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Cruel & Beautiful #2
A Mess of a Man
From USA TODAY BESTSELLING authors of Cruel and Beautiful, A.M. Hargrove and Terri E. Laine bring a new full-length standalone New Adult Contemporary Romance. This novel includes mature content, not suitable for younger readers. (Rated R)
Womanizer, Man Whore, Player, Heartbreaker are all familiar names Ben Rhoades has been called. He prefers the nicknames Money Man or Sex God, but he doesn’t let other people’s opinions rule him. And he’s only gotten worse without his compass, his best friend, whose devastating death at a young age has taught him a valuable lesson about not getting too close to anyone… ever. Until one smart and stubborn woman with eye-catching curves throws him for a loop and refuses to be tamed.
Samantha Calhoun has her life on track even after the shattering break up with the guy she’d thought she’d wanted to marry. With her chin held high, she focuses on her career, building her business and making a success of it all. Until a chance meeting has her falling into a set of alluring steel gray eyes that make her steps falter and her heart leap out her chest. Forewarned by numerous not so flattering rumors of him around town, not to mention his no holds barred rules, she tries desperately to play his game while guarding her heart.
Only they have no idea of the journey they’re about to undertake when their lives collide. Ultimately, they’ll tackle the biggest test of their lives because she is his game changer—his life altering one. The one, who through the ensuing wreckage, can tame the mess of a man that he is.
Womanizer, Man Whore, Player, Heartbreaker are all familiar names Ben Rhoades has been called. He prefers the nicknames Money Man or Sex God, but he doesn’t let other people’s opinions rule him. And he’s only gotten worse without his compass, his best friend, whose devastating death at a young age has taught him a valuable lesson about not getting too close to anyone… ever. Until one smart and stubborn woman with eye-catching curves throws him for a loop and refuses to be tamed.
Samantha Calhoun has her life on track even after the shattering break up with the guy she’d thought she’d wanted to marry. With her chin held high, she focuses on her career, building her business and making a success of it all. Until a chance meeting has her falling into a set of alluring steel gray eyes that make her steps falter and her heart leap out her chest. Forewarned by numerous not so flattering rumors of him around town, not to mention his no holds barred rules, she tries desperately to play his game while guarding her heart.
Only they have no idea of the journey they’re about to undertake when their lives collide. Ultimately, they’ll tackle the biggest test of their lives because she is his game changer—his life altering one. The one, who through the ensuing wreckage, can tame the mess of a man that he is.
356 pages, ebook
First published March 13, 2016
253 people are currently reading
1583 people want to read
About the author
A.M. Hargrove
76 books2,461 followersOne day, on her way home from work as a sales manager, USA Today bestselling author, A. M. Hargrove, realized her life was on fast forward and if she didn't do something soon, it would be too late to write that work of fiction she had been dreaming of her whole life. So she made a quick decision to quit her job and reinvented herself as a Naughty and Nice Romance Author.
Reader, Writer, #WalterThePuppy Owner, Dark Chocolate Lover, Ice Cream Worshipper, Vodka Aficionado, Coffee Drinker, she believes coffee and ice cream should be added as part of the USDA food groups.
Connect with Annie here
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Reader, Writer, #WalterThePuppy Owner, Dark Chocolate Lover, Ice Cream Worshipper, Vodka Aficionado, Coffee Drinker, she believes coffee and ice cream should be added as part of the USDA food groups.
Connect with Annie here
Newsletter: http://amhargrove.com/mailing-list/
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/amhargroveauthor
Instagram: http://www.instagram/amhargroveauthor
Amazon: http://amazon.com/author/amhargrove
Bookbub: https://www.bookbub.com/authors/a-m-h...
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 238 reviews
March 21, 2016
NOW LIVE!!!
*Amazon US*Barnes & Noble*iBooks*
I previously read Cruel & Beautiful by these authors, and though I had some issues with it and only ended up rating it 2.5 Stars, I liked the way it was written so I decided to give these authors another go. I am ecstatic that I did because I ended up loving this story.
Ben Rhoades isn't the type of guy that typically sticks around for more than a one night stand, and it he does it definitely isn't for a relationship. But then he see's Samantha Calhoun in the grocery store and that one meeting changes everything.
Sam has a big decision ahead of her that she keeps putting off, despite her mothers constant worrying over it. Then she meets Ben and they enter into this whirlwind relationship that keeps her distracted from her worrying. But when her concerns leak into their relationship, Ben isn't sure if he can go down a path he's already been down before - and got lost.
This story killed my emotions in ways I didn't think was possible. It wasn't just the story, but the rhythmic way in which these authors wrote it that had me balling my eyes out on multiple occasions. I got super invested into the book and I was able to connect with the characters. Since I was so into the book it affected me emotionally more than I was expecting, but I really loved that I was able to get to involved.
The characters were beautifully written and I felt like I was along on their journey with them, and going through all of their heartbreak the same time they were. I adored them as a couple, especially because of Ben who we got to see grow into a really strong character throughout his romance with Sam. Getting them together wasn't easy, and they both had a lot of personal things to work through before they could commit to another person, but I enjoyed getting to see them do that.
Bottom line, if you like a book that will take your emotions and crush them, then put them back together in the most beautiful way, then this book is for you. Ben and Sam's story was full of grief and tragedy, but throughout all of it, there was love and hope that had me smiling like a loon, and even crying. So seriously, this book is highly recommended.
Warning: A Mess of a Man can be read as a standalone, but can lead to spoilers about Cruel & Beautiful, which I recommend reading first.
ARC kindly provided in exchange for an honest review.
*Amazon US*Barnes & Noble*iBooks*
I previously read Cruel & Beautiful by these authors, and though I had some issues with it and only ended up rating it 2.5 Stars, I liked the way it was written so I decided to give these authors another go. I am ecstatic that I did because I ended up loving this story.
Ben Rhoades isn't the type of guy that typically sticks around for more than a one night stand, and it he does it definitely isn't for a relationship. But then he see's Samantha Calhoun in the grocery store and that one meeting changes everything.
Sam has a big decision ahead of her that she keeps putting off, despite her mothers constant worrying over it. Then she meets Ben and they enter into this whirlwind relationship that keeps her distracted from her worrying. But when her concerns leak into their relationship, Ben isn't sure if he can go down a path he's already been down before - and got lost.
This story killed my emotions in ways I didn't think was possible. It wasn't just the story, but the rhythmic way in which these authors wrote it that had me balling my eyes out on multiple occasions. I got super invested into the book and I was able to connect with the characters. Since I was so into the book it affected me emotionally more than I was expecting, but I really loved that I was able to get to involved.
The characters were beautifully written and I felt like I was along on their journey with them, and going through all of their heartbreak the same time they were. I adored them as a couple, especially because of Ben who we got to see grow into a really strong character throughout his romance with Sam. Getting them together wasn't easy, and they both had a lot of personal things to work through before they could commit to another person, but I enjoyed getting to see them do that.
Bottom line, if you like a book that will take your emotions and crush them, then put them back together in the most beautiful way, then this book is for you. Ben and Sam's story was full of grief and tragedy, but throughout all of it, there was love and hope that had me smiling like a loon, and even crying. So seriously, this book is highly recommended.
Warning: A Mess of a Man can be read as a standalone, but can lead to spoilers about Cruel & Beautiful, which I recommend reading first.
ARC kindly provided in exchange for an honest review.
March 28, 2016
5+ Messy stars
A Mess of a Man was amazing! I loved it!! The road to true love is never smooth and Ben and Samantha’s relationship takes some pretty hard beatings in this book. This book deals with a lot of issues that is common in everyday life, such as loss, love, loneliness, depression, desire, passion, strong family and friendship bonds and grief.
After one year, Ben Rhoades is still getting over the death of his best friend. He’s steered clear of serious relationships, but when he meets lovely, dynamic, sexy and warm Samantha, Ben finds himself trying like hell not to care about her. There are so many sparks you'll be blind by the end.
Ben never stopped missing his friend, but his relationship with Samantha offers him all the support he needs to survive grief. Samantha is caring, a good listener, and she is genuinely interested in supporting him and his work.
She's his game changer. Everything he never knew he always needed.
When tragedy strikes, Samantha feels helpless and turns to Ben for support. For Ben is as history repeating itself. Samantha is scared, deep down, because she feels him pulling away from her. Ben is attacked by his own fears which are still raw, painful and deeply unsettling. The fear of losing her becomes Ben’s most powerful motivator and he finally holds on tighter so as to guarantee that Samantha never gets away. But, is Samantha ready to forgive him? Are they doomed to fail in love?
Ben Rhoades is truly a mess, as he stares at me with those steel gray eyes, pleading for what? Mercy? A chance to speak and say what? Another opportunity to rip my soul out?
What an incredible story about the power of love and devotion. To have a guy like Ben so determined to have you, work so hard to get you and love you, would be a wonderful thing. I have to confess I also cried a little. OK, maybe more! The interaction between the characters draws you in, they are very human and very believable, they deal with obstacles as they come and don't always make the right decisions.
If you're looking for a great book that will warm your heart then this is a book that I highly recommend you read! 5 solid stars from me !!
ARC kindly provided to me in exchange for an honest review.
A Mess of a Man was amazing! I loved it!! The road to true love is never smooth and Ben and Samantha’s relationship takes some pretty hard beatings in this book. This book deals with a lot of issues that is common in everyday life, such as loss, love, loneliness, depression, desire, passion, strong family and friendship bonds and grief.
After one year, Ben Rhoades is still getting over the death of his best friend. He’s steered clear of serious relationships, but when he meets lovely, dynamic, sexy and warm Samantha, Ben finds himself trying like hell not to care about her. There are so many sparks you'll be blind by the end.
Ben never stopped missing his friend, but his relationship with Samantha offers him all the support he needs to survive grief. Samantha is caring, a good listener, and she is genuinely interested in supporting him and his work.
She's his game changer. Everything he never knew he always needed.
When tragedy strikes, Samantha feels helpless and turns to Ben for support. For Ben is as history repeating itself. Samantha is scared, deep down, because she feels him pulling away from her. Ben is attacked by his own fears which are still raw, painful and deeply unsettling. The fear of losing her becomes Ben’s most powerful motivator and he finally holds on tighter so as to guarantee that Samantha never gets away. But, is Samantha ready to forgive him? Are they doomed to fail in love?
Ben Rhoades is truly a mess, as he stares at me with those steel gray eyes, pleading for what? Mercy? A chance to speak and say what? Another opportunity to rip my soul out?
What an incredible story about the power of love and devotion. To have a guy like Ben so determined to have you, work so hard to get you and love you, would be a wonderful thing. I have to confess I also cried a little. OK, maybe more! The interaction between the characters draws you in, they are very human and very believable, they deal with obstacles as they come and don't always make the right decisions.
If you're looking for a great book that will warm your heart then this is a book that I highly recommend you read! 5 solid stars from me !!
ARC kindly provided to me in exchange for an honest review.
April 30, 2016
3.5 - 4 ★'s
I knew going in to this book that there was no way it could live up to Cruel & Beautiful and I was okay with that. I was just hoping that we wouldn't have to deal with as much intensity and thankfully, we didn't.
The story is about Ben, Drew's best friend and Jenna's brother, and Sam. They met at a grocery store in the produce department and it's lust at first sight. Ben is a definite manwhore and Sam is just not that type of girl. The problem is that Ben does not do relationships.
However, they just can't stay away from each other...Ben does try but he fails miserably. And we have to deal with some issues regarding their ex's, employees and certain family members.
Things come to a head and I just have to say that I really, really didn't like the way Ben handled things. Don't get me wrong...it's understandable and yes, he bent over wwwaaayyyy backwards to make things right. But forgivable? I just don't know. And that's hard because it has really affected how I feel about the book. ~sigh~
Luckily, it ends really well and the epilogue was great. I really did like the two of them together and the journey they went through.
I've heard that the authors are working (or starting to) on Jenna's book. Can't wait to find out if "you-know-who" wins out!
I knew going in to this book that there was no way it could live up to Cruel & Beautiful and I was okay with that. I was just hoping that we wouldn't have to deal with as much intensity and thankfully, we didn't.
The story is about Ben, Drew's best friend and Jenna's brother, and Sam. They met at a grocery store in the produce department and it's lust at first sight. Ben is a definite manwhore and Sam is just not that type of girl. The problem is that Ben does not do relationships.
However, they just can't stay away from each other...Ben does try but he fails miserably. And we have to deal with some issues regarding their ex's, employees and certain family members.
Things come to a head and I just have to say that I really, really didn't like the way Ben handled things. Don't get me wrong...it's understandable and yes, he bent over wwwaaayyyy backwards to make things right. But forgivable? I just don't know. And that's hard because it has really affected how I feel about the book. ~sigh~
Luckily, it ends really well and the epilogue was great. I really did like the two of them together and the journey they went through.
I've heard that the authors are working (or starting to) on Jenna's book. Can't wait to find out if "you-know-who" wins out!
March 31, 2016
4.5 Stars !
AM. Hargrove and Terri E. Laine have done it again and have delivered another heartfelt story that held my attention from start to finish ! A Mess Of a Man is a an amazing and beautiful love story between two persons who are meant to be together. I felt that this book evoked so many true emotions, including ugly and happy tears ! So be prepared with a few tissues !
This book is the sequel to the authors’ previous book “Cruel and Beautiful”. It can be read as a standalone, but I would advise to read both books, to fully experience the emotional journey the authors have created.
"It's been over a year and I feel like a fucking pussy for needing him. But since we became friends, he was there almost every day of my life until college. And even then, we talked a lot. When he moved back, I practically lived in his house the last few months of his life. And now nothing. He's gone and everyone assumes that I should just be able to go on like he never fucking existed."
Ben Rhoades’ life is a mess after the death of the person he considered his brother. He loses himself in his sorrow and is unable to connect emotionally with anybody until he meets Samantha Calhoun. He is fascinated by her but knows he should stay away. He is convinced he can’t give her the commitment and happiness she deserves. But he always comes back to her. And as he is falling for her, he will understand that some things are simply meant to be.
The last part of the story really packed a punch and even if I didn’t like Ben at first, it totally won me over. I really enjoyed this beautiful and emotional story. It was heartbreaking at times, but it ended perfectly !
ARC gratefully received from the authors in exchange for my honest review
AM. Hargrove and Terri E. Laine have done it again and have delivered another heartfelt story that held my attention from start to finish ! A Mess Of a Man is a an amazing and beautiful love story between two persons who are meant to be together. I felt that this book evoked so many true emotions, including ugly and happy tears ! So be prepared with a few tissues !
This book is the sequel to the authors’ previous book “Cruel and Beautiful”. It can be read as a standalone, but I would advise to read both books, to fully experience the emotional journey the authors have created.
"It's been over a year and I feel like a fucking pussy for needing him. But since we became friends, he was there almost every day of my life until college. And even then, we talked a lot. When he moved back, I practically lived in his house the last few months of his life. And now nothing. He's gone and everyone assumes that I should just be able to go on like he never fucking existed."
Ben Rhoades’ life is a mess after the death of the person he considered his brother. He loses himself in his sorrow and is unable to connect emotionally with anybody until he meets Samantha Calhoun. He is fascinated by her but knows he should stay away. He is convinced he can’t give her the commitment and happiness she deserves. But he always comes back to her. And as he is falling for her, he will understand that some things are simply meant to be.
The last part of the story really packed a punch and even if I didn’t like Ben at first, it totally won me over. I really enjoyed this beautiful and emotional story. It was heartbreaking at times, but it ended perfectly !
ARC gratefully received from the authors in exchange for my honest review
August 22, 2019
I riferimenti alla malattia di Drew erano inevitabili nel libro e me li aspettavo. Le lettere da lui scritte e fatte pervenire dopo la sua morte, mi hanno molto commossa. Ben (come Cate), soffre molto per la mancanza dell'amico fraterno e ha deciso di non voler più avere a che fare con il genere di sofferenza che ha visto e vissuto per Drew. Ma la vita si sa è imprevedibile e lo mette di fronte a scelte difficili. Il suo amore per Sam è puro, immenso e reale, ma le cicatrici che Ben si porta dietro sono profonde e lo influenzano nelle decisioni. Drew era la sua metà nel modo in cui solo un migliore amico può esserlo, aveva tutto ciò che Ben non ha, ossia una bella famiglia, una carriera che gli piaceva e una donna che amava più del suo ultimo respiro. Ben supera il lutto solo con l'aiuto e l'amore incondizionato di Sam: "tu mi rendi un uomo migliore, grazie a te, non sono più un disastro d’uomo".
Non aggiungo altro per non far spoiler.
Ritengo però, personalmente, che le autrici abbiano ripercorso, seppur in modo diverso, il filone del precedente libro e questo mi ha messo in stato di allerta durante la lettura.
Non aggiungo altro per non far spoiler.
Ritengo però, personalmente, che le autrici abbiano ripercorso, seppur in modo diverso, il filone del precedente libro e questo mi ha messo in stato di allerta durante la lettura.
June 6, 2016
DNF 20%. Man-whore treats women partners like tools to scratch his itch with little self-control and moral. He sleeps with ex after starting to date heroine, just because the ex was available, then proceeds to kick the woman out the next morning, like it's her fault that he constantly sends mixed signals, or rather that his d*** communicates independently to his brain. I'm not interested in reading about who will ultimately clean up his self-inflicted mess. I hate the instant lust thing by both characters, which is expected for a man-whore, but did not endear the heroine to me much.
June 9, 2016
A Mess of A Man could not be a more accurate title for this book. Ben Rhoades was more than a mess. He lost his childhood best friend from cancer and hasn’t been able to recover. He also seems to have never gotten over a heartbreak from his teenage years. Mix the two together and he’s not a nice guy. He treats women horribly. He drowns his sorrow in booze and women, just coasting through life and you will not like him. I can see where some people will want to put the book down and not finish. This is one of those stories where you need to stick it out. Yes this book has some major angst, so if that is not your thing, don’t even try to read it. If it is, don’t give up on the story. The authors knew what they were doing. The authors asked at the end of the book not to reveal spoilers so I’m going to honor that wish. Just know that this is a journey that is rough and will take you through a lot of emotions and it’s one you can’t truly appreciate until you get to the end.
ARC provided by NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
ARC provided by NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
January 2, 2020
RECENSIONE QUI: https://thereadingslove.blogspot.com/...
Credo che chiunque abbia letto "Cruel and Beautiful" sia rimasto sconvolto dall'intensità delle emozioni e dalla profondità della storia, sicuramente è stato un libro che ha toccato profondamente chiunque lo abbia letto e probabilmente è rientrato tra gli indimenticabili. Mi sento di consigliare per la lettura del secondo libro della serie di provare, anche se è difficile, a non paragonare le due storie perché sono completamente differenti e opposte sia per contenuti che per emozioni. Tanto il primo è stato intenso e con una fortissima componente angst da fiume di lacrime, tanto questo ha dei toni molto più leggeri e stemperati, con una connotazione erotica predominante. Un disastro d'uomo è il titolo azzeccatissimo per definire Ben Rhoades, un uomo che pensa solo a far soldi e al sesso, un uomo dalla reputazione pessima che rifugge i legami e i sentimenti. Ben era il migliore amico di Drew, il loro era un legame fraterno che lo ha accompagnato e indirizzato fino alla tragica inevitabile morte di quest'ultimo. È passato un anno eppure Ben non riesce ad uscire dalla profondità del dolore e autodistruzione in cui è caduto, giorno dopo giorno si trascina tra il lavoro, le bevute con gli amici e il sesso con chiunque. Mai più dolore, mai più sofferenza: questo è il suo motto che porta avanti pur di difendere le sue fragilità. Ogni giorno sente la mancanza del suo amico fraterno, ricorda aneddoti ed insegnamenti ma nulla lo aiuta a rialzarsi e iniziare a vivere davvero, nulla lo scuote dalla paura di poter ripassare nuovamente tutto quel dolore a causa del cancro. Samantha è una giovane ragazza di successo con tante amiche e relazioni sentimentali disastrose alle spalle, determinata e caparbia vive le sue giornate tra mille impegni. Una ragazza perfettamente centrata nei pregi e nei difetti della sua giovane età. Un incontro fortuito e un'attrazione sessuale fortissima daranno il via ad una serie di eventi che cambierà le loro vite e la prospettiva che entrambi hanno verso il futuro. Questa è una storia molto briosa, fatta di tanti personaggi secondari tra amici, ex fidanzati e famigliari, con innumerevoli situazioni lavorative che delineano perfettamente la vita dei due protagonisti e il loro status sociale e legami familiari ed amicali. Dopo un inizio complicato - per me un po' traballante - la storia scorre fluidamente tra tanto sesso da capogiro e sentimenti in crescita anche se non accettati completamente da parte di Ben. È stata una lettura sensuale ed accattivante con dei momenti commoventi grazie ai ricordi di Drew - sono la mia parte preferita -, la crescita di Ben come uomo non è stata affatto facile, sicuramente verrà giudicato come superficiale o egoista, io l'ho trovato solo un uomo perso nel dolore troppo grande, un uomo che ha perso la sua guida e la sua voce della ragione, l'unica persona che vedeva in lui dei valori profondi e il grande cuore che cela a tutti. Per me, Ben con i suoi ricordi e i suoi dialoghi con l'amico scomparso sono la parte più intima e profonda di tutta la storia...
CONTINUA SUL NOSTRO BLOG. VENITE A TROVARCI
https://thereadingslove.blogspot.com/
Credo che chiunque abbia letto "Cruel and Beautiful" sia rimasto sconvolto dall'intensità delle emozioni e dalla profondità della storia, sicuramente è stato un libro che ha toccato profondamente chiunque lo abbia letto e probabilmente è rientrato tra gli indimenticabili. Mi sento di consigliare per la lettura del secondo libro della serie di provare, anche se è difficile, a non paragonare le due storie perché sono completamente differenti e opposte sia per contenuti che per emozioni. Tanto il primo è stato intenso e con una fortissima componente angst da fiume di lacrime, tanto questo ha dei toni molto più leggeri e stemperati, con una connotazione erotica predominante. Un disastro d'uomo è il titolo azzeccatissimo per definire Ben Rhoades, un uomo che pensa solo a far soldi e al sesso, un uomo dalla reputazione pessima che rifugge i legami e i sentimenti. Ben era il migliore amico di Drew, il loro era un legame fraterno che lo ha accompagnato e indirizzato fino alla tragica inevitabile morte di quest'ultimo. È passato un anno eppure Ben non riesce ad uscire dalla profondità del dolore e autodistruzione in cui è caduto, giorno dopo giorno si trascina tra il lavoro, le bevute con gli amici e il sesso con chiunque. Mai più dolore, mai più sofferenza: questo è il suo motto che porta avanti pur di difendere le sue fragilità. Ogni giorno sente la mancanza del suo amico fraterno, ricorda aneddoti ed insegnamenti ma nulla lo aiuta a rialzarsi e iniziare a vivere davvero, nulla lo scuote dalla paura di poter ripassare nuovamente tutto quel dolore a causa del cancro. Samantha è una giovane ragazza di successo con tante amiche e relazioni sentimentali disastrose alle spalle, determinata e caparbia vive le sue giornate tra mille impegni. Una ragazza perfettamente centrata nei pregi e nei difetti della sua giovane età. Un incontro fortuito e un'attrazione sessuale fortissima daranno il via ad una serie di eventi che cambierà le loro vite e la prospettiva che entrambi hanno verso il futuro. Questa è una storia molto briosa, fatta di tanti personaggi secondari tra amici, ex fidanzati e famigliari, con innumerevoli situazioni lavorative che delineano perfettamente la vita dei due protagonisti e il loro status sociale e legami familiari ed amicali. Dopo un inizio complicato - per me un po' traballante - la storia scorre fluidamente tra tanto sesso da capogiro e sentimenti in crescita anche se non accettati completamente da parte di Ben. È stata una lettura sensuale ed accattivante con dei momenti commoventi grazie ai ricordi di Drew - sono la mia parte preferita -, la crescita di Ben come uomo non è stata affatto facile, sicuramente verrà giudicato come superficiale o egoista, io l'ho trovato solo un uomo perso nel dolore troppo grande, un uomo che ha perso la sua guida e la sua voce della ragione, l'unica persona che vedeva in lui dei valori profondi e il grande cuore che cela a tutti. Per me, Ben con i suoi ricordi e i suoi dialoghi con l'amico scomparso sono la parte più intima e profonda di tutta la storia...
CONTINUA SUL NOSTRO BLOG. VENITE A TROVARCI
https://thereadingslove.blogspot.com/
August 10, 2016
4.5 stars!!!!
ARC kindly provided by Red Coat PR via Netgalley in exchange of an honest review
This is the story of Sam and Ben, two persons who have dealt with loss!
This book was really nice! I really liked the plot and the characters in this story! The writing was really strong and to the point! I was touched on so many different levels, I even cried a couple of times! It was a real roll coaster of emotions! The book was written from Ben's and Sam's POV and it was changing during the story. The only problem was that the timiline was not followed when the POV was changed as the authors wanted to show how the other person felt the specific moment. The issue was that I was getting confused regarding the time of the events.
I really liked Sam. The only point that I didn't appreciate was her lack of courage! She should have been honest and direct when it mattered and she didn't, at least to my eyes! For the rest, she was an amazing girl!
I totally loved Ben! He was honest from the beginning! He was so sincere to her that it was painful a couple of times! I really loved his reactions and actions! A really great guy with a huge heart for the ones he chooses to show it!
Their interactions were great! I loved their discussions! They were funny a moment and hot and steamy the other one!
The end of the book was fantastic! I really loved it! I couldn't imagine a better way to close this story!
I definitely recommend this book to everyone who loves a good erotic romance!
ARC kindly provided by Red Coat PR via Netgalley in exchange of an honest review
This is the story of Sam and Ben, two persons who have dealt with loss!
This book was really nice! I really liked the plot and the characters in this story! The writing was really strong and to the point! I was touched on so many different levels, I even cried a couple of times! It was a real roll coaster of emotions! The book was written from Ben's and Sam's POV and it was changing during the story. The only problem was that the timiline was not followed when the POV was changed as the authors wanted to show how the other person felt the specific moment. The issue was that I was getting confused regarding the time of the events.
I really liked Sam. The only point that I didn't appreciate was her lack of courage! She should have been honest and direct when it mattered and she didn't, at least to my eyes! For the rest, she was an amazing girl!
I totally loved Ben! He was honest from the beginning! He was so sincere to her that it was painful a couple of times! I really loved his reactions and actions! A really great guy with a huge heart for the ones he chooses to show it!
Their interactions were great! I loved their discussions! They were funny a moment and hot and steamy the other one!
The end of the book was fantastic! I really loved it! I couldn't imagine a better way to close this story!
I definitely recommend this book to everyone who loves a good erotic romance!
March 21, 2016
A Mess of a Man by A.M. Hargrove & Terri E. Laine
*I was given this ARC in exchange for an honest review!*
Ok first I know it may say you can read this book as a standalone but I pretty much guarantee you should read Cruel & Beautiful first. You will love Cate and Drew’s Story and it helps you understand Ben a whole lot more. Plus Cruel & Beautiful is 5 star read so it’s worth it.
So A Mess of a Man is Ben’s story! Ben is a bachelor and plans on staying that way. Hurt from his first love years ago and then recently the loss of his best friend, he plans to keep his heart protected from Love.
Ben really is a great guy though, he works hard and really just want to make his father proud. He keeps in contact with Cate to ensure she is happy. He loves his sister, mother and father. But Ben is alone, my heart aches for him dealing with the loss of his best friend and the loneliness he feels at times.
And then we meet Sam, Sam is great; works hard, you can tell she is genuinely a nice person who just happens to pick the wrong men. Sam and Ben meet! Sam and Ben meet again! Sam and Ben go on a date, it’s a fantastic romance, and eventually a great love story. Sam has to deal with some of her own issues that she seems to push to the back burner a lot but it all comes out and soon she has to make some hard choices herself.
So these two authors A.M Hargrove and Terri E. Laine now have written two books together and I have to say it’s working out great for us readers. I absolutely love their writing, the plot, and the characters and to be honest I cannot wait to read more. I would really love to read Jenna’s story next PLEASE!
Ok so I have rated A Mess of a Man 5 stars, here are some of the reasons: the way they have written this story and the feelings it invokes while your reading this story. I had to have Kleenex beside throughout this story. Another huge reason was the ..... sexy/exciting/hot parts!!! Then finally I loved it so much because it reminded me that you have to move on from your own loss and keep smiling and LIVE!
This was really hard read at times as I lost my brother last month (cancer) so reading this story was emotional for me ( really could relate at times to Ben ) but I pushed through it and it was great.
I highly recommend A Mess of a Man by A.M. Hargrove & Terri E. Laine
― Terri E. Laine, Cruel & Beautiful
*I was given this ARC in exchange for an honest review!*
Ok first I know it may say you can read this book as a standalone but I pretty much guarantee you should read Cruel & Beautiful first. You will love Cate and Drew’s Story and it helps you understand Ben a whole lot more. Plus Cruel & Beautiful is 5 star read so it’s worth it.
So A Mess of a Man is Ben’s story! Ben is a bachelor and plans on staying that way. Hurt from his first love years ago and then recently the loss of his best friend, he plans to keep his heart protected from Love.
Ben really is a great guy though, he works hard and really just want to make his father proud. He keeps in contact with Cate to ensure she is happy. He loves his sister, mother and father. But Ben is alone, my heart aches for him dealing with the loss of his best friend and the loneliness he feels at times.
And then we meet Sam, Sam is great; works hard, you can tell she is genuinely a nice person who just happens to pick the wrong men. Sam and Ben meet! Sam and Ben meet again! Sam and Ben go on a date, it’s a fantastic romance, and eventually a great love story. Sam has to deal with some of her own issues that she seems to push to the back burner a lot but it all comes out and soon she has to make some hard choices herself.
So these two authors A.M Hargrove and Terri E. Laine now have written two books together and I have to say it’s working out great for us readers. I absolutely love their writing, the plot, and the characters and to be honest I cannot wait to read more. I would really love to read Jenna’s story next PLEASE!
Ok so I have rated A Mess of a Man 5 stars, here are some of the reasons: the way they have written this story and the feelings it invokes while your reading this story. I had to have Kleenex beside throughout this story. Another huge reason was the ..... sexy/exciting/hot parts!!! Then finally I loved it so much because it reminded me that you have to move on from your own loss and keep smiling and LIVE!
This was really hard read at times as I lost my brother last month (cancer) so reading this story was emotional for me ( really could relate at times to Ben ) but I pushed through it and it was great.
I highly recommend A Mess of a Man by A.M. Hargrove & Terri E. Laine
“Do me a favor. Always remember the better times and know that I loved all the pieces of you with all the pieces of me.”
― Terri E. Laine, Cruel & Beautiful
March 23, 2016
Well I would say that I liked this book more than Cruel and Beautiful. This is Bens story and you must read C&B before this one to get an idea of his relationship with Drew and Cate. I'm not going to go into too much detail as that would spoil the book for you.
Ben is a bit of a love em and leave them type he only does casual hook ups except with Karen it's supposed to be a no strings relationship but she has other ideas.
When Ben meets Samantha she leaves such a lasting impression and that's not because she was squeezing melons at the store, her beauty shines through and he exchanges numbers to meet up again.
What follows is Ben trying very hard to get Sam into his bed but she is so much more than that and soon has Ben under her spell.
I loved Samantha she is one gutsy girl and as you get into the book you will see what I mean.
There are some hard issues they both have to face but I promise you all ends well.
Ben is a bit of a love em and leave them type he only does casual hook ups except with Karen it's supposed to be a no strings relationship but she has other ideas.
When Ben meets Samantha she leaves such a lasting impression and that's not because she was squeezing melons at the store, her beauty shines through and he exchanges numbers to meet up again.
What follows is Ben trying very hard to get Sam into his bed but she is so much more than that and soon has Ben under her spell.
I loved Samantha she is one gutsy girl and as you get into the book you will see what I mean.
There are some hard issues they both have to face but I promise you all ends well.
March 21, 2016
this was a dnf for me, H sleeping with ow after going on two dates with h. not for me
March 22, 2016
Reviewed @ Confessions From Romaholics
Review copy kindly provided by authors in exchange for a honest review
Last year I read the first book by this duo and enjoyed it a lot. So it was a no brainer for me as a blogger and reader to read their second standalone offering A Mess of a Man. Well, I’m telling a little while lie. It does features secondary character from their first offering and Cate does have a role in this book as it’s Drew’s best friend
As it gives an understanding to the men who is a mess. Ben who doesn’t know how to deal with what he feels and understandable. Ben is a bachelor and whilst his family wants him to settle down. He is determined not to . Hurt beyond belief with the death of his best friend who was like his brother and his first love who left a scar on his heart. He doesn’t plan in falling love like Drew. He has seen too much .
Ben is not a bastard or anything. He is guy you want in your life whether he is just a friend or partner. He is a workaholic trying to please his father and look after Cate and make sure that she is happy. Though there is loneliness and a ‘girlfriend’ he pushes asides his feelings for what he thinks is the greater good.
Until he meets Sam and he is lost for words. Sam has it together, she is a owner of a small business and only crime is she that she seems to attract douchebags including her ex who still is very interested in her. So Ben seems the perfect gentleman and the man of her dreams. However this man isn’t ready for her.
He is a mess and whilst he tries his best . He can’t help revert to his old games. As Ben is known around town for his love life and it is no secret. However they speak to each other hearts like no one else can. Can they play the game or will their guard fall?
Last year I was put through the ringer and this book was the same in a total different way. A Mess of a Man is exactly what it sounds like. He may function but inside he is a mess. My heart broken for him. He didn’t know how to cope and the authors took us on another journey. Allowing us to see these two individuals both broken and dealing with issues that hinder them. I could be said it was a pretty miss up novel as Ben and Sam hearts know what they want . But others and the brain
It is another beautiful story from this pair. Well written that will tug at your heart strings and leave you wanting more. Another heartbreaking novel from this duo that fans will enjoy.
4.5 stars
For more of my reviews, visit Confessions From Romaholics.And drop by the blog's Facebook page
Review copy kindly provided by authors in exchange for a honest review
Last year I read the first book by this duo and enjoyed it a lot. So it was a no brainer for me as a blogger and reader to read their second standalone offering A Mess of a Man. Well, I’m telling a little while lie. It does features secondary character from their first offering and Cate does have a role in this book as it’s Drew’s best friend
As it gives an understanding to the men who is a mess. Ben who doesn’t know how to deal with what he feels and understandable. Ben is a bachelor and whilst his family wants him to settle down. He is determined not to . Hurt beyond belief with the death of his best friend who was like his brother and his first love who left a scar on his heart. He doesn’t plan in falling love like Drew. He has seen too much .
Ben is not a bastard or anything. He is guy you want in your life whether he is just a friend or partner. He is a workaholic trying to please his father and look after Cate and make sure that she is happy. Though there is loneliness and a ‘girlfriend’ he pushes asides his feelings for what he thinks is the greater good.
Until he meets Sam and he is lost for words. Sam has it together, she is a owner of a small business and only crime is she that she seems to attract douchebags including her ex who still is very interested in her. So Ben seems the perfect gentleman and the man of her dreams. However this man isn’t ready for her.
He is a mess and whilst he tries his best . He can’t help revert to his old games. As Ben is known around town for his love life and it is no secret. However they speak to each other hearts like no one else can. Can they play the game or will their guard fall?
Last year I was put through the ringer and this book was the same in a total different way. A Mess of a Man is exactly what it sounds like. He may function but inside he is a mess. My heart broken for him. He didn’t know how to cope and the authors took us on another journey. Allowing us to see these two individuals both broken and dealing with issues that hinder them. I could be said it was a pretty miss up novel as Ben and Sam hearts know what they want . But others and the brain
It is another beautiful story from this pair. Well written that will tug at your heart strings and leave you wanting more. Another heartbreaking novel from this duo that fans will enjoy.
4.5 stars
For more of my reviews, visit Confessions From Romaholics.And drop by the blog's Facebook page
January 13, 2017
*************SPOILER ALERT AND RANT BEWARE***********
25% DNF and speed read through the rest of the book due to OCD (no kidding)
This was a DNf for me. Ben was a douche and half.
He took out Samantha on a date twice in a row and a few days later effed his ex. What the heck?! I understand in my romantic delusional notion in Romance novels that what I'm asking for is probably unrealistic. But come on! Even in real life what Ben did was a tool move. Unforgivable. Moving on...sayunara, dude...plenty of fish in the sea.
Granted, Samantha had a date with an ex BUT she didn't eff him. Of course, not...because that would be such a tragedy, if a female main character actually acts like the male counterpart (this is sarcasm at it's finest).
He was also so aggressive with her to a point where she had to tell him several times that she is not that kind of girl. Then, the douche bag gets mad and threw a hissy fit. Really?! No is a no.
After 25% I could not continue on but my OCD kicked in and I speed read (probably not a good idea but I just couldn't stomach Ben and his douchebagary POV) through the whole book. If I thought Ben was an a** and a half in the beginning, it was way worse the last 20%. Eventually, of course he redeemed himself in Samantha's eyes (not with me).
Cancer is the bane of every existence and it's an awful disease. It is a very personal thing esp. for people who had experienced it and up close with friends, and family. My dad passed away with colon cancer and most of my sisters and brothers shunned him until the very end. Reading this book and what Ben did, made me cringe and very angry. He was selfish, self-absorbed, narcissistic ass (I'm sure that I'm being redundant here, but who cares).
Clearly, I didn't enjoy this book at all. I tried. But it seemed like a lot of Goodreads members liked it and gave it 4-5. This is just my humble opinion. Take it or leave it.
25% DNF and speed read through the rest of the book due to OCD (no kidding)
This was a DNf for me. Ben was a douche and half.
He took out Samantha on a date twice in a row and a few days later effed his ex. What the heck?! I understand in my romantic delusional notion in Romance novels that what I'm asking for is probably unrealistic. But come on! Even in real life what Ben did was a tool move. Unforgivable. Moving on...sayunara, dude...plenty of fish in the sea.
Granted, Samantha had a date with an ex BUT she didn't eff him. Of course, not...because that would be such a tragedy, if a female main character actually acts like the male counterpart (this is sarcasm at it's finest).
He was also so aggressive with her to a point where she had to tell him several times that she is not that kind of girl. Then, the douche bag gets mad and threw a hissy fit. Really?! No is a no.
After 25% I could not continue on but my OCD kicked in and I speed read (probably not a good idea but I just couldn't stomach Ben and his douchebagary POV) through the whole book. If I thought Ben was an a** and a half in the beginning, it was way worse the last 20%. Eventually, of course he redeemed himself in Samantha's eyes (not with me).
Cancer is the bane of every existence and it's an awful disease. It is a very personal thing esp. for people who had experienced it and up close with friends, and family. My dad passed away with colon cancer and most of my sisters and brothers shunned him until the very end. Reading this book and what Ben did, made me cringe and very angry. He was selfish, self-absorbed, narcissistic ass (I'm sure that I'm being redundant here, but who cares).
Clearly, I didn't enjoy this book at all. I tried. But it seemed like a lot of Goodreads members liked it and gave it 4-5. This is just my humble opinion. Take it or leave it.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 26, 2019
Ben Rhoades è un broker finanziario di successo ma è anche un donnaiolo e non vuole legarsi a nessuna specialmente dopo che ha perso il suo migliore amico Drew . La sua teoria va a gonfie vele fin quando non incontra Samantha Calhoun una bellissima donna intelligente con un bel fisico nel pieno della sua carriera da organizzatrice di eventi , Ben sa che Samantha non è come alle altre , lei cerca una storia seria ma per lui è difficile resisterle....
“Ossia?» domanda lei con cautela.
«Ti amo così tanto che la tua felicità significa tutto per me, anche se non sono io a dartela.”
Questo libro a differenza del primo l’ho trovato poco scorrevole pieno di dettagli inutili cioè situazioni descritte senza l’approccio tra i due in più le molte scene di sesso non hanno aiutato finendo a mio parere di annoiare .
L’unica cosa per me positiva e commovente la lettera di Drew nel finale per il suo migliore amico nel suo giorno più importate della sua vita.
Per me ⭐️⭐️⭐️
“La mia vita era su un percorso di lenta autodistruzione. Non sono perfetto e non lo sarò mai, e sono sicuro che farò almeno un centinaio di errori, mentre invecchiamo insieme. Ma tu, Sam, sei il capocantiere che ha messo un freno alla mia palla demolitrice. Mi rendi un uomo migliore; grazie a te, non sono più un disastro d’uomo.”
“Ossia?» domanda lei con cautela.
«Ti amo così tanto che la tua felicità significa tutto per me, anche se non sono io a dartela.”
Questo libro a differenza del primo l’ho trovato poco scorrevole pieno di dettagli inutili cioè situazioni descritte senza l’approccio tra i due in più le molte scene di sesso non hanno aiutato finendo a mio parere di annoiare .
L’unica cosa per me positiva e commovente la lettera di Drew nel finale per il suo migliore amico nel suo giorno più importate della sua vita.
Per me ⭐️⭐️⭐️
“La mia vita era su un percorso di lenta autodistruzione. Non sono perfetto e non lo sarò mai, e sono sicuro che farò almeno un centinaio di errori, mentre invecchiamo insieme. Ma tu, Sam, sei il capocantiere che ha messo un freno alla mia palla demolitrice. Mi rendi un uomo migliore; grazie a te, non sono più un disastro d’uomo.”
March 8, 2016
Such a heartfelt read. I really enjoyed everything about this book! I just finished and still have tears in my eyes. The subject off loss is hard for all of us to deal with whether it be family, friend or lover. Unfortunately this book covered it all but did it with such dignity and grace.
I have not read any other books by this author before so these characters and her writing style were new for me.
I fell in love with Ben almost right away. He's got some serious faults but he's honestly just trying to protect himself from any more heartache. In walks Sam. Sam is such an awesome heroine! She's funny, fierce and so damn loveable! The way she faces what she's dealing with in life is so real!! I felt like I would have definitely been on her team of friends!
This isn't just a love story between Ben and Sam it's a story that's tragic and heart wrenching and real. It's a story about growing up and self discovery. It's a story about loving someone so much that you learn how to find hope and work thru your fears.
*I received this ARC in exchange for my honest opinion*
I have not read any other books by this author before so these characters and her writing style were new for me.
I fell in love with Ben almost right away. He's got some serious faults but he's honestly just trying to protect himself from any more heartache. In walks Sam. Sam is such an awesome heroine! She's funny, fierce and so damn loveable! The way she faces what she's dealing with in life is so real!! I felt like I would have definitely been on her team of friends!
This isn't just a love story between Ben and Sam it's a story that's tragic and heart wrenching and real. It's a story about growing up and self discovery. It's a story about loving someone so much that you learn how to find hope and work thru your fears.
*I received this ARC in exchange for my honest opinion*
March 29, 2016
A Mess of a Man by AM Hargrove and Terri E Laine
4 stars!!!
After reading Cruel and Beautiful by these two authors I fell in love with the way that these two write together and I was itching for this book. Although A Mess of a Man can be read as a standalone I do recommend you read Cruel and Beautiful first so that you can get an idea of the man that Ben Rhoades really is because the man in this book is quite frankly…a mess. While Cruel and Beautiful is not Ben’s story he does feature and you will get a greater understanding as to why Ben is the way he is for the majority of this book.
Ben Rhoades is going through the five stages of grief, except he hasn’t really moved on from stage one. Although it has been over a year Ben cannot move on from losing his best friend, a best friend he has had since child hood, he still goes to call him when he needs advice, he still talks to thin air in the vague hope that his best friend can hear and give him the impartial advice that he was renowned for, he feels him all around, yet he isn’t and Ben just isn’t coping very well.
His grief manifests itself in an intense work load and a manwhore type attitude. He daren’t get close to anyone just in case. He’s a heart breaker but he goes into liaisons letting the women know exactly what they are getting…nothing…just his dick. He is extremely closed off, extremely lost and flailing from day to day just trying to get through without losing his mind and trying his hardest to prove his self-worth to his Dad. His grief is deep and debilitating, as far as he is concerned there is no end in sight, he just desperately misses his best friend. As another “relationship” hits the skids because of their insensitivity towards his grief the last thing that is on his mind is another…but he hadn’t met Samantha…yet!
Samantha was beautiful on the inside and out, she is a hard worker, has her own business and is finding her way in the corporate world as an event planner and she is damn good at it. A random meet in the produce isle of the grocery store has Ben and Samantha crossing paths and while I would call this a bit of insta-lust, these authors make you wait for the real deal. Samantha is unlucky in love and the broken and damaged Ben Rhoades is probably the last thing she needs but there is something about him that has her coming back for more and more.
Trust is the biggest issue between these two and they are making each other earn it, which is no bad thing but sometimes being upfront about certain things is the safest option, even if you think the end result could hurt. These two have a lot of ups and downs and yes I am being vague but you need to experience their journey first hand. It is hard, it is heart-breaking at times but most of all you feel that these two need each other. These two were so well suited, Samantha is compassionate and Ben has finally found his soul mate, someone that understands him, settles and centres him and most of all loves him. He has a hard transition, he makes his mistakes, but he makes up for them.
This is a book about grief and compassion, about finally “adulting,” a voyage of self-discovery and recognising and facing your demons head on. A story about loving wholly and completely and recognising it for the blessing that it truly is. A story about sacrifices for those you love and putting yourself second and being their through thick and thin. But most of all about a friendship that meant the world and even though they may be around in body they will always be there in spirit, ever present with their words of wisdom.
While this was a slow starter for me by the end I was totally invested. Another great read from these two authors.
www.theromancecover.com
4 stars!!!
“Sometimes, love isn’t enough.”
After reading Cruel and Beautiful by these two authors I fell in love with the way that these two write together and I was itching for this book. Although A Mess of a Man can be read as a standalone I do recommend you read Cruel and Beautiful first so that you can get an idea of the man that Ben Rhoades really is because the man in this book is quite frankly…a mess. While Cruel and Beautiful is not Ben’s story he does feature and you will get a greater understanding as to why Ben is the way he is for the majority of this book.
Ben Rhoades is going through the five stages of grief, except he hasn’t really moved on from stage one. Although it has been over a year Ben cannot move on from losing his best friend, a best friend he has had since child hood, he still goes to call him when he needs advice, he still talks to thin air in the vague hope that his best friend can hear and give him the impartial advice that he was renowned for, he feels him all around, yet he isn’t and Ben just isn’t coping very well.
His grief manifests itself in an intense work load and a manwhore type attitude. He daren’t get close to anyone just in case. He’s a heart breaker but he goes into liaisons letting the women know exactly what they are getting…nothing…just his dick. He is extremely closed off, extremely lost and flailing from day to day just trying to get through without losing his mind and trying his hardest to prove his self-worth to his Dad. His grief is deep and debilitating, as far as he is concerned there is no end in sight, he just desperately misses his best friend. As another “relationship” hits the skids because of their insensitivity towards his grief the last thing that is on his mind is another…but he hadn’t met Samantha…yet!
“He plows through women like a John Deere tractor.”
Samantha was beautiful on the inside and out, she is a hard worker, has her own business and is finding her way in the corporate world as an event planner and she is damn good at it. A random meet in the produce isle of the grocery store has Ben and Samantha crossing paths and while I would call this a bit of insta-lust, these authors make you wait for the real deal. Samantha is unlucky in love and the broken and damaged Ben Rhoades is probably the last thing she needs but there is something about him that has her coming back for more and more.
Trust is the biggest issue between these two and they are making each other earn it, which is no bad thing but sometimes being upfront about certain things is the safest option, even if you think the end result could hurt. These two have a lot of ups and downs and yes I am being vague but you need to experience their journey first hand. It is hard, it is heart-breaking at times but most of all you feel that these two need each other. These two were so well suited, Samantha is compassionate and Ben has finally found his soul mate, someone that understands him, settles and centres him and most of all loves him. He has a hard transition, he makes his mistakes, but he makes up for them.
“I love you so much that your happiness means the world to me, even if I’m not the one giving it to you.”
This is a book about grief and compassion, about finally “adulting,” a voyage of self-discovery and recognising and facing your demons head on. A story about loving wholly and completely and recognising it for the blessing that it truly is. A story about sacrifices for those you love and putting yourself second and being their through thick and thin. But most of all about a friendship that meant the world and even though they may be around in body they will always be there in spirit, ever present with their words of wisdom.
“My heartbeat slows and echoes from the other side of the chasm created between us when she unknowingly ripped my heart out of my chest and left with it.”
While this was a slow starter for me by the end I was totally invested. Another great read from these two authors.
“You make me less of a mess of a man.”
www.theromancecover.com
August 28, 2019
Ben Rhoades è bello ,ricco e sciupafemmine. È il migliore amico di Drew,morto di cancro l'anno prima, non ha ancora elaborato il lutto e non riesce ad andare avanti. Beve e fa sesso senza coinvolgimenti emotivi per evitare di affrontare il dolore causato dalla mancanza del suo amico fraterno. Ma quando incontra Samantha la sua determinazione a non lasciarsi coinvolgere vacilla.
Un romanzo diverso dal precedente "cruel and beautiful". La prima parte è lenta e noiosa,con descrizioni inutili e con un Ben antipatico anche se distrutto dal dolore. Per fortuna si è fatto perdonare nella seconda parte del romanzo ,qui diventa molto più interessante la lettura anche se le descrizioni inutili continuano....
"Ti amo così tanto che la tua felicità significa tutto per me,anche se non sono io a dartela"...
Questa frase mi ha commosso,esprime il vero senso dell'amore,quello vero ed unico.
L'epilogo romantico è nelle mie corde e la lettera di Drew ha dato il colpo di grazia...
"Vivete la vostra vita appieno,apprezzatela come se fosse la vostra proprietà più preziosa. Non date mai per scontato l'un l'altro o il tempo che passate insieme"....
⭐⭐⭐🌠
Un romanzo diverso dal precedente "cruel and beautiful". La prima parte è lenta e noiosa,con descrizioni inutili e con un Ben antipatico anche se distrutto dal dolore. Per fortuna si è fatto perdonare nella seconda parte del romanzo ,qui diventa molto più interessante la lettura anche se le descrizioni inutili continuano....
"Ti amo così tanto che la tua felicità significa tutto per me,anche se non sono io a dartela"...
Questa frase mi ha commosso,esprime il vero senso dell'amore,quello vero ed unico.
L'epilogo romantico è nelle mie corde e la lettera di Drew ha dato il colpo di grazia...
"Vivete la vostra vita appieno,apprezzatela come se fosse la vostra proprietà più preziosa. Non date mai per scontato l'un l'altro o il tempo che passate insieme"....
⭐⭐⭐🌠
March 29, 2016
4,5. Sabe quando você lê e no desenrolar da leitura se surpreende? Este livro é lindo. Adorei.
March 21, 2016
ARC provided in exchange for an honest review.
I must confess I was terrified when I started to read Ben’s story. Who has read “Cruel & Beautiful” must understand why. On that note, you must read “Cruel & Beautiful” before “A mess of a man”. Although “A mess of a man” is a standalone, I strongly recommend that you read “Cruel & Beautiful” before for three reasons: one, you will find spoilers that will ruin the magic that surrounds Cate & Drew’s story; two, you won’t fully understand Ben if you’re not aware of his background and his past with Drew and; three, because “Cruel & Beautiful is a MUST READ (period)!
“A mess of a man” is the kind of story that is so real that it can actually happen to any one of us.
Ben is a shattered man, a womanizer, a man completely lost in his life. The only goal he has? Go one day at the time, preferably with one beautiful lady by his side.
Sam is a successful twenty – four year old woman, beautiful, funny and a little broken from a previous relationship that went wrong.
They meet accidentally but the spark between them is almost instant and together they’re explosive.
They both want to play but somehow end up losing their game for each other.
The story is told in a dual POV so you have the chance to get inside both their minds. I love when this happens because I feel more connected to them. I love to know both sides of the story.
The main issue is complicated but very very timely and it makes you think about the little things in life. The ones that usually you take for granted.
The story is also hot (very hot, actually). Ben is a sex God! No doubt about that! For several times I felt like I wanted to put my hands on that chest and that hair! Oh My God, that hair!!!
However, there’s a point where the story takes a leap and suddenly there’s no escape. My eyes were full of tears and I started to sob like a baby. And that’s also when I recalled why I loved so much A. M. Hargrove & Terri E. Laine’s books (not that I needed a reminder anyway).
“Cruel & Beautiful” ruined me for months. I had a hard time recovering from one of the best books I’ve ever read. In “A mess of a man” what started as a funny and light reading, ended up in a box full of tissues in need to be replaced. I cried with Ben. I cried for Ben. I cried with Samantha. I cried for Samantha.
I think Sam is the lady in shining armor that comes to rescue Ben from his messed up existence. When Ben realizes he was not living but simply going through life, fate interferes and the whole world shatters… again.
I don’t want to ruin the beauty of this story which means I can’t say much more. Read it. Read it with an open heart. You will laugh, you will cry but in the end, it’s all worthy. I promise!
“They say love is blind, and in truth I was blind to how much you meant to me until I let you slip through my fingers. The days are long and the nights cold without you. Please don’t give up on me. I know we are meant to be together.” – Ben
I loved Ben (I want to grab his hair, it’s inevitable) and his alpha male ego. But I also loved his vulnerable side. And I loved Sam and her feisty nature. She’s Ben’s strength. Together they’re a match. Two forces of nature fighting for life. Fighting against fate. Fighting for survival.
It’s so good to hear from Cate & Drew and Jenna again. We are introduced to a few more characters: Horace (can I just say I love Horace?), Nick, Brandon and Kenneth, Laney (Sam’s sister) and all Sam’s besties, Mark and Jeff (Ben’s colleagues and friends) and a few more. I wonder and I can’t wait to see who’s coming next!
Once again, A. M. and Terri proved that they’re too a match made in heaven and that no matter what they write, I will always one click.
- Creativity: 5 stars
- Cover: 5 stars
- Plot: 5 stars
- Characters: 5 stars
- Darkness: N/A
- End: 5 stars
- Hotness: 5 stars
- Angst: 5 stars
- Editing: 5 stars
I give it 5 stars!!!
Thank you once again for such a wonderful book and hurry up; I want the next book ASAP!
I must confess I was terrified when I started to read Ben’s story. Who has read “Cruel & Beautiful” must understand why. On that note, you must read “Cruel & Beautiful” before “A mess of a man”. Although “A mess of a man” is a standalone, I strongly recommend that you read “Cruel & Beautiful” before for three reasons: one, you will find spoilers that will ruin the magic that surrounds Cate & Drew’s story; two, you won’t fully understand Ben if you’re not aware of his background and his past with Drew and; three, because “Cruel & Beautiful is a MUST READ (period)!
“A mess of a man” is the kind of story that is so real that it can actually happen to any one of us.
Ben is a shattered man, a womanizer, a man completely lost in his life. The only goal he has? Go one day at the time, preferably with one beautiful lady by his side.
Sam is a successful twenty – four year old woman, beautiful, funny and a little broken from a previous relationship that went wrong.
They meet accidentally but the spark between them is almost instant and together they’re explosive.
They both want to play but somehow end up losing their game for each other.
The story is told in a dual POV so you have the chance to get inside both their minds. I love when this happens because I feel more connected to them. I love to know both sides of the story.
The main issue is complicated but very very timely and it makes you think about the little things in life. The ones that usually you take for granted.
The story is also hot (very hot, actually). Ben is a sex God! No doubt about that! For several times I felt like I wanted to put my hands on that chest and that hair! Oh My God, that hair!!!
However, there’s a point where the story takes a leap and suddenly there’s no escape. My eyes were full of tears and I started to sob like a baby. And that’s also when I recalled why I loved so much A. M. Hargrove & Terri E. Laine’s books (not that I needed a reminder anyway).
“Cruel & Beautiful” ruined me for months. I had a hard time recovering from one of the best books I’ve ever read. In “A mess of a man” what started as a funny and light reading, ended up in a box full of tissues in need to be replaced. I cried with Ben. I cried for Ben. I cried with Samantha. I cried for Samantha.
I think Sam is the lady in shining armor that comes to rescue Ben from his messed up existence. When Ben realizes he was not living but simply going through life, fate interferes and the whole world shatters… again.
I don’t want to ruin the beauty of this story which means I can’t say much more. Read it. Read it with an open heart. You will laugh, you will cry but in the end, it’s all worthy. I promise!
“They say love is blind, and in truth I was blind to how much you meant to me until I let you slip through my fingers. The days are long and the nights cold without you. Please don’t give up on me. I know we are meant to be together.” – Ben
I loved Ben (I want to grab his hair, it’s inevitable) and his alpha male ego. But I also loved his vulnerable side. And I loved Sam and her feisty nature. She’s Ben’s strength. Together they’re a match. Two forces of nature fighting for life. Fighting against fate. Fighting for survival.
It’s so good to hear from Cate & Drew and Jenna again. We are introduced to a few more characters: Horace (can I just say I love Horace?), Nick, Brandon and Kenneth, Laney (Sam’s sister) and all Sam’s besties, Mark and Jeff (Ben’s colleagues and friends) and a few more. I wonder and I can’t wait to see who’s coming next!
Once again, A. M. and Terri proved that they’re too a match made in heaven and that no matter what they write, I will always one click.
- Creativity: 5 stars
- Cover: 5 stars
- Plot: 5 stars
- Characters: 5 stars
- Darkness: N/A
- End: 5 stars
- Hotness: 5 stars
- Angst: 5 stars
- Editing: 5 stars
I give it 5 stars!!!
Thank you once again for such a wonderful book and hurry up; I want the next book ASAP!
June 14, 2017
This book makes you laugh, cry and angry at how unfair life can be. It's all about love and loss in all different kind of shades.
The story is really good and even though there were no surprises because it was all a bit predictable I really LOVED IT . You know, it's like watching a horror movie when the girl is alone at home and it's the middle of the night and you just know when the right kinda music starts to play that something is going to happen. Ok, that was the worst comparison ever but you get what I mean?! It's like having that feeling in your gut that tells you where this is going and what will happen. But it didn't lessen my enjoyment of reading this book even for a bit.
Ben did catch me by surprise closer to the end though.
The Story/main character:
Ben is like a hard shell with a soft core. He lost his best friend, his brother, and struggles to move on with his life. How can anyone move on from such a thing? When you have to watch your best friend die slowly away during days, weeks, months, it eats away on you. How can you cope with such a loss and being so helpless. Ben doesn't want to experience anything like that ever again and keeps his heart locked up. He is a womanizer and keeps his heart out of the game out of fear of loosing another loved person in his life. People around him don't notice how broken he is inside and he also wants to be strong for Cate, Dew's wife and his best friend.
Ben was never one who believed in the one true love though when he saw Sam, he wishes so much to talk to Drew about her and ask him for help to not screw this up.
Thoughts:
Contrary to my first impression I wouldn't exactly say that this is a sad story but with Ben's sorrow it really pulled at my hear. (I had to cry every time Drew was mentioned.)
I should not compare this book to Cruel and Beautiful because that wouldn't be fair but to be honest I always had to think about Drew.
I wonder if this would be as sad to read as it was for me without having read Cruel and Beautiful before. Because of knowing the whole story and knowing what happened to Drew, I took a trip down memory lane and the images of Drew kept filling my head. It made this so much harder to read with watery eyes.
The middle part of the book could have been a tiny bit shorter for my liking but on the other hand I still enjoyed reading all of it. It wasn't boring or anything but I was always glancing at the percentage of how much I've read already because I knew that closer to the end there must be some turn of events coming.
And I was right.
Feelings:
Oh god, Drew's letters made me cry. Ben made me cry. Reading about Cate and Mercer made me cry. This was really hard, let me tell ya. And the Epilogue really got me.
I really liked Ben in Cruel and Beautiful and I am so happy for him to have his own story. During this read I really felt for him. I love him for caring so much and putting his own feelings and needs aside to be there for his friends.
I wish I had a Jeannie to grant me a wish, I would make Drew come back.
And now I'm going to go and listen to Sinéad O’Connor.
I received an ARC of this book from the author in exchange for a honest review.
The story is really good and even though there were no surprises because it was all a bit predictable I really LOVED IT . You know, it's like watching a horror movie when the girl is alone at home and it's the middle of the night and you just know when the right kinda music starts to play that something is going to happen. Ok, that was the worst comparison ever but you get what I mean?! It's like having that feeling in your gut that tells you where this is going and what will happen. But it didn't lessen my enjoyment of reading this book even for a bit.
Ben did catch me by surprise closer to the end though.
The Story/main character:
Ben is like a hard shell with a soft core. He lost his best friend, his brother, and struggles to move on with his life. How can anyone move on from such a thing? When you have to watch your best friend die slowly away during days, weeks, months, it eats away on you. How can you cope with such a loss and being so helpless. Ben doesn't want to experience anything like that ever again and keeps his heart locked up. He is a womanizer and keeps his heart out of the game out of fear of loosing another loved person in his life. People around him don't notice how broken he is inside and he also wants to be strong for Cate, Dew's wife and his best friend.
Ben was never one who believed in the one true love though when he saw Sam, he wishes so much to talk to Drew about her and ask him for help to not screw this up.
Thoughts:
Contrary to my first impression I wouldn't exactly say that this is a sad story but with Ben's sorrow it really pulled at my hear. (I had to cry every time Drew was mentioned.)
I should not compare this book to Cruel and Beautiful because that wouldn't be fair but to be honest I always had to think about Drew.
I wonder if this would be as sad to read as it was for me without having read Cruel and Beautiful before. Because of knowing the whole story and knowing what happened to Drew, I took a trip down memory lane and the images of Drew kept filling my head. It made this so much harder to read with watery eyes.
The middle part of the book could have been a tiny bit shorter for my liking but on the other hand I still enjoyed reading all of it. It wasn't boring or anything but I was always glancing at the percentage of how much I've read already because I knew that closer to the end there must be some turn of events coming.
And I was right.
Feelings:
Oh god, Drew's letters made me cry. Ben made me cry. Reading about Cate and Mercer made me cry. This was really hard, let me tell ya. And the Epilogue really got me.
I really liked Ben in Cruel and Beautiful and I am so happy for him to have his own story. During this read I really felt for him. I love him for caring so much and putting his own feelings and needs aside to be there for his friends.
I wish I had a Jeannie to grant me a wish, I would make Drew come back.
And now I'm going to go and listen to Sinéad O’Connor.
I received an ARC of this book from the author in exchange for a honest review.
April 27, 2016
Title:A Mess of A Man
Author:A.M. Hargrove & Terri E. Laine
Series:Cruel & Beautiful, Book #2
Publisher:Wicked Truth Publishing
Reviewer:Melissa
Release Date:March 21, 2016
Genre(s):Contemporary Romance
Page Count:250
Heat Level: 4 flames out of 5
Rating: 5 stars out of 5
Blurb:
Review:
“‘You have the most perfect tts I’ve ever seen or sucked. God, I love these.’ And my stomach spirals straight to the floor, crashing at my feet.”
5 messy stars!!! Ugh, Ben, Ben, Ben!!! You don’t need any other words!
Samantha is trying to get over her heartbreaking break-up. But she’s much too busy to dwell on that. She has her career to look forward to. That all changes when she meet playboy Ben. The minute these two meet, it’s instant chemistry. The last thing Ben needs is a woman to slow down his man whore ways. But there’s now way he can deny how he feels about her. Can these two overcome their differences and make it work??
I can’t stress enough how fantastic this book is! I loved every single page, there was never a dull moment when reading and you will fall in love with Ben!!! He’s a dream!!!
ARC provided by author in exchange for an honest review. Reviewed by Melissa from Alpha Book Club
Author:A.M. Hargrove & Terri E. Laine
Series:Cruel & Beautiful, Book #2
Publisher:Wicked Truth Publishing
Reviewer:Melissa
Release Date:March 21, 2016
Genre(s):Contemporary Romance
Page Count:250
Heat Level: 4 flames out of 5
Rating: 5 stars out of 5
Blurb:
Womanizer, Man Whore, Player, Heartbreaker are all familiar names to Ben Rhoades. He prefers Money Man or Sex God, but he doesn’t let other people’s opinions rule him. And he’s only gotten worse without his compass, his best friend, whose devastating death at a young age has taught him a valuable lesson about not getting too close to anyone … ever. Until one smart and stubborn woman with eye-catching curves throws him for a loop and refuses to be tamed.
Samantha Calhoun has her life on track even after the shattering break-up with the guy she’d thought she’d wanted to marry. With her chin held high, she focuses on her career, building her business and making a success of it all. Only a chance meeting has her lost in a set of alluring steel gray eyes that have her steps faltering and her heart leaping out of her chest. Forewarned by not-so-flattering rumors plus his no-holds-bar rules, she tries desperately to play his game while guarding her heart.
Only they have no idea of the journey they’re about to undertake when their lives collide. Ultimately they’ll tackle the biggest test of their lives because she is his game changer. The one, who through the ensuing wreckage, can domesticate the mess of a man that he is.
Review:
“‘You have the most perfect tts I’ve ever seen or sucked. God, I love these.’ And my stomach spirals straight to the floor, crashing at my feet.”
5 messy stars!!! Ugh, Ben, Ben, Ben!!! You don’t need any other words!
Samantha is trying to get over her heartbreaking break-up. But she’s much too busy to dwell on that. She has her career to look forward to. That all changes when she meet playboy Ben. The minute these two meet, it’s instant chemistry. The last thing Ben needs is a woman to slow down his man whore ways. But there’s now way he can deny how he feels about her. Can these two overcome their differences and make it work??
I can’t stress enough how fantastic this book is! I loved every single page, there was never a dull moment when reading and you will fall in love with Ben!!! He’s a dream!!!
ARC provided by author in exchange for an honest review. Reviewed by Melissa from Alpha Book Club
March 9, 2016
** ARC PROVIDED BY THE AUTHOR FOR AN HONEST REVIEW **
A mess of a Man by A.M. Hargrove & Terri E. Laine makes you think about what you would do if faced with some of the choices presented in the novel, an emotional read for sure. The story has a slow build but the love story that is developing is one that is worth the wait.
Ben Rhoades works hard and plays harder. Women refer to him as a womanizer, heart breaker even an A hole. After loosing his best friend to Cancer he refuses to allow anyone to get close to him. He is lost, lonely, jaded and everything brings back the pain of loss. When he meets the one girl that could potentially change his whole outlook on life, Ben does what he always has, pushes and pushes thinking as always he has nothing left to give or offer. However fate has something else in store for them and does not like his attitude!
Samantha Calhoun is a hard working event planner. A good girl. Tired of being dealt a bad hand at love she decides to do things differently and let go. After meeting a broken man who has stirred something inside of her .. she makes him offer .. an offer he can't refuse. What happens when feelings go further than planned is the beauty of the story.
These two have busy lives, one deals with the responsibilities of his Father's firm the other a busy career. This was supposed to be a easy, no mess no fuss affair. A plan is made .. but lines are getting blurry. Secrets are being withheld and one that can potential alter the course of both their lives.
While Ben and Samantha deal with the blossoming of their feelings what happens when the truth comes out ? Will they be strong enough to weather the storm together or will this be the way out that one of them thought they wanted from the start
One decision and their worlds come to a stop. Life will test Ben and Samantha, push them to face their fears and fight for what they want. But will it be enough ? Will this couple have a chance at an HEA they so richly deserve?
Life is funny isn't it .. how it knows exactly when to place someone into your life just when you need them the most ...
REVIEWED BY : Deanne
A mess of a Man by A.M. Hargrove & Terri E. Laine makes you think about what you would do if faced with some of the choices presented in the novel, an emotional read for sure. The story has a slow build but the love story that is developing is one that is worth the wait.
Ben Rhoades works hard and plays harder. Women refer to him as a womanizer, heart breaker even an A hole. After loosing his best friend to Cancer he refuses to allow anyone to get close to him. He is lost, lonely, jaded and everything brings back the pain of loss. When he meets the one girl that could potentially change his whole outlook on life, Ben does what he always has, pushes and pushes thinking as always he has nothing left to give or offer. However fate has something else in store for them and does not like his attitude!
Samantha Calhoun is a hard working event planner. A good girl. Tired of being dealt a bad hand at love she decides to do things differently and let go. After meeting a broken man who has stirred something inside of her .. she makes him offer .. an offer he can't refuse. What happens when feelings go further than planned is the beauty of the story.
These two have busy lives, one deals with the responsibilities of his Father's firm the other a busy career. This was supposed to be a easy, no mess no fuss affair. A plan is made .. but lines are getting blurry. Secrets are being withheld and one that can potential alter the course of both their lives.
While Ben and Samantha deal with the blossoming of their feelings what happens when the truth comes out ? Will they be strong enough to weather the storm together or will this be the way out that one of them thought they wanted from the start
One decision and their worlds come to a stop. Life will test Ben and Samantha, push them to face their fears and fight for what they want. But will it be enough ? Will this couple have a chance at an HEA they so richly deserve?
Life is funny isn't it .. how it knows exactly when to place someone into your life just when you need them the most ...
REVIEWED BY : Deanne
March 22, 2016
I'm still waiting for the tears to dry as I'm writing my review. Has all the key ingredients for the perfect romance book! So beautiful, as are the character Ben and Sam, after Ben gets his head out of his ass that is. This is my second book by this author, my second 5 star read and honestly I am totally hooked. I've found both books to be so captivating I have read them in less then a day. This one in just one afternoon. I was obsessed! And I might add quite emotional.
Ben was living the bachelor life. Not caring who he used as long as his needs were filled. His destructive behavior become an obsession after he was scorned by first love and his best friend since childhood died a tragic death. He was convinced that there would never be a women for him.
In walks Sam, and event planner who immediately catches Ben's eye. Unfortunately Sam herself has gone through a messy breakup and is guarding her heart at all cost. She decided to play with Ben, and even best him at his own game. Does she have it in her to only have casual sex? You will have to read to find out.
The title is perfect, I love the characters including the protective sister and the heart warming letters and text messages. The sex is hot, but there will be tears.
This was an easy five star read for me, I simply could not put it down.
Ben was living the bachelor life. Not caring who he used as long as his needs were filled. His destructive behavior become an obsession after he was scorned by first love and his best friend since childhood died a tragic death. He was convinced that there would never be a women for him.
In walks Sam, and event planner who immediately catches Ben's eye. Unfortunately Sam herself has gone through a messy breakup and is guarding her heart at all cost. She decided to play with Ben, and even best him at his own game. Does she have it in her to only have casual sex? You will have to read to find out.
The title is perfect, I love the characters including the protective sister and the heart warming letters and text messages. The sex is hot, but there will be tears.
This was an easy five star read for me, I simply could not put it down.
March 25, 2016
For some reason I just couldn't connect with the characters. It was a great although rather predicable story. If your into insta-love/lust then this book is definitely for you.
The writing worked fine but no matter how hard I tried, I wasn't intrigued by Ben or Sam's personality or their story. Their insta-connection was/felt too easy. I would have liked more build up tension or slow burn romance in their relationship. I felt that Sam and Ben were two different people in the book. I know it's possible but it didn't feel like Sam and Ben. But I have to say, that their insta-love/lust did have one upside. Their sexual chemistry was insanely hot. I couldn't get enough of that.
Sam's "secret" carried on for way too long and it was a shame, it had to be used as a plot device to come between them.
The epilogue was really great and made me smile. So if you're into insta-love with some angst with a guaranteed happy ending then this book is for you.
3 BadAssDirtySexyStars
Arc kindly provided for an honest review
The writing worked fine but no matter how hard I tried, I wasn't intrigued by Ben or Sam's personality or their story. Their insta-connection was/felt too easy. I would have liked more build up tension or slow burn romance in their relationship. I felt that Sam and Ben were two different people in the book. I know it's possible but it didn't feel like Sam and Ben. But I have to say, that their insta-love/lust did have one upside. Their sexual chemistry was insanely hot. I couldn't get enough of that.
Sam's "secret" carried on for way too long and it was a shame, it had to be used as a plot device to come between them.
The epilogue was really great and made me smile. So if you're into insta-love with some angst with a guaranteed happy ending then this book is for you.
3 BadAssDirtySexyStars
Arc kindly provided for an honest review
March 6, 2016
This is a great followup/sequel (sort of) to Cruel & Beautiful. Both books have death/love/grieving/moving on. If you want a book that's just fun with no angst or real heavy stuff with loved mixed in, this isn't the book to read. It's very angsty and deep.
Read My Entire Review: http://wp.me/p6XNXo-C7
Disclaimer: I received an advanced copy in exchange for an honest review.
March 24, 2016
If you loved Cruel and Beautiful then you're going to love A Mess of A Man
Oh, Ben, how I adore you. My heart breaks for you. :'( While reading this story, all those emotions I felt from Cruel and Beautiful resurfaced.
Drew was more than Ben's best friend, they were bonded like brothers. So when Ben tries to move on with his life without his sidekick, he faces the harsh reality of hitting rock bottom.
Oh, Ben, how I adore you. My heart breaks for you. :'( While reading this story, all those emotions I felt from Cruel and Beautiful resurfaced.
Drew was more than Ben's best friend, they were bonded like brothers. So when Ben tries to move on with his life without his sidekick, he faces the harsh reality of hitting rock bottom.
March 31, 2016
* A review copy was provided by the author for the Blog Tour *
~ 4 Stars ~
I didn’t know what I was getting into when I decided to read A Mess of A Man. Just what I read from the blurb and that was enough to peak my interest. Colored me shocked when I realized this is a spin-off/Companion novel to the authors first book Cruel and Beautiful. I was pleasantly surprised!!
I really enjoyed Cruel and Beautiful, so I knew that I was going to enjoy this book as well. I truly enjoy these writers writing style. I think they work well together. I love when I read a co-authored book and can’t distinguish between the writers…that just means the story flows effortlessly. This book I believe is a standalone novel, but it is my recommendation to read Cruel and Beautiful first. I think reading this book first would truly spoil the first book. A Mess of A Man overlaps the storyline of Cruel and Beautiful. I don’t think someone would be lost if they didn’t read the first book because the authors do a great job connecting all the dots, but like I said this book is a HUGE spoiler for the other one.
Once I realized this book was based off of a character we meet in Cruel and Beautiful, I just knew this was going to be an emotional story. And I wasn’t wrong there. This book drew out every emotion I have while reading a book.
To say Ben was A Mess of a Man was an understatement. We met Ben in Cruel and Beautiful. He is Drew’s BFF. I have to be honest and say it took me awhile to warm up to Ben in this book. There were things that he does in the beginning that I just had a hard time swallowing. I really wanted to smack him!! What kept me going was Samantha. I loved her character, even though at times I wanted to smack her too and tell her to wake up….lol :) I thought she was perfect for Ben. I loved watching these two characters grow together and learn to open themselves up to love. As Sam starts to break down Ben’s walls and open him up more, I learned to really love him. He melted my heart by the end of the book.
This story was told in Dual POV and is a standalone with NO cliffhanger!! But as I suggested before, I would definitely read Cruel and Beautiful first. It will help you understand Ben and his character better.
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~ 4 Stars ~
I didn’t know what I was getting into when I decided to read A Mess of A Man. Just what I read from the blurb and that was enough to peak my interest. Colored me shocked when I realized this is a spin-off/Companion novel to the authors first book Cruel and Beautiful. I was pleasantly surprised!!
I really enjoyed Cruel and Beautiful, so I knew that I was going to enjoy this book as well. I truly enjoy these writers writing style. I think they work well together. I love when I read a co-authored book and can’t distinguish between the writers…that just means the story flows effortlessly. This book I believe is a standalone novel, but it is my recommendation to read Cruel and Beautiful first. I think reading this book first would truly spoil the first book. A Mess of A Man overlaps the storyline of Cruel and Beautiful. I don’t think someone would be lost if they didn’t read the first book because the authors do a great job connecting all the dots, but like I said this book is a HUGE spoiler for the other one.
Once I realized this book was based off of a character we meet in Cruel and Beautiful, I just knew this was going to be an emotional story. And I wasn’t wrong there. This book drew out every emotion I have while reading a book.
To say Ben was A Mess of a Man was an understatement. We met Ben in Cruel and Beautiful. He is Drew’s BFF. I have to be honest and say it took me awhile to warm up to Ben in this book. There were things that he does in the beginning that I just had a hard time swallowing. I really wanted to smack him!! What kept me going was Samantha. I loved her character, even though at times I wanted to smack her too and tell her to wake up….lol :) I thought she was perfect for Ben. I loved watching these two characters grow together and learn to open themselves up to love. As Sam starts to break down Ben’s walls and open him up more, I learned to really love him. He melted my heart by the end of the book.
This story was told in Dual POV and is a standalone with NO cliffhanger!! But as I suggested before, I would definitely read Cruel and Beautiful first. It will help you understand Ben and his character better.
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March 21, 2016
Wow, where do I even begin. When these two ladies get together to write, man.. be prepared to have your socks knocked off!
For those who have read Cruel and Beautiful, you know how emotional that story was. In this story we get Ben’s pov on things. I loved every torturous, hurtful, emotional minute of it.
Seeing things from his pov was a breath of fresh air. To see how vulnerable and afraid a man can be was so endearing to me. We all know how cruel life can be when our loved ones are taken away from us. I personally know how this feels. It is true, what they say… only the good die young.
Ben Rhoades, best friend of the late Drew. Ladies, let me tell you now, this man’s heart is locked up tighter than Fort Knox. Most men are afraid of that word that starts with a C but in Ben’s case C stands for something completely different. After losing his best friend, things have gotten worse.
Ben doesn’t just go through women, he plows through them. He sees what he wants and often gets it. He is a complete ass. Wham, bam and gone.
Samantha is a young and successful woman. Even after a not so successful relationship, well it was downright heartbreaking. She is picking up the pieces and moving forward. Her focus is on her career and making her event planning business a huge success.
Little did they both know that being in the produce department at the grocery store, would change both of their lives forever.
I am not going to lie, Ben is truly an A$$, prick, jerk but don’t get me wrong, I LOVED him that way. It definitely made for some amazing foreplay and some horrible angst. When he meets Sam, he realizes immediately she isn’t like the rest of the women he has been with. He wants to change and although I give him an A for effort, he does not make things easy.
Ben’s journey to find the happiness that Drew always wanted for him is not an easy one. It is freaking heartbreaking and scary and then beautiful.
Laine and Hargrove have outdone themselves yet again. Ben really was a mess of a man and Sam is his saving grace. Such an emotional read, not in the ugly cry kind of way, just situations and circumstances and of course the end, for that, I recommend some tissue.
This has been one of my favorite reads of 2016. Such an amazing story.
For those who have read Cruel and Beautiful, you know how emotional that story was. In this story we get Ben’s pov on things. I loved every torturous, hurtful, emotional minute of it.
Seeing things from his pov was a breath of fresh air. To see how vulnerable and afraid a man can be was so endearing to me. We all know how cruel life can be when our loved ones are taken away from us. I personally know how this feels. It is true, what they say… only the good die young.
Ben Rhoades, best friend of the late Drew. Ladies, let me tell you now, this man’s heart is locked up tighter than Fort Knox. Most men are afraid of that word that starts with a C but in Ben’s case C stands for something completely different. After losing his best friend, things have gotten worse.
Ben doesn’t just go through women, he plows through them. He sees what he wants and often gets it. He is a complete ass. Wham, bam and gone.
Samantha is a young and successful woman. Even after a not so successful relationship, well it was downright heartbreaking. She is picking up the pieces and moving forward. Her focus is on her career and making her event planning business a huge success.
Little did they both know that being in the produce department at the grocery store, would change both of their lives forever.
I am not going to lie, Ben is truly an A$$, prick, jerk but don’t get me wrong, I LOVED him that way. It definitely made for some amazing foreplay and some horrible angst. When he meets Sam, he realizes immediately she isn’t like the rest of the women he has been with. He wants to change and although I give him an A for effort, he does not make things easy.
Ben’s journey to find the happiness that Drew always wanted for him is not an easy one. It is freaking heartbreaking and scary and then beautiful.
Laine and Hargrove have outdone themselves yet again. Ben really was a mess of a man and Sam is his saving grace. Such an emotional read, not in the ugly cry kind of way, just situations and circumstances and of course the end, for that, I recommend some tissue.
This has been one of my favorite reads of 2016. Such an amazing story.
March 31, 2016
**ARC provided in exchange for an honest review**
What a truly enjoyable book. I did not read the previous book, so I am pleased to say, I felt the story flowed quite beautifully and I didnt feel I was missing a ton. However, the funny thing was that I found myself wishing there had been a previous story. LOL
Ben was the typical love em and leave em playa! He made no apologies for the person he was and he loved his life. Honestly, I dont typically mind this type of character, I respect their stance and if they are honest about the score, then I am cool with them. Ben was just likable. He worked hard, he played hard and the fact that he had a human side that was in mourning, it just made him more likable.
Boy meets girl, girl says no, but then changes her mind thinking he would be a fun/convenient distraction. blah, blah blah, things happen and then they decide to give the relationship a whirl.
I truly liked both of them. They were well developed, complex characters that you can't help but root for.
Life throws them an unexpected curve ball, and they have to really examine their feelings and fight for what they want.
Why this wasn't a 5 star for me....Ben went from "I don't do relationships, to I am crazy about her. It just seemed a bit, I don't know too......perfectly fabricated.
What I enjoyed.....even though I could see the twist kinda coming, I was still impressed by how the author handled this sensitive topic. This story was different, sexy AF, well written and definitely one of those story lines that will remain with me. Love triumphs in this story, but what made this one stand out was just the healing There were so many characters that I am sure the authors will have ample material to keep us tracking the continuation of Ben and Sam's relationship.
What a truly enjoyable book. I did not read the previous book, so I am pleased to say, I felt the story flowed quite beautifully and I didnt feel I was missing a ton. However, the funny thing was that I found myself wishing there had been a previous story. LOL
Ben was the typical love em and leave em playa! He made no apologies for the person he was and he loved his life. Honestly, I dont typically mind this type of character, I respect their stance and if they are honest about the score, then I am cool with them. Ben was just likable. He worked hard, he played hard and the fact that he had a human side that was in mourning, it just made him more likable.
Boy meets girl, girl says no, but then changes her mind thinking he would be a fun/convenient distraction. blah, blah blah, things happen and then they decide to give the relationship a whirl.
I truly liked both of them. They were well developed, complex characters that you can't help but root for.
Life throws them an unexpected curve ball, and they have to really examine their feelings and fight for what they want.
Why this wasn't a 5 star for me....Ben went from "I don't do relationships, to I am crazy about her. It just seemed a bit, I don't know too......perfectly fabricated.
What I enjoyed.....even though I could see the twist kinda coming, I was still impressed by how the author handled this sensitive topic. This story was different, sexy AF, well written and definitely one of those story lines that will remain with me. Love triumphs in this story, but what made this one stand out was just the healing There were so many characters that I am sure the authors will have ample material to keep us tracking the continuation of Ben and Sam's relationship.
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