Recent graduate Becca Stine’s all to perfect and predictable life went spiraling out of control when her supposed childhood friend committed the ultimate betrayal. Following college, Becca attempts to bury the pain by retreating into a dangerous lifestyle with her best friend, Jamie Rae. She decides it’s time to grow up after being irresponsible, broken, and out of control. To Becca’s horror, her only option is to return to her hometown of Grand Rapids. Worried she will forever live in the shadow of her prominent family’s notability, Becca decides moving is her only opportunity to get her feet back on the ground. With her best friend in tow, Becca reluctantly heads home to attempt to live her ideal life.
Little does Becca know the owner of the architecture firm she lands a job with has an intriguingly mysterious son. Tyler Conklin is infatuated with Becca, yet is apprehensive about a public relationship because of his hidden baggage. Not wanting anyone to know about his slight obsession with her, their potential relationship must be kept a secret. Will Becca put up with Tyler’s untold story for long? Will she tolerate being his secret?
Brooke Page is a contemporary romance author who loves writing romantic suspense novels that will lead her readers through twists and turns with each page. She wants her readers to feel like they are a part of the thrill, making their hearts race from not only passion but also the intensity of the story. Brooke has a craft for weaving steam and mystery, giving her readers a story they won't want to put down.
BLURB: Recent graduate Becca Stine’s all to perfect and predictable life went spiraling out of control when her supposed childhood friend committed the ultimate betrayal. Following college, Becca attempts to bury the pain by retreating into a dangerous lifestyle with her best friend, Jamie Rae. She decides it’s time to grow up after being irresponsible, broken, and out of control. To Becca’s horror, her only option is to return to her hometown of Grand Rapids. Worried she will forever live in the shadow of her prominent family’s notability, Becca decides moving is her only opportunity to get her feet back on the ground. With her best friend in tow, Becca reluctantly heads home to attempt to live her ideal life.
Little does Becca know the owner of the architecture firm she lands a job with has an intriguingly mysterious son. Tyler Conklin is infatuated with Becca, yet is apprehensive about a public relationship because of his hidden baggage. Not wanting anyone to know about his slight obsession with her, their potential relationship must be kept a secret. Will Becca put up with Tyler’s untold story for long? Will she tolerate being his secret?
FREEBIES are often good for MORE than one day, I have gathered all my FREEBIES on a special shelf: Kindle-freebies (currently over 500 books) https://www.goodreads.com/review/list...
The first few chapters really drew me in, then it just went down hill. Suffice to say it kept me intrigued.It was ok despite an annoying, whiney and most of all insecure doormat heroine. Effing hell she deserves a nomination for the most doormat heroine of all time. Who the hell stays friends with your supposed best friend who schemes her way in getting your bf in bed. Anyhow, there's two more books in this series and I just don't think I can deal with stupid unnecessary filler dramas.
I really didn't like this book. Becca has no self-esteem, absolutely none. She was pathetic, needy and wishy-washy. Now, I can handle one of those traits but not all three. Not to mention she was a complete doormat. Tyler was blah. He was neither interesting or boring. The whole time reading this book I shouted at this stupid girl. I quickly decided I couldn't be her friend because she makes me want to punch her in the face. By the end I wanted to punch her in the neck. Her blow-up in the end still didn't make me like her.
I'm so disappointed with this book because I really enjoyed Brooke's other series that I read. I have no interest in reading what happens next to this couple.
For the love of books, please edit this book! It's bad enough the book sucked but read through it and correct the basic spelling and grammar.
Its one of those books where you forget to eat or sleep or anything. When I give 5 stars it has to meet alot of things that I like. It has the steamy hotness delicous parts. From the first page it grabbed me. It has a plot and it has parts where your like wow and whatttttttt... You will not be dissappointed. I have alot of people that want my recommendations only because i will say yah or nah. Can not believe this was Brooke page first book. She is so talented. Love love love her.
I received this book in exchange for an honest review. Review to follow.
With all the quality books currently in existence, I have become very picky in what I choose to read. There are just too many phenomenal stories to waste my time on something mediocre. A book has to grab me almost instantaneously, and if it doesn’t, I soon find myself just not caring any longer. Conklin’s Blueprints, written by debut author Brooke Page, hooked me from page one! So much so that I literally wanted to jump into the story and physically harm the characters. Yes, I wanted to cause fictional characters to bodily injury. I know it is irrational, but once you read this book, you will easily understand my sentiments. Now keep in mind, this all occurs within the first few pages, and it set the tone for the remainder of the book.
I can honestly say that I have never loved and hated a character as much as I did with Becca Stine. Okay, hate is strong word. Becca drove be absolutely crazy! This was a woman with absolutely NO self-confidence, self-esteem practically nonexistent, and was basically a doormat to everyone in her life. Not that she didn’t have these things without very good reason, but come on woman. Stand up for yourself and take a long hard look in the mirror. You are perfect just the way you are. Anyone who thinks otherwise does not deserve to have a place in your life. I connected so strongly with this character because I have people like that in my life. I just wanted to yell at her, hug her, and assure her that she didn’t have to live up to anyone’s standards or expectations. That being said, for all those misgivings, Becca was also a very strong character. Extremely smart, knowledgeable in her area of expertise, the most loyal friend you would ever have, and knew what she wanted to do with the rest of her life. Becca’s doubts in herself simply broke my heart, tore it to shreds. Her body issues are ones that many readers will sympathize with. We all go through this at some point in our lives, and some never stop.
Tyler was the kind of character that you wanted to root for. Quiet yet determined, aching for just the simplest of human contact, in some ways the perfect gentleman. Just like with Becca, my heart hurt for him. Here was a man who never really had a stable relationship in his life, not even from family members, yet he still believed in love. When he finally started to let Becca into his heart it was as if fireworks were going off. The chemistry between these two will rival any other fictional couple I can think of. Every scene in which they are together literally jumps off the pages your heart, and yes, sometimes a little further south than that. The well written words of this author made living in their world extremely easy.
I will end this review with saying one thing; just wait until you get to chapter twenty-five! This was the best part of the book for me, hands down. Becca and Tyler’s story does not end with this book, but there is no cliffhanger. I cannot wait to continue on their journey in the next book. 5 star read from me!
I struggled to get through this book. The continual redundancy was frustrating and what woman would remain friends with the gal who schemed to get her boyfriend in bed with her and set it up so that the h walked in on them? Really?? And the secrecy, it was too much and when it was finally going to be rectified it was only a couple of pages from the end. By then it was too late for me. The time for honesty was well past due. I was not impressed that the lead male character was portrayed as cowardly and it caused me to dislike him.
Would I recommend this book? Maybe you should try it for yourself. It was not my cup of tea but that does not mean it won't be yours.
Every five minutes I would roll my eyes or yell about how annoying and dumb the heroine was being; I could barely get through it. Like it's okay to have insecurities but she takes it to a whole other extremely annoying level. Also, the whole Ashlynn thing was stupid, why stay friends with someone who's been tearing you down your whole life?? Then she gets mad at the guy like every single day for stupid stuff. He'd do one minuscule thing and she would be like... I CAN'T TAKE THE LIES, DON'T TALK TO ME ANYMORE. And then every time they would go somewhere, EVERY SINGLE TIME, she says, "You know people will see us together right." Like no shit he knows. Then his whole drama with his dad was stupid and so unnecessary. Like 60% of the book was unnecessary really.
I was given this book as an ARC for an honest review. This is the first book that I have read from this Author. I gave this book 5 stars.
This is Becca and Tyler's story.
Becca is a beautiful young lady, who has basically been put down her whole life from her family to her friends. She thinks she is fat, and ugly and not worthy of being with anyone. Her mom is always telling her how she needs to eat less, and how she will never be a size 2 but she needs to be better. Now Becca is only a size 8 to start with and once she decides to cut out all potatoes and junk food and basically anything that is not a vegetable or meat she goes down to a size 4, but she is still feeling like she is ugly and is way more comfortable in a six. Now you may say really? A size 8? I would kill to be a size 8, but society has made it so that we are not comfortable in our own skin, this was a big issue for the writer to write about, so many times we get caught up in what we think others should think, and we are never happy with ourselves.
Becca has a boyfriend named Connor who she has been dating for quite awhile, that is until she finds him in her bed with her best friend Ashlynn. Ashlynn always wants everything that Becca has, and she didn't stop at the boyfriend either. She continues through out the book trying to trump Becca every chance she gets. Becca is a very passive, timid woman, and to a point that is good, but I think she is this way because everyone is always saying something about her weight, Ashlynn is always pointing it out right along with her mom, you shouldn't eat that, or it's ok that your not a size 2.
Becca broke my heart, she so wants to just be loved, for who she is, that she doesn't even love herself. She is constantly trying to make herself better, She needs to learn to love herself, or she is never going to ever be happy.
She graduates from college and moves in with her other bestfriend Jamie and she decides she is just going to have fun and sleeps around with a whole bunch of guys they meet at bars. She finally lands a job back home and moves back. She has a beautiful condo that her parents set up for her, and she is not happy with the fact that she is home and under their thumb once again, she wants to be able to do this on her own. But again Becca is timid and doesn't like to cause waves so she stays quiet.
At her new job she meets Tyler and he is the bosses son, he runs the company with his dad and two brothers, now Tyler has his own issues and those issues cause him to want to keep her a secret, and not because of the way she thinks, she thinks it's because she is not perfect and that she is no way good enough for him, but they have to learn to deal with these things together, and both of them are very hard to get to open up, so while she thinks she is not good enough, and that she is fat and frumpy. Tyler is not like that, he loves the way she looks, and doesn't have issues with any of that.
The book continues to deal with Tyler and Becca's relationship and their issues, but is this going to tear them apart? Someone with all the issues that Becca has can she put up with being a secret and if she does for how long?
This book really spoke to me, maybe because I related to it so well, I found Becca to be a beautiful woman with some major issues, I do believe that Tyler can help her face some of her fears, and that he will help bring out that feistyness that she is missing. AND it is there. She just has to be willing to let it out.
Tyler when he finally told his story my heart broke too, these are two beautiful, damaged souls looking for someone to just love them. And I do believe they have found that in each other.
I loved going on this journey with them, and their story is not over, but their was not a major cliff hanger, which I loved also, it left me wanting more, but I was also satisfied.
Thank you Brooke for a beautiful story, about learning to love yourself, about learning that you might not always be perfect but in someone's eyes they will see you as perfect! And isn't that what we are all looking for ?
4.5 stars O-M-G, I love Tyler and Becca. Both the main characters have flaws, (a little Fifty Shades meets Crossfire Series to me), but if they didn’t have flaws, I would have been bored with the story. Who wants to read about to two beautiful, rich people that are perfect and have a perfect relationship? Becca Stine is a 24 year old college graduate who was dealt a bad hand when her boyfriend Connor cheated on her in her last year of college with her childhood friend Ashlynn. To get over the devastation, she and her best friend Jamie lived it up for a year in Florida. After a frightful encounter in her dangerous lifestyle Becca and Jamie make the move back to Becca’s hometown of Grand Rapids after she accepts a job at Conklin Architecture, Construction, and Design. (She’s a good girl who tried to be bad, who just wants to be loved… ahhh) Tyler Conklin is a beautiful complex man, he along with his father and brothers, run Conklin Architecture, Construction, and Design. When we first meet him, we realize that there are some underlying problems with him that are going to affect his story. The first realization this is his sexual escapade with his childhood nanny at his grandfather’s funeral. (oh, this guy is going to be awesome to read about.) I love how Becca and Tyler meet; it reminded me a lot of Gideon and Eva from Crossfire, but with a different twist. They meet at work, Tyler is her bosses’ boss, who is intrigued by the new employee (Becca), and calls her out for her opinion during her first company meeting. The story moves smoothly, the writing great; we really get a feel for Becca and Tyler’s struggles and passion throughout the book. The only issue I had with Becca is that she can be a little too whiny and insecure at times, but if you think about it, you should be able to completely relate as a woman. How would you feel if your boyfriend cheated on you, with your friend, in your bed, I’d be insecure too? Tyler also has his own demons with his family and relationships, that sometimes I just wanted to slap and he tell him to grow a pair. The supporting cast of this book was also amazing. I love Jamie’s unwavering support for Becca and the Conklin brother’s family chemistry great. Also, every book needs a bad girl, enter… Ashlynn and a horrible parent – JR Conklin or Missy Stine (take your pick). I give this book a definite 4.5 stars. If you loved Fifty Shades and the Cross Fire series, this book is defiantly for you! ***This is the first book in the Conklin’s Blueprints Trilogy. Tonya
Tyler I like that he starts to come out of his shell when Becca is around, "Tyler was watching me again. "You. What do you think?" The room still as he pointed his finger at me. everyone in the conference room turned their heads to look at me, except Nathan. He looked dumbfounded at his brother. Sh**. Tyler must have seen my amusement towards Sawla's comments." Tyler he's how do I say protective of Becca right off the bat, "how the hell can she still be your best friend? She took your boyfriend of three years! Why don't you change your number?" He exclaimed." Becca she doesn't have much self confidence, "Tyler glanced at me and flexed his jaw, he nonchalantly said, "No, I didn't." I sucked in air, he was ashamed of me. It all made sense now. How quickly he pulled away from me when he heard the hotel door open in the middle of our kiss, how he checked the hall before he took my hand and walked me to my hotel room. He didn't want anyone to see us together because I wasn't good enough for him." The boy just gives off mixed signals, "Tyler took a swig of his beer and looked over at me. He gently caressed my shoulder with a single finger. Tilting his head to the side, he bit his lip then shook his head at me. He couldn't stop grinning. Was he drunk? I didn't even care; I wanted him so badly." I mean seriously the boy is worse than a woman PMSing and that is saying something, "with irritation, I looked up as I was buttoning my jacket and saw Tyler's eyes glued to my chest. I frowned and cocked my head. His eyes eventually traveled up to lock with mine. "I love your dress," he murmured with a wicked grin." I mean Becca through out the book grows some balls and I was so damn proud of her, "I'm done Tyler. Why don't you go find someone else to eff that you don't have to guy dinner for," I sobbed. I tried to sound angry and furious but only pain and sorrow escaped my mouth." I think that Becca standing up to him and trying to become her own person and move one really worked, "he scowled back at me, his eyes looking pained. "Why did you come with him? Just to make me jealous? Because it's working, okay? You proved your point, now please, forgive me," he begged."
I LOVED LOVED LOVED this book!!! I was so enchanted by the characters and found myself mirroring their emotions. This is an incredible modern day romance that is steamy, passionate, smart, and tasteful. This is a book you won't put down and will be waiting on the edge of your seat for the next one to come out!
I really liked this book. Maybe because I can identify with Becca and her self-esteem problems. It was great to see how she didn't give up her love for Tyler. They were so great together. :)
LOVED this novel by Author Brooke Page. I recently met Brooke on facebook and loved her book cover so much I decided to read her book. So glad I did. Becca, having grown up with billionaire parents, she was far from the spoiled rich kid. After Becca’s best friend does the worst possible thing to their friendship, Becca goes on a year long out of control party scene. Once she gets her act together again, she decides to return home and start a new job as an architect, new condo purchased by her parents of course and her new best friend Jamie moves in with her. Her very first day on the job she meets the Conklin brothers in a department meeting. Tyler Conklin oversees the smirk on Becca’s face over something someone else said. Nothing like being put on the spot your first day. Tyler seems to have a thing for Becca and soon they begin to hang out together. However, Tyler wants know one knowing they are seeing each other at work, which makes things very difficult. Tylers father RJ is a real jerk, not going into why, you’ll have to read the story. But soon things take a turn for the worst, Becca’s past comes out, Tyler himself has dark secrets. Are they able to overcome these dark tales and truly have a wonderful relationship? I believe so……until the unthinkable happens. Are you kidding me? I love Tyler and Becca together. Will they have a happy ending, time will tell and so does the story. I cannot wait for part 2 to continue the drama, roller coaster love affair between Tyler and Becca. THANK you Brooke for writing such a wonderful and fabulous story. You rock and so does this book
This was a wild ride. Not a second chances romance because the stupid college boyfriend did not deserve anything but what he does get, but Becca Stine is becoming an adult. She never burns any bridges which is crazy because she is too nice. I really wanted to slap her, but at least she has a great bestie, Jamie Rae to pull her through some dark times after she graduates from college. I am surprised that Jamie doesn't just stay in Florida and moves back into with Becca... I guess free rent is something to move across the country for? I'm generally against office romance, which is what this story mostly about as Becca has to hide her developing relationship with her Boss's boss, Tyler Conklin. Becca seems honestly good at her commercial architecture job and totally doesn't care about being from a really rich family, but she is still almost the craziest messed up heroine that I've read in a while. Becca needs to seek professional help about her eating and abandonment issues. This was not a fluff story, there are some terrible things attacked in this story with some bad people rolled in with some good folks while everyone is making bad decisions until the end when Becca explodes which was probably the most satisfying moment to this reader. Thank you author for that telling everyone off moment because it made the whole book worth reading! 334 pages and kindle freebie 3 stars
This is such a great story. I felt connected to the characters. Brooke really knows how to keep you invested and not stop reading till the end. Ugh it's kind of a cliffhanger but not really. I highly recommend this book.
Sorry for the vague review. This one is hard for me to review without spoiling something. I loved it THAT much!
I LOVE this book. Literally from the get go I was hooked and did not want to put it down. And when I had to put It down I swear i wanted to cry. That is no lie! I had to be dragged away from my Kindle LOL.
Anyways the story Surrounds Becca Stine and Tyler Conklin. Becca's heart it crushed when she walks in on her Long term boyfriend Connor and her best friend Ashlyn in bed together. She is so hurt by them,BUT Becca be the loving person that she is she forgives them. I mean as in stays friends with that...... ***** And even talks with Connor. I know right,what the Hell is up with that???? But that's just the type of nice person she is. She doesn't like the taught's of hating someone its just not in her nature.
So she finish's college all the while not kicking Ashlyn's boney behind. Her and her bestest friend Jamie Rae decide to take a year off after college to enjoy life and unwind. So thats what they do,drink,dance,party and take guys home. And thats all good until one night a bloke gets a little to handsy with Becca. It's her walk up call that she needed. Sleeping around and partying isn't a life. So she sets off to where she grew up for a job and more stability.
She gets a job working at a junior architect. That's what she wants to focus on now,her job. No more sleeping around that isn't who she wants to be anymore. But isn't faith s strange thing just as Becca wasn't looking for another bloke one is thrust upon her. Enter Tyler Conklin. AS in one of her Boss's!!! There is an instant connection with them. I won't say how they first meet because you'll see when you read it ;) But one night Becca is in the office late going over blueprints she had of the perfect house her and Connor were going to live in before he crushed her heart. When she looks up who's standing there watching her? Yep Tyler bloody Conklin! She's taken back by him just been there so as you can Imagine when he ask's her to join him for a bite to eat she's SHOCKED to say the least. This starts the whole thing between them,she open's up to Tyler so much that night about the whole Connor and Ashlyn thing which she never does with anyone. So that night that exchange numbers(as friends of course).
Tyler is intense though. He has his own past he's battling with. And doesn't open up as easy as Becca does. He sends her so many mixed signals I'm sure at one point she had whiplash from them! And Becca,Tyler can't believe how she can forgive Connor and Ashlyn so easy. He is SHOCKED like never before. Sooooo lets say there's a very interesting scene where they all finally meet ;)
I won't say much more because I don't actually wanna tell you everything that happened because this is a book you should one click right away. But be ready for ALOT of emotions while reading this. I went from wanting to hug the life outta them both to wanting to give them as ass whopping each many times. But no matter whats emotions you feel LOVE will be one of them. I'm sure like all the other reviews on this book that you will love the start to this trilogy. I now cannot wait till January for part two. I may have to stalk the author until then ;) Happy reading!!!
Many thoughts here. Many many thoughts. Just where to start is the question. Okay here goes. The book is sweet and good. there are some editing issues that didn't get weeded out but it doesn't detract from the story. Does cause a little hindrance but doesn't harm the story.
That aside my biggest issue was with Becca and her band of misfit people who cared for her. Her mom who loves her but degrades her and makes her feel less of a person. Ashlynn who wants everything she has, is whiny, selfish, irritating, horrible, degrades her two ways to sunday but for some reason Becca comes back for more continuously even after she betrays her. connor who is just weak and beneath her. Gage who has a messed up way of showing love for her.
the one who showed kindness and vulnerability while trying to navigate through his own demons and issues is the one she got Balls to call out and treat like complete dirt. I mean yes sometimes Tyler was an idiot but with him he was trying to protect her and she let her insecurities take over. Her insecurity of her body and that no one will love her. No one will care.
Tyler shows that it is more than that but doesn't quite know how to be a boyfriend. Never having a real relationship or being close to anyone he is in the dark. Afraid his dad will betray him, he tries to protect Becca and that blows up on him. Faced with emotions he isn't used to while fighting to be in Becca's life and allow her to do things others haven't done before is really hard on him.
Brooke Page portrays tyler in a strong and yet vulnerable way. She shows the facets of him both light and dark that exist and how he just wants to be loved and cared for and have someone to do the same with. He wants to experience life like others have with emotion and feeling. Touching and connection but is afraid of what the consequences of this will be. She shows us Becca as a victim, a stranger to herself, a woman trying to find her strength and convictions and one trying to be her own person. Becca with the help of Tyler learns that people can care without it being about what you look like or without putting you down and wanting something. that people can accept you for you and allow you to get comfortable first and gain the confidence via someone's support and love to gain the strength you need to become a stronger person and take a stand for yourself. we do see becca do this take a stand and it's great to see her finally say something to all that put her down, held her back, fed into her insecurities and just treated her horribly.
these two belong together one helps one gain confidence and sense of self while the other helps one see what love is and how it doesn't make you vulnerable but strong and better. they go through many trials to be together and there are some precious moments like the end, or the game and even the walk on the beach that just have you see how truly amazing Tyler is when he allows himself to let go of his fear and anger towards himself and his dad.
a wonderful story of two broken people helping each other become stronger while falling in love.
This book immediately hooked me and I couldn't willingly put it down. The few times I was forced to it never left my mind. Brooke Page weaved a captivating story about two completely broken people who just want to be loved despite their previous less than desirable experiences with love. The storyline itself isn't necessarily original, but the characters make it feel that way.
This book has an odd combination. Although the characters are somewhat dark/Debbie Downers who are continuously trying to overcome their pasts.. the story itself is really enjoyable and fun. You would have thought I was the one dating Tyler Conklin as much as I swooned. My husband repeatedly asked, "What the hell are you grinning about over there?" lol. I couldn't help it, these two had great chemistry! And to those who care about the sex - it was pretty steamy and definitely NOT overdone or repetitive.
Becca is our heroine and I'm conflicted as to how I feel about her. Throughout most of the book she is a stage 5 clinger with over-the-top self-esteem issues. I get that she faced the ultimate betrayal and that she has mommy issues, but I still had trouble understanding some of the irrational thoughts that went through that poor girl's head. Becca is also a huge push over. I, myself, am a pushover and avoid confrontation like it's the plague, but the things Becca put up with were outlandish. I wanted to reach through the book and shake some sense into her multiple times. That being said, I didn't hate her and fortunately she finally had a breaking point (one of my favorite scenes in the book). She was much more likeable/tolerable after that.
Then we have Tyler Conklin (I'm smiling just thinking about this guy).. he's the mysterious, sexy, strong, silent type. Tyler's family owns the architecture firm that Becca works for. He's had a similar past as Becca.. just a much more dark and demented version. He's not one to attach himself to people and doesn't do relationships, but when he meets Becca he's unable to stay away (as long as they are in private and away from prying eyes that is). Becca's low self-esteem combined with him wanting a "secret" relationship sets the path for a bumpy ride, and Tyler has to choose between revealing the dark secrets of his past or risk losing Becca.
The characters are well developed and I'm a little sad to see it's only a trilogy because the character spinoff possibilities are unlimited. The Conklin's in general are a fascinating bunch.. even RJ. Their personalities are very different and distinguishable. From the book 2 teaser that is at the end of the book it looks like we will be getting to learn a lot more about the Conklin's and I can hardly wait! Conklin's Blueprints is NOT a cliffhanger, but be warned that the teaser for Conklin's Blueprints: Revised will have you aching for more!
I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. If I could give half stars I think I would actually rate this one 4.5 due to a few minor things that bothered me a bit.
Becca comes from a wealthy family but she's anything but a spoiled rich kid. In fact she seems to hate the perks that come with her name and wealth. (I liked that about her) After graduation, a serious heartbreak from her boyfriend and betrayal from her best friend, Becca goes on a partying binge with her new best friend and roommate. After a hard night of partying Becca gets the slap in the face she needs to get her life back on track. So, with her new best friend in tow she moves from her wild life in Florida to attempt a new respectable life as an architect in her home town of Grand Rapids, Michigan. Here's where the fun begins... Becca was a real and relatable character. Her self-esteem issues are something I think almost every woman can relate to in some way. She was beautifully flawed but her family and ex-best friend were constantly making underhanded comments about how she was far from the perfection they expected. Once Becca met Tyler her internal monologue got on my nerves a bit from time to time. There were a few times I couldn't understand why she was overreacting about certain situations but I just went with it. I feel Tyler's past was played up to be worse than it actually was. I still don't really understand why he has issues with being touched. Did the ex beat him? Anywho, I still loved the story. I DO prefer my men a little more alpha male but I grew to love Tyler and was rooting and swooning for him every step of the way. He too seemed slightly unimpressed with his own wealth. I like how they slowly got to know each other for going to any next levels. There was a reason behind their connection and it wasn't just love/lust at first sight. (not that I'm against that) Every time Becca interacted with Ashlynn I hoped an prayed that that would be the time she just straight up punched her in her perfect little face. But when the time finally came and Becca grew a backbone, I was cheering in my seat. I loved it...everything she said was perfect! And karma was played out perfectly. There were moments when things were a bit too descriptive for my taste but that's just my issue. I have a vivid imagination and don't need to be told every little detail of an outfit or how a room looks or the exact placement of body parts every step of the way. But It took nothing away from the story. I may just be guilty of doing a wee bit of skimming. All in all, I recommend this book to those who are looking for a sweet read of equally flawed and realistic characters(with some hot sexy sexiness thrown in). I can't wait to read the rest of the series!
I enjoyed this book and would recommend to anyone looking for a good book that deals with infidelity and everyday dramas ,,,, there is little angst in here but is still a great book
So we have Tyler, he is introduced to us first and the impression you may first have of him will change ,,, he is hot and to be fair I'd be more than happy to have him as my boss so that I could look at him regularly ;)
We also have Becca ,,, now this is a character that your gonna feel for ,,, and there are probably a whole bunch of women out there that can definitely relate to this character ,,, I know I can ,,, she is a good person and she is loyal and just basically a really nice woman ,,, but she has been pooped on ,,, on a regular basis by people that are meant to be close to her ,,, ,she has been left feeling insecure and devalued ,,, no matter what she does it is never good enough ,,, she's not good enough ,,, or at least that's what she has been made to think
A chance meeting in a coffee shop is how Becca and Tyler meet ,,,, Becca is kind and generous and Tyler isn't used to that type of action in women ,,, they part ways only to realise that Tyler is in fact Beccas new boss ,,, they find ways to keep meeting, there is a connection there ,,, but obviously things don't run so smoothly ,,,,,,
Tyler has a past that many will frown on and this isn't really something he can take all of the blame for, but his relationship with his father changed a lot due to it and now there is a pretty nonexistent father son connection ,,, worried his father will take a liking to Becca he feels he is needing to keep their relationship private ,,, but how long can Becca deal with being a dirty little secret??.
Becca has her own past too ,,, broken trust by two important people in her life led her on a destructive path ,,, after a bad experience she decided to change her life and try to move on from the bad ,,, how far can she move on when Ashlynn (cheating best friend) is still a prominent person in her life ,,, wanting everything she has ,,, and not wanting Becca to be happy???
Becca takes and takes and takes ,,,, but there is only so much one person can take before they explode and to be honest with how much this girl takes from EVERYONE I for one would not want to be around the moment that she blows ,,,, it isn't pretty!!!
Can Tyler move past his insecurities surrounding his father? Will he ever be able to give Becca what she needs? ,,,, will Becca ever finally get rid of the nasties in her life and only keep the good people? Will she ever be happy in her own skin? Will she ever be happy with who she is?
Holy wow! I think I may have just found my next favourite book boyfriend in Tyler Conklin!
In this book we meet Becca a brokenhearted trainee architect from a priviledged background, who as well as starting a new job is turning over a new leaf in her life. After being betrayed by her ex and her ex best friend she spends a year living it up but soon realizes it’s not the life for her. A chance encounter initially brings her to the attention of Tyler who has his own dark secrets and hidden issues and this story is a truly gorgeous story of finding love and overcoming pasts. I found myself utterly immersed in the developing story and loved the balance between the passion of Becca and Tyler but also loved the ups and downs of their story too.
Becca is portrayed through the book as being a sweet, meek and mild character you can’t help but like and you do feel sorry for her and her issues with self image and her annoying habit of trying to please everyone but to her own cost. I personally identified with a lot of the emotions that she went through throughout the book. You can’t help feeling that in a lot of ways the world is against her and I was rooting for her and felt every emotion she went through. Although some of her choices made me a little mad at times I did whoop with joy at the end – and not for the reasons you are probably thinking either!
Tyler, well without spoiling anything, I just LOVED him. End of. He is portrayed as a really romantic caring guy at times but with obvious issues too and it takes a lot for him to open up and be the man Becca wants and needs him to be. Again though there were times I felt like leaning into the book and slapping him one but he always seemed to do something to redeem himself to me!
The chemistry and attraction between both Becca and Tyler is amazing to behold but don’t be under the illusion that this is a happy straight-forward romance novel. It will have you laughing, crying, groaning in utter frustration and will keep you gripped until the bitter end. So much comes between them and you will be left wondering whether they will actually make it through.
I also loved the other characters in the book too and loved how each of them had shaped Becca and Tyler into the characters from which they both fought hard to break free.
The ending leaves you satisfied but with a lot of unresolved questions and I SERIOULSY cannot wait to read Conklin’s Foundation – the Prologue is in the back of the book and my attention was seriously sparked after reading it!
Becca Stine thought she had it all, the perfect boyfriend, carefully selected for husband material, plans to design their dream her herself, and then it all crumbled. She walked in on Connor sleeping with one of her best friends, Ashlynn. That was it there was no turning back, Becca leaned to her friend Jamie for support, and their way to deal with it all was partying, drinking, and sleeping around. Becca had reached her limit and realized she needed another outlet to deal with her feelings. After recently finishing college, Becca and Jamie return to Becca’s home town of Grand Rapids. Becca has taken a new job as junior architect with Conklin Architecture, Constructions, and Design in hopes that she can succeed and start a new fresh future, leaving behind the hurt that Connor caused. Connor isn’t the bad mental baggage Becca still has stuck in her head; she also has a mother who is constantly criticizing her weight and general appearance. Unfortunately for Becca she is too nice, even to Ashlynn. Tyler Conklin one of the VP’s at the firm noticed Becca on her first day, but has a funny way of showing it. Tyler doesn’t have time for relationships, and leads a fairly private busy life, but someone how Becca breaks through. This is not to say that this is wild wind romance, it’s far from it, lots of drama, trust issues etc. I am hooked on this series. As soon as I finished this first book, I had to go and one click the second book in the series for my kindle. Thank goodness I don’t have to wait! You will fall in love with Tyler and Becca and their story. Granted there were also times I wanted shake Becca, “stop being so nice to the people that walk all over you, Girl!” The issues arise when Tyler doesn’t want anyone at work to know about him and Becca to keep a professional office appearance. Becca has a hard time trusting Tyler, not just that he could be faithful, but since she holds such a low self esteem of herself she has a hard time trusting that Tyler could actually care for her. I am a huge independent author fan, and I think its books like these that stumble into our laps that are the best. The characters were well developed, so much that at times I thought I was watching and episode of Sex and the City in my head. The writing flowed well and kept my interest throughout. I just downloaded the second book in the series and I can’t wait to start! Thank you so much to Brooke Page for the opportunity to read and review her book, I look forward to more of her work! I received a complimentary ARC in exchange for an honest review.
This book is about a girl who has a wealthy background but has a good head on her shoulder and tries to make it on her own. After taking a year break from college she finally landed a very decent job coincidentally on her hometown. Becca is the odd duckling compare to her 2 other siblings according to her. She has self esteem issues and her mother is one of the reasons why. Enter her so called friend Ashlynn who is the #1 bully in this story, she’s the “perfect” girl according to Becca because she’s tall, pretty and skinny but to tell you the truth she’s just a shell. Thankfully while in college she met her BFF Jamie Rae. She’s been with Jamie through thick and thin and is considered family friend. Becca also met Connor in college and became friends with him that turned romantic.
After landing a job and moving back to her hometown she was turning a new leaf in her life. She wanted to put last year behind her and keep it there. As you all know there’s no such thing as perfect life. One may think that all is good finally and then BAM!!! Tyler Conklin, the hot shot financial guru of Conklin’s Architecture. The mysteriously good looking and intimidating Tyler Conklin has caught Becca’s attention and vice versa. They started dating but kept it a secret at work. I totally get it on the professional side, the fact that she just landed a job on that company and then sleeping w/your boss’ boss doesn’t really look good and that’s how judge mental people would see it. Becca had difficulties on accepting the fact that their relationship is hidden from coworkers but she has more trouble accepting the fact that Tyler won’t tell his family about her, specifically RJ. To top things off her so called friend Ashlynn won’t just leave her alone! Also an old flame wants to rekindle something they’ve shared on and off while Becca was in college. At this point the girl couldn’t get a break from anyone!!! One day she finally snapped… I couldn’t really blame Becca from what happened though she probably could have done it a little differently but nonetheless those people needed to hear what she has to say. Now depending on how those people reacted is a totally different story which is something I’m hoping to read on the next book!
I definitely recommend reading Conklin’s Blueprint! Becca is relatable and she might just teach you a thing or two ;).
P.S. I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
I was sent a copy of this book for an honest review.
Becca & Tyler
Becca comes from a wealthy family and is determined to make it on her own without her last name paving the way for her. She reluctantly returns to her hometown after a year break from life and a Master's in Architecture degree under her belt. She lands a job as a junior architect at Conklin Architectire, Construction, and Design. She wasn't thrilled to return to her hometown, but it was something and time to grown up.
The first day of her new job her supervisor brings her along to a meeting. She catches the eye of one of the Conklin brothers, the quiet broody one, Tyler.
...And the rest is a bumpy road fairytale which has the same overused and abused storyline as too many others...
Becca has no self confidence. Believes she is not good enough for most and will never live up to her mother's expectations. She failed in her past relationship and lets the hurt use her as a doormat constantly.
Tyler has no clue of a real relationship. He has a hot and cold personality. From not acknowledging she exist in the workplace to becoming the sweet romantic most women swoon over.
In my opinion, this book hits a 3.5 star. Its a good book, but not great. The storyline isn't original. Or exceptional unless refferring to Becca who I find is exceptionally annoying for most of the book. I wanted to grab her by the shoulders and shake her! Ask her "WTF woman?!?" She was in her own mind too much, too meticulously describing her thoughts and the rooms around her plus was too negative. It caused me to skim a few times.
But I was intrigued enough, hooked and hoping, to find what was Tyler's dark past and waiting for Becca to become who I wanted as a lead female.
And I saw it, just enough to want to see what the future holds for Becca & Tyler, as well as the cast of other characters brought in throughout the book. Becca showed the strong female I wanted and hoped she would become. Tyler, well, he has some ass-kissing to do, but now he realizes the stakes and what he has to do to keep what he has and we start to understand the struggle his past has on him.
Will I read the next in this series? Yes, more than likely. The ending left us with hope and the *whoosahhh* all-is-good feeling. The epilogue left some mystery stirring in our minds.
Becca Stine Has had a hell of a time the past two years. After walking in on Her Boyfriend having sex in HER bed with Her childhood Best Friend. She decides to take a year off and go “wild” with her Loyal and real Best Friend after a bad experience one night after the bar she deicides its time for her too grow up and get a job. Unfortunately the job she lands is in her home town where her Wealthy Family is. Her Father loves her dearly but oh boy is her mother a piece of work Always putting her down about her weight her eating habits her appearance and anything else you could imagine. On her first day at her new job she meets Nathan and Tyler Conklin 2 of the owners sons and her bosses. She is instantly attracted To Tyler and its clear the feeling is mutual. As Tyler is sending her mixed signals and confusing her She is battling with her insecurity her mothers Crudeness and finding out the her Ex and her friend whom he cheated on her with are getting married and want her to help design their Dream house. Her relationship with Tyler was very confusing as he has reasons for why he couldnt allow anyone to know they were together but he didnt want to talk about those reason. At first Becca was a hard character for me to like I mean the girl had absolutely no backbone she let people walk all over her and she allowed her “friend” to constantly be around her and throw her relationship with Beccas ex in her face going as far as to agreeing to draw up the blueprints for their house and be her maid of honor at their wedding. However as the story went on I grew to like her because you could see her developing a back bone right in front of your eyes. Does Becca get the guy? Will Tyler finally explain what his reasons are and acknowledge their relationship publicly. Will her mom ever treat her with the respect she deserves? You’ll have to read to find out! The journey Becca takes is one of heartache, pain, love, and self discovery and is well worth the read. I give this book 4 stars.
Initial quick review...I wish I wouldn't have waited to read this book. loved it! when an author can get me to have a love hate relationship with characters (let's be honest don't hate) but so much emotion that you are pulled in like its you in the book. yep Brooke did a wonderful job for details for everyone in book and feelings that people in real life deal with.
lengthy review....Let me start by why did I wait so long to read this. When an author can just get you hooked on characters in book is the best feeling ever. You have Becca who who's family is wealthy. She didn't want her family name to get her a job so tried to hide it. She didn't have a good experience with supposed best friend who is nothing but rude to her but wont stand up for her. She ended up having low self esteem by what happened. Little did she know when she landed a job and she meets Tyler Conklin hot son of the company. He needs to keep business and play separate but will she open up to him? She knows that can't have a relationship with the owners son but her feelings are just to strong to deny.
Tyler and his two brothers help with the company but Tyler has suck resentment towards his father RJ. Why? well when you read you will fine out. He is very protective of Becca when shes near her dad but yet he wants to hid it and act like not in a relationship with her. Why she puts up with the behavior of always being walked on by not being good enough for her family, friends walking all over her and now her new relationship that she must hide? will she reach a breaking point?
I have to say read it you will be pleasantly surprised. When an author gets me to feel like I am part of the book cause you just get sucked in is the best feeling. I'm not going to lie there are parts when I wanted to shake Becca saying to myself "really girl cant you see whats happening." But also like that Brooke is giving us views on not just Tyler but his whole family
I loved this book! This book is gripping, page turning and makes you want to finish it in all one sitting to find out what will happen next.
Becca is from a rich family. She's had her heart broken by the love of her life and best friend. She decides to liven up her life and parties with her other bestie Jamie. Things change and she goes back home to her hometown and that's where things change and become rather interesting and meets the mysterious secretive Tyler.
Tyler is working for the family business. The business that takes up a lot of his time that is until he sees the lovely Becca. He is secretive and closed off and doesn't want to freak Becca out or lose her.
Becca- woah. You feel so deeply for her. I wish I could have reached into the book and hugged her. She's had a rough life in general and understood her reasons to accept things, but am so proud of her at a moment! I was rooting for her and cheering. I loved the way she was accepting, caring, loving, sweet and a kind person to those who have always hurt her the most. I loved how she changed Tyler and he her. I just loved her!
Tyler- swoon! I freaking loved him! He's secretive, jealous, possessive and more. He's charming, swoon worthy, makes awesome food and a wonderful man to have to care for you.. well you wish it could be you. He has a troubled past too and it affects him to this day. I loved how Becca got to him and allowed his "walls" to crumble some and let someone in. I loved him and loved how he truly cares and only has eyes for Her!!
This book is filled with lies, deception, love, hate, betrayal, angst, best friends and more that will truly captivate you until the very end.
Brooke has an awesome story line going here... and I can't wait until the 2nd book!! I am so excited to see what Brooke has in store for us.
5 gripping stars from me!
**Recv'd a copy of this book by the author in exchange for an honest review*