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Over Duet #1
Low Over High
I fancy myself a purveyor of truth, a sifter of lies, a cutter of bullshit. It’s not a gift, but rather, all skill, honed to a razor’s edge after one too many trips down the rabbit hole.
Some may dismiss my talent as misplaced and misguided cynicism, but they’d be wrong. Cliches about hope and faith in mankind are concocted unicorn farts, an effort to keep the dreamers dreaming. Experiences don’t lie—people do.
While I’m not proud of the circumstances that led me to this way of thinking, I respect the journey. The road to enlightenment can be dark and foreboding, but the destination makes it all worthwhile.
But funny thing about the past—it’s a defiant child refusing to stay in time out. No matter how deeply buried, it can always pop up when least expected, and sink its fucking claws into the flesh of your heart. No, not my heart—I no longer have one. I foolishly gave it away years ago, but I still feel the ripping in my chest as I fist the crumpled note left on my porch.
I’ve avoided this day, ran from it, for the past eight years.
And still we meet again.
But to truly understand … to feel my dread and fear my future as I do, it’s important to know what happened in my past.
Or who…
My name is Marlo Rivers, and this is my story of corrupted love.
MATURE AUDIENCES ONLY 18+
Warning: This book contains graphic content which may not be suitable for sensitive readers.
Some may dismiss my talent as misplaced and misguided cynicism, but they’d be wrong. Cliches about hope and faith in mankind are concocted unicorn farts, an effort to keep the dreamers dreaming. Experiences don’t lie—people do.
While I’m not proud of the circumstances that led me to this way of thinking, I respect the journey. The road to enlightenment can be dark and foreboding, but the destination makes it all worthwhile.
But funny thing about the past—it’s a defiant child refusing to stay in time out. No matter how deeply buried, it can always pop up when least expected, and sink its fucking claws into the flesh of your heart. No, not my heart—I no longer have one. I foolishly gave it away years ago, but I still feel the ripping in my chest as I fist the crumpled note left on my porch.
I’ve avoided this day, ran from it, for the past eight years.
And still we meet again.
But to truly understand … to feel my dread and fear my future as I do, it’s important to know what happened in my past.
Or who…
My name is Marlo Rivers, and this is my story of corrupted love.
MATURE AUDIENCES ONLY 18+
Warning: This book contains graphic content which may not be suitable for sensitive readers.
276 pages, Paperback
First published November 14, 2016
263 people are currently reading
1547 people want to read
About the author
J.A. DeRouen
10 books1,287 followersJ.A. Derouen resides in South Louisiana with her husband, son (aptly nicknamed "The Professor"), and her furry friend, Scout. She has a bachelor’s degrees in psychology and nursing. When she's not writing or inhaling romance novels by the stack, she works as a women's health nurse. She’s been an avid reader and daydreamer since childhood, and she's never stopped turning the page to get to the next happily ever after.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 218 reviews
January 14, 2017
4.5 ever and low stars
This book! Bloody hell this book!
It was everything one wants to read when they think of a good book- snarky humor, tormented hero, hilariously sarcastic & bitchy heroine, and an excellent writing.
AKA a complete book.
I loved this book, if it is not already obvious.
We meet Marlow, a jaded 25 year old, who tells us why and how she came to have such a cynical view of life, so from the prologue itself you already know that this book either has a cliff-hanger, or a not so HEA ending.
We travel 8 years into the past to meet a 17 year old Marlow, who leaves her Texas ranch to stay near her biological mother in New Orleans. There in school she runs into Ever- aka asshole extraordinaire.
Their beginning was so fucking hilarious, each of them going out of their way to make the other miserable, and their poems, god their poems cracked me up so bad lol.
Let's just say, the author knows how to give the correct amount of humorous punch.
Then came the "falling in love period".
Both Low and Ever slowly began to fall in love, and it was so absolutely sweet. But then it's like everything went to shit at once. Ever's demons came crawling out of their dens and dragged him in, and Low, in an attempt to save him goes in, but then she too becomes a victim.
And then, in an attempt to survive, Low leaves.
I absolutely loved the writing, it was beautiful and haunting. The author certainly knows how to build a relationship, and make the readers feel the pain of her characters. This was my first DeRouen book, and I'm definitely gonna check out more.
This book! Bloody hell this book!
It was everything one wants to read when they think of a good book- snarky humor, tormented hero, hilariously sarcastic & bitchy heroine, and an excellent writing.
AKA a complete book.
I loved this book, if it is not already obvious.
We meet Marlow, a jaded 25 year old, who tells us why and how she came to have such a cynical view of life, so from the prologue itself you already know that this book either has a cliff-hanger, or a not so HEA ending.
We travel 8 years into the past to meet a 17 year old Marlow, who leaves her Texas ranch to stay near her biological mother in New Orleans. There in school she runs into Ever- aka asshole extraordinaire.
Their beginning was so fucking hilarious, each of them going out of their way to make the other miserable, and their poems, god their poems cracked me up so bad lol.
"Ever be nimble,
Ever be quick,
Ever can’t find his teeny, tiny dick."
Let's just say, the author knows how to give the correct amount of humorous punch.
Then came the "falling in love period".
"Kissing Ever is like breaking the surface of the ocean. Legs kicking, arms flailing, and then that precious moment when air rushes into your lungs, giving you the one thing you need the most. Yeah, kissing Ever is just like that."
Both Low and Ever slowly began to fall in love, and it was so absolutely sweet. But then it's like everything went to shit at once. Ever's demons came crawling out of their dens and dragged him in, and Low, in an attempt to save him goes in, but then she too becomes a victim.
And then, in an attempt to survive, Low leaves.
I absolutely loved the writing, it was beautiful and haunting. The author certainly knows how to build a relationship, and make the readers feel the pain of her characters. This was my first DeRouen book, and I'm definitely gonna check out more.
"How do you measure the weight of a whisper? It’s infinitesimally heavier than any word spoken aloud. Whispers shouted into the void, when no one else is listening? Those are the heaviest of all. So Ever’s faint “I love you” told to my presumably sleeping form (closed eyes and open ears) weighs a metric ton. It anchors me to him … for forever, I think.
When I wake in the morning, Ever is gone."
November 3, 2016
ARC kindly provided by Sassy Savvy Fabulous PR.
I am a huge J.A. DeRouen fan.
She is an exceptional writer and storyteller, and I truly feel like each and every one of her books is a true literal masterpiece.
She writes emotionally charged stories that will blow you away.
I've read this the moment I got it on my Kindle... and couldn't put it down.
I loved everything about it.
Low over High is a first book in a duet and the second book will be out in January.
I can't wait to find out more!
You can read this duet as a standalone, but some of the secondary characters were already introduced in J.A. DeRouen previous works... so do yourself a favor and read them too.
You won't be sorry.
Marlo and Ever are wonderful characters, and with that whole friends to lovers/enemies to lovers thing going on, I knew I had a gem in my hands.
I highly recommend it!
I am a huge J.A. DeRouen fan.
She is an exceptional writer and storyteller, and I truly feel like each and every one of her books is a true literal masterpiece.
She writes emotionally charged stories that will blow you away.
I've read this the moment I got it on my Kindle... and couldn't put it down.
I loved everything about it.
Low over High is a first book in a duet and the second book will be out in January.
I can't wait to find out more!
You can read this duet as a standalone, but some of the secondary characters were already introduced in J.A. DeRouen previous works... so do yourself a favor and read them too.
You won't be sorry.
Marlo and Ever are wonderful characters, and with that whole friends to lovers/enemies to lovers thing going on, I knew I had a gem in my hands.
I highly recommend it!
January 18, 2017
I was reluctant to start this book, seeing as how majority of its ratings are 5 stars from readers who were given advanced copies.
I am sure you are wondering why positive reviews would cause anyone to be wary of a book.
Well, I've found that when a book has mostly 5 star reviews where most are from an advanced copy, more often than not the book isn't something I'll enjoy. Are the 5 star reviews lies? No. I am sure those who rated it that really enjoyed it. But let's all be honest here. Most people who get an ARC are either reluctant to rate a book "low" (for fear of offending the author, some people just don't post reviews for books they rated under 3 stars, etc.) or just don't rate it. Or they wait until a few weeks after the release and then will post their review. I usually wait to read a book until it has a good amount of ratings so I can surmise if it will be something I'd like.
Turns out, I was right about this one.
This book bored me to tears. Absolutely nothing happens besides the MCs dating for about 80% of the book. I didn't find the writing to be anything other than mediocre. And the biggest issue for me was the vacillating dialogue of the characters. One minute the heroine is calling the hero a 'douchenozzle' (or something like that. To be honest I couldn't be bothered to go back and search for her childish insults), and the next she is speaking in poetic prose as she proclaims she loves him. She goes from sounding like an immature child to a poet from page to page. The writing/monologues/dialogue just weren't consistent and I couldn't get a good grasp or liking of the heroine or even the hero (& this is probably because we barely get any background or chapters in the hero's POV so he remained one dimensional to me.)
Lastly, I don't think this author's writing was strong enough to handle the subject matter this book took on.
Clearly this wasn't for me, and I won't be reading the second. Especially considering this first book had nothing of importance happen until the very end, which makes it feel like this duet could have been consolidated into one book.
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I am sure you are wondering why positive reviews would cause anyone to be wary of a book.
Well, I've found that when a book has mostly 5 star reviews where most are from an advanced copy, more often than not the book isn't something I'll enjoy. Are the 5 star reviews lies? No. I am sure those who rated it that really enjoyed it. But let's all be honest here. Most people who get an ARC are either reluctant to rate a book "low" (for fear of offending the author, some people just don't post reviews for books they rated under 3 stars, etc.) or just don't rate it. Or they wait until a few weeks after the release and then will post their review. I usually wait to read a book until it has a good amount of ratings so I can surmise if it will be something I'd like.
Turns out, I was right about this one.
This book bored me to tears. Absolutely nothing happens besides the MCs dating for about 80% of the book. I didn't find the writing to be anything other than mediocre. And the biggest issue for me was the vacillating dialogue of the characters. One minute the heroine is calling the hero a 'douchenozzle' (or something like that. To be honest I couldn't be bothered to go back and search for her childish insults), and the next she is speaking in poetic prose as she proclaims she loves him. She goes from sounding like an immature child to a poet from page to page. The writing/monologues/dialogue just weren't consistent and I couldn't get a good grasp or liking of the heroine or even the hero (& this is probably because we barely get any background or chapters in the hero's POV so he remained one dimensional to me.)
Lastly, I don't think this author's writing was strong enough to handle the subject matter this book took on.
Clearly this wasn't for me, and I won't be reading the second. Especially considering this first book had nothing of importance happen until the very end, which makes it feel like this duet could have been consolidated into one book.
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April 19, 2017
You ever read a book and wonder, “where has this author been all my life?” Well that is what I’m asking right now. Low over High. I can’t even right now. I am counting down the days until Low & Ever’s story continues.
The prologue of this story sets the scene as Low finds a note that sends her eight years into the past. Eight years ago when she was just turning eighteen, leaving her home in Texas to meet her mother for the first time in about fifteen years and starting her senior year. Eight years ago when she met a boy she instantly hated, but could not help but love.
Ever. Oh, how I dig the broken ones the most.
As we venture into their story, we watch two young kids fall in love and we watch as one falls deep into the rabbit hole of grief for things so far out of his control and we watch as Low has to be strong and walk away.
I don’t even know what to do with my life right now. I loved this story. I loved their relationship, I loved the characters and I lost it towards the end. It sort of hit me all at once, out of nowhere. I knew from the start that things would shake out like it did, but that didn’t make it hurt any less.
There is this moment in the story where Low is sitting in a confessional and that moment rocked me. I lost it instantly. So much emotion lived in those few sentences. I don’t know what it is about these types of scenes, but I love them. I love when something can come out of nowhere and hit me, and not only make me feel for those characters, but one that digs deep into an old wound to remove a remaining piece of shrapnel that you didn’t even know still existed. It’s moving and healing and as beautiful as it is tragic.
I feel like I need to fill the void between now and January by stalking everything this author has EVER written.
The prologue of this story sets the scene as Low finds a note that sends her eight years into the past. Eight years ago when she was just turning eighteen, leaving her home in Texas to meet her mother for the first time in about fifteen years and starting her senior year. Eight years ago when she met a boy she instantly hated, but could not help but love.
Ever. Oh, how I dig the broken ones the most.
As we venture into their story, we watch two young kids fall in love and we watch as one falls deep into the rabbit hole of grief for things so far out of his control and we watch as Low has to be strong and walk away.
I don’t even know what to do with my life right now. I loved this story. I loved their relationship, I loved the characters and I lost it towards the end. It sort of hit me all at once, out of nowhere. I knew from the start that things would shake out like it did, but that didn’t make it hurt any less.
There is this moment in the story where Low is sitting in a confessional and that moment rocked me. I lost it instantly. So much emotion lived in those few sentences. I don’t know what it is about these types of scenes, but I love them. I love when something can come out of nowhere and hit me, and not only make me feel for those characters, but one that digs deep into an old wound to remove a remaining piece of shrapnel that you didn’t even know still existed. It’s moving and healing and as beautiful as it is tragic.
I feel like I need to fill the void between now and January by stalking everything this author has EVER written.
February 12, 2017
4.5 Low Down Stars
So, I started reading this several times and kept putting it down. It didn't catch me the first few chapters. I was certain I'd be adding it to my DNF list. I'm so glad I stuck it out. What a ride! What started as another high-school drama, ended as the story of all stories. I'm impressed. This was a great read.
Although the beginning isn't boring, it is a little slow. I really had no idea where this was going but I hoped that it would deliver...and it did! The last half of this book was packed with action. YA style, of course! This book was about a budding romance between Marlow Rivers and Everett Montgomery. Two wounded teens who find resolve in each other. They fall hard and fast. 4 of the best months either have seen in a while. But the sun sets quick on their romance as the reality of Everett's secrets come crashing down on the comfy bubble they're hiding in. That's all I really feel I can say without giving up too much.
Low and Ever were cute together and I rooted for the HEA, which I'm still hoping for going into book two. To say some events shocked me would, again, be an understatement. I just didn't see that level of destruction coming, although, there were signs. I held my chest as I read the last few chapters to stop my heart from beating so erratically. My emotions at an all time high, my eyes misty with tears and my prayers going upward. You would have sworn these were real people. We readers get so attached to characters: D Now I'm just excited to read what's to come!
So, I started reading this several times and kept putting it down. It didn't catch me the first few chapters. I was certain I'd be adding it to my DNF list. I'm so glad I stuck it out. What a ride! What started as another high-school drama, ended as the story of all stories. I'm impressed. This was a great read.
Although the beginning isn't boring, it is a little slow. I really had no idea where this was going but I hoped that it would deliver...and it did! The last half of this book was packed with action. YA style, of course! This book was about a budding romance between Marlow Rivers and Everett Montgomery. Two wounded teens who find resolve in each other. They fall hard and fast. 4 of the best months either have seen in a while. But the sun sets quick on their romance as the reality of Everett's secrets come crashing down on the comfy bubble they're hiding in. That's all I really feel I can say without giving up too much.
Low and Ever were cute together and I rooted for the HEA, which I'm still hoping for going into book two. To say some events shocked me would, again, be an understatement. I just didn't see that level of destruction coming, although, there were signs. I held my chest as I read the last few chapters to stop my heart from beating so erratically. My emotions at an all time high, my eyes misty with tears and my prayers going upward. You would have sworn these were real people. We readers get so attached to characters: D Now I'm just excited to read what's to come!
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September 30, 2018Low Over High is FREE from September 30-October 2, 2018!!!
Grab your copy here ——> http://mybook.to/lowoverhigh
Grab your copy here ——> http://mybook.to/lowoverhigh
Read
December 4, 2016DNF at 49%. I thought I might pick this back up but it doesn't look like I will. For some reason Marlo is annoying me:(( Moving on.
January 9, 2017
4.5 Star Spoiler Free Review for Duet (Books 1 and 2)
‘Love changes over time. The edges may dull, the butterflies hibernate… but sometimes, the best things sharpen and flourish as years pass.’
The Over Duet is our first foray into the work of J.A. DeRouen and it’s safe to say, we’ll be checking out more of her work in the future because we both loved this story. The drama element was intense though not prolonged for unnecessary reasons, the wit between the characters lightened the load when needed, J.A. DeRouen’s prose ensured we instantly connected with her writing and fell in love with her characters, all playing a part to tell the story of Low and Ever, and what a story!
This is a spoiler free review for the complete Duet and it’s imperative you read Low Over High first as the story in Ever Over After continues on, eight years down the track from the events that unfolded in book one, with Low (Marlo) and Ever (Everett’s) story concluding in book two.
“I’m a better man when I’m loving you. I don’t think I can stop, even you beg me to.”
J.A. DeRouen delivered a heartfelt, believable and beautifully moving story and she did so without the melancholy that could have so easily brought it down. Yes, she deals with some very heavy subject matter in this duet, and yes we felt the emotional and mental fallout from this, but it was handled sensitively. We met a bunch of friendly, outgoing and wonderful characters who burrowed into our hearts, who, together with Low and Ever, ensured we thoroughly enjoyed every minute of this first love, second chance story with friendships, family and loyalty at its heart. Grab this one!......... Click here fore full review at TBB
The Over Duet is available to purchase below for 99c/99p each
LOW OVER HIGH BOOK ONE
Amazon US
Amazon UK
EVER OVER AFTER BOOK TWO
Amazon US
Amazon UK
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March 9, 2024
4.5 Stars
Low Over High begins with an angsty, mysterious, yet powerful prologue of the main character Marlo Rivers (a part of the prologue is also the blurb of the novel). She talks about her cynical personality and her non-belief in hope and faith in humankind because those are only cliches "to keep the dreamers dreaming." Marlo was not always like that, circumstances in her past made her that way. She tried to run from it for the last eight years but the past has a way of catching up and for Marlo it is in form of a crumpled note left on her porch.
After reading the prologue, I was left with many questions. The unpredictability and the mysterious blurb made me eager to find out more about Marlo and her story. If main characters have baggage from their past, those storylines usually appear in form of short flashbacks, letters or whole chapters that are scattered all over the book. Although those options are the common way of doing it, J.A. DeRouen went with something completely different yet brilliant: she made the entire novel about the past. Marlo's past is so complex and so many things happen in her life, there was no way it would've fit in letters or flashbacks.
It's safe to say that past-Marlo, compared to the Marlo the reader met in the prologue, is a totally different person. She's cheery, feisty and definitely has a quick tongue. She's also great at making friends and spoiling them with self-made cupcake creations.
The person Marlo mentions as "who" in the blurb as well as in the prologue is Everett Montgomery. I don't want to spoil too much, but Everett is a mystery throughout the entire novel. As a reader you just want to know more about this guy and what is going on in his life. But the reader gets only a snippet here and there and that makes you want read more and more in hope of getting another snippet. I had so many theories in my head about Everett but nothing came close to the actual happenings.
I really enjoyed reading this Young Adult part of the "Over Duet".
**********
Review to come!
Low Over High begins with an angsty, mysterious, yet powerful prologue of the main character Marlo Rivers (a part of the prologue is also the blurb of the novel). She talks about her cynical personality and her non-belief in hope and faith in humankind because those are only cliches "to keep the dreamers dreaming." Marlo was not always like that, circumstances in her past made her that way. She tried to run from it for the last eight years but the past has a way of catching up and for Marlo it is in form of a crumpled note left on her porch.
After reading the prologue, I was left with many questions. The unpredictability and the mysterious blurb made me eager to find out more about Marlo and her story. If main characters have baggage from their past, those storylines usually appear in form of short flashbacks, letters or whole chapters that are scattered all over the book. Although those options are the common way of doing it, J.A. DeRouen went with something completely different yet brilliant: she made the entire novel about the past. Marlo's past is so complex and so many things happen in her life, there was no way it would've fit in letters or flashbacks.
It's safe to say that past-Marlo, compared to the Marlo the reader met in the prologue, is a totally different person. She's cheery, feisty and definitely has a quick tongue. She's also great at making friends and spoiling them with self-made cupcake creations.
The person Marlo mentions as "who" in the blurb as well as in the prologue is Everett Montgomery. I don't want to spoil too much, but Everett is a mystery throughout the entire novel. As a reader you just want to know more about this guy and what is going on in his life. But the reader gets only a snippet here and there and that makes you want read more and more in hope of getting another snippet. I had so many theories in my head about Everett but nothing came close to the actual happenings.
I really enjoyed reading this Young Adult part of the "Over Duet".
**********
Review to come!
November 14, 2016
I actually finished this last night but didn't feel like getting out of the bed to type up a review. Besides, I didn't know what I'd say except that I LOVED this! I'm going to try my hardest not to give too much away ;0)
Low and Ever are amazing together. She's positive and funny while he's broody and sullen. Low brings the best out in Ever. Too bad he doesn't think he deserves it and messes it up between them.
J.A.'s storytelling is great! It's easy to read and connect with. And like a little cherry on top, I found myself smiling at certain things that the characters said or did, or names of characters in there, because we're from the same hometown and I recognized them. It made the reading of this so much more special to me :)
I'm waiting, not so patiently, for the next part. I'm hoping to find out...well, I won't say cause I don't want to spoil anything LOL
Low and Ever are amazing together. She's positive and funny while he's broody and sullen. Low brings the best out in Ever. Too bad he doesn't think he deserves it and messes it up between them.
J.A.'s storytelling is great! It's easy to read and connect with. And like a little cherry on top, I found myself smiling at certain things that the characters said or did, or names of characters in there, because we're from the same hometown and I recognized them. It made the reading of this so much more special to me :)
I'm waiting, not so patiently, for the next part. I'm hoping to find out...well, I won't say cause I don't want to spoil anything LOL
January 9, 2017
4.5 Star Spoiler Free Review for Duet (Books 1 and 2)
‘Love changes over time. The edges may dull, the butterflies hibernate… but sometimes, the best things sharpen and flourish as years pass.’
The Over Duet is our first foray into the work of J.A. DeRouen and it’s safe to say, we’ll be checking out more of her work in the future because we both loved this story. The drama element was intense though not prolonged for unnecessary reasons, the wit between the characters lightened the load when needed, J.A. DeRouen’s prose ensured we instantly connected with her writing and fell in love with her characters, all playing a part to tell the story of Low and Ever, and what a story!
This is a spoiler free review for the complete Duet and it’s imperative you read Low Over High first as the story in Ever Over After continues on, eight years down the track from the events that unfolded in book one, with Low (Marlo) and Ever (Everett’s) story concluding in book two.
“Time passes, memories fade, but feelings are forever.”
Low Over High begins with a gripping prologue set in the present when a very disillusioned and bitter Low tells us how she is sworn off relationships, has a cynical outlook on love and is, in general, quite disgruntled and not at all interested in seeking a relationship. The prologue ensured we voraciously turned the pages to find out what transpired all those years ago to make Low resentful.
The story then flicks back to eight years when a then 17 year old Low is about to leave her loving Dad, Nana and brother, Declan in Texas to attend her Senior year in New Orleans in order to reconnect with her mother, who had left Low and Declan when they were very small children.
It is at Orleans Academy Low meets Ever, the quintessential sullen ‘lost boy’, and the nephew of the Dean of the school. Ever is a 17 year old boy fighting many demons and heartache.
An accidental meeting has them taking an instant dislike to one another, though over a four month period, we lay witness to the growth of their relationship, their first love and the tragic incidents that would see Low disappear one day, never to return. This part of the story was heartbreakingly sad on both accounts and presented tough and tragic time for both Low and Ever individually.
"Please stay...even if my heart is scarred and my soul is dirty. Please stay...."
The build of the relationship was beautifully executed, and although the time span was relatively short, these two had dealt with a lot in their young years, and so we felt their love at first was very innocent, very real and beautiful. Those four month would shape their lives in many different ways, essentially determining who they are when we meet them again eight years later in book two.
‘He’s the creation and the rapture. Every good and bad thing all wrapped up into one. And now, after all these years, he may just be my resurrection.’
During their time apart we felt the characters had developed, matured and grown individually and felt the infinite pull that lead them back to one another. However, hidden secrets, unspoken words, and memories unearthed from the past lay beneath their hearts. What consequences will bringing them to the surface ultimately be and could Low and Ever rediscover the love they had?
“I’m a better man when I’m loving you. I don’t think I can stop, even you beg me to.”
J.A. DeRouen delivered a heartfelt, believable and beautifully moving story and she did so without the melancholy that could have so easily brought it down. Yes, she deals with some very heavy subject matter in this duet, and yes we felt the emotional and mental fallout from this, but it was handled sensitively. We met a bunch of friendly, outgoing and wonderful characters who burrowed into our hearts, who, together with Low and Ever, ensured we thoroughly enjoyed every minute of this first love, second chance story with friendships, family and loyalty at its heart. Grab this one!
The Over Duet is available to purchase below for 99c/99p each
LOW OVER HIGH BOOK ONE
Amazon US
Amazon UK
EVER OVER AFTER BOOK TWO
Amazon US
Amazon UK
Come visit and follow us at:
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✲ TB on Facebook
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November 23, 2016
All I can say right now is WOW. Sometimes you read the synopsis of a book and you just KNOW it's a book you're going to love. That was the case with Low Over High for me. This was my first book by J.A. DeRouen, and I am no doubt a new fan.
I usually stay away from reading YA, because in the past I have felt too old to read those stories. But I didn't feel that at all while I read LOH - and I realized while reading that it doesn't matter how old the characters are if the writing is fantastic. And this author's writing blew me away!
I absolutely loved Low and Ever's story. It was a slow-building story and then was like a train wreck I knew was coming but I couldn't look away! I literally cheered for Low at one point towards the end of the book and she has cemented herself as one of my favorite characters. I loved her spunk, and her no holds barred personality. I cannot wait to read the sequel and get Ever's pov!!! Second chance romance and the guy's pov rolled into one book...yes please!!! Hurry up January 9th :)
I usually stay away from reading YA, because in the past I have felt too old to read those stories. But I didn't feel that at all while I read LOH - and I realized while reading that it doesn't matter how old the characters are if the writing is fantastic. And this author's writing blew me away!
I absolutely loved Low and Ever's story. It was a slow-building story and then was like a train wreck I knew was coming but I couldn't look away! I literally cheered for Low at one point towards the end of the book and she has cemented herself as one of my favorite characters. I loved her spunk, and her no holds barred personality. I cannot wait to read the sequel and get Ever's pov!!! Second chance romance and the guy's pov rolled into one book...yes please!!! Hurry up January 9th :)
November 25, 2016
to be honest, this is not my book. i don't like reading about the high school, teenage love and... but i read it becuase i want to know the later part.
Low and Ever met in a high school, Low is new and Ever had his problems. They open to accpet what their life is in that moment until things change. Ever did drug because his life, family and illness brother. Drug is the thing to escpae. Maybe Ever paid that in much but we did know is Low paid it too.
Durg raped and lost everthing Low had was heart broken. Low is brave that accpet everything in front of her, new high school away from her home, new family to adapt, a boyfriend who had problems.
When things get ugly, she deceide to face it, eight years later.... Ever found her.
Low and Ever met in a high school, Low is new and Ever had his problems. They open to accpet what their life is in that moment until things change. Ever did drug because his life, family and illness brother. Drug is the thing to escpae. Maybe Ever paid that in much but we did know is Low paid it too.
Durg raped and lost everthing Low had was heart broken. Low is brave that accpet everything in front of her, new high school away from her home, new family to adapt, a boyfriend who had problems.
When things get ugly, she deceide to face it, eight years later.... Ever found her.
February 6, 2017
4,5. Que livro lindo!!!!!! Que história bem construída. Os personagens são fortes e envolventes, que dão veracidade à cada linha lida. Adorei. :)
Want to Read
September 30, 2018💝FREE on Amazon today (9/30/18)!💝
Blurb:
I fancy myself a purveyor of truth, a sifter of lies, a cutter of bullshit. It’s not a gift, but rather, all skill, honed to a razor’s edge after one too many trips down the rabbit hole.
Some may dismiss my talent as misplaced and misguided cynicism, but they’d be wrong. Cliches about hope and faith in mankind are concocted unicorn farts, an effort to keep the dreamers dreaming. Experiences don’t lie—people do.
While I’m not proud of the circumstances that led me to this way of thinking, I respect the journey. The road to enlightenment can be dark and foreboding, but the destination makes it all worthwhile.
But funny thing about the past—it’s a defiant child refusing to stay in time out. No matter how deeply buried, it can always pop up when least expected, and sink its fucking claws into the flesh of your heart. No, not my heart—I no longer have one. I foolishly gave it away years ago, but I still feel the ripping in my chest as I fist the crumpled note left on my porch.
I’ve avoided this day, ran from it, for the past eight years.
And still we meet again.
But to truly understand … to feel my dread and fear my future as I do, it’s important to know what happened in my past.
Or who…
My name is Marlo Rivers, and this is my story of corrupted love.
Blurb:
I fancy myself a purveyor of truth, a sifter of lies, a cutter of bullshit. It’s not a gift, but rather, all skill, honed to a razor’s edge after one too many trips down the rabbit hole.
Some may dismiss my talent as misplaced and misguided cynicism, but they’d be wrong. Cliches about hope and faith in mankind are concocted unicorn farts, an effort to keep the dreamers dreaming. Experiences don’t lie—people do.
While I’m not proud of the circumstances that led me to this way of thinking, I respect the journey. The road to enlightenment can be dark and foreboding, but the destination makes it all worthwhile.
But funny thing about the past—it’s a defiant child refusing to stay in time out. No matter how deeply buried, it can always pop up when least expected, and sink its fucking claws into the flesh of your heart. No, not my heart—I no longer have one. I foolishly gave it away years ago, but I still feel the ripping in my chest as I fist the crumpled note left on my porch.
I’ve avoided this day, ran from it, for the past eight years.
And still we meet again.
But to truly understand … to feel my dread and fear my future as I do, it’s important to know what happened in my past.
Or who…
My name is Marlo Rivers, and this is my story of corrupted love.
October 3, 2017
I loved it. I loved it. I loved it.
I seriously loved it.
From the beginning, this book held me captive and never let the fuck go.
Now onto the next one tomorrow for some more Ever and Low...
I seriously loved it.
From the beginning, this book held me captive and never let the fuck go.
Now onto the next one tomorrow for some more Ever and Low...
April 18, 2017
My emotions are a swirling mess right now. This book. Wow. I am embarrassed to admit that this is my first book by J.A. DeRouen. Had I known the magic that was hiding in these pages, I would have devoured her entire backlist already and be biting at the bit for her next book. To say I enjoyed this book is an understatement. This is the first book in the Over duet and the story concludes in Ever Over After.
I freaking loved Marlo! Her banter and dialogue had me both laughing and crying. She is snarky, sharp tongued, and a little bruised (but not broken). I loved her tell it like it is attitude and her unapologetic candor. Even though she may toss barbs around like missles, you can see that under her armor, she is just a regular teenager - vulnerable and unsure at times. Considering the majority of the book takes places when she is 17/18 years old, her naivety is both realistic and believable. Her journey will leave you rejoicing in the excitement of new experiences and adventures and then reeling from the harsh realities that life throws at her. Honestly, my heart broke for her in the last third of the book. I thought the author did a phenomenal job addressing some extremely difficult issues with care and honesty that did not blunt the impact and seriousness of the message.
Oh, Ever. I wanted to both hug and slap him. He is so broken when we meet him, that it doesn't seem possible that anyone will break his walls down. His continued attempts to anesthetize his pain any way that he could was gut wrenching. His start with Marlo is rocky, but I loved watching their relationship evolve and grow naturally and organically, healing each other along the way. It is definitely a slow burn between them and was perfect for their story. I couldn't help but root for them to find a way to their happily ever after. I may not agree with some of Ever's decisions, but as painful as it is, I do understand. Grief and guilt are powerful motivators and sadly, we can only watch helplessly as Ever falls down the rabbit hole, unwittingly taking Marlo with him.
I loved this book so much that I read and listened to the audiobook as well. Let me tell you, the audiobook is phenomenal! Neva Navarre is the perfect Marlo and made me fall in love with her even more. Some parts that were difficult to read, ripped my heart out to listen to, but it really took the story to another level. I definitely recommend the audiobook if you have a chance to listen to it! I can't wait to start Ever Over After!
I freaking loved Marlo! Her banter and dialogue had me both laughing and crying. She is snarky, sharp tongued, and a little bruised (but not broken). I loved her tell it like it is attitude and her unapologetic candor. Even though she may toss barbs around like missles, you can see that under her armor, she is just a regular teenager - vulnerable and unsure at times. Considering the majority of the book takes places when she is 17/18 years old, her naivety is both realistic and believable. Her journey will leave you rejoicing in the excitement of new experiences and adventures and then reeling from the harsh realities that life throws at her. Honestly, my heart broke for her in the last third of the book. I thought the author did a phenomenal job addressing some extremely difficult issues with care and honesty that did not blunt the impact and seriousness of the message.
Oh, Ever. I wanted to both hug and slap him. He is so broken when we meet him, that it doesn't seem possible that anyone will break his walls down. His continued attempts to anesthetize his pain any way that he could was gut wrenching. His start with Marlo is rocky, but I loved watching their relationship evolve and grow naturally and organically, healing each other along the way. It is definitely a slow burn between them and was perfect for their story. I couldn't help but root for them to find a way to their happily ever after. I may not agree with some of Ever's decisions, but as painful as it is, I do understand. Grief and guilt are powerful motivators and sadly, we can only watch helplessly as Ever falls down the rabbit hole, unwittingly taking Marlo with him.
I loved this book so much that I read and listened to the audiobook as well. Let me tell you, the audiobook is phenomenal! Neva Navarre is the perfect Marlo and made me fall in love with her even more. Some parts that were difficult to read, ripped my heart out to listen to, but it really took the story to another level. I definitely recommend the audiobook if you have a chance to listen to it! I can't wait to start Ever Over After!
November 13, 2016
Marlo has been present throughout the Over series as the outspoken and loyal best friend and now her story takes center stage. She's always been my least favorite character, so while I wasn't particularly excited to read her story, I was pleasantly surprised that she grew on me. Low Over High dates back to Marlo's senior year of high school when she transfers from China, Texas to New Orleans, Louisiana to live near her mother, Evelyn, who left Marlo when she was 3. This change represents a lot about Marlo - her big heart, her willingness for change to new beginnings, her ability to adapt, and her frank nature that won't be compromised or bulldozed over.
Marlo's life was never perfect, but she took the best parts of it and made the most of it. Everett, or Ever, runs into Marlo and their first encounter, while memorable, was far from the beginning of a blossoming romance. They became antagonistic immediately. But eventually, that feistiness between them gave way to something else. Ever is guarded, protective and constantly on edge because he's torn between his burdens and responsibilities even though he comes off as someone who isn't ambitious. Ever is deep, but doesn't like to share many parts of himself. While Ever and Marlo get closer, Ever is troubled by his circumstances and buries himself in his pain and sorrow when things take a turn for the worse. Then Marlo, who has never been a victim, succumbs to darkness, too, and it's all very heartbreaking for both of them. I was intrigued by the relationship between Marlo and her mother and all the unanswered questions about Ever. There's a lot of things that happened that I didn't see coming and it helped me to appreciate the modern day Marlo as to why she is the way she is. I'm looking forward to the sequel of Marlo and Ever's story.
*I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review*
Marlo's life was never perfect, but she took the best parts of it and made the most of it. Everett, or Ever, runs into Marlo and their first encounter, while memorable, was far from the beginning of a blossoming romance. They became antagonistic immediately. But eventually, that feistiness between them gave way to something else. Ever is guarded, protective and constantly on edge because he's torn between his burdens and responsibilities even though he comes off as someone who isn't ambitious. Ever is deep, but doesn't like to share many parts of himself. While Ever and Marlo get closer, Ever is troubled by his circumstances and buries himself in his pain and sorrow when things take a turn for the worse. Then Marlo, who has never been a victim, succumbs to darkness, too, and it's all very heartbreaking for both of them. I was intrigued by the relationship between Marlo and her mother and all the unanswered questions about Ever. There's a lot of things that happened that I didn't see coming and it helped me to appreciate the modern day Marlo as to why she is the way she is. I'm looking forward to the sequel of Marlo and Ever's story.
*I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review*
January 8, 2017
F*** me. This book, so much love for Low and Ever, even more for JA DeRouen. What a painful, horrific journey they've experienced in their short years. I'm glad I waited to read this until I had access to book 2, I'd likely have died waiting for the rest of their story.
December 19, 2016
This book was unreal. These characters unbelievable. That ending so unfair in the BEST way.
February 28, 2019
DNF @ 39%.
November 13, 2016
I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
This. Book. It’s more than a story, it’s a journey. It’s unfiltered, raw, and quite possibly the best I’ve read this entire year.
“He may have stumbled, but hasn’t fallen.”
Marlo Rivers doesn’t believe in love. At least not anymore. Get the clichés out of your head. This isn’t that kind of story. And Marlo is not that kind of woman. She’s been broken into pieces. Every truth she believed in… destroyed. Love changed her in many ways. Meeting Ever Montgomery was fate. But that was years ago. And now he’s here. Everything in her life she never wanted to face again appeared. And this was their compelling and emotionally charged story.
“We’d be magical, you and me."
When Marlo and Ever met there was an instant distaste for each other. Marlo is a sassy and fun young woman and doesn’t take crap from anymore. Not even drop dead gorgeous and broody, Ever. Ever has enough on his plate and he never has to want for any woman. They’re usually a given. Until he meets spitfire, Marlo. She is everything he should stay away from. She is fire, excitement. She is all the good in this world. But Ever can’t stay away. And neither can she. He tells her that he destroys the people he loves, it wasn’t just words. It was a warning. But she could love him through that. Right?
“Nothing for me has ever been this before. You’ve got to know that…feel that.”
Falling in love was as natural as breathing for Marlo and Ever. So much was stacked against them. Especially the deep secrets that Ever kept close to his heart. Despite it all, their falling was inevitable. No matter what he believed, Ever’s love IS light. Marlo was the one who gave him that courage to see that. And as dark and deep as Marlo had to dig to get to that light, it was all worth the risk. To be loved by him was a privilege. He just didn’t know how good and deep his heart and love really was. Loving him was tumultuous and dangerous, but his love is brave. His love is overwhelming and heavy, but his love was unwavering. Unyielding. His love consumed her, but his love protects. His love saves. His love endured. Until the very moment where it couldn’t
“It’s hard to love a person who isn’t able to show themselves to you. But I love her the best I can. I love the parts she lets me see, and I pray that’s enough for her.”
Secrets have the power to destroy. When Ever’s life unravels and secrets come to the surface, he is forever changed. His hopes, his dreams, and love are buried. But doesn’t Ever know that his heart is forever tethered to Marlo’s? You will feel that. Deeply. That when he goes low, so does she? Their earth shattering story is one that will move you to look for love in a place that you never knew even existed.
“Breathing in and out will be a privilege he doesn’t believe he deserves. It’s too big of a burden for the strongest of men, much less the most broken of boys.”
Although this is part one of a duet, I say this without any reservation, read this book. Do not wait. Low Over High left a profound mark on my soul. It was an extraordinary story of love, courage, darkness, and strength. The depth of emotion of this book is what easily captivates the reader. This was a flawless and sophisticated story defined by the devastating beauty in the storyline and the compelling characters. The author never held back. She gave an authentic take on love and its ability to destroy but also save. This poignant and riveting story was unexpected yet so exquisitely written.
This. Book. It’s more than a story, it’s a journey. It’s unfiltered, raw, and quite possibly the best I’ve read this entire year.
“He may have stumbled, but hasn’t fallen.”
Marlo Rivers doesn’t believe in love. At least not anymore. Get the clichés out of your head. This isn’t that kind of story. And Marlo is not that kind of woman. She’s been broken into pieces. Every truth she believed in… destroyed. Love changed her in many ways. Meeting Ever Montgomery was fate. But that was years ago. And now he’s here. Everything in her life she never wanted to face again appeared. And this was their compelling and emotionally charged story.
“We’d be magical, you and me."
When Marlo and Ever met there was an instant distaste for each other. Marlo is a sassy and fun young woman and doesn’t take crap from anymore. Not even drop dead gorgeous and broody, Ever. Ever has enough on his plate and he never has to want for any woman. They’re usually a given. Until he meets spitfire, Marlo. She is everything he should stay away from. She is fire, excitement. She is all the good in this world. But Ever can’t stay away. And neither can she. He tells her that he destroys the people he loves, it wasn’t just words. It was a warning. But she could love him through that. Right?
“Nothing for me has ever been this before. You’ve got to know that…feel that.”
Falling in love was as natural as breathing for Marlo and Ever. So much was stacked against them. Especially the deep secrets that Ever kept close to his heart. Despite it all, their falling was inevitable. No matter what he believed, Ever’s love IS light. Marlo was the one who gave him that courage to see that. And as dark and deep as Marlo had to dig to get to that light, it was all worth the risk. To be loved by him was a privilege. He just didn’t know how good and deep his heart and love really was. Loving him was tumultuous and dangerous, but his love is brave. His love is overwhelming and heavy, but his love was unwavering. Unyielding. His love consumed her, but his love protects. His love saves. His love endured. Until the very moment where it couldn’t
“It’s hard to love a person who isn’t able to show themselves to you. But I love her the best I can. I love the parts she lets me see, and I pray that’s enough for her.”
Secrets have the power to destroy. When Ever’s life unravels and secrets come to the surface, he is forever changed. His hopes, his dreams, and love are buried. But doesn’t Ever know that his heart is forever tethered to Marlo’s? You will feel that. Deeply. That when he goes low, so does she? Their earth shattering story is one that will move you to look for love in a place that you never knew even existed.
“Breathing in and out will be a privilege he doesn’t believe he deserves. It’s too big of a burden for the strongest of men, much less the most broken of boys.”
Although this is part one of a duet, I say this without any reservation, read this book. Do not wait. Low Over High left a profound mark on my soul. It was an extraordinary story of love, courage, darkness, and strength. The depth of emotion of this book is what easily captivates the reader. This was a flawless and sophisticated story defined by the devastating beauty in the storyline and the compelling characters. The author never held back. She gave an authentic take on love and its ability to destroy but also save. This poignant and riveting story was unexpected yet so exquisitely written.
November 8, 2016
Lynzi
Hate is a very strong word, and one I don't use very much, but I hate this. You may look at my rating a wonder what the hell do I mean by saying I hate it. So I will break it down.
I hate that it had to end.
I hate that I don't know what will happen next.
I hate that it all happened the way it did.
I hate that I have to wait until January to keep reading.
Ok, so no, I don't hate the story, I just hate the circumstances of reading a book with a cliffhanger.
I have always loved Marlo. She has been one of my absolute favorite characters in this series. So FINALLY getting her story after so long, is making me do a happy dance. I knew she had some not so happy and not so bright moments in her past, but they went a little deeper than I thought. Her scars definitely run deep, and she definitely has a reason go be the way she is. I still love her. I loved reading about her past, and then thinking about her from in the previous books, I loved seeing how she has grown.
Ever...OH-EM-GEE EVER!!! I couldn't quit put my finger on what was going on with him. I knew it was something major and something super close to the heart, but I just couldn't figure it out. When it finally came out, oh my goodness, did my heart hurt. It made me see him in a completely different light. It made me love him more than I already did. Life definitely didn't deal him an easy hand. Along with the messed up circumstances he wasn't given the kind of support he should of had. He had to carry the weight of the world on his shoulders, for such a long time, at such a young age, that it took a huge toll on him. Lost, alone, and afraid, he didn't know where to go or what to do, so he tried to cope the only way he thought he could.
Young love, is the best love.
Young love, is a strong love.
But is young love, always everlasting and worth the fight?
I seriously can not wait until January to finish reading Low and Ever's story. I stopped at the last chapter, because I didn't want it to end. I didn't want to have to read the words 'the end', because I knew it would leave me hanging. And hanging I definitely am.
**Just FYI, you don't have to read the other Over Series books to follow along or read this. This can be read as a standalone.**
Hate is a very strong word, and one I don't use very much, but I hate this. You may look at my rating a wonder what the hell do I mean by saying I hate it. So I will break it down.
I hate that it had to end.
I hate that I don't know what will happen next.
I hate that it all happened the way it did.
I hate that I have to wait until January to keep reading.
Ok, so no, I don't hate the story, I just hate the circumstances of reading a book with a cliffhanger.
I have always loved Marlo. She has been one of my absolute favorite characters in this series. So FINALLY getting her story after so long, is making me do a happy dance. I knew she had some not so happy and not so bright moments in her past, but they went a little deeper than I thought. Her scars definitely run deep, and she definitely has a reason go be the way she is. I still love her. I loved reading about her past, and then thinking about her from in the previous books, I loved seeing how she has grown.
Ever...OH-EM-GEE EVER!!! I couldn't quit put my finger on what was going on with him. I knew it was something major and something super close to the heart, but I just couldn't figure it out. When it finally came out, oh my goodness, did my heart hurt. It made me see him in a completely different light. It made me love him more than I already did. Life definitely didn't deal him an easy hand. Along with the messed up circumstances he wasn't given the kind of support he should of had. He had to carry the weight of the world on his shoulders, for such a long time, at such a young age, that it took a huge toll on him. Lost, alone, and afraid, he didn't know where to go or what to do, so he tried to cope the only way he thought he could.
Young love, is the best love.
Young love, is a strong love.
But is young love, always everlasting and worth the fight?
I seriously can not wait until January to finish reading Low and Ever's story. I stopped at the last chapter, because I didn't want it to end. I didn't want to have to read the words 'the end', because I knew it would leave me hanging. And hanging I definitely am.
**Just FYI, you don't have to read the other Over Series books to follow along or read this. This can be read as a standalone.**
November 12, 2016
Ooooohhhh, this is good, really good! I've been waiting for Marlo's story since I read Hope Over Fear and I was not disappointed!
This is new adult-ish (ages 17-18.) Enemies to lovers with a side of broken characters. It's a standalone, you don't have to read the other books (although they are good, so you should!) It's a duet. You could call this Part I if you want and Part II comes in January (and I can't wait!!)
Marlo, the spitfire is sassy, she don't sugarcoat and she takes no sh*t. She winds up in New Orleans for her last year of high school by way of her mother, Evelyn (the same woman who walked out of her life when she was 3 years old and never looked back.) Whether it's guilt or an "I want to know you" gesture, Marlo takes her up on it. Almost immediately she runs into (literally) broody Ever. Ever has a less than desirable relationship with his parents and "holds the weight of the world on his shoulders." The two instantly dislike each other but seem thrust into each other's path repeatedly eventually calling a truce, that leads to friendship. As their relationship grows and evolves, tragedy strikes sending Ever into a downward spiral of guilt and self loathing. A "friend" turns foe and then everything is turned upside down. The question is can it ever be righted again?
There wasn't a slow moment in this book, from the beginning I was hooked. I felt the life beat that is New Orleans, I could taste the frosting on Marlo's divine creations, and I lived and breathed all that passed between Marlo and Ever. I love these characters. I love this setting. I appreciated and enjoyed this story and I'm going to patiently wait till January to find out what happens. I highly recommend!
This is new adult-ish (ages 17-18.) Enemies to lovers with a side of broken characters. It's a standalone, you don't have to read the other books (although they are good, so you should!) It's a duet. You could call this Part I if you want and Part II comes in January (and I can't wait!!)
Marlo, the spitfire is sassy, she don't sugarcoat and she takes no sh*t. She winds up in New Orleans for her last year of high school by way of her mother, Evelyn (the same woman who walked out of her life when she was 3 years old and never looked back.) Whether it's guilt or an "I want to know you" gesture, Marlo takes her up on it. Almost immediately she runs into (literally) broody Ever. Ever has a less than desirable relationship with his parents and "holds the weight of the world on his shoulders." The two instantly dislike each other but seem thrust into each other's path repeatedly eventually calling a truce, that leads to friendship. As their relationship grows and evolves, tragedy strikes sending Ever into a downward spiral of guilt and self loathing. A "friend" turns foe and then everything is turned upside down. The question is can it ever be righted again?
There wasn't a slow moment in this book, from the beginning I was hooked. I felt the life beat that is New Orleans, I could taste the frosting on Marlo's divine creations, and I lived and breathed all that passed between Marlo and Ever. I love these characters. I love this setting. I appreciated and enjoyed this story and I'm going to patiently wait till January to find out what happens. I highly recommend!
December 30, 2016
Oh how I love Low! Her sassy mouth, her attitude, take no prisoners kind of personality does it for me! How can you not love someone like that? When Low moves to a new school Ever literally runs right into her. It's not the greatest start to a friendship and their banter kept me laughing.
Ever! He's a broken soul that you slowly get to know and love. He has more going on then you realize, just trying to get through from day to day. When him and Marlow decide to be friends and then decide that they want more it's not an insta-love. It's a fall in love progression.
When events take place and there's no turning back, there's only so much you can do at that point. Even when it breaks your heart, you go with the best option that you have.
You'll get all the feels from this book. Tears, laughter, oh no moments, some more tears. You'll get it all.
Remember to trust your gut on all matters. When something feels off, go with it, don't talk yourself out of it. There's a reason it's called a gut feeling.
Ever! He's a broken soul that you slowly get to know and love. He has more going on then you realize, just trying to get through from day to day. When him and Marlow decide to be friends and then decide that they want more it's not an insta-love. It's a fall in love progression.
When events take place and there's no turning back, there's only so much you can do at that point. Even when it breaks your heart, you go with the best option that you have.
You'll get all the feels from this book. Tears, laughter, oh no moments, some more tears. You'll get it all.
Remember to trust your gut on all matters. When something feels off, go with it, don't talk yourself out of it. There's a reason it's called a gut feeling.
November 3, 2016
I've been a big fan of J.A. DeRouen and this series from the very first book.
I knew Marlo from the beginning, and meeting her in Low Over High as a young girl upset me. Even though she had her share of bite, there was an innocence to her I knew got ripped away, and was afraid to find out why and how.
J.A. took us on a journey of young love, loss, and devastating heartbreak. Her writing is so vivid and real you feel like you're right there, experiencing it all.
Ever Montgomery is officially my favorite "Over" boy. Beautiful, devoted, and troubled, even when he falls short. Like it is with Marlo, he has your heart and you can't help it. Five star read all the way!
I knew Marlo from the beginning, and meeting her in Low Over High as a young girl upset me. Even though she had her share of bite, there was an innocence to her I knew got ripped away, and was afraid to find out why and how.
J.A. took us on a journey of young love, loss, and devastating heartbreak. Her writing is so vivid and real you feel like you're right there, experiencing it all.
Ever Montgomery is officially my favorite "Over" boy. Beautiful, devoted, and troubled, even when he falls short. Like it is with Marlo, he has your heart and you can't help it. Five star read all the way!
January 21, 2017
I haven't been able to finish a romance book in ages. AGES. This book was such a breath of fresh air. The writing was unique and well done. I LOVED the author's ability to give us beautiful prose and yet make us laugh as well. It's style very much its own, but reminiscent of John Green and Colleen Hoover if they had a baby.
I'm very excited to see what happens in book two.
I will say that the subject matter in this book was handled with amazing writing chops. It was slow burn, and soft kisses. It’s rare these days that an author is able to pull such true feelings about love, what its like to be young, and broken... J.a. Derouen hit the nail on the head!
I'm very excited to see what happens in book two.
I will say that the subject matter in this book was handled with amazing writing chops. It was slow burn, and soft kisses. It’s rare these days that an author is able to pull such true feelings about love, what its like to be young, and broken... J.a. Derouen hit the nail on the head!
June 27, 2017
3.5 STARS
REVIEW ALSO POSTED AT HEART VIA PAGES BLOG
“Love changes over time. The edges may dull, the butterflies hibernate… but sometimes, the best things sharpen and flourish as years pass.”
One of the best things about Goodreads is that I have discovered a lot of new authors and new books which made me wonder what kind of rock I’ve been hiding under to have not heard of them before.
Low over High started a bit slow for my taste and I was prepared for the overly used high school drama. But I was in for a good surprise. Marlo or Low is a delight to read about. She’s not a damsel in distress given her unconventional childhood. She doesn’t play the martyr but she’s a believer and an all around strong go getter.
And then she meets Ever. Troubled, angsty broody Ever. It was ire at first sight and the antagonism between the two is palpable. I love how they transitioned from disliking each other to being acquaintances, to being friends and to finding love and peace in each other.
But everything was temporary. Ever’s troubles were bigger than him and what they have. In the process, Marlo had to pay the price. I love how age appropriate their reactions and actions were. Though, I do not agree to a lot of what they did, I feel like given the messy and troubled mind of the youth, their actions can be deemed acceptable.
Also, I felt unsatisfied with a lot of things in this story. I kind of wanted to know more about Charlotte, Delilah and Jeb. I wanted to see more of Low’s dynamics with her mother. I felt like some very important parts of the story were just laid out in passing to focus more on the romance aspect.
The ending was realistic but it was a bit unfulfilling for me. I wanted more! It was not the ending I would like and I hope that the next book will give me (and these two) the conclusion that they deserve.
REVIEW ALSO POSTED AT HEART VIA PAGES BLOG
“Love changes over time. The edges may dull, the butterflies hibernate… but sometimes, the best things sharpen and flourish as years pass.”
One of the best things about Goodreads is that I have discovered a lot of new authors and new books which made me wonder what kind of rock I’ve been hiding under to have not heard of them before.
Low over High started a bit slow for my taste and I was prepared for the overly used high school drama. But I was in for a good surprise. Marlo or Low is a delight to read about. She’s not a damsel in distress given her unconventional childhood. She doesn’t play the martyr but she’s a believer and an all around strong go getter.
And then she meets Ever. Troubled, angsty broody Ever. It was ire at first sight and the antagonism between the two is palpable. I love how they transitioned from disliking each other to being acquaintances, to being friends and to finding love and peace in each other.
But everything was temporary. Ever’s troubles were bigger than him and what they have. In the process, Marlo had to pay the price. I love how age appropriate their reactions and actions were. Though, I do not agree to a lot of what they did, I feel like given the messy and troubled mind of the youth, their actions can be deemed acceptable.
Also, I felt unsatisfied with a lot of things in this story. I kind of wanted to know more about Charlotte, Delilah and Jeb. I wanted to see more of Low’s dynamics with her mother. I felt like some very important parts of the story were just laid out in passing to focus more on the romance aspect.
The ending was realistic but it was a bit unfulfilling for me. I wanted more! It was not the ending I would like and I hope that the next book will give me (and these two) the conclusion that they deserve.
March 13, 2017
WOW. I mean just wow. I had heard great things about J.A. DeRouen's newest duet but since NA isn't really my thing I put off reading it for a bit. Well silly me because Low Over High was just fantastic. I mean couldn't put it down, didn't want to work or eat or sleep so I could keep reading- that good!
Marlo was just so dang likeable that I want her to real so we can be friends. Her sarcasm, kindness, wit and baking prowess drew people to her. Especially the broody and jaded Ever. That poor kid has had a life and he's only seventeen. He has his way of coping and it isn't the best but it works for him. Until Marlo finds his spot and makes it theirs. It was those stolen moments that forged the friendship that blossomed into love.
Things were looking on the up and up for both of these tortured hearts until tragedy strikes. Oh my heart. I didn't think it could break more than it already had but the hits kept on coming. A different kind of tragedy and loss strikes the couple and hard choices have to be made. I get it- I so get why Marlo made the decision she did I just wish she didn't have to make that choice at all.
Marlo and Ever's story can't end this way it just can't. I know there is more heartache to come and J.A. DeRouen is probably going to gut me all over again but I'm ready for it- I think. Now off I go to devour the next part of this duet because I just have to know what's next for these two.
October 30, 2016
Review by Lisa Kane
Marlo "Low" Rivers is leaving China, Texas and moving to New Orleans. She's spending her senior year in high school at the Orleans Academy in New Orleans courtesy of her mother Evelyn. She hasn't been in Low's life since she skipped out on her and her brother Declan when she was three. Low's grandmother helped raise her along with her dad.
Low's excited to start a new life. She's lucked out with roommates. Delilah is outgoing and gorgeous and Charlotte is serious and a bit bossy. But she knows a good person when she sees one. She tries to push her way onto Low at their first meeting, by setting ground rules she better follow. She chose the wrong person...
Yeah, I'm not gonna do that.
"I'll probably be asleep by 10:30 most nights anyway, but this isn't camp or prison, so I won't commit to that. I've always been a loner when it comes to studying, so I'll probably blow out of your study session. But I won't be leaving the room," I say, then scan the room in much the same way Charlotte did only seconds ago. "Other than that, don't screw with my clothes and makeup. Got it?"
She likes to go to the market in town and she meets Everett "Ever" Montgomery and Remy Rodrigue. At first Ever, who's moody and deep anyway, wasn't a big fan of Low's but Remy-I don't trust this guy.
Sometimes I feel as if Remy is on Ever's side, and other times, I feel like he's patiently waiting for the crash and burn.
Ever and Low get close, but he has so many secrets that keep hurting Low. I liked him but wasn't sure how sincere he was as far as she's concerned. But then the floor falls out from under his feet and things quickly spiral out of control.
There's a lot of drug use in this story.
"Sorry, I'm just trying to help. Getting high always takes away some of the load when life gets too shitty. I thought you might need to get away from it all."
"I guess that's where you and I differ. I want to fly. You want to forget,"she chuckles and bumps my shoulder. "Weed is just fun for me, nothing more. I'm not in the mood for that tonight."
Remy is more than happy to provide a shoulder to cry on-what's going on with this guy? Low is trying to deal with her mother, (why does she suddenly want to get to know her daughter after all these years?) Ever's confusing, hurtful behavior and then things really go wrong.
How can Low pick herself up? Years go by, life changes for Low and then when her life is boringly predictable her past finds her. Stay tuned for the second part of this duet. Hurry up January!
"You can't help someone until they're willing to accept it."
Marlo "Low" Rivers is leaving China, Texas and moving to New Orleans. She's spending her senior year in high school at the Orleans Academy in New Orleans courtesy of her mother Evelyn. She hasn't been in Low's life since she skipped out on her and her brother Declan when she was three. Low's grandmother helped raise her along with her dad.
Low's excited to start a new life. She's lucked out with roommates. Delilah is outgoing and gorgeous and Charlotte is serious and a bit bossy. But she knows a good person when she sees one. She tries to push her way onto Low at their first meeting, by setting ground rules she better follow. She chose the wrong person...
Yeah, I'm not gonna do that.
"I'll probably be asleep by 10:30 most nights anyway, but this isn't camp or prison, so I won't commit to that. I've always been a loner when it comes to studying, so I'll probably blow out of your study session. But I won't be leaving the room," I say, then scan the room in much the same way Charlotte did only seconds ago. "Other than that, don't screw with my clothes and makeup. Got it?"
She likes to go to the market in town and she meets Everett "Ever" Montgomery and Remy Rodrigue. At first Ever, who's moody and deep anyway, wasn't a big fan of Low's but Remy-I don't trust this guy.
Sometimes I feel as if Remy is on Ever's side, and other times, I feel like he's patiently waiting for the crash and burn.
Ever and Low get close, but he has so many secrets that keep hurting Low. I liked him but wasn't sure how sincere he was as far as she's concerned. But then the floor falls out from under his feet and things quickly spiral out of control.
There's a lot of drug use in this story.
"Sorry, I'm just trying to help. Getting high always takes away some of the load when life gets too shitty. I thought you might need to get away from it all."
"I guess that's where you and I differ. I want to fly. You want to forget,"she chuckles and bumps my shoulder. "Weed is just fun for me, nothing more. I'm not in the mood for that tonight."
Remy is more than happy to provide a shoulder to cry on-what's going on with this guy? Low is trying to deal with her mother, (why does she suddenly want to get to know her daughter after all these years?) Ever's confusing, hurtful behavior and then things really go wrong.
How can Low pick herself up? Years go by, life changes for Low and then when her life is boringly predictable her past finds her. Stay tuned for the second part of this duet. Hurry up January!
"You can't help someone until they're willing to accept it."
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