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Bluewater Bay #11
Stuck Landing
For months, acclaimed Wolf’s Landing director/producer Anna Maxwell has been nursing a crush on Natalya Izmaylova, a former Russian gymnast and current Wolf’s Landing stunt coordinator. When Anna witnesses Natalya’s very public breakup with her boyfriend, she can’t resist inviting her over for drinks to commiserate about love and all that nonsense. Commiseration doesn’t last long, and soon Anna’s in bed with the hottest woman she’s ever touched, living out fantasies she didn’t even know she had.
Despite the amazing sex, Anna wants to proceed with caution. They’re both newly single. They’re colleagues. And there’s the not-so-small matter of Anna’s biphobia.
Natalya won’t commit to someone who clings to ridiculous stereotypes, but they can’t avoid each other at work, and there’s no ignoring their chemistry. Anna’s defenses are slowly eroding, and Natalya is willing to give her another chance. But Natalya only has so much patience, and even scorching-hot sex won’t keep her coming back forever. If Anna doesn’t come to her senses soon and let go of her prejudices—not to mention her insecurities—she’s going to lose the woman of her dreams.
Bluewater Bay stories can be read in any order — jump in wherever you'd like!
Word 68,600; page 260
Despite the amazing sex, Anna wants to proceed with caution. They’re both newly single. They’re colleagues. And there’s the not-so-small matter of Anna’s biphobia.
Natalya won’t commit to someone who clings to ridiculous stereotypes, but they can’t avoid each other at work, and there’s no ignoring their chemistry. Anna’s defenses are slowly eroding, and Natalya is willing to give her another chance. But Natalya only has so much patience, and even scorching-hot sex won’t keep her coming back forever. If Anna doesn’t come to her senses soon and let go of her prejudices—not to mention her insecurities—she’s going to lose the woman of her dreams.
Bluewater Bay stories can be read in any order — jump in wherever you'd like!
Word 68,600; page 260
196 pages, Kindle Edition
First published December 14, 2015
74 people are currently reading
413 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 92 reviews
December 31, 2017
Ok read! way too much going on right from the start of this story then there was the switching from topic to different topic without no explanation. Another problem with this book was her feelings about questioning her sexual preference(the back & forth thoughts) and instead of a real storyline or plot the author kept both leads just focus on having all their dialogue and conversations only about sex and it was constant nothing else. This series started good but then ended blah...
January 6, 2016
Stuck Landing is a part of the Bluewater Bay series. I haven't read any other story in the series, so I can safely say that this reads perfectly fine as a standalone story. I never felt that something was not well explained, or that something is missing.
The writing is really good, the characters are believable and interesting, but the main character Anna got on my nerves. The whole story is from her point of view, and she was so annoying with her insecurities, trust issues and lesbian biphobia that she seemed to drag the story down. Nevertheless, the book is good and easy to read.
3.5 stars
*ARC provided by publisher via NetGalley for review*
The writing is really good, the characters are believable and interesting, but the main character Anna got on my nerves. The whole story is from her point of view, and she was so annoying with her insecurities, trust issues and lesbian biphobia that she seemed to drag the story down. Nevertheless, the book is good and easy to read.
3.5 stars
*ARC provided by publisher via NetGalley for review*
dnf
January 27, 2018I threw in the towel at about idk 59%. The book is competently written and I do realise that it may be a challenge to write a *argh* I don't even know what to call this.
So. Romance is a genre that is mostly targeted at a female audience. Lesbian romance is targeted mostly at a lesbian audience. This is... not. This is a book that is targeted at m/m romance readers who - for the sake of diversity - may throw in a f/f book or two once in a while. And I'm really, really sorry to say - naw. Bullshit. There is absolutely no female support system in place. And, really, if I were to write my memoirs in volumes that spanned decades, the one for my twenties would have to be called "I was a lesbian fag-hag". Still, I call bullshit. I don't recall the MC even talking to another female character other than her love interest or her ex. And that is - even for romance - a) really unrealistic and b) too sad for words. Because, you know, we love women. That's basically what being a lesbian is all about. Loving women. That's what we do. In many forms. So apart from everything else, having a BFF who is a woman is not an absolute requirement but, really, FUCK THIS SHIT! I'm annoyed.
In my not-so-humble opinion this is the worst of both worlds.
This calls for a GIF. I don't do GIFs. So this is how I annoyed I am.
So. Romance is a genre that is mostly targeted at a female audience. Lesbian romance is targeted mostly at a lesbian audience. This is... not. This is a book that is targeted at m/m romance readers who - for the sake of diversity - may throw in a f/f book or two once in a while. And I'm really, really sorry to say - naw. Bullshit. There is absolutely no female support system in place. And, really, if I were to write my memoirs in volumes that spanned decades, the one for my twenties would have to be called "I was a lesbian fag-hag". Still, I call bullshit. I don't recall the MC even talking to another female character other than her love interest or her ex. And that is - even for romance - a) really unrealistic and b) too sad for words. Because, you know, we love women. That's basically what being a lesbian is all about. Loving women. That's what we do. In many forms. So apart from everything else, having a BFF who is a woman is not an absolute requirement but, really, FUCK THIS SHIT! I'm annoyed.
In my not-so-humble opinion this is the worst of both worlds.
This calls for a GIF. I don't do GIFs. So this is how I annoyed I am.
May 30, 2020
A mixed read; good and bad in some areas. Story was written and flowed nicely but what irked me most was Anna and how she dealt with biphobia. Anna can’t seem to wrap her head having a relationship with Natalya who’s bisexual. Story was just going in circle and if the on-again, off-again relationship between Anna and Natalya got to the third cycle, I was going to throw in the towel. Enough already ya!
February 14, 2016
Loved the writing and the first person narration, the setting of the story is interesting, but for some reason I just can't get into the characters. Throughout the whole story, their insanely great chemistry aside was the constant insecurity that Anna has over dating a bisexual woman. Understand Anna got burnt from a bad relationship, but there weren't enough backstory to make the audience feel/ sympathize with her. And then suddenly towards the end, she decided to let go of her fear and Natalya just immediately forgave her. I felt the story would have been a lot more balanced if we can also hear it from Natalya's POV as well.
* review copy received from NetGalley
* review copy received from NetGalley
December 14, 2015
Slick's review posted at Guilty Pleasures Book Reviews
3.5 stars
Stuck Landing by Lauren Gallagher is another first for me; my first full out gay romance featuring a lesbian and a bi-sexual woman. I've read a few ménage books with some F/F scenes but I've never read a book that featured two heroines, but this author always manages to weave an interesting story and I have loved the Bluewater Bay series so much, I decided to give it a go. My rating has nothing to do with this being a F/F story and it has more to do with the fact that I felt one character beat a dead horse to death like four times with her insecurities so much so I was almost wishing the other heroine would actually do something to make her insecurities real and given how much I hate cheating that's saying something. I liked this story, but I didn't love it, however the main characters were interesting people, there was a huge event that made me extremely happy and seeing several of the characters from the other books was an added bonus making it a worthwhile read.
We've seen director/producer Anna Maxwell's relationship fall apart, we saw her work to try and fix it and we knew when the final nail went into the coffin. Anna realizes it had been over for awhile especially since she's had a crush on the Wolf's Landing stunt coordinator, but given that Natalya Izmaylova has boyfriend she knows she doesn't have a chance until one fateful night, two broken hearts and lots of tequila prove otherwise.
I've always enjoyed Anna's character in this series; she's tough and thorough in her work but we've also seen her be a friend and dole out much needed advice. So I'll admit that it threw me for a loop to find out she was so insecure almost to the point of being needy and definitely to the point of screwing up her fledgling relationship.
I wasn't surprised that Natalya turned out to be very dominate, was not afraid to stand up for herself and very good at calling Anna out on her bullsh*t. While at times we saw a bit of a softer side, it was pretty evident that Natalya's upbringing in Russia and her life training in gymnastics made her tough and strong.
These two women fell pretty quickly into a physical relationship so it wasn't surprising that panic set in and they had some issues. Well to be honest, Anna had some issues with Natalya's bisexuality because of her past experience. Natalya's experiences made for interesting reading and to be honest brought up a lot of points that most people never really think about when a bisexual person enters into a relationship. I enjoyed the complexities of their relationship but Anna's seemingly never ending fears and insecurities were a bit much for me.
For me the sex scenes were okay but didn't really do anything for me although I'm sure my husband probably would have enjoyed reading them just as I enjoy reading M/M scenes. It was clear both women had a very good time, enjoyed each other thoroughly and were extremely satisfied with that aspect of their relationship.
Stuck Landing offered up a complex story with engaging characters and while it wasn't my favorite book by this author, I wouldn't have missed it because there was too much good in it to skip it.
3.5 stars
Stuck Landing by Lauren Gallagher is another first for me; my first full out gay romance featuring a lesbian and a bi-sexual woman. I've read a few ménage books with some F/F scenes but I've never read a book that featured two heroines, but this author always manages to weave an interesting story and I have loved the Bluewater Bay series so much, I decided to give it a go. My rating has nothing to do with this being a F/F story and it has more to do with the fact that I felt one character beat a dead horse to death like four times with her insecurities so much so I was almost wishing the other heroine would actually do something to make her insecurities real and given how much I hate cheating that's saying something. I liked this story, but I didn't love it, however the main characters were interesting people, there was a huge event that made me extremely happy and seeing several of the characters from the other books was an added bonus making it a worthwhile read.
We've seen director/producer Anna Maxwell's relationship fall apart, we saw her work to try and fix it and we knew when the final nail went into the coffin. Anna realizes it had been over for awhile especially since she's had a crush on the Wolf's Landing stunt coordinator, but given that Natalya Izmaylova has boyfriend she knows she doesn't have a chance until one fateful night, two broken hearts and lots of tequila prove otherwise.
I've always enjoyed Anna's character in this series; she's tough and thorough in her work but we've also seen her be a friend and dole out much needed advice. So I'll admit that it threw me for a loop to find out she was so insecure almost to the point of being needy and definitely to the point of screwing up her fledgling relationship.
I wasn't surprised that Natalya turned out to be very dominate, was not afraid to stand up for herself and very good at calling Anna out on her bullsh*t. While at times we saw a bit of a softer side, it was pretty evident that Natalya's upbringing in Russia and her life training in gymnastics made her tough and strong.
These two women fell pretty quickly into a physical relationship so it wasn't surprising that panic set in and they had some issues. Well to be honest, Anna had some issues with Natalya's bisexuality because of her past experience. Natalya's experiences made for interesting reading and to be honest brought up a lot of points that most people never really think about when a bisexual person enters into a relationship. I enjoyed the complexities of their relationship but Anna's seemingly never ending fears and insecurities were a bit much for me.
For me the sex scenes were okay but didn't really do anything for me although I'm sure my husband probably would have enjoyed reading them just as I enjoy reading M/M scenes. It was clear both women had a very good time, enjoyed each other thoroughly and were extremely satisfied with that aspect of their relationship.
Stuck Landing offered up a complex story with engaging characters and while it wasn't my favorite book by this author, I wouldn't have missed it because there was too much good in it to skip it.
June 7, 2016
Stuck Landing was my first full on lesbian/bi sexual read, and I definitely enjoyed it. I've always loved diversity in reading, so I don't know why it has taken me this long to read a book with just two female leads before when I've read plenty of scenes in menage books that included them. *shrug* It's anyone's guess, but I can confidently say I will read more in the future because, to me, love is love and I enjoy reading it in any form it comes.
So now for the story itself...I've been waiting patiently for Anna's book for awhile now. She's been a key character in the background throughout this series, and given how all of her issues with former girlfriend come to head in a previous book, I knew her story was going to be good. Anna is seriously such a strong woman, so I was interested to see who could really be paired up with her that I would find to be equal. But I've got to say, Gallagher found her perfect match for Anna in Natalya. I will admit that I was a bit disappointed by how much Anna's insecurities beat down their relationship to the point where I was ready for them to call it quits. I'm not discounting that her insecurities were real, but I found it a bit over the top to the point where it made the story start to drag. Another slight issue I had, was that I felt like the sex scenes had a wash, rinse, repeat feel to them just in different locations. I was expecting those scenes to be a bit more diverse than they were. But casting those two issues aside though, the rest of the book was definitely an enjoyable read. Especially a certain event that happens in the middle that I've been dying to see happen since I started reading this series. I even cried a little bit and I'm not ashamed to admit it.
Overall, I enjoyed my first experience into reading f/f and I really love how LG explores different aspects of sexuality and really focuses more on what works best for her characters rather than trying to fit them into some stereotypical mould. Each book in this series just keeps getting better and I'm so in love with the little town of Bluewater Bay. :)
* I received a review copy from the author/publisher via NetGalley in exchange for my honest review.*
For this and more of my reviews, check out my blog Blending Perspectives Book Reviews
So now for the story itself...I've been waiting patiently for Anna's book for awhile now. She's been a key character in the background throughout this series, and given how all of her issues with former girlfriend come to head in a previous book, I knew her story was going to be good. Anna is seriously such a strong woman, so I was interested to see who could really be paired up with her that I would find to be equal. But I've got to say, Gallagher found her perfect match for Anna in Natalya. I will admit that I was a bit disappointed by how much Anna's insecurities beat down their relationship to the point where I was ready for them to call it quits. I'm not discounting that her insecurities were real, but I found it a bit over the top to the point where it made the story start to drag. Another slight issue I had, was that I felt like the sex scenes had a wash, rinse, repeat feel to them just in different locations. I was expecting those scenes to be a bit more diverse than they were. But casting those two issues aside though, the rest of the book was definitely an enjoyable read. Especially a certain event that happens in the middle that I've been dying to see happen since I started reading this series. I even cried a little bit and I'm not ashamed to admit it.
Overall, I enjoyed my first experience into reading f/f and I really love how LG explores different aspects of sexuality and really focuses more on what works best for her characters rather than trying to fit them into some stereotypical mould. Each book in this series just keeps getting better and I'm so in love with the little town of Bluewater Bay. :)
* I received a review copy from the author/publisher via NetGalley in exchange for my honest review.*
For this and more of my reviews, check out my blog Blending Perspectives Book Reviews
January 20, 2016
I've had a hard time getting my thoughts together to write a review for this. Why ? Because this book holds so many truths.
Okay, yes, it is about two women who share an attraction and they go through their ups and downs, and then, finally, figure it out. They get to a happy for now type of place. I liked that a lot, their chemistry and their personalities. These gals are a lot of fun and if they were real life women, I'm sure I'd love to be friends with them. They are just that awesome.
But underneath all of that is a part of the story that hit me the most... The story about Anna and how she's totally bi-phobic. Anna is so bi-phobic, I really didn't like her for a long time. Truthfully, even now that I love her, I still wonder if she's changed her thinking enough. She's so stuck, clinging to stereotypes that are so ridiculous, I had to stop a few times and scream into my pillow. So when Natalya and their friends talk to her, and Anna finally listens, starts to understand where everyone else is coming from, she starts to relax... she starts to understand. And I freaking loved it. I love how well this is handled. Ms. Gallagher hones in on the exact points that need to be made. I love it and I will forever go to this book, to the many highlighted sections, and pull from it whenever I need to make these same arguments to anyone else.
Bisexuality is real. To say it isn't, and decide to place people into your own categories to make yourself feel better is not okay. Some people really do find themselves attracted to both men and women. Get over yourself if you think otherwise.
Thank you so much to NetGalley for an ARC. This has been my very honest review and opinion.
Okay, yes, it is about two women who share an attraction and they go through their ups and downs, and then, finally, figure it out. They get to a happy for now type of place. I liked that a lot, their chemistry and their personalities. These gals are a lot of fun and if they were real life women, I'm sure I'd love to be friends with them. They are just that awesome.
But underneath all of that is a part of the story that hit me the most... The story about Anna and how she's totally bi-phobic. Anna is so bi-phobic, I really didn't like her for a long time. Truthfully, even now that I love her, I still wonder if she's changed her thinking enough. She's so stuck, clinging to stereotypes that are so ridiculous, I had to stop a few times and scream into my pillow. So when Natalya and their friends talk to her, and Anna finally listens, starts to understand where everyone else is coming from, she starts to relax... she starts to understand. And I freaking loved it. I love how well this is handled. Ms. Gallagher hones in on the exact points that need to be made. I love it and I will forever go to this book, to the many highlighted sections, and pull from it whenever I need to make these same arguments to anyone else.
Bisexuality is real. To say it isn't, and decide to place people into your own categories to make yourself feel better is not okay. Some people really do find themselves attracted to both men and women. Get over yourself if you think otherwise.
Thank you so much to NetGalley for an ARC. This has been my very honest review and opinion.
December 14, 2015
Read the full review on Bookaholics Not-So-Anonymous.
Note: This ARC was provided by Riptide Publishing in exchange for an honest review.
I've been a fan of the Bluewater Bay series from the beginning, and I can't quite believe that in the span of just over a year, we've already got an eleventh book and it's also the very first F/F romance to be added to the mix. Stuck Landing is written by Lauren Gallagher, who has contributed three other titles--Starstruck, Lone Wolf (co-written with Aleksandr Voinov), and Rain Shadow--plus a story entitled Just Another Day to the Lights, Camera, Cupid anthology, using the L.A. Witt name. Anna Maxwell is a very familiar character to fans of the series and after reading about how she was desperately trying to make her relationship work in the tenth book, I was happy that she finally gets her turn at the happily-ever-after her best friend, Levi Pritchard, enjoys with his fiancé, Carter Samuels, both of whom reach a milestone here.
I confess that I had no idea that biphobia was actually something that existed and I love when I'm able to learn something new through the books I read. This aversion to bisexuality, bisexual women in particular, is one that Anna has in the story, and it's one of the biggest reasons that she's not able to go all in when it comes to her non-relationship with Natalya. It was interesting to see her be more relaxed when she tried not to be stuck in her head the whole time and simply allowed her time with Natalya to flow freely. Admittedly, there were moments that I couldn't help but feel frustrated with her stand on bisexual women, but three cheers for her friend and bodyguard Jeremy Rose and Levi who helped her open her eyes to how she was trying to torpedo what she shared with Natalya and made her see much needed sense.
Being the Bluewater Bay fan that I am, Levi and Carter's love story was the one that not just hooked me but reeled me in as well, and I was thrilled that the next milestone in their relationship was part of this book. It was a surprise since I would have thought something that momentous would have it's own book or maybe a novella, but I'm happy either way. I actually got teary-eyed a time or two when Levi and Carter spoke of their love for each other and how much their lives have changed from the moment they first met. Another bonus was seeing past characters that had a connection to the Wolf's Landing show were mentioned and fans get to see how most of them are doing with their respective relationships. I love that the series is branching out and can't wait where it takes readers next. I'm giving Stuck Landing 4.5 stars, rounded off to five stars. ♥
Note: This ARC was provided by Riptide Publishing in exchange for an honest review.
I've been a fan of the Bluewater Bay series from the beginning, and I can't quite believe that in the span of just over a year, we've already got an eleventh book and it's also the very first F/F romance to be added to the mix. Stuck Landing is written by Lauren Gallagher, who has contributed three other titles--Starstruck, Lone Wolf (co-written with Aleksandr Voinov), and Rain Shadow--plus a story entitled Just Another Day to the Lights, Camera, Cupid anthology, using the L.A. Witt name. Anna Maxwell is a very familiar character to fans of the series and after reading about how she was desperately trying to make her relationship work in the tenth book, I was happy that she finally gets her turn at the happily-ever-after her best friend, Levi Pritchard, enjoys with his fiancé, Carter Samuels, both of whom reach a milestone here.
I confess that I had no idea that biphobia was actually something that existed and I love when I'm able to learn something new through the books I read. This aversion to bisexuality, bisexual women in particular, is one that Anna has in the story, and it's one of the biggest reasons that she's not able to go all in when it comes to her non-relationship with Natalya. It was interesting to see her be more relaxed when she tried not to be stuck in her head the whole time and simply allowed her time with Natalya to flow freely. Admittedly, there were moments that I couldn't help but feel frustrated with her stand on bisexual women, but three cheers for her friend and bodyguard Jeremy Rose and Levi who helped her open her eyes to how she was trying to torpedo what she shared with Natalya and made her see much needed sense.
Being the Bluewater Bay fan that I am, Levi and Carter's love story was the one that not just hooked me but reeled me in as well, and I was thrilled that the next milestone in their relationship was part of this book. It was a surprise since I would have thought something that momentous would have it's own book or maybe a novella, but I'm happy either way. I actually got teary-eyed a time or two when Levi and Carter spoke of their love for each other and how much their lives have changed from the moment they first met. Another bonus was seeing past characters that had a connection to the Wolf's Landing show were mentioned and fans get to see how most of them are doing with their respective relationships. I love that the series is branching out and can't wait where it takes readers next. I'm giving Stuck Landing 4.5 stars, rounded off to five stars. ♥
December 31, 2015
Anna has just split with her ex of a long time relationship – the relationship’s been dead a long time, too. Natalya just dropped her boyfriend of the last year as well. They decide to go commiserate with some drinks when Natalya lets Anna know that she’s bisexual and very interested in Anna.
At first everything is great. They share a lot of common interests and a super hot chemistry. But Anna has been burned by a bi-sexual woman in the past and this clouds her ability to see Natalya.
Natalya feels judged by the straight and gay people of the world for being bi-sexual. She doesn’t feel safe in either world and that’s not acceptable with a lover.
Eventually Anna pulls her head out with some help from Levi and Carter and the two embark on a relationship.
**
I haven’t read a romance between two women before so I found this fascinating. I loved the dynamics of the gay v bi-sexual arguments as well as the different emotions the women showed.
I thought the smexy times were hot – which I was surprised about! – and thought the writing was excellent.
I loved seeing Levi and Carter get married as well – so sweet!
I recommend this to fans of the series and to f/f romance lovers.
At first everything is great. They share a lot of common interests and a super hot chemistry. But Anna has been burned by a bi-sexual woman in the past and this clouds her ability to see Natalya.
Natalya feels judged by the straight and gay people of the world for being bi-sexual. She doesn’t feel safe in either world and that’s not acceptable with a lover.
Eventually Anna pulls her head out with some help from Levi and Carter and the two embark on a relationship.
**
I haven’t read a romance between two women before so I found this fascinating. I loved the dynamics of the gay v bi-sexual arguments as well as the different emotions the women showed.
I thought the smexy times were hot – which I was surprised about! – and thought the writing was excellent.
I loved seeing Levi and Carter get married as well – so sweet!
I recommend this to fans of the series and to f/f romance lovers.
December 27, 2015
Anna Maxwell is a director and producer of a hit TV series, Wolf’s Landing. Accompanied by a bodyguard whenever she leaves the house, Anna is used to being in control and making decisions. Natalya Izmaylova is a former Russian gymnast and the strong-willed stunt coordinator on Wolf’s Landing.
Anna and Natalya realise that they have split up from their partners on the same day and decide to commiserate with the aid of tequila. What they don’t realise is that both of them have become a little bewitched over the last few months working together on set. A night of hot passion is the start of something between them, but the story is really whether Natalya can cope with Anna’s need for control, or whether Anna can cope with Natalya’s prior relationships with men. Trust is at the heart of this story.
It’s refreshing to read about a director/producer rather than actor in the leading lady role, and Gallagher handles this quite well. I gave the book an extra half a star for that. The characters are a bit two-dimensional and Anna became a bit irritating towards the end of the book. The story was a little formulaic but there were some hot sex scenes throughout the story that worked well for the characters and plot. It wasn’t Wolf Hall but it was fun and the sex scenes were good.
Anna and Natalya realise that they have split up from their partners on the same day and decide to commiserate with the aid of tequila. What they don’t realise is that both of them have become a little bewitched over the last few months working together on set. A night of hot passion is the start of something between them, but the story is really whether Natalya can cope with Anna’s need for control, or whether Anna can cope with Natalya’s prior relationships with men. Trust is at the heart of this story.
It’s refreshing to read about a director/producer rather than actor in the leading lady role, and Gallagher handles this quite well. I gave the book an extra half a star for that. The characters are a bit two-dimensional and Anna became a bit irritating towards the end of the book. The story was a little formulaic but there were some hot sex scenes throughout the story that worked well for the characters and plot. It wasn’t Wolf Hall but it was fun and the sex scenes were good.
December 20, 2015
I have rated this book 3.5 stars.
I enjoyed the read. I haven't really read a book before where one of the main characters was biphobia (didn't know that was a thing) which did make the book slightly unique for me. I did find Anna's arguments about bi people annoying and thought that issue dragged on for too long. Anna's main issue with bi people was 'being used' until a man comes along. I liked how Natalya showed the same insecurities in 'being used' but in a different form which proved the point of why Anna's biphobia to be silly.
The book is an enjoyable read, nothing amazing and I think that is because the story line is simple with the same issues being the focus. I have no issues with that but it just means it isn't a book that will stay with me, more so be entertaining at the time and easy to move to the next book.
I was given this book by NetGalley for an honest review.
I enjoyed the read. I haven't really read a book before where one of the main characters was biphobia (didn't know that was a thing) which did make the book slightly unique for me. I did find Anna's arguments about bi people annoying and thought that issue dragged on for too long. Anna's main issue with bi people was 'being used' until a man comes along. I liked how Natalya showed the same insecurities in 'being used' but in a different form which proved the point of why Anna's biphobia to be silly.
The book is an enjoyable read, nothing amazing and I think that is because the story line is simple with the same issues being the focus. I have no issues with that but it just means it isn't a book that will stay with me, more so be entertaining at the time and easy to move to the next book.
I was given this book by NetGalley for an honest review.
January 28, 2016
Director/Producer Anna is recently single and so is Natalya, a stunt coordinator, when they begin what is to be a tumultuous relationship. Anna struggles to define what it is that's going on between them. She is also is wary due to Natalya being bisexual and them being colleagues. The stunt coordinator has only so much patience for someone who is hung up on the negative stereotypes of bisexuals.
This is the first time I read a book that dealt with biphobia and I must say, it was interesting to read both sides of the argument. I can understand where Anna and Natalya were coming from but Anna's issues were a bit much for me (even if she had reason to) and at times I just wanted to shake some sense into her.
Review also posted here: http://wp.me/p4Pp9O-1M
I was given a copy of this book from the publisher via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review
This is the first time I read a book that dealt with biphobia and I must say, it was interesting to read both sides of the argument. I can understand where Anna and Natalya were coming from but Anna's issues were a bit much for me (even if she had reason to) and at times I just wanted to shake some sense into her.
Review also posted here: http://wp.me/p4Pp9O-1M
I was given a copy of this book from the publisher via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review
November 29, 2018
Haven’t read any of the other books in this series, but this was a bit repetitive in the characters’ interaction, especially with the discussion of biphobia from our MC. It made it hard for me to believe that Natalya would stick around long enough for her to keep spinning on the same old note over and over again.
Our duo weren’t really very fleshed out in terms of character development, but the dialogue felt smooth and realistic.
Quite rated R in terms of steaminess.
Our duo weren’t really very fleshed out in terms of character development, but the dialogue felt smooth and realistic.
Quite rated R in terms of steaminess.
March 5, 2021
Trigger warning/spoiler
bi-phobic to the point of irritation - do it once, but to do it twice ARGH
bi-phobic to the point of irritation - do it once, but to do it twice ARGH
January 2, 2016
3 Heart Review by Vicki
Oh I’m so bummed! I have loved all of the Bluewater Bay books, especially the ones written by Lori, aka Lauren, but this one didn’t work for me…. and it’s not because it’s about a lesbian character and a bisexual character. It’s because Anna was a bitch and drove me crazy. Sometimes I can get past not liking a character in a book and still like the book, but her whining was just too much for me to take.
I read Rain Shadow, the book before this one in the series yesterday, so went in to this one fresh. In previous books I liked Anna just fine, even in Rain Shadow I though she was ok, I was just ready for her to break up with her girlfriend and move on. She’s a tough cookie and would need a strong character to match her. Natalya had the potential to be that match. Anna is one of the director/producers of Wolf’s Landing, a paranormal action show filmed in Bluewater Bay Washington. Natalya is the bad ass stunt coordinator for the same show. so the two work together, and go to the same gym. Once Anna finally broke up with her girlfriend, and was at the gym one night, she witnesses Natalya’s dramatic breakup with her boyfriend. The two chat, and agree to have a girls night with a bottle of tequila. Which turns in to much more than Anna expected, when Natalya comes on to her and some drunken sex is had.
The problem is Anna refuses to date bisexual women, convinced that they will leave her for a man. Natalya is bisexual, and not ashamed to admit it. But Anna can’t get past it. The two try to date, but Anna the witch, just can’t do it. She won’t trust Natalya, no matter what she says. Unfortunately that is most of the plot. There is very little drama, no action, and only lukewarm sex. I didn’t feel the connection between them, I didn’t care if they worked their shit out or not. In fact I was secretly hoping Natalya would find someone else! The redemption moment came way too late and I was just tired of it by then.
But I am going to give this book three hearts, even though I didn’t really like the main plot. The reason for that was the other characters I have gotten to know and love. Jeremy, Anna’s bodyguard and main character of the last book, was in this one a lot. There was also a wonderful wedding scene with Levi and Carter. Anna spent a lot of time at Levi and Carter’s house and their awesome cats Zelda and Link made several appearances. All of that made up for the lackluster story this book had. Without that I would have rated this one lower.
I still love this series, I still love Lori/Lauren’s writing and her other books, and I really hate that I didn’t like this book.
This book was provided free in exchange for a fair and honest review for Love Bytes. Go there to check out other reviews, author interviews, and all those awesome giveaways. Click below.
Oh I’m so bummed! I have loved all of the Bluewater Bay books, especially the ones written by Lori, aka Lauren, but this one didn’t work for me…. and it’s not because it’s about a lesbian character and a bisexual character. It’s because Anna was a bitch and drove me crazy. Sometimes I can get past not liking a character in a book and still like the book, but her whining was just too much for me to take.
I read Rain Shadow, the book before this one in the series yesterday, so went in to this one fresh. In previous books I liked Anna just fine, even in Rain Shadow I though she was ok, I was just ready for her to break up with her girlfriend and move on. She’s a tough cookie and would need a strong character to match her. Natalya had the potential to be that match. Anna is one of the director/producers of Wolf’s Landing, a paranormal action show filmed in Bluewater Bay Washington. Natalya is the bad ass stunt coordinator for the same show. so the two work together, and go to the same gym. Once Anna finally broke up with her girlfriend, and was at the gym one night, she witnesses Natalya’s dramatic breakup with her boyfriend. The two chat, and agree to have a girls night with a bottle of tequila. Which turns in to much more than Anna expected, when Natalya comes on to her and some drunken sex is had.
The problem is Anna refuses to date bisexual women, convinced that they will leave her for a man. Natalya is bisexual, and not ashamed to admit it. But Anna can’t get past it. The two try to date, but Anna the witch, just can’t do it. She won’t trust Natalya, no matter what she says. Unfortunately that is most of the plot. There is very little drama, no action, and only lukewarm sex. I didn’t feel the connection between them, I didn’t care if they worked their shit out or not. In fact I was secretly hoping Natalya would find someone else! The redemption moment came way too late and I was just tired of it by then.
But I am going to give this book three hearts, even though I didn’t really like the main plot. The reason for that was the other characters I have gotten to know and love. Jeremy, Anna’s bodyguard and main character of the last book, was in this one a lot. There was also a wonderful wedding scene with Levi and Carter. Anna spent a lot of time at Levi and Carter’s house and their awesome cats Zelda and Link made several appearances. All of that made up for the lackluster story this book had. Without that I would have rated this one lower.
I still love this series, I still love Lori/Lauren’s writing and her other books, and I really hate that I didn’t like this book.
This book was provided free in exchange for a fair and honest review for Love Bytes. Go there to check out other reviews, author interviews, and all those awesome giveaways. Click below.
December 9, 2016
DNF 38%
This is my very first F/F romance novel. I've read once a short scene (not even a novella) but my issues with it (actually like this one..) weren't AT ALL about the fact there are two women involved. This book was just.. well.. boring. Like the previous one, we only get Anna's POV in first person and THIS is what ruined this book for me. It was just a sort of repeat in her mind of the same issues over and over again plus repeating those ideas to her bodyguard - Jeremy and her best friend - Levi. I just couldn't take it anymore.
Anna has recently broken up with her long time girlfriend Leigh. We were already on how much their relationship didn't work from the previous installment (and a few mentions over the series in general). I can't say that I understand what their issues were about.. They just kept on fighting about everything. This is not something I can make sense of really.. What does it mean? what's underneath it? Leigh didn't have enough time to take all her stuff from the house they used to share and Anna already hooked up with Natalya who JUST that day broke up from her boyfriend. Talking about bad ideas..
After their evening together, which was actually nice. I didn't know how I would feel about it, but as it seems my only "complaints" are about the amount of alcohol.. on top of what I wrote in the previous paragraph - going in TOTALLY drunk is also a bad idea (even if she wasn't drunk enough to forget what happened..).
Then the next day came with all of Anna's insecurities.. Hooking up with someone from work, who technically works for her but more importantly hooking up with a bi woman who might lose interest in her when a "better deal" comes along, after all, being with a man (for a bi) is much better / simple / easy than staying with a woman.. Anna says every bi/lesbian couple she knew broke up because of this issue. I liked both Natalya and Jeremy's reply to this - first off - most relationships don't work.. second - if I dated a tattooed guy who turned to be a douche would I never date a tattooed guy over it?
I don't think I would mind Anna's insecurity if it wasn't EVERYTHING I had to read in this one. 38% in and I'm bored to tears. NOTHING about Anna sounds appealing. Natalya sounds like a very interesting woman, maybe if we got HER POV or if the story would have been told in third person with actually plot besides Anna's lost thoughts this one would have been different for me. The only plot was going through Anna's job through meetings and it really didn't interest me beyond the "name dropping" of previous couples.. I just couldn't hold my interest. sorry..
Lauren Gallagher is a name L.A. Witt uses whenever writing Heterosexual, Bisexual & Lesbian romance.
More Reviews HERE
This is my very first F/F romance novel. I've read once a short scene (not even a novella) but my issues with it (actually like this one..) weren't AT ALL about the fact there are two women involved. This book was just.. well.. boring. Like the previous one, we only get Anna's POV in first person and THIS is what ruined this book for me. It was just a sort of repeat in her mind of the same issues over and over again plus repeating those ideas to her bodyguard - Jeremy and her best friend - Levi. I just couldn't take it anymore.
Anna has recently broken up with her long time girlfriend Leigh. We were already on how much their relationship didn't work from the previous installment (and a few mentions over the series in general). I can't say that I understand what their issues were about.. They just kept on fighting about everything. This is not something I can make sense of really.. What does it mean? what's underneath it? Leigh didn't have enough time to take all her stuff from the house they used to share and Anna already hooked up with Natalya who JUST that day broke up from her boyfriend. Talking about bad ideas..
After their evening together, which was actually nice. I didn't know how I would feel about it, but as it seems my only "complaints" are about the amount of alcohol.. on top of what I wrote in the previous paragraph - going in TOTALLY drunk is also a bad idea (even if she wasn't drunk enough to forget what happened..).
Then the next day came with all of Anna's insecurities.. Hooking up with someone from work, who technically works for her but more importantly hooking up with a bi woman who might lose interest in her when a "better deal" comes along, after all, being with a man (for a bi) is much better / simple / easy than staying with a woman.. Anna says every bi/lesbian couple she knew broke up because of this issue. I liked both Natalya and Jeremy's reply to this - first off - most relationships don't work.. second - if I dated a tattooed guy who turned to be a douche would I never date a tattooed guy over it?
I don't think I would mind Anna's insecurity if it wasn't EVERYTHING I had to read in this one. 38% in and I'm bored to tears. NOTHING about Anna sounds appealing. Natalya sounds like a very interesting woman, maybe if we got HER POV or if the story would have been told in third person with actually plot besides Anna's lost thoughts this one would have been different for me. The only plot was going through Anna's job through meetings and it really didn't interest me beyond the "name dropping" of previous couples.. I just couldn't hold my interest. sorry..
Lauren Gallagher is a name L.A. Witt uses whenever writing Heterosexual, Bisexual & Lesbian romance.
More Reviews HERE
April 15, 2016
I’ve made no secret of the fact that I have thoroughly enjoyed reading the “Bluewater Bay” series or that I am a fan of L.A. Witt’s writing, whether she’d doing it under that name or as Lauren Gallagher. So when I realized she had written a lesbian romance as part of the “Bluewater Bay” series I was thrilled.
I don’t read a lot of lesbian stories. Mostly because I lack the time to keep up with all of the amazing books in the m/m genre, much less read lesbian fiction on top of it, but I was glad I took the time to read this. I found “Stuck Landing” very enjoyable.
In the previous books in the series, we caught glimpses of the main characters in “Stuck Landing” and saw the crumbling of Anna Maxwell’s relationship and her growing attraction to Natalya Izmaylova. This book can certainly be read as a standalone novel, but having that backstory was nice. It added an additional layer to the story.
Anna and Natalya were interesting and well thought out characters. They’re both driven, successful women, but the author did a fantastic job showing where they differed and how that impacted their approach to a relationship. For example, Anna’s career as a director and producer has developed into a need to control the relationship she’s in. Natalya’s career as a gymnast and stunt woman means she’s more willing to dive in and risk it all. It was a nice contrast, because it gave them enough in common to build a foundation, but a source of tension as they went from hooking up to being in a relationship.
The author also did a fantastic job addressing the issue of biphobia. It’s something that many bi people have experienced (myself included) and I was very pleased to see it as part of the storyline. Much of Anna’s growth as a character was centered on acknowledging her prejudices and letting go of them. Natalya’s frustration with Anna’s beliefs came from her previous experiences with biphobic people and made the resolution of those issues even more satisfying.
Lauren Gallagher delivered a story with great pacing, complex characters, steamy romance and love scenes, and a solid resolution at the end. Highly recommended.
I don’t read a lot of lesbian stories. Mostly because I lack the time to keep up with all of the amazing books in the m/m genre, much less read lesbian fiction on top of it, but I was glad I took the time to read this. I found “Stuck Landing” very enjoyable.
In the previous books in the series, we caught glimpses of the main characters in “Stuck Landing” and saw the crumbling of Anna Maxwell’s relationship and her growing attraction to Natalya Izmaylova. This book can certainly be read as a standalone novel, but having that backstory was nice. It added an additional layer to the story.
Anna and Natalya were interesting and well thought out characters. They’re both driven, successful women, but the author did a fantastic job showing where they differed and how that impacted their approach to a relationship. For example, Anna’s career as a director and producer has developed into a need to control the relationship she’s in. Natalya’s career as a gymnast and stunt woman means she’s more willing to dive in and risk it all. It was a nice contrast, because it gave them enough in common to build a foundation, but a source of tension as they went from hooking up to being in a relationship.
The author also did a fantastic job addressing the issue of biphobia. It’s something that many bi people have experienced (myself included) and I was very pleased to see it as part of the storyline. Much of Anna’s growth as a character was centered on acknowledging her prejudices and letting go of them. Natalya’s frustration with Anna’s beliefs came from her previous experiences with biphobic people and made the resolution of those issues even more satisfying.
Lauren Gallagher delivered a story with great pacing, complex characters, steamy romance and love scenes, and a solid resolution at the end. Highly recommended.
July 14, 2016
I received a free copy via Inked Rainbow in exchange for an honest review.
I'm always excited to see a good bi story, and I'm especially happy to see a bi FF. I took a chance on an author I've never read before because I liked the premise. I'm really glad I did.
As a story, I think this was just fine. It's pretty much your typical romance, mostly focused on the relationships between the partners. This worked well, and despite Anna's ongoing biphobia (I'll get to that), I liked her a lot. I loved Natalya, and I could read about her forever and ever. There was excellent chemistry and very, very hot sex. So even though I tend to like more story outside the romance, this was still good fun.
Now for my favorite part: This is a bi story, about biphobia, told from the point of view of the person who is wary of bi people. That was a new perspective for me, and I loved it. I enjoyed Anna's growth, and I liked that she didn't go from not trusting to Sudden Activist Ally in three seconds flat. She needed time and friends to help her process. It worked well, and I felt like this book was not aimed at "educating" people about being bi but was for bi folks as something relatable. Would some people find it a bit much? Yes, probably, but likely only because they've never experienced it themselves.
I think this is part of a larger series, which I haven't read (and maybe should do so now!). So some parts might have needed a bit of context. However, it didn't prevent me from enjoying the story. I loved the little surprise near the end (which I won't spoil, though I'm not even sure if it's a spoiler for readers of the series).
This was definitely worth taking a chance on, and I'd say Ms. Gallagher stuck her landing perfectly.
I'm always excited to see a good bi story, and I'm especially happy to see a bi FF. I took a chance on an author I've never read before because I liked the premise. I'm really glad I did.
As a story, I think this was just fine. It's pretty much your typical romance, mostly focused on the relationships between the partners. This worked well, and despite Anna's ongoing biphobia (I'll get to that), I liked her a lot. I loved Natalya, and I could read about her forever and ever. There was excellent chemistry and very, very hot sex. So even though I tend to like more story outside the romance, this was still good fun.
Now for my favorite part: This is a bi story, about biphobia, told from the point of view of the person who is wary of bi people. That was a new perspective for me, and I loved it. I enjoyed Anna's growth, and I liked that she didn't go from not trusting to Sudden Activist Ally in three seconds flat. She needed time and friends to help her process. It worked well, and I felt like this book was not aimed at "educating" people about being bi but was for bi folks as something relatable. Would some people find it a bit much? Yes, probably, but likely only because they've never experienced it themselves.
I think this is part of a larger series, which I haven't read (and maybe should do so now!). So some parts might have needed a bit of context. However, it didn't prevent me from enjoying the story. I loved the little surprise near the end (which I won't spoil, though I'm not even sure if it's a spoiler for readers of the series).
This was definitely worth taking a chance on, and I'd say Ms. Gallagher stuck her landing perfectly.
May 2, 2016
I received a free copy of this book to read and review for Wicked Reads.
Anna and Natalya spend a pleasurable passionate night together but Anna's prejudice towards bisexuals screws things up. Anna convinces Natalya to give her another chance so they can be friends. It is clear to see while they are trying to be casual about their friendship, it is developing into more.
Their relationship is lovely and erotic and sometimes difficult. There is a fantastically sexy scene in a gym shower that I won't be forgetting any time soon. But my favourite part of this book is when our couple attend a wedding of their friends. It is one of the sweetest and most romantic wedding scenes I've ever read and it had me tearing up.
Stuck Landing is the 11th book in the Bluewater Bay series and the first one I've read but I'm definitely going to read others.
Anna and Natalya spend a pleasurable passionate night together but Anna's prejudice towards bisexuals screws things up. Anna convinces Natalya to give her another chance so they can be friends. It is clear to see while they are trying to be casual about their friendship, it is developing into more.
Their relationship is lovely and erotic and sometimes difficult. There is a fantastically sexy scene in a gym shower that I won't be forgetting any time soon. But my favourite part of this book is when our couple attend a wedding of their friends. It is one of the sweetest and most romantic wedding scenes I've ever read and it had me tearing up.
Stuck Landing is the 11th book in the Bluewater Bay series and the first one I've read but I'm definitely going to read others.
February 5, 2016
Sex scenes were great! I was totally on board up until after the first one. It's always awesome to see sexual encounters between women written as well and as accurately. Good job!
That said, I'm sad I used part of my amazon gift card on this. GoodReads, I should have listened to you, but alas, the siren song of the Cheap E-Book called and I listened. How annoying is this protagonist? Like, look, I get that the level of conflict vs. goal in an otherwise fluffy romance book is going to be rather low, however, it was so frustrating to watch the Annoying Protagonist with Internal Antagonist Issues recycle the same damn conflict over and over again. And yeah, I haven't read any other book in the series, but there was potential for other elements of conflict that the writer seemed to pick up and put down unexamined, as if these ideas had been explored in previous drafts and were edited out later. I'm not asking for a lot of depth here, but come oonnnnnnn
That said, I'm sad I used part of my amazon gift card on this. GoodReads, I should have listened to you, but alas, the siren song of the Cheap E-Book called and I listened. How annoying is this protagonist? Like, look, I get that the level of conflict vs. goal in an otherwise fluffy romance book is going to be rather low, however, it was so frustrating to watch the Annoying Protagonist with Internal Antagonist Issues recycle the same damn conflict over and over again. And yeah, I haven't read any other book in the series, but there was potential for other elements of conflict that the writer seemed to pick up and put down unexamined, as if these ideas had been explored in previous drafts and were edited out later. I'm not asking for a lot of depth here, but come oonnnnnnn
June 9, 2020
The biphobia was really diaspointing. And there was no other real conflict to the plot. It said it could be a standalone, but there were so many things that were brought up again and again that had significance but were not explained that it really isn't a standalone. It's been a long time since I read a romance from only 1 pov, which is a shame because Natalya was a much more interesting character. It's already too long though, things happening with no real direction or reason why. There was no threat of discovery because they were coworkers. No explanation of stakes. The only thing keeping them apart was Anna being afraid and Natalya being bi, which went on far too long without Anna even examining it. And once she did, she didn't change anything about her problematic thoughts, just accepted that she couldn't change. Until she did the same thing again... and even that felt like she didn't get it. The book was well written, well edited. But the characters and the plot felt tired.
June 1, 2016
Although part of a series, this book stands alone as well if you haven't read the rest. The main characters are credible and well developed and Anna's doubts and insecurities are well captured. She wants to have sex with Natalya but not much else as the idea of a relationship with a bisexual woman frightens her. This is explored enough to give Anna some conflict and interesting stumbles and the dialogue is especially good. Anna's bodyguard is funny and warm and an excellent foil for her doubts. A light, but well written lesfic romance with some depth and the producer background of Anna is a bit different.
I was given a copy of this book by netgalley in return for an honest review.
I was given a copy of this book by netgalley in return for an honest review.
May 16, 2018
STUCK LANDING is a complete story (despite the Bluewater Bay #11 tag), but it took me a long time to get through it. The main character, Anna, seemed superficial and narrowly focused. Since the story is told from her point of view, we only see what she sees--her own feelings about everything. It's a movie business saga, and maybe that explains all the narcissism, but the object of attraction, Natalya, seems to have a broader perspective. By the time I finished the book, I thought it was pretty satisfying. It is technically well written, but I kept wanting to say to the characters, especially Anna, "get over yourself."
January 21, 2016
3.5 stars
I always enjoy this author, and I do love this series. I enjoyed the story, and the FF didn't even bug me like I thought it would. That being said, holy hell, please save me from the goings on in Anna's brain! Over thinking, over dramatizing and too many insecurities drove me a bit batty. She was exhausting. Natalya's perspective would have been a welcome breath of fresh air, I really did like her character. Confession: her last name made me giggle. Izmaylova. Is my lover? My inner geek really enjoyed that one...
I always enjoy this author, and I do love this series. I enjoyed the story, and the FF didn't even bug me like I thought it would. That being said, holy hell, please save me from the goings on in Anna's brain! Over thinking, over dramatizing and too many insecurities drove me a bit batty. She was exhausting. Natalya's perspective would have been a welcome breath of fresh air, I really did like her character. Confession: her last name made me giggle. Izmaylova. Is my lover? My inner geek really enjoyed that one...
March 6, 2016
I wasn't sure about this, because it is in the middle of a series, and the others are m/m which I have no interest in reading. A review said that it was ok as a stand alone novel to, but that was just not true. I was quite a way in when I gave up because there was just too much assumed knowledge about characters and situations that I just didn't have.
January 21, 2016
3.5 stars. I love this author and this series. The only issue I had with this book was Anna, she was exhausting. I think having Natalya's POV would've helped a lot. Those thoughts needed to be broken up. And anything else to keep it from feeling like the one issue was being beat to death.
nope
November 4, 2015This is obviously the second part of Anna's story, after the first part was told in 'Rain Shadow'.
Em, nope, don't need that.
Em, nope, don't need that.
December 18, 2015
Insecurity is not attractive.
Natalya deserved better.
Natalya deserved better.
July 3, 2016
3.75 stars
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