All three books of the bestselling Dearest series--Dearest Clementine, Finding Dandelion, and Kissing Madeline--are included in this box set.Dearest Clementine (a bestselling romantic comedy) When Clementine Avery swore off men, she had no idea she'd need real life experience for that romance writing class she accidentally signed up for last spring. Fortunately, sexy RA Gavin Murphy offers to help her find a little inspiration . . . in the name of academics, of course. Finding Dandelion (#1 sports fiction and a bestselling sports romance) Hooking up with that hot guy at the club should've been an easy, panty-melting item to check off Dani Hart's bucket list. But when Dani realizes the hottie is her snarky new roommate's brother, what should've been uncomplicated suddenly isn't. Kissing Madeline (#1 sports fiction and a bestselling sports romance) Maddie McDermott is confident no one will stand in her way of becoming a broadcast reporter, not even the subject of her new segments--her hot new neighbor Daren Sloan, the NFL's latest it boy. Daren doesn't seem to care that Maddie can't stand him. In fact, he'd love nothing more than to show her that being friends has its benefits.
Lex Martin is the USA Today bestselling author of Varsity Dads, Texas Nights, and the Dearest series. She writes contemporary romance novels, the steamy kind she hopes her readers love but her parents avoid. A former high school English teacher and freelance journalist, she resides in Texas with her husband and twin daughters. Drop her a line. She loves hearing from readers.
I’m tickled with delight that the Dearest Series is in a box set. I love these books with a passion, but I love that I can have them all in one little beautiful bundle, talk about cover love right?
The box set contains three books from the Dearest Series and the best part, each books are standalones focusing on different characters. You can read in order or skip around (I do that sometimes). What I also love about this series is that each book is different, you don’t get the same storyline and the steam level is kicked up a notch with each book you read.
Dearest Clementine is the first book in the set and it’s a sweet read about college students. The tension is off the charts and I gobbled this one up. I loved it so much, I got the audio. Clementine is a Heroine you can relate too, she’s a nerdy book writer and doesn’t really go out. Gavin is her ubber hot RA, I know right? Isn’t that a lickable storyline? I would describe this read super adorable.
Finding Dandelion has a bit more angst. There’s a jock, who is a major player. I love reading about a Hero trying to reform. Dan is a sweet girl and she has a one night stand with Jax. Dani realizes Jax is Clementine’s brother and Clementine is Dani’s suitemate. Oh the drama and Oh don’t you love it?!
Kissing Madeline is a bit more mature, the main characters are older, after college. Daren is drafted into the NFL and Madeline is a reporter. I’m a sucker for sports/ reporter books. I love the chemistry between Madeline and Daren because there is so much yummy tension. Madeline wants to focus on her career but Daren wants her and I love it with the Hero chases after the Heroine.
Overall, this box set is the perfect little gift for your kindle. It has three great and different books you can pick up anytime. The series will put a smile on your face and leave you with happiness.
This is a great boxed set. All three books are fantastic! I have reviewed them individually below.
Dearest Clementine - *5 stars!*
Dearest Clementine is a new adult, contemporary romance with a mystery subplot. The story was sweet, humorous and romantic with a touch of mystery/suspense. It was simply delightful. The characters were well-developed, relatable, and likeable. It was easy to get invested in them.
Writing student, Clem, is a smart, beautiful, sarcastic introvert. She's also extremely private, standoffish, cold, and completely closed-off to the opposite sex. She has some major issues - and with good reason. Several bad experiences involving her high school (ex)boyfriend, her former best friend, her parents, and a college professor/mentor have taught Clem that she can't trust anyone. When she accidentally signs up for a romance writing class, she's at a loss for what to write due to lack of inspiration and personal experience.
Then there's RA, journalist and musician Gavin. Wow! He's totally swoony! Not only is he drop-dead gorgeous - described as a Henry Cavill lookalike - but he's sweet, patient, strong, protective, honest, understanding, and supportive. He knows what he wants, and he wants Clem. But how will he get past all of her walls? He proposes to help her find inspiration by acting like a real-life book boyfriend - but just as friends. It's all in the name of research.
I loved this story! Once I started reading, I couldn't put it down. The chemistry between Clem and Gavin was off the charts, the secondary characters were fantastic, and the ending was completely satisfying.
Finding Dandelion - *4.5 stars!*
Finding Dandelion is a new adult, sports romance told in dual point of view.
Jax, Clem's twin brother, is Boston College's star soccer player on track to going pro. He's rich, gorgeous, cocky, and known for being a complete man-whore. Dani, Clem's new roommate, is beautiful, shy, and kind-hearted. Working her way through a bucket list to help her get out and live more, a one night stand is next on the list after she gets a tattoo.
Jax and Dani meet at a club and are instantly drawn to each other. Neither is aware of the other's relationship to Clem. They end up having a steamy make-out session (and more) in a private back room but are interrupted before going all the way. While Dani is in the bathroom, an emergency call pulls Jax away from the club, leaving Dani confused about why he'd take off without saying anything.
The next time they see each other, Jax seems to have no recollection that they've ever met before. Dani is hurt and embarrassed but keeps it to herself. The last thing she wants is problems with her roommate Clem for being one of Jax's hook-ups because she's really not that kind of girl.
Circumstances keep throwing Jax and Dani together and they develop a friendship while both continue to hide their growing feelings for each other. Multiple misunderstandings threaten to keep them apart, but they eventually manage to work through it all and find their happy ending.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book - almost as much as the first. I laughed, I cried, I swooned. I couldn't stop reading. Loved it.
Kissing Madeline - *4.5 stars!*
Kissing Madeline is a new adult, sports romance told in dual point of view.
Daren, a sexy, NFL quarterback, is Clem's ex-boyfriend and Jax's best friend. He has made his fair share of mistakes but has learned from them and determined not to repeat them. He is strong, honest, loyal, and just an all-around great guy - a totally swoon-worthy hero. Darren is extremely driven and so focused on his football career that he doesn't have time for relationships.
Maddie is strong, passionate, independent and beautiful. She's also extremely focused on growing her career as an on-air news reporter. After catching her MMA boyfriend in the act of cheating on her, she moves in with a good friend and vows to never date another athlete. Little does she know that Daren lives right next door and he's been intrigued by her since the first time they met a couple years ago.
Although Maddie and Daren's attraction to each other is immediate, she tries to avoid him. They end up being thrown together professionally as Maddie is chosen to do a series of sports interviews with Daren, and personally as they live next door to each other in the same building. They can't deny their scorching-hot chemistry, but neither have the time or desire to focus on a relationship. So they decide to see each other secretly as friends with benefits, no strings attached. But when their hearts get involved, all bets are off.
This was a sweet, steamy read. I loved the characters, their witty banter, and their sexual tension. It's a great addition to the series.
I loved this book even more than when I read it for the first time. I love Clementine's style and inner voice, I love her circle of friends, and most of all, I adore Gavin Murphy <3 He is the sweetest, most patient and understanding book boyfriend ever, exactly what Clem needs to move on from her past and be her old self again.
I would never have guessed that this is Lex Martin's debut novel. The writing style is flawless, and the story has everything I love in a new adult novel. Her covers are pretty too, I would love them in my shelf on paperback too.
I would recommend Dearest Clementine to everyone who loves a good college romance, you won't be disappointed.
*Finding Dandelion*
I anxiously waited for Kissing Madeline, and decided to reread Dearest Clementine and Finding Dandelion. Best decision ever! All I can say that I love the hell out of this series and author <3
Dani is a really likeable heroine, and Jax is waaaaaay to hot for his own good. I'm not gonna lie, there were moments when I wanted to kick Jax in the shin, but I understand his insecurities and he came to his senses and was there for Dani when she needed him, so I forgive him :)
Diving into Kissing Madeline now <3
*Kissing Madeline*
* I received this book as a gift from Mia Kayla for betaing her book. Thank you for her *
The Dearest series is on of my favourites, and Kissing Madeline is Lex Martin's best work. It's a story of two really carrier-driven and hardworking person. Both of them knows pain and heartbreak well, and wary of relationships. Yet they are unable to ignore their growing chemistry, and the budding friendship which becomes so important to both of them. Their past, Maddie's carrier and Daren's fangirls are standing between the lovers, but neither of them is ready to let go what they have.
The writing style is flawless and enjoyable, and the book has a lot of really steamy scenes. Both main character is lovable, I would befriend with Maddie and swoon over Daren anytime. I'm so glad we get to meet with Gavin & Clementine, and Jax & Dani. It's good to see them and know they are happy together. And that epilouge <3 <3
I would recommend Lex Martin's books for everyone who loves the new adult genre and a good sports romance. Can't wait for Shameless <3
Honestly, I cannot recommend Lex Martin enough! I’m not one for reviews but this author is hands down my favourite. I’m struggling to find another book to enjoy or even come close to these!
Such a good series, anyone could enjoy them as they are both part of the series and can be read as a stand alone. Lex has such a great style of writing and it just makes you want to keep reading! Wish there were so many more books by her!
Totally in love with all three books. Every character is wonderful. Oddly enough the story lines are all so different. Relationships are great. Dialogue is amazing. Really loved reading about this group of friends and I'm sorry it's over. Really loved how each book could be stand alone but who would want that? They're all so wonderful. Totally enjoyed the epilogue and gave you closure on the gang! I can't pick a favorite bc they were all written well with great story lines!!! I will follow up with Shameless to see Brady's story!
I loved this series! I'm not normally a fan of the college aged new adult genre, but this definitely exceeded expectations. Three different couples, all with baggage and real life problems. I found myself rooting for them all. I loved the way each couple resolved their issues in a realistic way. And the epilogue on the final book wrapped up each couple's story in a very satisfying way. Also holy hotness, the steam coming off these couples set my kindle on fire!
This author is incredibly talented. I absolutely LOVED all three of these books. I read the books at different times and Kissing Madeline actually pulled me out of my book funk. The bonus scene from Gavin is great! Each book focuses on different characters but it's amazing seeing how everyone grows through the books. Another thing I appreciated is the fact that the timelines do not overlap, so they are not repetitive.
Love, Love, LOVED this series! So, I'll be honest, I've had this boxset on my kindle for awhile. I'm not sure why I didn't start it earlier and I read Shameless earlier this year and loved that one too. Each story in the set was great. There was a great mix of angst, funny & sad moments and let's not forget the steamy moments.
I really hope that Lex Martin decides to write stories for Jenna, Harper and Olivia.
All three of these books are awesome!! The stories are all on a similar timeline with characters that are related and best friends. I'm glad I found this author became love the stories being written.
What can I say I loved each one of these books. Great series. Would highly recommend. Great writing. I could not put these books down. Loved the characters. Sad it's over, I want more
I loved this series. Loved getting to know each character. Can't wait to read more. This is my first time reading this author and appreciated her writing style!
I absolutely loved this series. Each book tells the story of a different couple but the whole series is linked with recurring characters that appear throughout the stories which I love when the author does this as it's great to catch up with characters you previously read about and discover where their journey is continuing. A fab series of books I'd 100% recommended.
Dearest Clementine
Wow .....I really enjoyed reading this book. The journey of the characters is a roller coaster of events and emotions and your right along with them. There are also alot of laugh out loud moments which is great to find a storyline like this and has a little added humour.
Finding Dandelion
This book is the second in the Dearest series and does contain characters from the other books in the series however can still be read as a standalone book. This story took me on a ride of heartache and joy all wrapped up in one bundle. This will keep you guessing and rooting for this couple to triumph over difficulties.
Kissing Madeline
Wow what a read ! .......this is the third installment of the series and while each book can be read as a standalone as I previously stated, it is so much better reading them in order as you can discover new information for previous characters and catch up with their journey. This story had everything from lust, love, humour, suspense and even fear!
I would 100% suggest downloading this series asap then clear your calendar for a few days while you devour them.
All three of these books were a fantastic read. I was a little disappointed at first when reading Dearest Clementine since it’s only written from Clem’s POV. You don’t get a glimpse of Gavin’s perspective until the epilogue. I still really enjoyed the book though. Finding Dandelion was such a good one. I love Jax’ nickname for Dani. How gentle he is with her when she’s recovering. Kissing Madeleine gave you Darens side of the story that you got a glimpse of in Dearest Clementine which I really liked. I wasn’t a huge fan of him until this book. But then the soft spot started. This series is filled with some gut wrenching moments, lots of steamy sex scene and a romance that keeps you daydreaming.
3.5 overall Book 1- a good 4 ⭐️ Felt like the story is being told to me, rather than me walking through the story with the characters. But the story is really good. Book 2- 3 star. Way too much childish drama for me. Book 3 great 4 ⭐️ Best of the 3! Of course that could be bc the characters are adults.
I love this series, each characters and their stories is super interesting. All 3 of them made me laugh, made me cry. They have amazing romance with awesome characters, hot scenes and even a little suspense. I love them! A must read!
Great idea to offer all three books in a set. Loved the characters, some more than others 😉, and how the three books are interwoven. Grab it, so worth your time 😎
Having all three books in one boxed set PLUS a bonus scene should have you one-clicking this immediately! Lex Martin's writing is addictive and it's a drug I gladly take. I fell in love with the Dearest series and I can't wait to read her new book, Shameless. Need more convincing? Keep reading.
Dearest Clementine:
Okay, seriously, what can I say about this book besides it was perfect?? Things I liked: Clementine's name!! I love unique names and she is just that. Unique. GAVIN. MURPHY. Holy hell I freaking love that guy!
Things I didn't like: NOTHING!
Clementine and Gavin were just so adorable that I couldn't stop smiling at everything they did together. They were together but not really together. Does that make sense? Gavin obviously likes the girl so he's helping her with a school assignment but you see more than what Clementine sees. She's bitchy and not interested in guys after everything happened to her so Gavin is in for a rough ride. He is what every girl out there wants. And he is definitely book boyfriend material.
There is the perfect amount of romance, mystery and friends that are to die for that you'll want to have them for yourselves. Lex Martin has a way with words and you won't be disappointed. This is highly recommended!
Finding Dandelion:
AHHH I AM IN LOVE!<3 <3 <3 <3 <3
I love assholes. Not the real ones. The fictional ones. They just pull at my heart for being such douchebags but sometimes they change their ways and turn into my heroes. Jax Avery is my new hero! I loved him in Dearest Clementine so I've been waiting to read his story next. God...perfection. This book was just perfect. I laughed, I cried, I swooned, and I acted like a complete idiot at times because Jax and Dani are two beautiful people that I loved reading about. And the moments Jax was with his neighbors' daughter, Chloe, was ADORABLE!!!! :D
What can I say without giving spoilers (because you just need to read this book)? Dani and Jax meet at a club on Jax's birthday. They connect. Have a moment. Then it ends. And then shit gets real. Jax has a reason for not remembering their time together but no one knows what it is until some time passes. Dani tries to stay away from him. It doesn't happen that easily. *insert swoon-worthy moments* + *insert the tear-jerker moment* + *insert amazing friends and roommates* and you have this masterpiece! Does that work???
I loved this book and I'm in love with this series!
Kissing Madeline:
^^This gif explains everything!!! To how I felt knowing there would be a third book, to how I felt when I one-clicked this beautiful bitch, and lastly, to how I felt when I read every word, letting them seep into my soul. This book is pure heaven. I loved it! Maddie + Daren = perfection
Lex Martin is no doubt one of my favorite authors. I fangirl to the point of no return. It is sometimes embarrassing....but I honestly don't care because I think she deserves all this adoration and then some. I can't recommend her books enough. Everyone needs to give them a try. Clem and Gavin, and Jax and Dani will steal your hearts just as much as Maddie and Daren.
Maddie and Daren are both amazing people who have a good head on their shoulders. They have their priorities straightened out and I loved that about them. It wasn't insta-love or anything cliche. The reader feels every feeling they go through. There are so many beautiful parts to this story that I feel like if I name them all, it'll spoil the book.
You will laugh, you will cry, and you will swoon. Hard. :D
Reading Kissing Madeline was a bittersweet moment. I didn't want it to end yet it ended beautifully. I couldn't have asked for anything more. The Dearest series will forever be one of my all time favs and I can't wait for whatever Lex writes up next! <3
Dearest Series in a boxed set. This is one of my favorite series. Once I started reading them I couldn't put it down and I have gone back and reread them numerous times. Each book is based about a different couple , they are super fun and sexy and all are standalone which I like. Can't wait to see what Lex gives us next to read.