were constantly referencing things that had happened, while the story was taking place, outside of the confines of the story.
It sounded something like this:
A: Well you didn't say that the other night at the bowling alley.
B: I didn't think you'd notice.
A: Just like I didn't notice at the staff meeting earlier? Come on, give me some credit.
B: I would if you would only grow up. Grown men don't play with action figures.
Now imagine the two characters having that conversation at a point in the plot that has occurred after the bowling alley, except you never got that scene, nor did you find out how B learned of A's action figure fetish. Basically a lot of incidents in recent past tense being discussed in the present tense. It left the story feeling choppy and as far as building tension (sexual or otherwise) it completely ruined it because you didn't really get to SEE them growing together as much as you heard them talking (or thinking) later about things that made them grow together. Very frustrating as a reader.
February 24, 2019
This is a contemporary romance which features a 'bad boy' named Grady Malendar*, the son of a Senator who is running for re-election, and his PR 'handler, Kate Gallagher, who is tasked to keep Grady from acting out during the campaign.
When the PR firm is hired to act as the promoter of Senator Malendar's campaign, Kate is given the job of keeping the son of the candidate in line (that is, playing the part of 'babysitter'). No more drunkenness, questionable women, or any other thing that might reflect poorly upon the man running for re-election. Grady and Kate get off on the wrong foot from the beginning as she believes he is just a rich kid with no boundaries and he doesn't want to be shadowed or his lifestyle picked apart.
It's going to be a long time until election day, but begrudgingly both play their parts until the time spent together draws them closer together, and they discover the other is not exactly what they seem. Kate is gun-shy about getting involved with him though even as she realizes she is falling for him. Grady is falling for her, but he is more concerned with keeping his covert ops quiet. Becoming a couple is not in either of their plans, but will they eventually succumb? And what happens when the election is over?
This is a sweet, sexy romance which has plenty of bantering between the two protagonists.
Loved the story overall and liked the way the author allowed her characters to grow both individually and together naturally. The characters seemed like real people...people you'd love to meet for real.
I particularly thought the scene when Kate was doing her laundry (and sorting out her life) was a great homage to the author's own blog: From the Laundry Room--sorting out life one load at a time. I also liked seeing my writer friend, Barb Froman, noted in the acknowledgment section.
When the PR firm is hired to act as the promoter of Senator Malendar's campaign, Kate is given the job of keeping the son of the candidate in line (that is, playing the part of 'babysitter'). No more drunkenness, questionable women, or any other thing that might reflect poorly upon the man running for re-election. Grady and Kate get off on the wrong foot from the beginning as she believes he is just a rich kid with no boundaries and he doesn't want to be shadowed or his lifestyle picked apart.
It's going to be a long time until election day, but begrudgingly both play their parts until the time spent together draws them closer together, and they discover the other is not exactly what they seem. Kate is gun-shy about getting involved with him though even as she realizes she is falling for him. Grady is falling for her, but he is more concerned with keeping his covert ops quiet. Becoming a couple is not in either of their plans, but will they eventually succumb? And what happens when the election is over?
This is a sweet, sexy romance which has plenty of bantering between the two protagonists.
Loved the story overall and liked the way the author allowed her characters to grow both individually and together naturally. The characters seemed like real people...people you'd love to meet for real.
I particularly thought the scene when Kate was doing her laundry (and sorting out her life) was a great homage to the author's own blog: From the Laundry Room--sorting out life one load at a time. I also liked seeing my writer friend, Barb Froman, noted in the acknowledgment section.
July 14, 2015
I was lucky enough to receive this book free from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
Best for: Romance, Easy Read, Funny
I completely devoured this book! It’s one of the best books I’ve read this year – romantic, funny, relatable, sexy and with a great storyline to boot. The book could have been cheesy – beautiful young PR manager given the task of ‘babysitting’ the Senator’s rich, charming, playboy son in order to help the Senator win his election; however Tracy writes the characters and the storyline so well that it doesn’t feel cheesy at all. It feels relatable, ‘real’ and the characters and storyline develop at a good pace.
The characters were likeable and understandable and I really enjoyed the back story and was desperate to find out Grady’s secret. I was worried that the whole ‘billionaire playboy’ thing would be reminiscent of 50SOG but there was so much more to this story – Grady is the rich kid however Tracy reveals him to be so much more than that – it was great getting to know him as the story carried on. The development of the relationship between Kate and Grady wasn’t rushed, they didn’t jump straight into bed or fall in love at first sight and a shag wasn’t the be all and end all which was a nice change from some of the modern romance books that I’ve read. I was literally on the edge of my seat with tension at points (I even missed my bus stop!) and thought the balance between romance, humour and politics was great.
I only realised after reading that this is actually Book 2 of a series however it wasn’t noticeable that this was a second book – it read really well as a standalone.
Looking forward to reading more of Tracy’s books. Five Stars
Best for: Romance, Easy Read, Funny
I completely devoured this book! It’s one of the best books I’ve read this year – romantic, funny, relatable, sexy and with a great storyline to boot. The book could have been cheesy – beautiful young PR manager given the task of ‘babysitting’ the Senator’s rich, charming, playboy son in order to help the Senator win his election; however Tracy writes the characters and the storyline so well that it doesn’t feel cheesy at all. It feels relatable, ‘real’ and the characters and storyline develop at a good pace.
The characters were likeable and understandable and I really enjoyed the back story and was desperate to find out Grady’s secret. I was worried that the whole ‘billionaire playboy’ thing would be reminiscent of 50SOG but there was so much more to this story – Grady is the rich kid however Tracy reveals him to be so much more than that – it was great getting to know him as the story carried on. The development of the relationship between Kate and Grady wasn’t rushed, they didn’t jump straight into bed or fall in love at first sight and a shag wasn’t the be all and end all which was a nice change from some of the modern romance books that I’ve read. I was literally on the edge of my seat with tension at points (I even missed my bus stop!) and thought the balance between romance, humour and politics was great.
I only realised after reading that this is actually Book 2 of a series however it wasn’t noticeable that this was a second book – it read really well as a standalone.
Looking forward to reading more of Tracy’s books. Five Stars
July 24, 2015
Original review at www.125pages.com
*I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
4 Stars
˜♦ Candidate was a formulaic chic lit book, but one of the good ones. Girl who has been hurt in the past and boy with issues meet, instant dislike but they have to deal with each other due to circumstances, attraction is fought, fight is lost, then misunderstandings!! anger!! Then, finally true love. The political setting made this a nice change from the female lead working at a newspaper or magazine as is customary. This is the second in the A Love Story series, but I had no idea while reading it, it is very much a stand-alone book. The writing was sharp and the characters were very well fleshed out. Was this very much standard chic lit? Yup, but it was elevated due to the sharp plot and a cast that you genuinely want to know what happens to them.
◊ Favorite lines – from chapter 19 “Something happens to a woman when her husband is unfaithful. Songs and poems are written about heartbreak and betrayal, but they only serve to flower up the ugly truth. The young girl, the one inside every grown woman, the one dancing around in her mother’s shoes, she dies. The wide-eyed innocent who looked up at the man she loved and professed her devotion, she leaves and the woman is never the same. Even when she heals, kicks out the bitterness and the pain, she is changed. Some will say she becomes more of a woman, stronger, but Kate simply lost herself, her whole self.”
¤ Biggest cliché – Twice the main characters, Kate and Grady, stop speaking and are very heart broken over things others said. They took the other people’s sides immediately, instead of just talking to each other like grownups. Once in a book, okay, but twice is too much.
*I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
4 Stars
˜♦ Candidate was a formulaic chic lit book, but one of the good ones. Girl who has been hurt in the past and boy with issues meet, instant dislike but they have to deal with each other due to circumstances, attraction is fought, fight is lost, then misunderstandings!! anger!! Then, finally true love. The political setting made this a nice change from the female lead working at a newspaper or magazine as is customary. This is the second in the A Love Story series, but I had no idea while reading it, it is very much a stand-alone book. The writing was sharp and the characters were very well fleshed out. Was this very much standard chic lit? Yup, but it was elevated due to the sharp plot and a cast that you genuinely want to know what happens to them.
◊ Favorite lines – from chapter 19 “Something happens to a woman when her husband is unfaithful. Songs and poems are written about heartbreak and betrayal, but they only serve to flower up the ugly truth. The young girl, the one inside every grown woman, the one dancing around in her mother’s shoes, she dies. The wide-eyed innocent who looked up at the man she loved and professed her devotion, she leaves and the woman is never the same. Even when she heals, kicks out the bitterness and the pain, she is changed. Some will say she becomes more of a woman, stronger, but Kate simply lost herself, her whole self.”
¤ Biggest cliché – Twice the main characters, Kate and Grady, stop speaking and are very heart broken over things others said. They took the other people’s sides immediately, instead of just talking to each other like grownups. Once in a book, okay, but twice is too much.
November 20, 2015
Senator Malendar wants to be re-elected. To do so, he hires the firm Kate works at to be his PR firm. But Kate’s job is not working with the senator, but with his son Grady. Needless to say she is not thrilled. She sees him as a “walking situation”, playboy, who just doesn’t know when to grow up. As she starts to call him a “spoiled litte…, who do you think over hears her comments? Yep, you have it right, Grady. Grady sees Kate as his “babysitter” who is supposed to keep him out of trouble during the campaign. He obviously is not thrilled with this arrangement either. After all what grown man needs a babysitter. Their first encounter is quite humorous. They work on getting under each other’s skin without letting the others know. This back and forth humor continues throughout the book. Kate is a strong, independent woman. She is not afraid to say what she means. While Grady lets everyone believe he is just a playboy with no aspirations, he is actually hiding a secret. If this secret gets out, he would definitely be looked upon differently, but in a good way. But he does not want the attention. He is also able to get Kate to loosen up and begin to realize she can have fun. Over time, they begin to feel the sparks. But they are reluctant to admit or act on their feelings. I like how this was not an insta-love type of relationship. It was a few months after they acted on their feelings. If you like books that are clean, without a lot of drama or miscommunication, little cursing or descriptive sex scenes then this is for you.
January 30, 2016
As a woman who has been through a divorce due to infidelity, I could relate to Kate. I'm still searching for my happily ever after though and there's no Grady in my immediate future--intelligent, wealthy, hot men just aren't ubiquitous in my neck of the woods (sly nod to Grady's dear Nana). I liked the beginning of this book and I liked the last few pages. But about about 3/4 through, I almost abandoned it because it just became too cloying. There was so much angst and it just wasn't super believable--instead it was incredibly annoying. I think if the writing could have been a little tighter, I would have liked it better. When I started this novel, I didn't know it was a part of a series. it completely stands on its own.
Favorite lines: "You don't want to married to me. You want to feel better; you want the guilt to go away.....I hope to God someday I stop loving you, but you will forever be a bruise on my heart." (pg. 133)
"Something happens to a woman when her husband is unfaithful. Songs and poems are written about heartbreak and betrayal, but they only serve to flower up the ugly truth. The young girl, the one inside every grown woman, the one dancing around in her mother's shoes, she dies. The wide-eyed innocent who looked up at the man she loved and professed her devotion, she leaves and the woman is never the same. Even when she heals, kicks out the bitterness and the pain, she is changed. Some will say she becomes more of a woman, stronger, but Kate simply lost herself, her whole self." (pg 137)
Favorite lines: "You don't want to married to me. You want to feel better; you want the guilt to go away.....I hope to God someday I stop loving you, but you will forever be a bruise on my heart." (pg. 133)
"Something happens to a woman when her husband is unfaithful. Songs and poems are written about heartbreak and betrayal, but they only serve to flower up the ugly truth. The young girl, the one inside every grown woman, the one dancing around in her mother's shoes, she dies. The wide-eyed innocent who looked up at the man she loved and professed her devotion, she leaves and the woman is never the same. Even when she heals, kicks out the bitterness and the pain, she is changed. Some will say she becomes more of a woman, stronger, but Kate simply lost herself, her whole self." (pg 137)
June 28, 2015
This is a love story that does not disappoint! It gives you all the feels of falling in love as Kate works through her issues to become a whole person again. Kate is the strong female character that I always love. She is great at her job but she is still dealing with her divorce. Nick broke her heart, but as fellow police officers her brothers and father still seem to want her to forgive him. Her new project at work is to “babysit” Grady Malendar. She meets him knowing he’s a playboy who is always getting into trouble, she will have her work cut out for her. Then she gets to know him, and there is a lot more to Grady than he shows the public. Grady never thought he would find someone who he would be willing to let see the real him. She never would have pictured that Grady lives in a beautiful “treehouse” with nothing new on the inside, basically my personal dream house! Grady introduces her to many things, like history and Fruit Loops. When they’re alone things are great, but the media and campaign complicate things.
I did not realize this was part of a series until I read the acknowledgments. Now I can’t wait to read Premier, the first book in this series, and I’m hoping there will be more to follow!
I did not realize this was part of a series until I read the acknowledgments. Now I can’t wait to read Premier, the first book in this series, and I’m hoping there will be more to follow!
February 1, 2016
I thoroughly enjoyed this book!
This is the first book I’ve read by Tracy Ewens but now I plan to read more of her books. I received an ARC of this book from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
The heroine, Kate, is difficult to like at first. However, as the story moved along I came to understand why she acts the way she does. In the beginning the hero, Grady, comes off as a devil-may-care, immature playboy. Both of these characters have a lot more going on than what you first see on the surface.
Kate’s ex-husband cheated on her so she no longer trusts her judgment in men. Grady felt abandoned by his father as a child because it always seemed that his career was more important than family.
I found Candidate to be an entertaining story with well developed, complex characters. When Kate and Grady finally get together everything seems great but the author wrote a conflict that I probably should have seen coming but I didn’t. Not to worry, this is a love story so there is an HEA but getting there was sometimes heartbreaking.
I have to note that I found one error that stood out to me. A reference was made to “Monday, Election Day” in Chapter 36. In the U.S. Election Day is the Tuesday following the first Monday in November.
This is the first book I’ve read by Tracy Ewens but now I plan to read more of her books. I received an ARC of this book from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
The heroine, Kate, is difficult to like at first. However, as the story moved along I came to understand why she acts the way she does. In the beginning the hero, Grady, comes off as a devil-may-care, immature playboy. Both of these characters have a lot more going on than what you first see on the surface.
Kate’s ex-husband cheated on her so she no longer trusts her judgment in men. Grady felt abandoned by his father as a child because it always seemed that his career was more important than family.
I found Candidate to be an entertaining story with well developed, complex characters. When Kate and Grady finally get together everything seems great but the author wrote a conflict that I probably should have seen coming but I didn’t. Not to worry, this is a love story so there is an HEA but getting there was sometimes heartbreaking.
I have to note that I found one error that stood out to me. A reference was made to “Monday, Election Day” in Chapter 36. In the U.S. Election Day is the Tuesday following the first Monday in November.
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