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La Flor Series #2
Imperfectly Beautiful
“This time, Julia, I’m not letting you walk away and I’ll fight for us. Even if I have to fight for the both of us, I’ll fight till my dying breath to show you I deserve you . . .”
At eighteen, I met him; a handsome young man with amber colored eyes, and with one look, he claimed my heart.
The world was at our feet and we had our futures planned. But even the best-laid plans go awry when you’re blessed with a most beautiful surprise.
In a matter of minutes, our lives changed.
The years that followed were filled with coming of age and adventure. Our life wasn’t perfect, but we were happy—or so I thought.
As I was living my dream, our life was slowly unraveling. Then, my worst nightmare became a reality.
Now, I’m empty and lifeless.
I live in my own personal hell, drowning in my guilt and trying to forget the memories.
Until the day, a knock on my door changes everything, and I am forced to face my past.
.
.
.
.
Imperfectly Beautiful is a poignant, beautiful, FULL-LENGTH second chance romance about two flawed individuals who are tested by time and the imperfectness of life and love. This story contains steamy scenes, NO CLIFFHANGER, and (like the other books in the La Flor Series) can be read as a STANDALONE.
At eighteen, I met him; a handsome young man with amber colored eyes, and with one look, he claimed my heart.
The world was at our feet and we had our futures planned. But even the best-laid plans go awry when you’re blessed with a most beautiful surprise.
In a matter of minutes, our lives changed.
The years that followed were filled with coming of age and adventure. Our life wasn’t perfect, but we were happy—or so I thought.
As I was living my dream, our life was slowly unraveling. Then, my worst nightmare became a reality.
Now, I’m empty and lifeless.
I live in my own personal hell, drowning in my guilt and trying to forget the memories.
Until the day, a knock on my door changes everything, and I am forced to face my past.
.
.
.
.
Imperfectly Beautiful is a poignant, beautiful, FULL-LENGTH second chance romance about two flawed individuals who are tested by time and the imperfectness of life and love. This story contains steamy scenes, NO CLIFFHANGER, and (like the other books in the La Flor Series) can be read as a STANDALONE.
- GenresRomance
441 pages, Kindle Edition
Published January 26, 2016
82 people are currently reading
194 people want to read
About the author
M.L. Rodriguez
9 books257 followersML Rodriguez writes contemporary romance, emphasizing the importance of family, love, and friendship. ML currently resides in Bavaria, Germany with her husband, two children, and their dog, Bolt.
She’s a fan of all things coffee, chocolate, and buffalo chicken dip. When she’s not writing, she loves to drive her husband crazy, laugh at the hilarious things her children come up with, or enjoys curling up on her couch with her Kindle.
She loves hearing from fans and can be found on the following social media:
Amazon: http://amzn.to/2vyem2C
BookBub: http://bit.ly/2os4nUV
Website: http://bit.ly/1Rb2F3W
Facebook: http://on.fb.me/1lqHj7B
Twitter: http://bit.ly/1KYhpDL
Goodreads: http://bit.ly/1EQg0Xw
She’s a fan of all things coffee, chocolate, and buffalo chicken dip. When she’s not writing, she loves to drive her husband crazy, laugh at the hilarious things her children come up with, or enjoys curling up on her couch with her Kindle.
She loves hearing from fans and can be found on the following social media:
Amazon: http://amzn.to/2vyem2C
BookBub: http://bit.ly/2os4nUV
Website: http://bit.ly/1Rb2F3W
Facebook: http://on.fb.me/1lqHj7B
Twitter: http://bit.ly/1KYhpDL
Goodreads: http://bit.ly/1EQg0Xw
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Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 41 reviews
October 21, 2020
3 ⭐⭐⭐ - OK decent reads
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P
O
I
L
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The story captures the reader's attention and has paranormal touches.
I liked that our heroine had sex with other people and was not frozen in time.
Did I get it wrong or was Zero on the phone with OW at the time of the accident that killed their son?
His attitude was unacceptable. What a piece of shit! He was away from the family longer than with them, he was unjustifiably jealous of her best friend and did not support the Zeroine's career choices. He did not follow Zeroine's pregnancy and treated her with disdain. And Zero got a mistress who was a crazy psychotic. I hoped Zeroine wouldn't take him back.
Zeroine forgives him and bla bla bla ... But the author writes well and I read until the end.
======================
S
P
O
I
L
E
R
The story captures the reader's attention and has paranormal touches.
I liked that our heroine had sex with other people and was not frozen in time.
Did I get it wrong or was Zero on the phone with OW at the time of the accident that killed their son?
His attitude was unacceptable. What a piece of shit! He was away from the family longer than with them, he was unjustifiably jealous of her best friend and did not support the Zeroine's career choices. He did not follow Zeroine's pregnancy and treated her with disdain. And Zero got a mistress who was a crazy psychotic. I hoped Zeroine wouldn't take him back.
Zeroine forgives him and bla bla bla ... But the author writes well and I read until the end.
August 20, 2021
This is the second book of the La Flor series and follows Faith’s BFF Julia. I didn’t read the first book and didn’t feel lost, but some of the timelines overlap. I thought this was going to be an angsty cheating hubs book, but it didn’t quite shake out. The first 20% or so is quite boring with her growing up, and loving soccer. We finally make it to them meeting. Julia wants to be a professional soccer player, Andre is in the military, and away on missions a lot.
There’re two main conflicts. The first one should’ve been gut wrenching, but I didn’t really feel much. I had failed to really form any connection to the characters, and couldn't feel the pain. They were apart a lot, she wasn’t completely likeable, he was an asshole... I didn't get the chemistry. The second is the cheating, (this shouldn’t be a spoiler) but rather than generating major feels, it’s treated pretty OTT soapy. Rather than her finding about it in a devastating way, the blow is delivered by an OTT unhinged OW that acts so Jerry Springer that it lost all poignancy for me. And then instead of having a heartbreaking conversation, they barely discuss it (even one detail that ANY woman in her place would’ve questioned- I hate it when authors omit normal human reactions) so we get zero details except it was a one-time thing, and then do another time jump skipping over the good parts.
Bottom Line- This had the potential, but the execution didn’t work for me. The overall “feel” of the book kept switching lanes so I couldn’t find my footing. Some parts were serious, some were ridiculous, some soapy… it was like This is Us mixed with a Lifetime movie and the Ghost Whisperer with a hint of General Hospital and a dash of Jerry Springer… it was all over the place. Also, it didn't flow naturally, there’re all these choppy time jumps that propels us from one event to the next. **I’m tagging as crazy-ex, cuz she was batshit, but not really an ex… maybe an ex-hookup.
There’re two main conflicts. The first one should’ve been gut wrenching, but I didn’t really feel much. I had failed to really form any connection to the characters, and couldn't feel the pain. They were apart a lot, she wasn’t completely likeable, he was an asshole... I didn't get the chemistry. The second is the cheating, (this shouldn’t be a spoiler) but rather than generating major feels, it’s treated pretty OTT soapy. Rather than her finding about it in a devastating way, the blow is delivered by an OTT unhinged OW that acts so Jerry Springer that it lost all poignancy for me. And then instead of having a heartbreaking conversation, they barely discuss it (even one detail that ANY woman in her place would’ve questioned- I hate it when authors omit normal human reactions) so we get zero details except it was a one-time thing, and then do another time jump skipping over the good parts.
Bottom Line- This had the potential, but the execution didn’t work for me. The overall “feel” of the book kept switching lanes so I couldn’t find my footing. Some parts were serious, some were ridiculous, some soapy… it was like This is Us mixed with a Lifetime movie and the Ghost Whisperer with a hint of General Hospital and a dash of Jerry Springer… it was all over the place. Also, it didn't flow naturally, there’re all these choppy time jumps that propels us from one event to the next. **I’m tagging as crazy-ex, cuz she was batshit, but not really an ex… maybe an ex-hookup.
January 28, 2016
BIG WARNING:
1. MY CHARACTERS ARE FLAWED; they aren't perfect, their love isn't a fairytale, and life isn't perfect and doesn't go as planned.
2) There is CERTAIN MATERIAL in the story that WILL ANGER MANY--trust me, I know because I was severely upset as the story unfolded!! (I'm the type of writer that loosely outlines but mostly lets the story write itself and half the time, my characters surprise the heck out of me.)
3) There are more explicit scenes in this story than in book one, so if you aren't a fan of these, please skim over them and continue on with the story.
4) This book is NOT A LIGHT READ fairy-tale romance.
With this being said, let me begin...
My feelings:
I know cheating is a very sensitive subject. Most readers read as an escape and many times need something light, fun, sweet; I know because I am one of those readers. Imperfectly Beautiful is a story that is completely opposite to that and a story I HAD to write once it went in the direction that became sensitive. So many things crossed my mind to include fear because I knew this story would upset many.
But, I couldn't stop.
So, I continued on and I put myself in Julia's position. What would I do in her case? Would I be able to survive? To recover? Would I stop loving him? Would I hate him? Would I be able to forgive?
Writing Imperfectly Beautiful almost destroyed me. I. WAS. A. MESS! I laughed along with Julia, I cheered her on, I cried, I screamed, I fell in love, and MY HEART WAS DESTROYED along with hers. So many times, I walked away from my computer, and I wanted to give up because this story isn't perfect. Yet, I couldn't stop because Julia needed her story to be finished and my heart needed to know if she was going to be okay.
If you are a reader that is completely against cheating and believes there is no redemption, please do not pick up this book. If you do, you will be upset, angry, and will not like this story. Let me apologize in advance for not giving you the book you wanted, but I hope you come to understand this was a book I needed to write.
For the readers, that take a chance on this book, I hope you have an open heart to the ending of this story.
As an author, there is still so much for me to learn and improve on. With every word I type, every sentence, paragraph, page, chapter, and so on, I try to grow and develop. With every story, I strive to give you the best I can; it may not be the most perfect story, but I try my hardest to give you a story that will make you FEEL.
As you continue this journey with me, all I can say is, "THANK YOU!" Thank you for reading my stories, for supporting me, and for believing in me.
A Better Overview of the Story:
Set in Grangersville, Texas, Imperfectly Beautiful depicts Julia Cruz’s life, a first-generation Mexican American young girl who dreams of becoming a soccer superstar and representing her country on the women’s National Team. Succeeding represents financial stability for her family and repaying them for the hard work and sacrifices they made for her brother and her. As she strives to make her dream a reality, Julia meets Faith (her best friend), Andre (a key player in her life), and a number of friends who become part of her family. But she soon learns nothing comes easy in life and life doesn't go as planned or without lies and betrayal. As Julia experiences success, her life shatters when her worst nightmare becomes a reality. Heartbroken and devastated, she walks away from the life she’s worked so hard to create.
1. MY CHARACTERS ARE FLAWED; they aren't perfect, their love isn't a fairytale, and life isn't perfect and doesn't go as planned.
2) There is CERTAIN MATERIAL in the story that WILL ANGER MANY--trust me, I know because I was severely upset as the story unfolded!! (I'm the type of writer that loosely outlines but mostly lets the story write itself and half the time, my characters surprise the heck out of me.)
3) There are more explicit scenes in this story than in book one, so if you aren't a fan of these, please skim over them and continue on with the story.
4) This book is NOT A LIGHT READ fairy-tale romance.
With this being said, let me begin...
My feelings:
I know cheating is a very sensitive subject. Most readers read as an escape and many times need something light, fun, sweet; I know because I am one of those readers. Imperfectly Beautiful is a story that is completely opposite to that and a story I HAD to write once it went in the direction that became sensitive. So many things crossed my mind to include fear because I knew this story would upset many.
But, I couldn't stop.
So, I continued on and I put myself in Julia's position. What would I do in her case? Would I be able to survive? To recover? Would I stop loving him? Would I hate him? Would I be able to forgive?
Writing Imperfectly Beautiful almost destroyed me. I. WAS. A. MESS! I laughed along with Julia, I cheered her on, I cried, I screamed, I fell in love, and MY HEART WAS DESTROYED along with hers. So many times, I walked away from my computer, and I wanted to give up because this story isn't perfect. Yet, I couldn't stop because Julia needed her story to be finished and my heart needed to know if she was going to be okay.
If you are a reader that is completely against cheating and believes there is no redemption, please do not pick up this book. If you do, you will be upset, angry, and will not like this story. Let me apologize in advance for not giving you the book you wanted, but I hope you come to understand this was a book I needed to write.
For the readers, that take a chance on this book, I hope you have an open heart to the ending of this story.
As an author, there is still so much for me to learn and improve on. With every word I type, every sentence, paragraph, page, chapter, and so on, I try to grow and develop. With every story, I strive to give you the best I can; it may not be the most perfect story, but I try my hardest to give you a story that will make you FEEL.
As you continue this journey with me, all I can say is, "THANK YOU!" Thank you for reading my stories, for supporting me, and for believing in me.
A Better Overview of the Story:
Set in Grangersville, Texas, Imperfectly Beautiful depicts Julia Cruz’s life, a first-generation Mexican American young girl who dreams of becoming a soccer superstar and representing her country on the women’s National Team. Succeeding represents financial stability for her family and repaying them for the hard work and sacrifices they made for her brother and her. As she strives to make her dream a reality, Julia meets Faith (her best friend), Andre (a key player in her life), and a number of friends who become part of her family. But she soon learns nothing comes easy in life and life doesn't go as planned or without lies and betrayal. As Julia experiences success, her life shatters when her worst nightmare becomes a reality. Heartbroken and devastated, she walks away from the life she’s worked so hard to create.
August 5, 2020
Eh
Not a fan of reading all the past as she rises to become a star soccer goalie. I was reading this book because it was recommended by a group. However, I wasn't a fan of the writing.
Needed tissues for 2 parts, but to get too the first part I skipped/skimmed 30% of the book.
Not a fan of reading all the past as she rises to become a star soccer goalie. I was reading this book because it was recommended by a group. However, I wasn't a fan of the writing.
Needed tissues for 2 parts, but to get too the first part I skipped/skimmed 30% of the book.
Read
January 26, 2016And cue the waterworks!!!!
M.L has smashed it again with the romance and the heartbreak!
Andre and Julie know there lives will be hard they are young and they want it all. Julie promised herself and her family to never give up and she doesn't until she feels that her dream has played a part in the end of her world.
I'm gonna say this I didn't like Andre from the beginning, I don't know why but I always admired Julia's spirit. However even though I never forgave him I'm still glad he was a part of Julia's HEA. Well I hold grudges.
M.L makes her characters real, they have flaws, they can be complete idiots and they make mistakes but this is good thing because us real life human beings do that too.
I lived getting to know some of the secondary characters more too, especially Faith and Skylar!
The only thing I want know is... What happened to Tay????+
M.L has smashed it again with the romance and the heartbreak!
Andre and Julie know there lives will be hard they are young and they want it all. Julie promised herself and her family to never give up and she doesn't until she feels that her dream has played a part in the end of her world.
I'm gonna say this I didn't like Andre from the beginning, I don't know why but I always admired Julia's spirit. However even though I never forgave him I'm still glad he was a part of Julia's HEA. Well I hold grudges.
M.L makes her characters real, they have flaws, they can be complete idiots and they make mistakes but this is good thing because us real life human beings do that too.
I lived getting to know some of the secondary characters more too, especially Faith and Skylar!
The only thing I want know is... What happened to Tay????+
December 15, 2016
I received this book as an ARC from the author. I enjoyed this story almost as much as the first one in this new series. I still think Skylar is the funniest character in the story. As with the first book, I sometimes got a bit lost with the timeline jumping back and forth. I really love this author's writing style and look forward to reading more stories in this series. I am hoping to see Tay as a returning character and I'm thinking Jax and Phoebe may make a good couple. Only time will tell.
avoid
December 24, 2021H cheater.
February 1, 2016
I received an ARC of this book in exchange for a honest review over on my blog Pretty Little Book Blog.
With her first book M.L gave us a story that you will binge read and Then immediately begin again just so you can savor it slowly the second time around. With her new book Imperfectly Beautiful she goes above and beyond! I love this story, I love how the beginning is a future event and Then we immediately go back so we can experience all of Julia's back story. She was such a adorable little girl just wanting to play soccer and it was in that moment that I had a clear picture of her character and how she got to be where she was in the First chapter. Her humble beginnings and her love of family was such an important part of her character. We get these litrle foreshadowing moments to where we see that maybe achieving her dreams might be her downfall. But we don't are exactly how that all comes about until later in the story.
We meet a lot of characters along the way and all of them impacts Julia's story in some way. And that is one of the things I love the most about M.L's writing style is that she doesn't use a lot of filler characters, everybody has a piece of the story and lends something to the narrative. Sure some of them have a negative impact but what we learn from this series is finding the beauty in life after it comes crashing down around you.
I'm not going to go into a lot of detail about the shocking moments because I think they are something to experience on your own so I'm not gonna ruin it for you but trust me When I tell you there are some earth shaking moments in this story that we don't really see coming. We know all along that something is going to happen so it gives a sense of dramatic tension all through the book. And once it does it's heartbreaking but by the end we come full circle and maybe ugly crying a little bit haha Or I know I was! This is another amazing book and an author I highly recommend!
With her first book M.L gave us a story that you will binge read and Then immediately begin again just so you can savor it slowly the second time around. With her new book Imperfectly Beautiful she goes above and beyond! I love this story, I love how the beginning is a future event and Then we immediately go back so we can experience all of Julia's back story. She was such a adorable little girl just wanting to play soccer and it was in that moment that I had a clear picture of her character and how she got to be where she was in the First chapter. Her humble beginnings and her love of family was such an important part of her character. We get these litrle foreshadowing moments to where we see that maybe achieving her dreams might be her downfall. But we don't are exactly how that all comes about until later in the story.
We meet a lot of characters along the way and all of them impacts Julia's story in some way. And that is one of the things I love the most about M.L's writing style is that she doesn't use a lot of filler characters, everybody has a piece of the story and lends something to the narrative. Sure some of them have a negative impact but what we learn from this series is finding the beauty in life after it comes crashing down around you.
I'm not going to go into a lot of detail about the shocking moments because I think they are something to experience on your own so I'm not gonna ruin it for you but trust me When I tell you there are some earth shaking moments in this story that we don't really see coming. We know all along that something is going to happen so it gives a sense of dramatic tension all through the book. And once it does it's heartbreaking but by the end we come full circle and maybe ugly crying a little bit haha Or I know I was! This is another amazing book and an author I highly recommend!
January 28, 2016
This is the second book in this series and they need to be read in order to fully understand what is going on. This book is Julia and Andre’s story. It is beautiful, sad, haunting, and so much more. Julia has wanted to play professional soccer her whole life. She and her family have worked very hard and finally succeed. She is at college to play soccer on a scholarship. This is how she meets Faith and Andre. Andre and Julia have an instant connection. Their relationship starts out a bit unconventionally but they truly love each other. Andre is in the Army and hopes his career with go a certain way. Julia has big soccer hopes and dreams. They are living the dream or so they think. Things often don’t go the way we want or wish they would. Julia and Andre are about to find out just how wrong things can go. Will they be able to find a way to work things out? I love Julia and Andre. This story is an emotional rollercoaster. I felt so bad for what Julia went through. There were some twists and turns that I didn’t see coming at all. I was glad to get to read more about Faith, Zane and the guys again. If you are a crier I recommend you have tissues nearby. The story is about overcoming things and not giving up. The characters in this series are fantastic and I can’t wait to read more about them in future in this series. I kinda hope the next book is about Jax. ML Rodriguez is a great author. She writes a story that pulls you in and makes you wish you could really be in the book with these people as your friends. I am afraid to say any more about the book and give away spoilers. I highly recommend this series.
January 31, 2016
This book Imperfectly Beautiful by ML Rodriguez brought out some emotions that I had to stop reading this book for a day. The emotions, happy, pain, sad, fear, love, hate, destroyed, sad fear and love. Those are the emotions that came out for me. I found this book to be a perfect story and I am sure it was a hard story for the author to write. To make me feel those emotions and to feel a part of the story makes it a great book. “Life isn’t always perfect” is so true, I have felt the pain, that Julia has gone through. This was a tough read. I will tell you I did skip the sex stuff, but the story-line is spot on!!! Yep this is the real world and it can be tough.
This story starts with Julia as a young child, and her love for soccer, I really love how the author wrote the chronological order of this story. I don’t know anything about soccer myself, but I do know how it is to want to do something to achieve and dream we all should have that. This story expands from her being a child till she is well grown up. We follow her through childhood, college, and her part of her adult life. I thought all the characters were developed and can’t wait to read more of this series. I have not read the first book yet but I will. I am so glad I was given the opportunity to read this book. I received a copy from Book Enthusiast and Netgalley.
This story starts with Julia as a young child, and her love for soccer, I really love how the author wrote the chronological order of this story. I don’t know anything about soccer myself, but I do know how it is to want to do something to achieve and dream we all should have that. This story expands from her being a child till she is well grown up. We follow her through childhood, college, and her part of her adult life. I thought all the characters were developed and can’t wait to read more of this series. I have not read the first book yet but I will. I am so glad I was given the opportunity to read this book. I received a copy from Book Enthusiast and Netgalley.
May 27, 2016
This author has done it again. Delivered a story worth reading and with a very suspenseful story line. I laughed, I got the warm and fuzzies, I got butterflies in my tummy and OMG I even ugly cried. My heart was broken, a twist of events had me bawling like a mad woman. Who does that? Oh yeah awesome authors do.
For me the icing on the cake is the Latino characters. If you know me then you know how biased I am about minorities, especially Latinos in romance books. I loved Julia's mom and her dad, the traditional Mexican family. Julia had a dream and in our culture all you need is your familia to support you and you can have anything.
Julia and Andre's story is not your typical girl meets boy, boy courts girl they date and live happily ever after. Oh no, not these two. These two take us on a journey that will keep us on the edge of our seats and turning the pages because we MUST know what is going to happen. There is no slow reading this book, you will start it and read it and have a heck of a time putting it down.
Their relationship is a tough one but one that is worth the tears you will shed while reading this. Forgiveness is a huge message in this book. Thank you ML for sharing your words and taking us on the journey of two hearts that were meant to beat as one. LIFE ISN'T PERFECT BUT IT IS BEAUTIFUL
For me the icing on the cake is the Latino characters. If you know me then you know how biased I am about minorities, especially Latinos in romance books. I loved Julia's mom and her dad, the traditional Mexican family. Julia had a dream and in our culture all you need is your familia to support you and you can have anything.
Julia and Andre's story is not your typical girl meets boy, boy courts girl they date and live happily ever after. Oh no, not these two. These two take us on a journey that will keep us on the edge of our seats and turning the pages because we MUST know what is going to happen. There is no slow reading this book, you will start it and read it and have a heck of a time putting it down.
Their relationship is a tough one but one that is worth the tears you will shed while reading this. Forgiveness is a huge message in this book. Thank you ML for sharing your words and taking us on the journey of two hearts that were meant to beat as one. LIFE ISN'T PERFECT BUT IT IS BEAUTIFUL
March 25, 2016
Imperfectly Beautiful is one hell of an emotional rollercoaster. While reading this book I've reached massive highs and plunged deep down into some devastating lows. This book, Julia's story is not easy to read. My mind is still reeling even after finishing, wondering how I really feel.
I adore Julia, I loved her in Leap Of Faith and I'm glad she got her own story. Reading about Faith and her Violet eyed stud again made me stupid happy!
But like I said this book isn't easy, ML warned us that some would love it and some would hate it. I love the story line, again like book 1 in the series, the book is set into different parts of Julia's life and flashbacks are present throughout. These were written really well and gave me a solid insight to Julia and her life. Then we have Andre, still now, I sit on the fence. I mean I loved him, then I only liked him, then I downright hated him, then I guess I liked him again? When you read the book, and you should, you'll understand!
The book is so true to real life, I've been in similar situations to Julia so I feel I really connected with ML's words and her writing style there.
Personally for me I'd have loved to have seen Julia with Gunner or Jax, but ML does a damn good job of giving Julia and Andre a HEA.
I adore Julia, I loved her in Leap Of Faith and I'm glad she got her own story. Reading about Faith and her Violet eyed stud again made me stupid happy!
But like I said this book isn't easy, ML warned us that some would love it and some would hate it. I love the story line, again like book 1 in the series, the book is set into different parts of Julia's life and flashbacks are present throughout. These were written really well and gave me a solid insight to Julia and her life. Then we have Andre, still now, I sit on the fence. I mean I loved him, then I only liked him, then I downright hated him, then I guess I liked him again? When you read the book, and you should, you'll understand!
The book is so true to real life, I've been in similar situations to Julia so I feel I really connected with ML's words and her writing style there.
Personally for me I'd have loved to have seen Julia with Gunner or Jax, but ML does a damn good job of giving Julia and Andre a HEA.
January 22, 2016
Guest Review by Tammy Cole
This is the second book in this series. Although I didn't read the first one, enough was explained throughout the book that I wasn't lost at all. I have never read a book by this author before and I really enjoyed this book and will definitely read more from her.
If you are looking for a romance book with no major problems for the characters, this is not your book. I loved how real these two characters were and they faced major obstacles that many face in real life. I was rooting for these two from the beginning.
"Julia, you had me from the very first moment I laid eyes on you."
Julia and Andre meet on the first day of college for Julia and they are attracted to each other, but Andre is being deployed soon. Andre takes a chance and sends Julia a letter while he is deployed and they start a relationship that flourishes. This story is set over years and they aren't going to have an easy time together. My heart broke for these two in the middle of the book, but I was constantly rooting for these them. I loved this story and can't wait to read more in this series.
"My life's been empty without you. I've been a ghost. I need you more than I need to breathe, more than you need me, beautiful."
This is the second book in this series. Although I didn't read the first one, enough was explained throughout the book that I wasn't lost at all. I have never read a book by this author before and I really enjoyed this book and will definitely read more from her.
If you are looking for a romance book with no major problems for the characters, this is not your book. I loved how real these two characters were and they faced major obstacles that many face in real life. I was rooting for these two from the beginning.
"Julia, you had me from the very first moment I laid eyes on you."
Julia and Andre meet on the first day of college for Julia and they are attracted to each other, but Andre is being deployed soon. Andre takes a chance and sends Julia a letter while he is deployed and they start a relationship that flourishes. This story is set over years and they aren't going to have an easy time together. My heart broke for these two in the middle of the book, but I was constantly rooting for these them. I loved this story and can't wait to read more in this series.
"My life's been empty without you. I've been a ghost. I need you more than I need to breathe, more than you need me, beautiful."
October 17, 2017
Imperfectly Beautiful is by far the most relateable story by ML that she has written for me. The heartbreak and struggles that the characters go through after such a terrible loss hits close to home. The strength that the characters find in one another and the relationship that Julia and Faith have are unbreakable. It is a story of loss, heartbreak, tragedy, and healing. Finding yourself again after your world comes crashing down. Finding love again after trust is lost. There are so many twists and turns that keep your heart yearning for more. A must read!
You are the Julia to my Faith and the Faith to my Julia! <3
You are the Julia to my Faith and the Faith to my Julia! <3
August 24, 2020
Y’all, can we stop jumping the shark in books?
January 26, 2016
Independent reviewer for Archaeolibrarian I Dig Good Books.
5/5 (Exceptional)
*I received a copy of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review*
Disclaimer: Be prepared to have your heart torn out, ripped up, mended, and sewn back together. In other words, have a box of Kleenex ready!
While I wrote that disclaimer to be funny it is absolutely true. This book was written in such a raw powerful way that I don’t think anyone can escape its grasps at your heartstrings. The cover to this book is absolutely beautiful but there is something about it that screams heartbreak and sadness and true enough, it speaks for itself.
This is a love story and is a romance. It has a few sexual explicit scenes. It has some humor and is full of love. That love doesn’t have to just be between two lovers, but between friends and family. You read about a bond so strong between numerous people that it could definitely make those that haven’t been able to experience a bond so strong reach out and grasp towards those things. It sure made me wish I had a little bit more!
This story is full of mistakes and forgiveness. It is a story of a woman with a heart so big that she could teach each and every single one of us a lesson. It’s truly an amazing story. First and foremost, this story is beautiful and raw. Beautiful doesn’t always mean sunshine and daisies and raw doesn’t always mean heartache and sorrow. These characters’ experience more in their lifetime than most. I think if you read this story you will take a lesson or two from this story, at the minimum.
While this book didn’t just have a few tear drops falling out my eyes, it had me sobbing quietly hoping I wouldn’t wake my husband. Just when I thought I made it through all the sadness it strikes again. I’m so glad that I read the story and am so glad to have come across the author’s work. It’s one of a kind and she has a knack of bringing out some real feels in her stories so far! I can’t wait to see what’s coming next!
5/5 (Exceptional)
*I received a copy of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review*
Disclaimer: Be prepared to have your heart torn out, ripped up, mended, and sewn back together. In other words, have a box of Kleenex ready!
While I wrote that disclaimer to be funny it is absolutely true. This book was written in such a raw powerful way that I don’t think anyone can escape its grasps at your heartstrings. The cover to this book is absolutely beautiful but there is something about it that screams heartbreak and sadness and true enough, it speaks for itself.
This is a love story and is a romance. It has a few sexual explicit scenes. It has some humor and is full of love. That love doesn’t have to just be between two lovers, but between friends and family. You read about a bond so strong between numerous people that it could definitely make those that haven’t been able to experience a bond so strong reach out and grasp towards those things. It sure made me wish I had a little bit more!
This story is full of mistakes and forgiveness. It is a story of a woman with a heart so big that she could teach each and every single one of us a lesson. It’s truly an amazing story. First and foremost, this story is beautiful and raw. Beautiful doesn’t always mean sunshine and daisies and raw doesn’t always mean heartache and sorrow. These characters’ experience more in their lifetime than most. I think if you read this story you will take a lesson or two from this story, at the minimum.
While this book didn’t just have a few tear drops falling out my eyes, it had me sobbing quietly hoping I wouldn’t wake my husband. Just when I thought I made it through all the sadness it strikes again. I’m so glad that I read the story and am so glad to have come across the author’s work. It’s one of a kind and she has a knack of bringing out some real feels in her stories so far! I can’t wait to see what’s coming next!
September 10, 2017
This is the second book in the La Flor series, and it is the story of Andre and Julia. While this book is mostly a romance, it does have some paranormal elements as well.
When Julia was 18 years old, she met Andre. He was charming and handsome, and she fell in love with him on the spot. They each had the world at their feet along with great plans for the future. Life happened, and their plans had to be adjusted. As the years passed, the life they had built together slowly began to unravel. A terrible tragedy and the ultimate betrayal led to the demise of their marriage. For both of them, the following years are empty and full of despair. Then something miraculous happens that eventually brings them back together. Will they be able to finally overcome the past and find the peace that they so desperately seek?
I really enjoyed the first book in this series, so I was super excited to read this second installment. I will warn you that you need to have the Kleenex nearby while reading this one! This story will make you cry, break your heart into a million pieces, and finally end up putting it all back together. If you are looking for a good romance with a little paranormal thrown into the mix, you should give this one a try!
When Julia was 18 years old, she met Andre. He was charming and handsome, and she fell in love with him on the spot. They each had the world at their feet along with great plans for the future. Life happened, and their plans had to be adjusted. As the years passed, the life they had built together slowly began to unravel. A terrible tragedy and the ultimate betrayal led to the demise of their marriage. For both of them, the following years are empty and full of despair. Then something miraculous happens that eventually brings them back together. Will they be able to finally overcome the past and find the peace that they so desperately seek?
I really enjoyed the first book in this series, so I was super excited to read this second installment. I will warn you that you need to have the Kleenex nearby while reading this one! This story will make you cry, break your heart into a million pieces, and finally end up putting it all back together. If you are looking for a good romance with a little paranormal thrown into the mix, you should give this one a try!
February 14, 2017
This story follows Julia who we meet in book one. I adored Julia from the first time I meet her as Faith's teammate... But I loved her even more in this book. Her love for her family, her sport and her friends was beautiful. I watch her go through good times, hard times, we watch her live her dream, and we watch her go through everyone of our worst nightmare. Your stomach will be in knots, and my heart may have fell out of my chest. Boy I cried buckets for this women. But one of the things I loved is how everyone she touched in this story loved her and rallied around her.
Andre... he did exactly what I wanted him to do in the beginning.... but I wanted to punch him in the middle...didn't know if my heart would forgive him most of the book... but like Julia I learned to forgive and really came to a place where he was right where he needed to be.
I loved how this book showed how people get through flawed and tough times. I loved the journey this story took me on. I also loved that this book had a bit of thrill and the parts that made you hold your breath and stop your heart for just a minute.
Great book! Can't wait for more..
Andre... he did exactly what I wanted him to do in the beginning.... but I wanted to punch him in the middle...didn't know if my heart would forgive him most of the book... but like Julia I learned to forgive and really came to a place where he was right where he needed to be.
I loved how this book showed how people get through flawed and tough times. I loved the journey this story took me on. I also loved that this book had a bit of thrill and the parts that made you hold your breath and stop your heart for just a minute.
Great book! Can't wait for more..
January 27, 2016
This book was imperfectly beautiful. As the second instalment in the series, it follows Julia and Andre as they fall in love, start a family, get married and struggle with married life as his military career cause difficulties for them. When tragedy strikes and secrets are revealed, Julia runs and sinks into the depths of despair struggling to find her way back.
When Andre makes a reappearance in her life, he is determined to get her back as his life is incomplete without her. But can she trust him again?
Sad, emotional and hopeful, this takes you through a range of emotions. Julia and Andre have experiences what no parent should ever have to and have been to hell and back. They are helped back on track by an amazing set of friends and a little supernatural intervention. This was a really good fluid read that will touch your heart.
***Reviewed for LBM Book Blog***
When Andre makes a reappearance in her life, he is determined to get her back as his life is incomplete without her. But can she trust him again?
Sad, emotional and hopeful, this takes you through a range of emotions. Julia and Andre have experiences what no parent should ever have to and have been to hell and back. They are helped back on track by an amazing set of friends and a little supernatural intervention. This was a really good fluid read that will touch your heart.
***Reviewed for LBM Book Blog***
February 28, 2016
I was lucky to receive an early copy of this, having read Leap of Faith I was really looking forward to this being released. I was not disappointed either.
This is Julia’s story, it’s not an easy story either. There were tears a plenty at times.
Julia is Faith’s best friend, they met in college. This is where she also met Andre. Loved and lost. Their lives moved in opposite directions with their careers. They both have spirit which tears them apart in the start but it’s the same spirit that could possibly bring them back together.
The detail in this book is amazing, this however was what made me cry. I absolutely loved the small quotes at the beginning of each chapter. They are heart-warming.
I can’t wait to see what come next from this author.
This is Julia’s story, it’s not an easy story either. There were tears a plenty at times.
Julia is Faith’s best friend, they met in college. This is where she also met Andre. Loved and lost. Their lives moved in opposite directions with their careers. They both have spirit which tears them apart in the start but it’s the same spirit that could possibly bring them back together.
The detail in this book is amazing, this however was what made me cry. I absolutely loved the small quotes at the beginning of each chapter. They are heart-warming.
I can’t wait to see what come next from this author.
January 27, 2016
This book. This book has me in tears, and I did not see it coming.
Now to be honest, when I first started reading the book, I couldn't connect with it so out it down to restart at a different time.
When I finally did pick up, I enjoyed what I read, I don't want to give too much away from this story within my review so I will keep it short and sweet.
This book will ruin you, spit you up, throw you around abit and then put you back together in the most heartbreaking of ways.
ML delivers these characters with such a punch to the gut you are left feeling it days after reading. Even now, thinking back over this book to write the review I am welling up :(
Even though I would say you don't technically have to read Leap of Faith to begin with, I would recommend it :)
Now to be honest, when I first started reading the book, I couldn't connect with it so out it down to restart at a different time.
When I finally did pick up, I enjoyed what I read, I don't want to give too much away from this story within my review so I will keep it short and sweet.
This book will ruin you, spit you up, throw you around abit and then put you back together in the most heartbreaking of ways.
ML delivers these characters with such a punch to the gut you are left feeling it days after reading. Even now, thinking back over this book to write the review I am welling up :(
Even though I would say you don't technically have to read Leap of Faith to begin with, I would recommend it :)
February 11, 2016
I think the title sums up the book wonderfully. No relationship is perfect. There are ups and downs and trials that need to be overcome - whether it's a friendship, a family relationship, or, of course - a partnership based on love. We're all human and make mistakes. But it's being able to learn from those mistakes, to see past them, to understand that 2nd chances are far and few between, and you have to grab them and hold on that makes that love...well...imperfectly beautiful.
I fell in love with Julia in book 1 and I couldn't wait until she had her own HEA. And book 2 did not disappoint. It took me on a roller coaster, but a fun one, filled with heartache, understanding, loyalty, twists and turns, and of course...LOVE!!!
What a great story!
I fell in love with Julia in book 1 and I couldn't wait until she had her own HEA. And book 2 did not disappoint. It took me on a roller coaster, but a fun one, filled with heartache, understanding, loyalty, twists and turns, and of course...LOVE!!!
What a great story!
January 29, 2016
Flipping hell with the emotions and waterworks. Ladies bring your tissues you will need them for this book
These characters Julia and Andre are the real deal and are faced with many major obstacles that one or more of us has faced one time or another.
They met in college and the connection between them was undeniable. After Andre is deployed they start a long distance relationship through letters back and forth. This book takes place over a set of years and it is in no way easy years for either of them.
This book has it all... life altering tragedy, second chances, heartbreak and mending hearts and a box of tissues is what you will need to get through it all.
These characters Julia and Andre are the real deal and are faced with many major obstacles that one or more of us has faced one time or another.
They met in college and the connection between them was undeniable. After Andre is deployed they start a long distance relationship through letters back and forth. This book takes place over a set of years and it is in no way easy years for either of them.
This book has it all... life altering tragedy, second chances, heartbreak and mending hearts and a box of tissues is what you will need to get through it all.
February 21, 2016
This is a tough book to review as I do not want to give anything away. Instead I will tell you that ML Rodriguez took me on such an emotional roller coaster that at times I didn't know how I would ever survive reading this. Julia, Gunner, Jax and Andre left me reeling, and I honestly didn't know where the author was taking us. I found myself rooting for one man, and then in a flash hating him. Through and through I felt connected to Julia though, and experiencing every nuance of every situation she was in. I am so excited to see what ML Rodriguez gives us next!
*Read and reviewed on behalf of Kylie's Fiction Addiction
*Read and reviewed on behalf of Kylie's Fiction Addiction
March 8, 2016
I was given a copy by the author in exchange for an honest review.
This was a very emotional read. You will go through every emotion out there. It is very well written and flows nice and even. Not at any point will you be bored with this story. These two characters Julia and Andre experience some real tragedy, one parents should never have to lie through. Can these two make it through? Will they be able to pull through? This is a must read.
Review done in conjunction with Nerd Girl Official. For more information regarding our reviews please visit our fansite at http://www.facebook.com/nerdgirl.ng
This was a very emotional read. You will go through every emotion out there. It is very well written and flows nice and even. Not at any point will you be bored with this story. These two characters Julia and Andre experience some real tragedy, one parents should never have to lie through. Can these two make it through? Will they be able to pull through? This is a must read.
Review done in conjunction with Nerd Girl Official. For more information regarding our reviews please visit our fansite at http://www.facebook.com/nerdgirl.ng
January 26, 2016
Julia is living her dream, she has fought and practiced. Sacrificed to get where she wants to be.
Andre, well ya kinda hate him through the first part of the book. Selfish, immature then, well then you are REALLY going to hate him!!
Tragedy, a heart shattering, life altering tragedy. You will require tissues.
THEN, wow then it gets really good!!
Second chances, mending hearts, a little bit of psycho, and an all around great read!!
"I've seen and done things that will give you nightmares, Julia, only you have the power to bring me to my knees"
Andre, well ya kinda hate him through the first part of the book. Selfish, immature then, well then you are REALLY going to hate him!!
Tragedy, a heart shattering, life altering tragedy. You will require tissues.
THEN, wow then it gets really good!!
Second chances, mending hearts, a little bit of psycho, and an all around great read!!
"I've seen and done things that will give you nightmares, Julia, only you have the power to bring me to my knees"
January 26, 2016
Four Heartfelt Stars! Julia meets Andre in college and they are instantly drawn to one another. Andre is then deployed but he continues to develop a relationship with Julia. The story continues over the years but long distance relationship is not easy. I thoroughly enjoyed this book and you will feel all the emotions expressed. This is the second book in the La Flor Series but can be read as a stand-alone novel.
I received this book as an ARC for an honest review. This book was read and reviewed by Annamaria for Alpha Book Club.
I received this book as an ARC for an honest review. This book was read and reviewed by Annamaria for Alpha Book Club.
April 28, 2019
After reading the first book Leap of Faith I was eagerly awaiting Julia's book. Having been an important part of Faiths story I was intrigued. I can honestly say I was blown away. Heartbreaking isn't enough to describe the emotional journey this book takes you on.
Just when you think you know what's gonna happen ...bam it twists again. Amazing writing, this book had it all, drama ,intrigue and and hot Alpha males. Be warned Kleenex are needed.
I cannot wait for the next book.
I'd definitely recommend this book and series.
Just when you think you know what's gonna happen ...bam it twists again. Amazing writing, this book had it all, drama ,intrigue and and hot Alpha males. Be warned Kleenex are needed.
I cannot wait for the next book.
I'd definitely recommend this book and series.
April 11, 2016
Emotional story of love and loss.
Julia and Andre had a great story filled with love, blessings of a child, struggles of raising a child while sticking with your passion, living as a couple, unimaginable tragedy, destruction, despair, finding your way back from the puts of hell to find the light, love, forgiveness and a newness of life. I guess in many ways that sentence is the exact premise of the Semicolon Project- ; )
Julia and Andre had a great story filled with love, blessings of a child, struggles of raising a child while sticking with your passion, living as a couple, unimaginable tragedy, destruction, despair, finding your way back from the puts of hell to find the light, love, forgiveness and a newness of life. I guess in many ways that sentence is the exact premise of the Semicolon Project- ; )
August 24, 2016
I won this autographed copy in a giveaway and enjoyed it more than Leap of Faith(La Flor Series, #1 that I also received from the author, autographed. Thank you M.L. Rodriguez!) The story line in Imperfectly Beautiful, of Julia and Andre, felt much deeper than the story of Faith and Zane in book one. However, I do love that all of the characters from book one are also in book two. They become even more endearing. All in all I found this to be a great read!
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