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Finding Focus #2
Chasing Castles
Long before Dani Reed and Micah Landry, there was the story of Deacon and Camille.
Camille Benoit loved to express herself on canvas and was a dreamer at heart. The small farm she was born and raised on bordered the Landry Plantation, providing her with prime real estate for daydreaming. Even though she spent a lot of time with her head in the clouds, one thing she was always certain about were her feelings for Deacon. He might’ve been two years older and one of her brother’s best friends, but none of that mattered to Cami.
Deacon Landry, older brother to Micah, was the local football star. The town might’ve put him on a pedestal, but he always had his feet firmly planted in the rich Louisiana soil. With all of his skills on and off the field, a good head on his shoulders, and a heart of gold, he was quite the catch, and everyone knew it, especially his long-time best friend, Cami.
"I know we've done things slowly, but I've loved you since I knew what it meant to love someone. "
He is all her heart has ever known. Her past, present and future. But will the future live up to her dreams?
Join Jiffy Kate in this second book of the Finding Focus series as they take you back to where it all started.
Camille Benoit loved to express herself on canvas and was a dreamer at heart. The small farm she was born and raised on bordered the Landry Plantation, providing her with prime real estate for daydreaming. Even though she spent a lot of time with her head in the clouds, one thing she was always certain about were her feelings for Deacon. He might’ve been two years older and one of her brother’s best friends, but none of that mattered to Cami.
Deacon Landry, older brother to Micah, was the local football star. The town might’ve put him on a pedestal, but he always had his feet firmly planted in the rich Louisiana soil. With all of his skills on and off the field, a good head on his shoulders, and a heart of gold, he was quite the catch, and everyone knew it, especially his long-time best friend, Cami.
"I know we've done things slowly, but I've loved you since I knew what it meant to love someone. "
He is all her heart has ever known. Her past, present and future. But will the future live up to her dreams?
Join Jiffy Kate in this second book of the Finding Focus series as they take you back to where it all started.
269 pages, Kindle Edition
Published August 30, 2016
78 people are currently reading
282 people want to read
About the author
Jiffy Kate
40 books1,887 followersSubscribe to Jiffy Kate's Newsletter: http://eepurl.com/c_JFaX
Jiffy Kate is the joint pen name for Jiff Simpson and Jenny Kate Altman. They're co-writing besties who share a brain and a love of cute boys, good coffee, and fun times.
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jiffykate
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jiffykatewr...
Jiffy Kate is the joint pen name for Jiff Simpson and Jenny Kate Altman. They're co-writing besties who share a brain and a love of cute boys, good coffee, and fun times.
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jiffykate
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jiffykatewr...
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 60 reviews
September 25, 2016
5 Super Sweet and Sexy Stars...MUST read!!!
Chasing Castles by Jiffy Kate (new-to-me authors) is the awesome friends to lovers story of Camille (Cami) Benoit and Deacon (Deke) Landry. I absolutely LOVED this book! I loved the way the story is told, going back and forth between the past and the present...very unique!
Cami has loved Deacon her entire life...first as friends, then as a teenager, it changes to something very different! Deacon has also always loved Cami...as one of his best friends (his other best friend just happens to be Cami's older brother Tucker) He and Tucker (as well as Deacon's brother Micah) have always looked out for Cami, "protecting" her, even when she didn't feel she needed it! It's when Cami is eighteen, just before Deacon heads off to college, that she decides she has to let him know how she feels, even if he doesn't feel the same way! After sharing a night that neither will ever forget, Deacon and Cami drift back into being best friends and move on to other places/people, but a large piece of their hearts stay with the other!
This book hooked me from the start and didn't let me go until the end....the sweet young love, to the hot and steamy sex scenes, to the heartbreaking drama (I actually yelled at my kindle at one point!) to the incredible HEA, this is definitely not the last book that I will read from this dynamic duo! I only wish I could give it more than 5 Stars....
Chasing Castles by Jiffy Kate (new-to-me authors) is the awesome friends to lovers story of Camille (Cami) Benoit and Deacon (Deke) Landry. I absolutely LOVED this book! I loved the way the story is told, going back and forth between the past and the present...very unique!
Cami has loved Deacon her entire life...first as friends, then as a teenager, it changes to something very different! Deacon has also always loved Cami...as one of his best friends (his other best friend just happens to be Cami's older brother Tucker) He and Tucker (as well as Deacon's brother Micah) have always looked out for Cami, "protecting" her, even when she didn't feel she needed it! It's when Cami is eighteen, just before Deacon heads off to college, that she decides she has to let him know how she feels, even if he doesn't feel the same way! After sharing a night that neither will ever forget, Deacon and Cami drift back into being best friends and move on to other places/people, but a large piece of their hearts stay with the other!
This book hooked me from the start and didn't let me go until the end....the sweet young love, to the hot and steamy sex scenes, to the heartbreaking drama (I actually yelled at my kindle at one point!) to the incredible HEA, this is definitely not the last book that I will read from this dynamic duo! I only wish I could give it more than 5 Stars....
August 30, 2016
4.5 Friends to Lovers Stars!!
The dynamic duo that is Jiffy Kate has done it again. They have once again provided me with a sweet and entertaining second chance romance.
Chasing Castles is told in past and present tense and is told from dual points of view. Chasing Castles follows the story of Deacon and Cami. Deacon and Cami have been best friends for the longest time, but Cami has always had deeper feelings for Deacon. One night, Cami finally is brave enough to let Deacon in on her feelings. The two of them share an unbelievable night together, but nothing more ever came from it. As time went on, both of them moved on with their lives. It will be many years before their lives will intersect again. They’ve both grown and their lives have changed, especially Cami’s. But, the feelings that they’ve been too scared to admit are still there. Will Cami and Deacon finally get their HEA? There is only one way to find out….
I have to say that I just adored Chasing Castles. The writing is so fun and engaging. It captivates you from the very beginning and the characters demand for their story to be told. I fell in love with Deacon and Cami instantly. I loved their friendship and how protective Deacon always was over Cami. I feel that he always had deep feelings for her, he was just to stubborn and afraid to admit it….I really liked Cami. I loved that she was a dreamer and that she wasn’t afraid to go after the things that she wanted in life. She never gave up or took the easy route, especially when things didn’t pan out as expected. I admired her strength and the way she loved those important to her.
I thought Deacon and Cami were great together. I loved that their relationship had a slow build to it. I loved how strong their foundation was and how no matter the obstacles that they faced, their friendship never wavered. You could tell that what they had was real and strong and was the type of love that was going to last a lifetime. I absolutely loved watching these two grow throughout the story and was totally satisfied with the way things progressed.
Chasing Castles is the second book in the Finding Focus series and was an absolute joy to read. Chasing Castles is a quick and easy read and is a beautiful friends to lovers/second chance romance. It is filled with lots of love, moments that will make you laugh and smile, moments that will frustrate you, and few twists thrown in along the way. This book is light on the drama and just the right amount of angst.
I really enjoyed Chasing Castles and can not wait to see what Jiffy Kate has up their sleeves next!
*I was provided an ARC copy of this book, in exchange for an honest review*
The dynamic duo that is Jiffy Kate has done it again. They have once again provided me with a sweet and entertaining second chance romance.
Chasing Castles is told in past and present tense and is told from dual points of view. Chasing Castles follows the story of Deacon and Cami. Deacon and Cami have been best friends for the longest time, but Cami has always had deeper feelings for Deacon. One night, Cami finally is brave enough to let Deacon in on her feelings. The two of them share an unbelievable night together, but nothing more ever came from it. As time went on, both of them moved on with their lives. It will be many years before their lives will intersect again. They’ve both grown and their lives have changed, especially Cami’s. But, the feelings that they’ve been too scared to admit are still there. Will Cami and Deacon finally get their HEA? There is only one way to find out….
I have to say that I just adored Chasing Castles. The writing is so fun and engaging. It captivates you from the very beginning and the characters demand for their story to be told. I fell in love with Deacon and Cami instantly. I loved their friendship and how protective Deacon always was over Cami. I feel that he always had deep feelings for her, he was just to stubborn and afraid to admit it….I really liked Cami. I loved that she was a dreamer and that she wasn’t afraid to go after the things that she wanted in life. She never gave up or took the easy route, especially when things didn’t pan out as expected. I admired her strength and the way she loved those important to her.
I thought Deacon and Cami were great together. I loved that their relationship had a slow build to it. I loved how strong their foundation was and how no matter the obstacles that they faced, their friendship never wavered. You could tell that what they had was real and strong and was the type of love that was going to last a lifetime. I absolutely loved watching these two grow throughout the story and was totally satisfied with the way things progressed.
Chasing Castles is the second book in the Finding Focus series and was an absolute joy to read. Chasing Castles is a quick and easy read and is a beautiful friends to lovers/second chance romance. It is filled with lots of love, moments that will make you laugh and smile, moments that will frustrate you, and few twists thrown in along the way. This book is light on the drama and just the right amount of angst.
I really enjoyed Chasing Castles and can not wait to see what Jiffy Kate has up their sleeves next!
*I was provided an ARC copy of this book, in exchange for an honest review*
December 1, 2017
Camille was the born and raised next to the Landry Plantation. She was always the girl that keep her head in the clouds and expressed her self through her art. From a young age her feelings remained the same for Micahs older brother, Deacon. However, Deacon only sees Camille as his best friend and nothing more.
This story tells about how Camille gets lost in life and Deacon comes and saves the day.
This book is hard to put down and you will be hooked from the first page. So if you have housework to do, dinner to cook or anything else you have to start, start this book after its all done.
This story tells about how Camille gets lost in life and Deacon comes and saves the day.
This book is hard to put down and you will be hooked from the first page. So if you have housework to do, dinner to cook or anything else you have to start, start this book after its all done.
April 30, 2020
Good story
I can't say I liked this book as much as Finding Focus, but it was still a well-written story with just the right amount of southern. It was nice to see all the Landrys again and get another glimpse of what's going on with Tucker and Piper (really need to get to their book). Maybe I'm just over the whole spend years pining for each other trope right now, but still a fan of these authors together! Onward to book three!
I can't say I liked this book as much as Finding Focus, but it was still a well-written story with just the right amount of southern. It was nice to see all the Landrys again and get another glimpse of what's going on with Tucker and Piper (really need to get to their book). Maybe I'm just over the whole spend years pining for each other trope right now, but still a fan of these authors together! Onward to book three!
Want to read
April 26, 2020🎁 FREE on Amazon today (4/26/2020)! 🎁
April 18, 2019
Amazing!
I thought book one was good, but book two was great! I love how this story alternates between past and present. I also like how we double back to Cami and her story after Dani and Michas story in book one.
I thought book one was good, but book two was great! I love how this story alternates between past and present. I also like how we double back to Cami and her story after Dani and Michas story in book one.
November 17, 2017
Southern Charm Round 2
I freaking love the Landry family. When you read these books you feel like a part of the family. A part of the town. Fantastic story of redeeming love. Second chance love. I had leaking eyes during parts of the story. So fantastic!!
I freaking love the Landry family. When you read these books you feel like a part of the family. A part of the town. Fantastic story of redeeming love. Second chance love. I had leaking eyes during parts of the story. So fantastic!!
November 8, 2017
I loved Dani and Micah in book one, but I also love Cami & Deacon! I love that they have known each other their whole life. I love that Deacon kind of fought his feelings for Cami because her brother was his best friend. I love even more that despite the roads they travel, they end up back where they belong ... together!
The Landry family - love them! I want to go hang out at Annie & Sam's and attend one of their parties! I want to eat at Pockets!
Y'all had me worried a bit in this one, but was glad at the turn of events and happy with how it all turned out.
On to Book #3!!
The Landry family - love them! I want to go hang out at Annie & Sam's and attend one of their parties! I want to eat at Pockets!
Y'all had me worried a bit in this one, but was glad at the turn of events and happy with how it all turned out.
On to Book #3!!
September 13, 2016
“ I just couldn’t cover up the past, ya know?”
“ You shouldn’t. The past is what makes us who we are right?”
Camille Benoit and Deacon Landry
Chasing Castles, p. 78
Deacon (Deke) Landry has always held a special place in Camille (Cami) Benoit’s heart.
Having grown up next to the Landry Plantation, Cami, her brother, Tucker, and all of the Landry kids are more like siblings than neighbors. Deke has always looked out for Cami in a brotherly fashion, but in Cami’s daydreams, he’s been the prince residing in the castle of her fantasies. Entering adulthood, Deke and Cami each head in different directions into a world filled with new people and exciting times. Even though life takes different turns for both of them, Deke and Cami never lose the threads of love and friendship bind them to one another.
Chasing Castles is the second novel in Jiffy Kate’s Finding Focus series, and is a stand alone book. As with Finding Focus, the story revolves around the Landry family, their neighbors and friends. Told in flashbacks and from alternating points of view, the authors wind a romantic tale of longing set in the sultry Louisiana heat. Deke is a true prince of a guy — he’s noble and credible (not to mention mouthwatering). Cami is endearing as the artist who sees her dreams come to fruition, regardless of what life has handed her — she’s a lovely, young Magnolia. (Speaking of Magnolias, who wouldn’t want to be mothered by Annie Landry?)
Team Jiffy Kate know how to craft characters that truly are the stuff of daydreams. The voices of the characters, as well as the plot lines are so well incorporated that this reader forgot Chasing Castles is a collaborative effort — it’s that seamlessly written. That the fates of Deke and Cami are a foregone conclusion does nothing to detract from the pleasure of this read.
Congratulations, Ladies on another winning story that left this reader longing for a seat at the next Landry barbecue.
Four Stars
April 27, 2017
I truly enjoyed this youth to adult, past to present, sweet as the south story about young love VS today’s world. It has a “Sweet Home Alabama” feel to it (the movie, not the song), which is one of my favorites by the way. Cami is adorable with everything she’s passionate about, from her art, to her friends, to her mother figure, to Deacon. I love how Jiffy Kate snuck in the back story about Cami’s mom – *grabs heart*. Beautiful.
The way these characters interacted was completely realistic with regards to age (for the PAST chapters) and I got the biggest kick out of identifying with Cami’s inner thoughts on all that was going on in her life.
I also enjoyed getting a glimpse of Micah and Dani and just all of their relationships, the way they all criss crossed and the friendships they had. LOVED. How her daddy got a second chance too and Tucker is just …. LOVE. What a great brother. I’m just saying.
The journey of Cami’s life in the past more than made up for the nail biting I had going on, not knowing what was going to happen in the present. Despite the heart breaking moments. I honestly had no idea how this story was going to end at a certain point. And now, I feel like I know this girl. Maybe that’s part of it. Being from the south, she’s just like that. A best friend I talk to about life. She gets me.
Other wonderful parts to this story: Deacon chapters. “Nothing that is part Cami can be bad.” I don’t know why that one stuck with me. It just did. Daddy. Bonfires. BABIES. I’m in a serious bliss right now. This was a great, fun read for anyone looking to smile tons and be so happy for a fictional character that you want to cry.
5 stars all the way.
Thanks Jiffy Kate!
The way these characters interacted was completely realistic with regards to age (for the PAST chapters) and I got the biggest kick out of identifying with Cami’s inner thoughts on all that was going on in her life.
I also enjoyed getting a glimpse of Micah and Dani and just all of their relationships, the way they all criss crossed and the friendships they had. LOVED. How her daddy got a second chance too and Tucker is just …. LOVE. What a great brother. I’m just saying.
The journey of Cami’s life in the past more than made up for the nail biting I had going on, not knowing what was going to happen in the present. Despite the heart breaking moments. I honestly had no idea how this story was going to end at a certain point. And now, I feel like I know this girl. Maybe that’s part of it. Being from the south, she’s just like that. A best friend I talk to about life. She gets me.
Other wonderful parts to this story: Deacon chapters. “Nothing that is part Cami can be bad.” I don’t know why that one stuck with me. It just did. Daddy. Bonfires. BABIES. I’m in a serious bliss right now. This was a great, fun read for anyone looking to smile tons and be so happy for a fictional character that you want to cry.
5 stars all the way.
Thanks Jiffy Kate!
September 1, 2016
“Chasing Castles” is the second book in the Focus Series for Jiffy Kate. This time we get to know all about my BookHusband Deacon and the charming Camille. He’s yet another Landry man to love. Add in our leading lady, written with so much love your heart will burst, and this book is simply perfection. Not wanting to say that the sequel is better the first, but I have never fallen in love so fast. From the arms of Deacon Landry, I write this review.
When you open the book, you immediately drift into a peace with the ‘voice’ of Camille Benoit. I am so enthralled with her and the words are woven together in such a way that I feel like I’m not reading a book. I am on the couch with my friends, learning the “how we met” story. Cami’s voice is strong and comfortable, familiar. And I love how I can connect to her immediately. I fall right in step with her flow and ease into the comfort of her motions as she paints this story.
Meanwhile in the background Jiffy Kate has secretly lured me into this rising action that will be the focus of the present parts of the book. We get a look into the past, learning so much about Deacon and Camille. Then we catch up with the crazy ride of the present.
“This is where they belong. I love them, Cami, and every time I’m here, and I look at them, I think of you, and it’s like you’re here with me. And I love that, too.” This, ladies and gentlemen, is Deacon Landry. He is all melted butter and sweet as honey. He is fierce, loyal, and drop dead sexy. Jiffy Kate wrote him so well that I feel like no other man can measure! Crazy? Well just read this book and find out for yourself. I’ll be here, waiting to say, “I told you so.”
When you open the book, you immediately drift into a peace with the ‘voice’ of Camille Benoit. I am so enthralled with her and the words are woven together in such a way that I feel like I’m not reading a book. I am on the couch with my friends, learning the “how we met” story. Cami’s voice is strong and comfortable, familiar. And I love how I can connect to her immediately. I fall right in step with her flow and ease into the comfort of her motions as she paints this story.
Meanwhile in the background Jiffy Kate has secretly lured me into this rising action that will be the focus of the present parts of the book. We get a look into the past, learning so much about Deacon and Camille. Then we catch up with the crazy ride of the present.
“This is where they belong. I love them, Cami, and every time I’m here, and I look at them, I think of you, and it’s like you’re here with me. And I love that, too.” This, ladies and gentlemen, is Deacon Landry. He is all melted butter and sweet as honey. He is fierce, loyal, and drop dead sexy. Jiffy Kate wrote him so well that I feel like no other man can measure! Crazy? Well just read this book and find out for yourself. I’ll be here, waiting to say, “I told you so.”
August 30, 2016
Having re-read the first book in the 'Finding Focus' series only recently, I was so happy to go on to read Cami and Deacon's back-story. That said, you don't need to read the first book in the series in order to get hooked on this one - I just wanted to get myself back into the 'Southern' zone :-)
This is a love story in two parts: the first part being very much Camille's story of how she fits into the Landry family, and how she's besotted with Deacon Landry - very much a story of young love that remains - for the most part, at least - unrequited. Half way through the book, Camille's 'knight in shining armour' rescues her from a very unhappy relationship - and the rest of the book focusses on the rediscovery these characters undergo with one another.
It's sweet without being sickly, and is peppered with humour and a couple of 'insider' references (the band name 'Hard Limits' being one of them!). I'm a sucker for a 'Happily Ever After' and this book didn't disappoint - I was left with a big smile on my face and feel safe in the knowledge that there's bound to be a third book in the series to come - I'm sure Jiffy Kate won't leave any loose ends :-)
This book is due out on 30/08/2016 - I was given an advanced reader's copy for an honest review.
This is a love story in two parts: the first part being very much Camille's story of how she fits into the Landry family, and how she's besotted with Deacon Landry - very much a story of young love that remains - for the most part, at least - unrequited. Half way through the book, Camille's 'knight in shining armour' rescues her from a very unhappy relationship - and the rest of the book focusses on the rediscovery these characters undergo with one another.
It's sweet without being sickly, and is peppered with humour and a couple of 'insider' references (the band name 'Hard Limits' being one of them!). I'm a sucker for a 'Happily Ever After' and this book didn't disappoint - I was left with a big smile on my face and feel safe in the knowledge that there's bound to be a third book in the series to come - I'm sure Jiffy Kate won't leave any loose ends :-)
This book is due out on 30/08/2016 - I was given an advanced reader's copy for an honest review.
September 1, 2016
Sweet. Powerful. Funny. Charming. All of these adjectives sum up Chasing Castles. As someone who adores a story about first love and seconds chances, this book really hit home for me. It flawlessly alternates between the past and present. I was sucked into this couple through their present situation while simultaneously falling in love with them in the past. Just as in the first book in the series, the chemistry of land, heritage, love, and attraction are unwavering. I, again, found myself reading to see what southern idioms they would use and how they would utilize the southern roots of the couple. A love story worthy of a song, Chasing Castles is a timeless tale of friendship to love and all that lies in between. Definitely two thumbs up, and please, ladies, tell Deke to add some fried pickles to Grinders menu for me.
August 12, 2016
I was searching for a sweet, romantic, true love, laugh out loud, swoony romance and Chasing Castles was just that. The story of Deacon and Cami, whom we met in Finding Focus, this was a beautiful story of first love and true love.
The story alternates between the present and the past which I loved. The storytelling drew you in to the dynamic between not only Deacon and Cami but also Micah and Tucker. The bonds of lifelong friendships that never faltered and were the basis for a love story that has you believing in true love. I enjoyed seeing the evolution of Deacon and Cami's relationship through the years. It matured and grew with each year and only solidified their commitments to their families and their friends.
Jiffy Kate continues to have me questioning why I don't live in the south. From their storytelling, it's the perfect place to be. 5 southern stars!
The story alternates between the present and the past which I loved. The storytelling drew you in to the dynamic between not only Deacon and Cami but also Micah and Tucker. The bonds of lifelong friendships that never faltered and were the basis for a love story that has you believing in true love. I enjoyed seeing the evolution of Deacon and Cami's relationship through the years. It matured and grew with each year and only solidified their commitments to their families and their friends.
Jiffy Kate continues to have me questioning why I don't live in the south. From their storytelling, it's the perfect place to be. 5 southern stars!
March 13, 2017
Never Stop Chasing Castles!
This book was refreshing. Nevermind the fact that it was like a romance jackpot of sorts (second chance love story, friends to lovers romance, surprise baby, etc), the chemistry between Deacon and Cami was something truly magical. Their connection was deep and meaningful and clearly stood the test of time. A friend turned me on to Finding Focus and I could not put it down. I was seriously counting down the days for this book to come out and I was not at all disappointed. I loved how the book alternated between the past and the present, and also how it was told from different perspectives. It truly enhanced the reader experience and added to the depth of this love story. The authors have a genuine gift with their words and I will not hesitate to purchase their books in the future.
This book was refreshing. Nevermind the fact that it was like a romance jackpot of sorts (second chance love story, friends to lovers romance, surprise baby, etc), the chemistry between Deacon and Cami was something truly magical. Their connection was deep and meaningful and clearly stood the test of time. A friend turned me on to Finding Focus and I could not put it down. I was seriously counting down the days for this book to come out and I was not at all disappointed. I loved how the book alternated between the past and the present, and also how it was told from different perspectives. It truly enhanced the reader experience and added to the depth of this love story. The authors have a genuine gift with their words and I will not hesitate to purchase their books in the future.
September 20, 2016
Chasing Castles is an amazing second chance romance book. This book gave me the feels with every page turn.
Deacon and Cami have been best friends. Even though Deacon is older, he's always been there for Cami. Deacon is sweet and kind. He has big dreams and aspirations. It takes a major realization for Deacon to figure out that he's not living his life to the fullest.
Cami loves painting and Deacon. She's loved him for as long as she could remember. Events happened that lead Cami to needing not only her family but Deacon.
I truly loved this story. I'm honored I had the chance to read and review.
Deacon and Cami have been best friends. Even though Deacon is older, he's always been there for Cami. Deacon is sweet and kind. He has big dreams and aspirations. It takes a major realization for Deacon to figure out that he's not living his life to the fullest.
Cami loves painting and Deacon. She's loved him for as long as she could remember. Events happened that lead Cami to needing not only her family but Deacon.
I truly loved this story. I'm honored I had the chance to read and review.
July 22, 2016
I was lucky enough to pre-read Chasing Castles.
Let me just say, so many feels! Such a great friends/brother's best friend to lovers book!
I loved seeing the flip flop of past and present of Deacon and Cami. Their journey from kids to adults is beautiful. You know they are meant to be from the beginning.
Such a great book. And I look forward to reading more from Jiffy Kate!
Let me just say, so many feels! Such a great friends/brother's best friend to lovers book!
I loved seeing the flip flop of past and present of Deacon and Cami. Their journey from kids to adults is beautiful. You know they are meant to be from the beginning.
Such a great book. And I look forward to reading more from Jiffy Kate!
September 14, 2016
Amazing!
I loved this book so much! I loved the flashbacks and how they added to the story of Cami and Deacon instead of making me confused. I also enjoyed that there was some of Micah, Dani, Tucker and Piper too, they're all great characters. I can't wait to read more from these awesome authors.
I loved this book so much! I loved the flashbacks and how they added to the story of Cami and Deacon instead of making me confused. I also enjoyed that there was some of Micah, Dani, Tucker and Piper too, they're all great characters. I can't wait to read more from these awesome authors.
February 12, 2025
Originally thinking this story would be a prequel about two characters introduced in book one, I was pleasantly surprised to see that, while the backstory was provided, it was mixed with events from the present as well, giving a different feel than most "prequel" type stories have. I'll definitely be keeping an eye out for more books from this author.
February 5, 2017
I think that Deacon is such an amazing man! He is loyal and loving, almost to a fault. Cami and him have such an interesting story.
Timing is Everything!
The only thing I didn't really care for was the past and present switching so much. It made some events harder ti keep up with.
I hope Tucker's story is next!
Timing is Everything!
The only thing I didn't really care for was the past and present switching so much. It made some events harder ti keep up with.
I hope Tucker's story is next!
January 24, 2019
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I’m not usually a fan of books that spend a lot of time in the past, but I loved this book and the flow of it. I actually read this book out of order because I couldn’t get enough of Micah and Dani, but Deacon and Cami have easily won my heart. I loved their relationship as best friends and their slow burn romance!
I’m not usually a fan of books that spend a lot of time in the past, but I loved this book and the flow of it. I actually read this book out of order because I couldn’t get enough of Micah and Dani, but Deacon and Cami have easily won my heart. I loved their relationship as best friends and their slow burn romance!
March 5, 2019
I don't know why it took me so long to read this story. Once I started I couldn't stop! I loved Finding Focus and Dani and Micah. But I have to say Deacon and Camille stole my heart in this story. Onto Fighting Fire ;)
September 3, 2016
Well written, fluffy, chick lit novel. Not much excitement but overall not too bad.
June 5, 2024
The Course of True Love...
Jiffy Kate's second Finding Focus book, Chasing Castles, lets Micah (book 1) Landry's older brother Deacon take the spotlight with his childhood crush, painter Camille Benoit. He's loved Cami since they were kids, but she never knew it; she's nursed her own obsession with him for years. The night before he left for college, 16-year-old Cami asked him to take her virginity, and he did. Then he broke his promise to return in two weeks, and the next time she saw Deacon he was with another girl. Feeling out of place as a high school girl among collegiate adults, Cami let go of her dream.
Three years later, Cami is selling her paintings in New Orleans and meets Tristan, a suave gallery manager who says he'll exhibit her work. He gives her expensive gifts, mostly as apologies for his angry, controlling behavior. It raises "emotional abuse" red flags for me, but Cami doesn't see it; she just thinks his passion for her is in a negative phase. When she tells him she's pregnant and he grabs her and tells her to abort the baby, she calls her older brother, Tucker (also in book 1), and begs him to come get her. He's on tour with his band but asks his best friend--Deacon--to check on her. Finding her cowering from Tristan, Deacon threatens the gallery manager and takes Cami to his place, a cottage on his parents' property, to recover from her trauma. Cami and Deacon revert to being best friends, though both secretly want more.
Sam and Annie Landry reserve Sundays for the three F's: Faith, Family, and Football. After a post-Mass lunch, Annie tells her son she knows Cami likes him, and she warns him not to hurt her. Tucker, whose tour is over by then, tells him the same but adds a typical guy threat, "...or I'll kick your a$$!"
Cami, at 39 weeks, delivers Carter Matthew, who quickly charms the Landry and Benoit families and sets them up for years of happiness. Annie and Sam celebrate their 35th anniversary, and Deacon proposes. Cami accepts! But...
There are two obstacles to a happily ever after (HEA). Before the wedding, Deacon visits his college girlfriend, who says she knew by the way he looked at Cami that she couldn't compete with the younger girl. That's one obstacle hurdled.
On the wedding day itself, Cami steps onto Annie's porch to ride to the church--and sees Tristan! Of all people, at the precise moment she's ready to go to her wedding? She's not falling for his "we were great together" platitudes. They weren't "great"; they were toxic, and she won't let him ruin her wedding day. She says the baby was a boy; he says, "I have a son?" and Cami says he doesn't! Sweet Annie threatens him with legal action by Sam, the best lawyer on their side of the Mississippi, and Cami's even sweeter stepmom says what she'd like to do to him, something so nasty Cami has to laugh. The second obstacle has been hurdled!
"Chasing Castles" refers to Cami's hope for a fairy tale life. She kisses a frog (Tristan) and nearly loses her prince in a restaurant fire a week before their wedding, but she casts off the poison of her toxic relationship and gets her HEA! The story alternates between Past and Present (it begins in the Present with Cami hearing the sirens on their way to the burning restaurant) and between Cami's view and, less often, Deacon's. I'm a fan of dual viewpoints, but the time travel intrigued me and worked well.
I loved Deacon and Cami's dedication (his to the restaurant, hers to her art, theirs to each other), and I thought their difficulties were realistic, not manufactured for extra drama--except for Tristan's colossally bad timing, but that was totally in character. Very highly recommended!
Spice: passionate kissing; non-explicit descriptions of intimate encounters between Cami and Deacon. References to Cami's intimacy with Tristan but no details--he doesn't deserve them!
***The headline is a partial quote from Shakespeare's play, A Midsummer Night's Dream. The rest is: "...never did run smooth." I think it fits!
Jiffy Kate's second Finding Focus book, Chasing Castles, lets Micah (book 1) Landry's older brother Deacon take the spotlight with his childhood crush, painter Camille Benoit. He's loved Cami since they were kids, but she never knew it; she's nursed her own obsession with him for years. The night before he left for college, 16-year-old Cami asked him to take her virginity, and he did. Then he broke his promise to return in two weeks, and the next time she saw Deacon he was with another girl. Feeling out of place as a high school girl among collegiate adults, Cami let go of her dream.
Three years later, Cami is selling her paintings in New Orleans and meets Tristan, a suave gallery manager who says he'll exhibit her work. He gives her expensive gifts, mostly as apologies for his angry, controlling behavior. It raises "emotional abuse" red flags for me, but Cami doesn't see it; she just thinks his passion for her is in a negative phase. When she tells him she's pregnant and he grabs her and tells her to abort the baby, she calls her older brother, Tucker (also in book 1), and begs him to come get her. He's on tour with his band but asks his best friend--Deacon--to check on her. Finding her cowering from Tristan, Deacon threatens the gallery manager and takes Cami to his place, a cottage on his parents' property, to recover from her trauma. Cami and Deacon revert to being best friends, though both secretly want more.
Sam and Annie Landry reserve Sundays for the three F's: Faith, Family, and Football. After a post-Mass lunch, Annie tells her son she knows Cami likes him, and she warns him not to hurt her. Tucker, whose tour is over by then, tells him the same but adds a typical guy threat, "...or I'll kick your a$$!"
Cami, at 39 weeks, delivers Carter Matthew, who quickly charms the Landry and Benoit families and sets them up for years of happiness. Annie and Sam celebrate their 35th anniversary, and Deacon proposes. Cami accepts! But...
There are two obstacles to a happily ever after (HEA). Before the wedding, Deacon visits his college girlfriend, who says she knew by the way he looked at Cami that she couldn't compete with the younger girl. That's one obstacle hurdled.
On the wedding day itself, Cami steps onto Annie's porch to ride to the church--and sees Tristan! Of all people, at the precise moment she's ready to go to her wedding? She's not falling for his "we were great together" platitudes. They weren't "great"; they were toxic, and she won't let him ruin her wedding day. She says the baby was a boy; he says, "I have a son?" and Cami says he doesn't! Sweet Annie threatens him with legal action by Sam, the best lawyer on their side of the Mississippi, and Cami's even sweeter stepmom says what she'd like to do to him, something so nasty Cami has to laugh. The second obstacle has been hurdled!
"Chasing Castles" refers to Cami's hope for a fairy tale life. She kisses a frog (Tristan) and nearly loses her prince in a restaurant fire a week before their wedding, but she casts off the poison of her toxic relationship and gets her HEA! The story alternates between Past and Present (it begins in the Present with Cami hearing the sirens on their way to the burning restaurant) and between Cami's view and, less often, Deacon's. I'm a fan of dual viewpoints, but the time travel intrigued me and worked well.
I loved Deacon and Cami's dedication (his to the restaurant, hers to her art, theirs to each other), and I thought their difficulties were realistic, not manufactured for extra drama--except for Tristan's colossally bad timing, but that was totally in character. Very highly recommended!
Spice: passionate kissing; non-explicit descriptions of intimate encounters between Cami and Deacon. References to Cami's intimacy with Tristan but no details--he doesn't deserve them!
***The headline is a partial quote from Shakespeare's play, A Midsummer Night's Dream. The rest is: "...never did run smooth." I think it fits!
November 20, 2016
Chasing Castles
By: Jiffy Kate
4 Stars
This is the second book in the Finding Focus series but do not be fooled and think that because you were introduced to these characters in the first book that you have it all figured out because I can assure you, you don’t. This book is told in both alternating POV and alternating time frame so you get all aspects of their story, because these two characters have known one another their whole lives I think it’s important to get the history along with there here and now.
Deacon Landry is the oldest son of the infamous Landry family in French Settlement. To outsiders it may appear that he has lived a privileged life and grown up with a silver spoon in his mouth, but to those fortunate enough to grow up literally right next door they know the real Deacon that not many take the time to know. Living in a small southern town it’s to be expected that every red blooded American male is all about football and Deacon is no exception, he is the star of his high school team and has offers to continue on through college, only that isn’t Deacon’s plan. Deacon knows what he wants and even as a senior in high school he has a plan to make his dreams come true.
Camille Benoit has grown up living next door to the Landry’s her whole life. Both families are lifelong friends her brother and both the Landry boys are best of friends and with all of them being so close it’s no surprise that Cami is the crown jewel of them all. Growing up as the baby of the group and the only girl could have been more than some could handle but not Cami and not when she always had Deacon as her back up. But as time passed by and people grow and move in different directions life settles in and the things you have always known are suddenly not the same and looking back you don’t even know when the change happened.
Deacon and Cami dance around their feelings for one another for years never being on the same path at the same time. But eventually the stars align and they begin to find their way. Chasing Castles is about two people who dare to dream the same dream but can’t seem to find a way to make their dream a reality. They struggle both as individuals and as a friendly duo to get back to something that has always been as easy as breathing. Following this story in all its twists and turns and trying to figure out which way is next will keep you guessing from the first page to the last but one thing you won’t do is regret the journey. I loved this book and I loved these characters and that no matter what obstacles life threw in their way they managed to find a way around them and they fought for themselves and each other.
By: Jiffy Kate
4 Stars
This is the second book in the Finding Focus series but do not be fooled and think that because you were introduced to these characters in the first book that you have it all figured out because I can assure you, you don’t. This book is told in both alternating POV and alternating time frame so you get all aspects of their story, because these two characters have known one another their whole lives I think it’s important to get the history along with there here and now.
Deacon Landry is the oldest son of the infamous Landry family in French Settlement. To outsiders it may appear that he has lived a privileged life and grown up with a silver spoon in his mouth, but to those fortunate enough to grow up literally right next door they know the real Deacon that not many take the time to know. Living in a small southern town it’s to be expected that every red blooded American male is all about football and Deacon is no exception, he is the star of his high school team and has offers to continue on through college, only that isn’t Deacon’s plan. Deacon knows what he wants and even as a senior in high school he has a plan to make his dreams come true.
Camille Benoit has grown up living next door to the Landry’s her whole life. Both families are lifelong friends her brother and both the Landry boys are best of friends and with all of them being so close it’s no surprise that Cami is the crown jewel of them all. Growing up as the baby of the group and the only girl could have been more than some could handle but not Cami and not when she always had Deacon as her back up. But as time passed by and people grow and move in different directions life settles in and the things you have always known are suddenly not the same and looking back you don’t even know when the change happened.
Deacon and Cami dance around their feelings for one another for years never being on the same path at the same time. But eventually the stars align and they begin to find their way. Chasing Castles is about two people who dare to dream the same dream but can’t seem to find a way to make their dream a reality. They struggle both as individuals and as a friendly duo to get back to something that has always been as easy as breathing. Following this story in all its twists and turns and trying to figure out which way is next will keep you guessing from the first page to the last but one thing you won’t do is regret the journey. I loved this book and I loved these characters and that no matter what obstacles life threw in their way they managed to find a way around them and they fought for themselves and each other.
January 3, 2018
First off, I thought the way the story was laid out from present with flashbacks to the past was amazing!! It was easy to follow and get wrapped up in this book!
Now for the good stuff-
I loved Deacon when he was introduced in Finding Focus. His love for his family was evident even as a secondary character so I knew when his and Cami's story was told, it would be amazing. I wasnt prepared for my heart to hurt so much for them though. The authors make you feel Deacon and Cami's heartache when their lives take different paths so many times. There were plenty of times while reading I would be shaking my iPad with tears in my eyes, because they just couldn't make that commitment together.
Cami is a strong woman with dreams of her own. While a Deacon is living his with his restaurants, Cami goes in search of hers. Regardless of time and distance, these two are always there for each other. So it's no surprise that Deacon shows up the night Cami needs him most.
I felt for Deacon because while he loved Cami, he didn't think he could be with his best friends little sister. Plus he had a girlfriend who really had done nothing wrong. She just wasn't THE ONE for Deacon.
Cami and Deacon share a love people are lucky to have. It isn't easy. Lots of paths are taken before they can find the one that leads them where they belong.
Another awesome story in this series!!!
Now for the good stuff-
I loved Deacon when he was introduced in Finding Focus. His love for his family was evident even as a secondary character so I knew when his and Cami's story was told, it would be amazing. I wasnt prepared for my heart to hurt so much for them though. The authors make you feel Deacon and Cami's heartache when their lives take different paths so many times. There were plenty of times while reading I would be shaking my iPad with tears in my eyes, because they just couldn't make that commitment together.
Cami is a strong woman with dreams of her own. While a Deacon is living his with his restaurants, Cami goes in search of hers. Regardless of time and distance, these two are always there for each other. So it's no surprise that Deacon shows up the night Cami needs him most.
I felt for Deacon because while he loved Cami, he didn't think he could be with his best friends little sister. Plus he had a girlfriend who really had done nothing wrong. She just wasn't THE ONE for Deacon.
Cami and Deacon share a love people are lucky to have. It isn't easy. Lots of paths are taken before they can find the one that leads them where they belong.
Another awesome story in this series!!!
March 27, 2021
This one gets a 3.5 rating. I enjoyed how clever this story was written. We were introduced to Deacon and Cami in book one with Micah's story. It was a fun idea that we get the backstory to these characters.
Cami has known Deacon her whole life. Their families were close friends and when tragedy strikes the two families help each other. Over the years the two year age gap between the two would hold them back from the relationship they both want. But the love they have for each other has always been there. Once Cami finishes college and finds herself with a life crisis, Deacon is the one there to help her though the dark days. Once Deacon realizes how important Cami is to his life and his future, nothing or no one will keep him from her.
The author does a very interesting job of telling half of the story in the past and half in the present. While clever, it also had me on the edge of my seat wondering what was going to happen next. This couple goes through so much and it breaks your heart a little to read it even though you know they find their way.
Cami has known Deacon her whole life. Their families were close friends and when tragedy strikes the two families help each other. Over the years the two year age gap between the two would hold them back from the relationship they both want. But the love they have for each other has always been there. Once Cami finishes college and finds herself with a life crisis, Deacon is the one there to help her though the dark days. Once Deacon realizes how important Cami is to his life and his future, nothing or no one will keep him from her.
The author does a very interesting job of telling half of the story in the past and half in the present. While clever, it also had me on the edge of my seat wondering what was going to happen next. This couple goes through so much and it breaks your heart a little to read it even though you know they find their way.
July 2, 2021
💕 About: Camille Benoit loved to express herself on a canvas and was a dreamer at heart. Deacon Laundry was the local football star and best friends with Camille and her older brother Tucker. He is all her hear has ever known. Her past, present, and future. But will the future live up to her dreams?
💕What I liked: I liked having the background story to Cami and Deacon with this book
💕What I disliked: Toward the end there were a couple parts that seemed would be bigger then they were but ended up being nothing which was a disappointment. And some of their story I feel like there any reason for it. But maybe with the next book it will explain more?
💕Quotes: “No matter what, you’ve got to stay true to you. Don’t let him dull your shine”
“She told me that we’re not meant to see where our lives are headed for a reason. If we saw everything ahead of time, we wouldn’t take risks. And without risks, we’d never learn how to pick ourselves up or try again. Without all of that, we’d never become the people we’re intended to be”
💕 Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️ 3 out of 5 stars.
💕What I liked: I liked having the background story to Cami and Deacon with this book
💕What I disliked: Toward the end there were a couple parts that seemed would be bigger then they were but ended up being nothing which was a disappointment. And some of their story I feel like there any reason for it. But maybe with the next book it will explain more?
💕Quotes: “No matter what, you’ve got to stay true to you. Don’t let him dull your shine”
“She told me that we’re not meant to see where our lives are headed for a reason. If we saw everything ahead of time, we wouldn’t take risks. And without risks, we’d never learn how to pick ourselves up or try again. Without all of that, we’d never become the people we’re intended to be”
💕 Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️ 3 out of 5 stars.
November 20, 2021
What a story!! Jiffy Kate has done it again! The way these two write a story you don’t have an option, you will get caught up, you will not be able to put it down, you will have to keep reading until the very end.
This is the lifetime story of Cami and Deacon, and when I say lifetime I mean it, the chapters bop back and forth from the past to the present in an effortless way that is both entertaining and in no way confusing, it just flows.
Cami and Deacon’s story is one of fairy tales and I’m hear for it. Best friends growing up, but always a little more even though the timing wasn’t right, until one day that it was.
Take this journey with these two, spend some more time in French Settlement Louisiana, you will be so glad that you did.
This is the lifetime story of Cami and Deacon, and when I say lifetime I mean it, the chapters bop back and forth from the past to the present in an effortless way that is both entertaining and in no way confusing, it just flows.
Cami and Deacon’s story is one of fairy tales and I’m hear for it. Best friends growing up, but always a little more even though the timing wasn’t right, until one day that it was.
Take this journey with these two, spend some more time in French Settlement Louisiana, you will be so glad that you did.
December 3, 2017
Oh em geeee!!! This book was so emotional and beautiful! This may be my fave of the series! With so much history between Deacon and Camille, the story grabs a hold of you and never lets go! I so love Annie and her words of wisdom! This story you will need tissues lol it was so beautiful and just amazing! You can’t deny the love of Deacon and Camille, you feel it in you heart, the writing that Jiffy Kate gives it just fantastic and perfect! The totally deserve their happily every after and again the love Deacon and Camille is one that’s unforgettable!
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