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Complex Kisses
Can a lost soul be saved with a kiss?
Jamie ran.
Her lone goal was to get as far from the pain in her past as possible. Struggling as a single mom was an improvement above being trapped in a life she loathed. But now, family obligations are calling her back to her hometown where she will have no choice but to face painful truths she can’t escape.
Eric stayed.
Abandoning his hopes and dreams for the future, he stood by his brother’s side to help him through a debilitating illness anyway he could. Knowing every day they had together was a gift, Eric made the most of every moment and held out hope for a miracle.
Thrown together by fate, Jamie and Eric indulge in their undeniable chemistry as a welcome reprieve from their complex lives. One that leaves Eric longing for more and Jamie no longer satisfied with solitude. But with Jamie’s habit of running from the past and Eric focused on the here and now, they might miss out on a chance at a beautiful future.
From USA Today Bestselling Author Kim Bailey comes a steamy, heartfelt novel about finding love where least expected.
Jamie ran.
Her lone goal was to get as far from the pain in her past as possible. Struggling as a single mom was an improvement above being trapped in a life she loathed. But now, family obligations are calling her back to her hometown where she will have no choice but to face painful truths she can’t escape.
Eric stayed.
Abandoning his hopes and dreams for the future, he stood by his brother’s side to help him through a debilitating illness anyway he could. Knowing every day they had together was a gift, Eric made the most of every moment and held out hope for a miracle.
Thrown together by fate, Jamie and Eric indulge in their undeniable chemistry as a welcome reprieve from their complex lives. One that leaves Eric longing for more and Jamie no longer satisfied with solitude. But with Jamie’s habit of running from the past and Eric focused on the here and now, they might miss out on a chance at a beautiful future.
From USA Today Bestselling Author Kim Bailey comes a steamy, heartfelt novel about finding love where least expected.
243 pages, Kindle Edition
First published December 26, 2016
44 people are currently reading
896 people want to read
About the author
Kim Bailey
6 books607 followersKim Bailey is a born procrastinator and sarcasm junkie who gets her motivation from coffee and good books. She enjoys lively conversations, usually with imaginary people, and can often be found daydreaming at work.
Most of all, she loves writing about love.
Her romance stories range from small-town contemporaries to action-packed suspense but always have a high heat level. She writes strong-willed women, broody alpha males, deep family bonds, and fiercely passionate lovers.
Kim proudly became a USA Today Best-Selling Author with her contribution to Wanted: An Outlaw Anthology. This charity anthology raised over $5000.00 for St. Judes Children's Research Hospital.
Most of all, she loves writing about love.
Her romance stories range from small-town contemporaries to action-packed suspense but always have a high heat level. She writes strong-willed women, broody alpha males, deep family bonds, and fiercely passionate lovers.
Kim proudly became a USA Today Best-Selling Author with her contribution to Wanted: An Outlaw Anthology. This charity anthology raised over $5000.00 for St. Judes Children's Research Hospital.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 78 reviews
December 3, 2016
5 stars
Complex Kisses is Kim Bailey’s debut novel, but I would have never guessed that after reading. Bailey writes like a seasoned author. This story is the perfect mix of emotional and steamy. It has a sarcastic, yet fun and loving heroine and a sensational hero. I LOVED IT!
Jamie’s life changed in a big way when she was a teenager. It left her already rocky relationship with her father significantly lacking. When he finds himself ill, even with their tumultuous relationship, she finds herself back in her home town and by his side. Even if that’s the last place he wants her to be. While at the hospital, Jamie meets two people who have a huge impact on her. A charming guy named Caleb, and his handsome older brother, Eric. There is something special about these two. She can tell right away.
Eric’s life is in a tailspin right now, but meeting Jamie- it feels like things just might be okay after all. They meet by chance, and it’s sort of like they’re both in the right place at the right time. They both need someone, and they start out developing a friendship. It helps to have someone to talk to and lean on when things get rough. It really does start as just friendship, but there is a undeniable spark between the two.
Even though Eric and Jamie only know each other for a short time, the time they do spend together is meaningful. More meaningful than any relationship either one of them have experienced. They have this connection through what they’re both going through and they just get each other. I truly love them both- I loved watching their friendship, and I loved seeing it turn into something so much more.
It’s not very often that a book can have serious subject matter, but can also make me laugh and smile. When it happens, I’m one happy reader. This story did that. Complex Kisses is extremely witty, sexy and gave me all those feels that I crave when reading. I loved all the characters and Bailey’s writing is strong. There was nothing about this book I didn’t love. I give it a full 5 stars and it’s going on my favorites shelf!
BETA copy of Complex Kisses provided by the author, Kim Bailey
Complex Kisses is Kim Bailey’s debut novel, but I would have never guessed that after reading. Bailey writes like a seasoned author. This story is the perfect mix of emotional and steamy. It has a sarcastic, yet fun and loving heroine and a sensational hero. I LOVED IT!
Jamie’s life changed in a big way when she was a teenager. It left her already rocky relationship with her father significantly lacking. When he finds himself ill, even with their tumultuous relationship, she finds herself back in her home town and by his side. Even if that’s the last place he wants her to be. While at the hospital, Jamie meets two people who have a huge impact on her. A charming guy named Caleb, and his handsome older brother, Eric. There is something special about these two. She can tell right away.
Eric’s life is in a tailspin right now, but meeting Jamie- it feels like things just might be okay after all. They meet by chance, and it’s sort of like they’re both in the right place at the right time. They both need someone, and they start out developing a friendship. It helps to have someone to talk to and lean on when things get rough. It really does start as just friendship, but there is a undeniable spark between the two.
Even though everything in my life’s so horribly fucking wrong, in this moment, she and I felt really fucking right.
His kiss burns through me with such fiery intensity- memories of all previous kisses go up in flames, floating away from me like ash in the wind. He’s branded me with this kiss. Signed away all other thoughts and feelings. Filled me up with blazing desire and heated passion.
Even though Eric and Jamie only know each other for a short time, the time they do spend together is meaningful. More meaningful than any relationship either one of them have experienced. They have this connection through what they’re both going through and they just get each other. I truly love them both- I loved watching their friendship, and I loved seeing it turn into something so much more.
It’s not very often that a book can have serious subject matter, but can also make me laugh and smile. When it happens, I’m one happy reader. This story did that. Complex Kisses is extremely witty, sexy and gave me all those feels that I crave when reading. I loved all the characters and Bailey’s writing is strong. There was nothing about this book I didn’t love. I give it a full 5 stars and it’s going on my favorites shelf!
I am lost to the magnificence of this man. My man. But then he kisses me. And once again, I’m found.
BETA copy of Complex Kisses provided by the author, Kim Bailey
December 22, 2016
➦I was really impressed by Complex Kisses - a debut novel from Kim Bailey! This beautiful story is about two people finding love in the midst of despair and helping each other get through hard times. Out of all the places to meet these two meet in a hospital.
➦Jamie's father is dying. And even though she has run away from home years ago and built her own life she comes back to town to see him. Jamie is a single mother and she lives for her son. She doesn't date and she certainly doesn't expect to find love in her old home town.
➦Eric has put his life on hold after his younger brother has been diagnosed with cancer. He practically lives at the hospital while his brother gets treatment before the bone marrow transplant. Eric is exhausted and the last thing he expects is to console a crying woman who runs into his arms in a hospital hallway.
➦I really loved the dynamic between the main characters. The story was well paced and I never got bored. And that says a lot because I got an attention span of a frog. #truestory
➦The heroine is very refreshing! You'd think someone in her situation would be low on confidence in bed but she really knew what she wanted and she wasn't afraid to take it. I found that pretty hot. :D Actually I found these two very hot in general - the sexual tension was off the charts.
➦Anywhooo, if you enjoy somewhat emotional reads, second chance romances with some healthy banter and strong supporting characters do give this book a chance! And I do have to say even though the book is angsty it wasn't a "bawl your eyes out" kind for me. So if you are afraid to get upset - don't be. I will be waiting (patiently) for Kim's second book, which will be about Eric's brother who is a total charmer. :)
December 19, 2016
5 I Am In Awe Stars
* * * * * Spoiler Free
We all have these moments...They are not planned or expected. We are living our day to day lives and then we are smacked with wonder...We are hit with emotions which will fill you to the brim and over flow. The joy in experiencing things like that are so very special... and that was what I experienced reading Complex Kisses, the debut novel by Kim Bailey.
Because not only was I immersed into a world I could understand down to my very being...I was in awe of how easily all of it was done... how it felt as if I had a window into these peoples lives and it was not a fictional novel but a slice of someone's real life. It felt authentic... it felt as if it was a telling of something true and never took itself to a place where I didn't believe.
This is a telling of how when you are at you lowest, in the most pain and lost...you also may experience a moment to change your course. It is about living every day with your antenna up and alert... for you never know what could cross you path and change your life.
Others will go and discuss more details about the premise...and it is a premise which is solid and believable. This story touches on families and all of the good, the bad and ugly that can happen...On how we manage it all and if time passes and we come to a point to see clearly...Sometimes those who have caused the most pain in a fleeting moment... will reach out to smooth the hurt in the end...
It also gives us the most wonderful characters.... Eric, Caleb, Jamie and Hunter. All of these people are flesh and blood on the page...From the first moment when we meet Caleb to when Eric steps in and meets Jamie and then we get the full brilliance of Hunter.
This is a life story and love story...This is a book which will make you think of your own life; all the decisions you have made... all of the relationships which meant something to you and all of the pain you may have experienced and then learned how to overcome.
But with all of that said... this is not a book which only has deep emotional moments... not at all... it has some of the best sexy times ever...with both participants giving as good as they get... The romantic Eric is just so good...Jamie is good for him and he for her and this whole ride is life affirming.
As you may have figured out....I loved this book. This does not feel as if it is a debut...it feels as if the author has her crafting down and knows her voice. There is a confidence and an understanding that what has been written will touch the reader...I know it touched me.
The very exciting news is this is not the only gem up Kim Bailey's sleeve... oh, no. She has another book coming next year and I have the sneaky suspicion it will be just as much a wonder as this one.
~~~~~ Before Reading ~~~~~
Received my chance to be in on a new reading experience...
So excited and appreciate having this opportunity...
●•●•●•●•●•●•●•
Oct 01, 2016
Everyday I learn something new, surprising, wonderful...
This latest discovery is a new talent...
With much excitement and anticipation....
I await the release of Kim Bailey's
Complex Kisses - December 29th 2016
A gifted copy was provided by author/publisher for an honest review.
For more Reviews, Free E-books and Giveaways
* * * * * Spoiler Free
We all have these moments...They are not planned or expected. We are living our day to day lives and then we are smacked with wonder...We are hit with emotions which will fill you to the brim and over flow. The joy in experiencing things like that are so very special... and that was what I experienced reading Complex Kisses, the debut novel by Kim Bailey.
Because not only was I immersed into a world I could understand down to my very being...I was in awe of how easily all of it was done... how it felt as if I had a window into these peoples lives and it was not a fictional novel but a slice of someone's real life. It felt authentic... it felt as if it was a telling of something true and never took itself to a place where I didn't believe.
This is a telling of how when you are at you lowest, in the most pain and lost...you also may experience a moment to change your course. It is about living every day with your antenna up and alert... for you never know what could cross you path and change your life.
Others will go and discuss more details about the premise...and it is a premise which is solid and believable. This story touches on families and all of the good, the bad and ugly that can happen...On how we manage it all and if time passes and we come to a point to see clearly...Sometimes those who have caused the most pain in a fleeting moment... will reach out to smooth the hurt in the end...
It also gives us the most wonderful characters.... Eric, Caleb, Jamie and Hunter. All of these people are flesh and blood on the page...From the first moment when we meet Caleb to when Eric steps in and meets Jamie and then we get the full brilliance of Hunter.
This is a life story and love story...This is a book which will make you think of your own life; all the decisions you have made... all of the relationships which meant something to you and all of the pain you may have experienced and then learned how to overcome.
But with all of that said... this is not a book which only has deep emotional moments... not at all... it has some of the best sexy times ever...with both participants giving as good as they get... The romantic Eric is just so good...Jamie is good for him and he for her and this whole ride is life affirming.
As you may have figured out....I loved this book. This does not feel as if it is a debut...it feels as if the author has her crafting down and knows her voice. There is a confidence and an understanding that what has been written will touch the reader...I know it touched me.
The very exciting news is this is not the only gem up Kim Bailey's sleeve... oh, no. She has another book coming next year and I have the sneaky suspicion it will be just as much a wonder as this one.
~~~~~ Before Reading ~~~~~
Received my chance to be in on a new reading experience...
So excited and appreciate having this opportunity...
●•●•●•●•●•●•●•
Oct 01, 2016
Everyday I learn something new, surprising, wonderful...
This latest discovery is a new talent...
With much excitement and anticipation....
I await the release of Kim Bailey's
Complex Kisses - December 29th 2016
A gifted copy was provided by author/publisher for an honest review.
For more Reviews, Free E-books and Giveaways
September 29, 2016
What happens when your bestie & blogging partner tells you she’s written a book? You freak out!!!
I had the privilege of reading Kim’s book ahead of release date. I read the first couple of chapters and texted Kim right away. Here's the thing . . . I talk to Kim every day so when I started this book I was blown away. It was like who is this person that I’ve been sharing all my intimate secrets with for the last few years. Where was my Kimmie and what have you done with her?!
I questioned her if she really wrote this book and below is part of what transpired between us.
Then I asked her again to double check that she really wrote this book. *lol*
Of course, once I got over my intentional shock that this book was really happening I started to hear Kim’s voice throughout the story. Hello?! Sarcasm is like a second language for her and the characters pulled that off effortlessly.
COMPLEX KISSES is amply named. The story took me from laughing to shock and surprise. I’m really excited for everyone to read this book. I’m still blown away that all of this is happening. I’m very proud of Kim!!
✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦
RELEASE DATE: December 29, 2016
Pre-order | order: not available yet
**Complimentary copy written by my bestie and blogging partner in exchange for an honest review.**
I had the privilege of reading Kim’s book ahead of release date. I read the first couple of chapters and texted Kim right away. Here's the thing . . . I talk to Kim every day so when I started this book I was blown away. It was like who is this person that I’ve been sharing all my intimate secrets with for the last few years. Where was my Kimmie and what have you done with her?!
I questioned her if she really wrote this book and below is part of what transpired between us.
Then I asked her again to double check that she really wrote this book. *lol*
Of course, once I got over my intentional shock that this book was really happening I started to hear Kim’s voice throughout the story. Hello?! Sarcasm is like a second language for her and the characters pulled that off effortlessly.
COMPLEX KISSES is amply named. The story took me from laughing to shock and surprise. I’m really excited for everyone to read this book. I’m still blown away that all of this is happening. I’m very proud of Kim!!
✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦
RELEASE DATE: December 29, 2016
Pre-order | order: not available yet
**Complimentary copy written by my bestie and blogging partner in exchange for an honest review.**
December 30, 2016
5 Poetic stars <33
What an emotional, intense, poetic and beautiful story! Kim did an amazing job! I fell in love with the story and the characters. I had so many feelings while I was reading it!
This story is about two people finding each other when they both need it the most! Jamie and Eric have to deal with their own personal problems. When they meet everything changes for both of them. They start out as friends and soon this turns into more. I loved the bond that developed between them! They were sweet, intense and sexy together!
I highly recommend it to everyone!
What an emotional, intense, poetic and beautiful story! Kim did an amazing job! I fell in love with the story and the characters. I had so many feelings while I was reading it!
This story is about two people finding each other when they both need it the most! Jamie and Eric have to deal with their own personal problems. When they meet everything changes for both of them. They start out as friends and soon this turns into more. I loved the bond that developed between them! They were sweet, intense and sexy together!
I highly recommend it to everyone!
January 1, 2017
You can be strong alone or stronger with someone at your back.
I love reading romance and I have to admit that if there’s a touch of insta lust/love, I get a little giddy. I know there are a lot of people who don’t believe in it but I have always believed that if there isn’t a little insta, then there’s a chance there won’t be any everlasta. If you have no idea what that last sentence means, let me explain my thoughts on insta…
I believe that a spark is needed for love to ignite. That spark doesn’t have to be based on looks, it could easily be a spark of admiration or a spark generated by a meeting of the minds. That instant spark, lets you know that there is a potential for connection. You can then take that instant lust / love / connection /admiration and turn it into an everlasting lust / love / connection / admiration. Insta is just the start, everlasta is whatever you make it be. You just have to let the spark ignite.
Complex Kisses has a spark that ignites from the very beginning. Jamie and Eric are at the same hospital watching a family member suffer. Jamie is watching over her dying father whom she has been estranged from for the last 10 years. Eric is here to support his baby brother Caleb who is fighting cancer. Both Jamie and Eric are struggling. Hospitals are not pleasant places to be especially as you watch someone you love or have loved suffer.
When a little flirty spark named Caleb meets a beautiful spark named Jamie and tries to make her smile, it’s the big and generous spark named Eric that ignites.
Caleb is 14 and thinks Jamie is one of the most beautiful women he’s ever met. With big brother Eric behind him, he flirts up a storm to make Jamie smile. Eric admires his little brother's confidence in approaching this beautiful woman and is fascinated with the beautiful woman who doesn’t treat his little brother like he is only sick. Jamie is touched deeply by Caleb who while facing his own issues, takes the time to try and make her smile. Caleb, with his baldy head and sickly pallor, teaches two grown-ups to make the most of every day.
Complex Kisses is not just a story about dealing with sickness and death, it’s also about coming to realise that you may not have been living the life you were meant to. Eric has lived his life following the path set for him. He had a successful career and a woman in his life who he thought suited his lifestyle. When Caleb’s heath issues were diagnosed, Eric realised his life was shallow and not at all what he wanted for himself. With the job gone and the woman out of his life, he’s looking for a new path.
Jamie has not had an easy life. She lost her mother and sister when she was younger and her father never really recovered. When Jamie and her father should have been there for each other to help and support through their grief, He turned to alcohol and She turned to her boyfriend who she thought she loved. At seventeen Jamie finds out she has a surprise entering her life and when she needs support from her loved ones, they desert her in her time of need. Her new path was forced upon her but it made her stronger and ended up being one of the best things to happen in her life.
Jamie and Eric are attracted to each other physically, but it’s the support they give to each other that really helps them connect. It’s not easy to start a relationship when your father in lying in a bed dying or when your mother spends her days crying over your sick brother. The little time outside of the hospital that they spend together is time to get to know each other better. In a short amount of time Jamie and Eric’s feelings deepen but both of them are too scared to trust them.
I really enjoyed Complex Kisses. Considering this is Kim Bailey’s debut novel, she has done an amazing job. I will admit that there were a couple of times that I felt it was a bit bogged down with inner-monologue but then again, this was a story about looking into yourself. I also had a WTH moment when I thought it was going to end in a cliffie, but of course, it was just me being silly. Jamie does do something towards the end that I wanted to smack her silly for, but luckily Eric gave her a talking to and fixed it right up lickity split.
I loved the characters, the storyline made me think and the steamy scenes showed a great connection between the characters. I definitely recommend Complex Kisses and will be reading more of this authors work in the future.
To purchase Complex Kisses from Amazon for $0.99 - http://amzn.to/2hGc2QS
I’m an Aussie chick who loves to read and review romance, drink coffee, be a Style Setter and stalk David Gandy. To see more of my reviews, fashion, food and pervathons -
Want to read
December 29, 2016LIVE at 99¢! | AMZ US | AMZ UK | KOBO |
THIS SOUNDS LOVELY! Only 99¢!
Stand-alone.
Release: December 29, 2016.
LIVE at 99¢! | AMZ US | AMZ UK | KOBO |
Blurb:
When lost and living in the moment …
… can you be found with just a kiss?
Jamie Hartley ran away, leaving grief and heartache behind. Lost on her own. Raising a child. Her plan is simple. Make it through. Find her path. Survive.
Eric Anderson walked away, abandoning plans and expectations. Living day to day. Waiting for miracles. His goal is complicated. Make it through. Find a way. Endure.
In stolen moments of passion and pleasure, Jamie and Eric find reprieve from their complex lives. Together, they ease the burdens. Together, they soothe the pain.
But can they recognize the future when it finds them?
Here and now.
THIS SOUNDS LOVELY! Only 99¢!
Stand-alone.
Release: December 29, 2016.
LIVE at 99¢! | AMZ US | AMZ UK | KOBO |
Blurb:
When lost and living in the moment …
… can you be found with just a kiss?
Jamie Hartley ran away, leaving grief and heartache behind. Lost on her own. Raising a child. Her plan is simple. Make it through. Find her path. Survive.
Eric Anderson walked away, abandoning plans and expectations. Living day to day. Waiting for miracles. His goal is complicated. Make it through. Find a way. Endure.
In stolen moments of passion and pleasure, Jamie and Eric find reprieve from their complex lives. Together, they ease the burdens. Together, they soothe the pain.
But can they recognize the future when it finds them?
Here and now.
December 20, 2016
3.5 No Fear Stars
Review @ Vanilla & Spice Books
Kim Bailey is a debut author with a strong voice. In Complex Kisses she tells a story about real people, real situations we all can find ourselves in.
As a reader it is always a bit of a risk to read a book by an author you've never read before. What if I don't like it? Or worse, what if I hate it? Ultimately I tried to go into this with no expectations at all.
This story is mostly character driven. We get a dual POV, switching between Jamie and Eric's voice. Jamie is a very independent, kind and strong woman. When she was 17 she ran away from home, pregnant and at serious odds with her father. They have never resolved their problems and spoken another word ever since. Now she is spending the last days of his life with him - but nothing seems to have changed. He is still the old cranky bastard he was when she left.
Eric's brother is facing the battle of his life which led Eric to reconsider his life. To hell with plans, a job he doesn't love and a fiancé he feels indifferent towards. Now helping his parents deal with their son's illness is his ultimate goal. And living life on a day to day basis. When he finds his charming smartypants of a brother talking to a beautiful girl he butts in. And finds himself utterly enchanted.
I loved Eric and Jamie finding a little bit of reprieve and joy outside of the hospital. They had so much to give to one another. Jamie's life hasn't been easy but she soldiers on. Eric always had a loving home so it is easy for him to give Jamie the support she needs through one of the hardest periods of her life.
I did have a little bit of a problem with the unnecessarily long monologues. Often they were a repetition of how awesome and beautiful the other one was and how fascinated they were. At some point I just felt it was to gloss over a real movement in the story. I also could not get behind some of the decisions the heroine made. She beat herself up way too much over things she couldn't change. On the other hand she was inactive when it came to her dad.
While this might not have been a 5 stars read for me, it was still a strong first signal from Kim Bailey. It's a study of character and if you love deep views into personalities, this is definitely a fantastic story to read. You receive a lot of emotions and deep thought with this book and this author is definitely one to look out for in the future. I am looking forward to reading the next installment of the series.
Review @ Vanilla & Spice Books
Kim Bailey is a debut author with a strong voice. In Complex Kisses she tells a story about real people, real situations we all can find ourselves in.
As a reader it is always a bit of a risk to read a book by an author you've never read before. What if I don't like it? Or worse, what if I hate it? Ultimately I tried to go into this with no expectations at all.
This story is mostly character driven. We get a dual POV, switching between Jamie and Eric's voice. Jamie is a very independent, kind and strong woman. When she was 17 she ran away from home, pregnant and at serious odds with her father. They have never resolved their problems and spoken another word ever since. Now she is spending the last days of his life with him - but nothing seems to have changed. He is still the old cranky bastard he was when she left.
Eric's brother is facing the battle of his life which led Eric to reconsider his life. To hell with plans, a job he doesn't love and a fiancé he feels indifferent towards. Now helping his parents deal with their son's illness is his ultimate goal. And living life on a day to day basis. When he finds his charming smartypants of a brother talking to a beautiful girl he butts in. And finds himself utterly enchanted.
I loved Eric and Jamie finding a little bit of reprieve and joy outside of the hospital. They had so much to give to one another. Jamie's life hasn't been easy but she soldiers on. Eric always had a loving home so it is easy for him to give Jamie the support she needs through one of the hardest periods of her life.
I did have a little bit of a problem with the unnecessarily long monologues. Often they were a repetition of how awesome and beautiful the other one was and how fascinated they were. At some point I just felt it was to gloss over a real movement in the story. I also could not get behind some of the decisions the heroine made. She beat herself up way too much over things she couldn't change. On the other hand she was inactive when it came to her dad.
While this might not have been a 5 stars read for me, it was still a strong first signal from Kim Bailey. It's a study of character and if you love deep views into personalities, this is definitely a fantastic story to read. You receive a lot of emotions and deep thought with this book and this author is definitely one to look out for in the future. I am looking forward to reading the next installment of the series.
December 20, 2016
4 ~Kiss Me~ Stars****
(ARC kindly provided by the author in exchange for an honest review)
Sweet debut novel by author Kim Bailey. Her writing style is enchanting; she created a very romantic story that takes the reader on a journey of tender emotions through the lives of Jamie and Eric. Take a chance on this author and let her show you how powerful a kiss can be...
Jamie is a girl who's had a tough life. She lost her mother and sister in a terrible accident, leaving her to grow up and suffer through the loss with her dad. Her relationship with her father is very complicated, they can't communicate, and when Jamie is faced with a life changing event, he turns his back on her.
Jamie left her father's home never to turn back. Now, years later her dad is fatally ill, so she goes back to see him. While in the hospital Jamie is suffocating by the situation, and by the terrible memories of the past, when a charming patient that's roaming the halls of the hospital manages to make her smile like she hasn't done it in months. The patient is Caleb, an eighteen year old charmer that is dealing with a terrible illness himself. Turns out Caleb has a gorgeous brother, his name is Eric and from the moment he sets eyes on Jamie, he is overwhelmed by her beauty.
Jamie and Eric strike a friendship. Not only are they attracted to each other but they have a lot of things in common. They both feel lost either by the present, or by what will happen in the future, but together they can reach the light at the end of the tunnel. And what had seemed impossible and complicated, suddenly appears clear, after sharing a complex kiss.
Eric and Jamie have fun together, they can joke and talk about everything. Eric has the most wonderful and loving family and they accept Jamie into it seemly. But regardless of what happens with their loves ones, Jamie doesn't belong there, she lives in another city and has other priories in her life. So what will happen with their special friendship? Can they simply enjoy their time together and not fight to keep their connection, or will they have the courage to give into their feelings and fight for their happiness?
If you are looking for a romantic story, with lots of heat and great writing style, look no further, you need this book. Simply wonderful...
(ARC kindly provided by the author in exchange for an honest review)
Sweet debut novel by author Kim Bailey. Her writing style is enchanting; she created a very romantic story that takes the reader on a journey of tender emotions through the lives of Jamie and Eric. Take a chance on this author and let her show you how powerful a kiss can be...
Jamie is a girl who's had a tough life. She lost her mother and sister in a terrible accident, leaving her to grow up and suffer through the loss with her dad. Her relationship with her father is very complicated, they can't communicate, and when Jamie is faced with a life changing event, he turns his back on her.
Jamie left her father's home never to turn back. Now, years later her dad is fatally ill, so she goes back to see him. While in the hospital Jamie is suffocating by the situation, and by the terrible memories of the past, when a charming patient that's roaming the halls of the hospital manages to make her smile like she hasn't done it in months. The patient is Caleb, an eighteen year old charmer that is dealing with a terrible illness himself. Turns out Caleb has a gorgeous brother, his name is Eric and from the moment he sets eyes on Jamie, he is overwhelmed by her beauty.
Jamie and Eric strike a friendship. Not only are they attracted to each other but they have a lot of things in common. They both feel lost either by the present, or by what will happen in the future, but together they can reach the light at the end of the tunnel. And what had seemed impossible and complicated, suddenly appears clear, after sharing a complex kiss.
Eric and Jamie have fun together, they can joke and talk about everything. Eric has the most wonderful and loving family and they accept Jamie into it seemly. But regardless of what happens with their loves ones, Jamie doesn't belong there, she lives in another city and has other priories in her life. So what will happen with their special friendship? Can they simply enjoy their time together and not fight to keep their connection, or will they have the courage to give into their feelings and fight for their happiness?
If you are looking for a romantic story, with lots of heat and great writing style, look no further, you need this book. Simply wonderful...
January 1, 2017
Seriously? First book? Wow, Kim Bailey...just wow! What a fabulous love story between two deserving souls who found forever in the midst of loss. I admit to struggling with insta-love but I appreciate fast attraction and need, especially when done so inherenty well. Jamie and Eric were like a perfect chemistry project...flawless ingredients swirled together in the perfect environment to have that magical outcome!
I am so impressed and so happy that Ms. Badly achieved a gold star with Complex Kisses. A sweet, sensual, and palpably emotional standalone story with two characters who will make you smile start to finish. Two beautiful characters finding a beautiful forever by finding courage and runnng toward something special!
I am so impressed and so happy that Ms. Badly achieved a gold star with Complex Kisses. A sweet, sensual, and palpably emotional standalone story with two characters who will make you smile start to finish. Two beautiful characters finding a beautiful forever by finding courage and runnng toward something special!
November 21, 2016
4.5 Stars!
Complex Kisses is a fantastic debut novel by Kim Bailey. It truly is all things angsty emotional and sexy all tied up in a contemporary romance bow. Single mother Jamie Hartley is emotionally torn between her old life and new when the call comes in that her estranged father is on his death bed. Leaving her son in the care of a school friend, Jamie hops in her car for the four-hour drive to North Bay. Torn between the long term scars from the emotionally abusive past with her dad and her desire to make things right in his final days, Jamie is barely hanging on. Until in a crowded hospital cafeteria, a feisty teen boy offers her his chocolate pudding. Anything to turn that frown upside down...
Complex Kisses embodies two stories coming together for the price of one. Jamie is living day to day, missing her son while she watches her father fade away. And also that of Eric Anderson- older brother of that feisty fourteen year old- is also burdened by family illness. Through mutual emotional stress and pain, Eric and Jamie find a bond in friendship and understanding. And with that, an insane chemistry blossoms, offering up a physical release from their current life stresses. But what happens when it's over... will it be over?
Kim Bailey did a great job pacing their stories, both of family and the love story between Eric and Jamie. It's angsty emotional but has a touch of light-hearted humor thanks to a snarky flirtatious fourteen-year old named Caleb. It highlights the strength of family whether blood-related or not. I found it warm yet sexy, sad yet humorous too. Complex Kisses has it all! A great debut novel for author Kim Bailey. Looking forward to what's next from this aspiring new author.
Advanced copy received by author in exchange for my honest review.
Complex Kisses is a fantastic debut novel by Kim Bailey. It truly is all things angsty emotional and sexy all tied up in a contemporary romance bow. Single mother Jamie Hartley is emotionally torn between her old life and new when the call comes in that her estranged father is on his death bed. Leaving her son in the care of a school friend, Jamie hops in her car for the four-hour drive to North Bay. Torn between the long term scars from the emotionally abusive past with her dad and her desire to make things right in his final days, Jamie is barely hanging on. Until in a crowded hospital cafeteria, a feisty teen boy offers her his chocolate pudding. Anything to turn that frown upside down...
Complex Kisses embodies two stories coming together for the price of one. Jamie is living day to day, missing her son while she watches her father fade away. And also that of Eric Anderson- older brother of that feisty fourteen year old- is also burdened by family illness. Through mutual emotional stress and pain, Eric and Jamie find a bond in friendship and understanding. And with that, an insane chemistry blossoms, offering up a physical release from their current life stresses. But what happens when it's over... will it be over?
Kim Bailey did a great job pacing their stories, both of family and the love story between Eric and Jamie. It's angsty emotional but has a touch of light-hearted humor thanks to a snarky flirtatious fourteen-year old named Caleb. It highlights the strength of family whether blood-related or not. I found it warm yet sexy, sad yet humorous too. Complex Kisses has it all! A great debut novel for author Kim Bailey. Looking forward to what's next from this aspiring new author.
Advanced copy received by author in exchange for my honest review.
February 9, 2017
5 COMPLEX STARS
I was lucky enough to beta read Complex Kisses, Kim's debut novel. Let me tell you, if this is her first book, I can't wait for what else she has in store. The writing is effortless, making for a fast and engrossing read.
While this story deals with some weighty, real and sad issues, Kim sprinkles in moments of sweet, sexy, funny and downright 'sigh out loud' moments of content. And did I mention, there's some serious hotness going on?!
Jamie Hartley is a survivor, having lived through many low and scary moments all on her own. And now she's faced with wrestling the past - unresolved conflict, deep resentment - and a ticking clock as she comes back home to her ailing father.
Likewise, Eric Anderson is on a similar journey. Leaving his life behind, one that he wasn't particularly happy with or in fact, even wanted, to deal with a family crisis.
Eric is all kinds of sweet, hot and sexy, and together, Jamie and Eric, are something special. They meet at time in their lives when there's so much upheaval and uncertainty, yet their union just makes sense. You'll be rooting for them from the get-go.
There's a lot of depth to this tale with a wide spectrum of emotions. Kim had me all over the place, in a good way. This story has everything I love in a good book, not to mention, the heat and intensity of Jamie and Eric...
Also, there are some stand-out secondary characters, Caleb and Dylan in particular, that had me wanting their stories NOW. And I must say, while Caleb is only a teenager in this book, he captured my heart with his outrageous flirting and sweet ways. Calling dibs now, Caleb is MINE!
I highly recommend this book and can't wait for her next one.
**ARC generously provided by author in exchange for an honest review.**
For more reviews and blog posts.
dnf
February 4, 2017DNF @ 83ish%
Well, I tried -- I really tried! I'm bummed I didn't love it like some of my GR friends seemed to, but it just never clicked with me. The subject matter was something that should've really pulled at my heart strings because I lost a parent to cancer like the h is experiencing -- but it really didn't. I never felt emotional tbh. It was a lot of inner dialogue to the point that I started skimming while waiting for the actual interactions. The characters were okay, but not really anything to gush about. I also didn't feel their connection to each other. The sex was pretty hot, so there is that!
It could definitely be an "it's not you, it's me" type of thing. Because like I said, some people really seemed to love it...
Well, I tried -- I really tried! I'm bummed I didn't love it like some of my GR friends seemed to, but it just never clicked with me. The subject matter was something that should've really pulled at my heart strings because I lost a parent to cancer like the h is experiencing -- but it really didn't. I never felt emotional tbh. It was a lot of inner dialogue to the point that I started skimming while waiting for the actual interactions. The characters were okay, but not really anything to gush about. I also didn't feel their connection to each other. The sex was pretty hot, so there is that!
It could definitely be an "it's not you, it's me" type of thing. Because like I said, some people really seemed to love it...
February 9, 2017
It's crazy, that this is a debut for Kim Bailey. The emotional and sexy story about two people who find each other in the least expected and most needed moment of their lives.
About the plot: Jamie Hartley ran away from her hometown when she was seventeen. Pregnant and without the support, she managed to create a warm home for her son. Ten years later when her father is on his deathbed, she decides to go back and be with him in his last moments.
Eric Anderson had a perfect life. Or so he thought, until his younger brother got sick. This opened his eyes. He learned not to plan for the future only get the most out of each day. Now the most important thing for him is to be there for his brother, Caleb and support their family.
None of them plan to meet each other in that horrible timing of things and draw strength from a stranger. And definitely not to fall in love.
Final thoughts: You may think it's a very sad book. But although it raised many emotional threads, it is not overly tragic. Just a simple life and its problems. It was even uplifting and may recall that not everything in life can be planned.
I quickly became drawn into the Jamie and Eric story. Easy building attraction between them added a lot of thrills. They were not shy to take from each other, what they needed at the moment, and these scenes are scorching hot. Some drama and angst only made that you keep reading further and cheer for them harder. I got to like them so much. Jamie because she was strong and independent. And Eric for his support and love.
Do not make me start to write about Caleb. I think that with such a character Kim Bailey has guaranteed success of the next book. I can not wait!
***
ARC kindly provided for an honest review. Thank you!
About the plot: Jamie Hartley ran away from her hometown when she was seventeen. Pregnant and without the support, she managed to create a warm home for her son. Ten years later when her father is on his deathbed, she decides to go back and be with him in his last moments.
Eric Anderson had a perfect life. Or so he thought, until his younger brother got sick. This opened his eyes. He learned not to plan for the future only get the most out of each day. Now the most important thing for him is to be there for his brother, Caleb and support their family.
None of them plan to meet each other in that horrible timing of things and draw strength from a stranger. And definitely not to fall in love.
“Even though everything in my life’s so horribly wrong, in this moment, she and I together, feels tremendously right.”
Final thoughts: You may think it's a very sad book. But although it raised many emotional threads, it is not overly tragic. Just a simple life and its problems. It was even uplifting and may recall that not everything in life can be planned.
“It seems like design, or destiny, or what-the-hell-ever, started making plans for me, the minute I stopped making them for myself.”
I quickly became drawn into the Jamie and Eric story. Easy building attraction between them added a lot of thrills. They were not shy to take from each other, what they needed at the moment, and these scenes are scorching hot. Some drama and angst only made that you keep reading further and cheer for them harder. I got to like them so much. Jamie because she was strong and independent. And Eric for his support and love.
“It feels like a new beginning. Like promises being made. Like I never want it to end. No, there’s nothing simple about it. This is the most complex kiss of my life.”
Do not make me start to write about Caleb. I think that with such a character Kim Bailey has guaranteed success of the next book. I can not wait!
***
ARC kindly provided for an honest review. Thank you!
December 20, 2016
5 Delicious and sweet Stars
Kim Kim Kim you little beauty... I've known Kim a couple of years (from both GR and then as a blogger) and so when I heard about this book I was interested. I watched from get go then I had some free time to spare to read it, so here I am diving in. I'm not being biased when I say this is fabulous for a new author this really does rank high in my top favs of the year. It was such an easy page turner, sexy and emotional in the best way.
So what's it about?
Jamie (heroine) and Eric (Hero) meet in a place where they need someone else to lean on. Jamie is loosing her father and Eric is there for his brother who is undergoing treatment for Cancer and so yes they bump into each other at the hospital. Though in unlikely circumstances they have an instant attraction that just builds over the week they spend time together. Aren't they the best kind of friendships and the best relationships we have? The ones where you don't expect them to happen? Well these pair haven't had it easy up to now and so they have something special and their chemistry is off the charts. But not only that but Eric was so caring and devoted the delicious lover I love to enjoy in an Hero. He was protective but so very sexy.
And then there's Jamie, she is one kick ass strong heroine, she has struggles to deal with but she just keeps moving forward and I loved that about her.
So I just loved all characters in this inc the father who is an ass but I still loved to read him, and Hunter Jamie's son ahhh he was the apple in this read. Everyone just rallied around him and that is why I love to read kids in books they make them special for me. I had tears and I smiled a many a time. The writing just flowed easily for me so all in all it was a fab debut book for Kim Bailey and I'm excited to see what's in store next.
Pick it up!
That is all Xoxo
ARC generously gifted in exchange for a honest review
For more reviews and blog posts
Kim Kim Kim you little beauty... I've known Kim a couple of years (from both GR and then as a blogger) and so when I heard about this book I was interested. I watched from get go then I had some free time to spare to read it, so here I am diving in. I'm not being biased when I say this is fabulous for a new author this really does rank high in my top favs of the year. It was such an easy page turner, sexy and emotional in the best way.
So what's it about?
Jamie (heroine) and Eric (Hero) meet in a place where they need someone else to lean on. Jamie is loosing her father and Eric is there for his brother who is undergoing treatment for Cancer and so yes they bump into each other at the hospital. Though in unlikely circumstances they have an instant attraction that just builds over the week they spend time together. Aren't they the best kind of friendships and the best relationships we have? The ones where you don't expect them to happen? Well these pair haven't had it easy up to now and so they have something special and their chemistry is off the charts. But not only that but Eric was so caring and devoted the delicious lover I love to enjoy in an Hero. He was protective but so very sexy.
And then there's Jamie, she is one kick ass strong heroine, she has struggles to deal with but she just keeps moving forward and I loved that about her.
So I just loved all characters in this inc the father who is an ass but I still loved to read him, and Hunter Jamie's son ahhh he was the apple in this read. Everyone just rallied around him and that is why I love to read kids in books they make them special for me. I had tears and I smiled a many a time. The writing just flowed easily for me so all in all it was a fab debut book for Kim Bailey and I'm excited to see what's in store next.
Pick it up!
That is all Xoxo
ARC generously gifted in exchange for a honest review
For more reviews and blog posts
top-tbr
February 23, 2017I'm so excited for this one!!!!! TBR DEC 29
When lost and living in the moment …
… can you be found with just a kiss?
Jamie Hartley ran away, leaving grief and heartache behind. Lost on her own. Raising a child. Her plan is simple. Make it through. Find her path. Survive.
Eric Anderson walked away, abandoning plans and expectations. Living day to day. Waiting for miracles. His goal is complicated. Make it through. Find a way. Endure.
In stolen moments of passion and pleasure, Jamie and Eric find reprieve from their complex lives. Together, they ease the burdens. Together, they soothe the pain.
But can they recognize the future when it finds them?
Here and now.
When lost and living in the moment …
… can you be found with just a kiss?
Jamie Hartley ran away, leaving grief and heartache behind. Lost on her own. Raising a child. Her plan is simple. Make it through. Find her path. Survive.
Eric Anderson walked away, abandoning plans and expectations. Living day to day. Waiting for miracles. His goal is complicated. Make it through. Find a way. Endure.
In stolen moments of passion and pleasure, Jamie and Eric find reprieve from their complex lives. Together, they ease the burdens. Together, they soothe the pain.
But can they recognize the future when it finds them?
Here and now.
February 6, 2017
*ARC received from author as part of blog tour, AND I own a copy as well
For a debut novel, not bad, not bad at all.
I am a bit conflicted with this one but when I remember that this is Kim's first published book, then I think that's ok. Because for all my concerns, I'll be the first to admit, it's all personal taste. Also, it could've been just the time when I picked this up. It was over the holidays and I suppose I wasn't ready for all these angst... dunno...
While I may have had some issues with this one, I enjoyed enough where Kim took me.
While I didn't fully connect and fall in love with the H&h, they're decent MCs. I think for starter, the timeline of the story was too short. I realize the circumstances they found themselves in tend to magnify emotions but for them to be that connected in such a short amount of time still didn't feel real enough. I also couldn't reconcile their personalities in and out of the bedroom. I think the transition was missing for me to buy the micro-aggressions (delish, if I may add) I witnessed in the bedroom. But of course, once in the bedroom, um, hello, melike! And outside of the bedroom, they're good people. See what I mean about conflicted!
While the pace dragged for me at certain point, especially in the middle, and something seemed to pull me out of the story at certain points, I just kept reading once I found my groove. It wasn't hard at all as Kim had a way for the events to flow smoothly. The whole story, outside of the prologue and epilogue, took place in a span of pretty much a week. So it was about the buildup to what they're dealing with, interspersed with details of their respective pasts.
And while some of the dialogues felt stilted, the writing as a whole was beautiful. Otherwise, I wouldn't be highlighting the way I was.
Again, see why I'm conflicted?
Overall though, as mentioned earlier, this is a very nice effort for a debut novel. As you can see, I'm in the minority, and happy to be so. I know Kim will only get better, I can already see it. She'll hone her craft and find her niche just fine.
For a debut novel, not bad, not bad at all.
I am a bit conflicted with this one but when I remember that this is Kim's first published book, then I think that's ok. Because for all my concerns, I'll be the first to admit, it's all personal taste. Also, it could've been just the time when I picked this up. It was over the holidays and I suppose I wasn't ready for all these angst... dunno...
While I may have had some issues with this one, I enjoyed enough where Kim took me.
While I didn't fully connect and fall in love with the H&h, they're decent MCs. I think for starter, the timeline of the story was too short. I realize the circumstances they found themselves in tend to magnify emotions but for them to be that connected in such a short amount of time still didn't feel real enough. I also couldn't reconcile their personalities in and out of the bedroom. I think the transition was missing for me to buy the micro-aggressions (delish, if I may add) I witnessed in the bedroom. But of course, once in the bedroom, um, hello, melike! And outside of the bedroom, they're good people. See what I mean about conflicted!
While the pace dragged for me at certain point, especially in the middle, and something seemed to pull me out of the story at certain points, I just kept reading once I found my groove. It wasn't hard at all as Kim had a way for the events to flow smoothly. The whole story, outside of the prologue and epilogue, took place in a span of pretty much a week. So it was about the buildup to what they're dealing with, interspersed with details of their respective pasts.
And while some of the dialogues felt stilted, the writing as a whole was beautiful. Otherwise, I wouldn't be highlighting the way I was.
"I wonder if random points of synchronicity ever all add up to one big moment of transcendence? Maybe it's not meant to be just a single moment of perfection, maybe it'll be a series of moments of better than average."
Again, see why I'm conflicted?
Overall though, as mentioned earlier, this is a very nice effort for a debut novel. As you can see, I'm in the minority, and happy to be so. I know Kim will only get better, I can already see it. She'll hone her craft and find her niche just fine.
February 5, 2017
It's a hard decision between 3 and 4 stars. I go with 3.5 tending to 3.
But seeing that most reviews have 5 stars, it's clearly an it's-me-not-you kind of thing.
When I need 6 days to read a book, I must have some issues with it. It couldn't suck me in and I couldn't connect with the H and h. Oh they were likeable, but in my opinion simply too perfect, nearly saints and everybody who comes across them, falls in love with them. So they bored me to no end!
I also wished the father wouldn't spend half the week yelling at his daughter, when he clearly wants to make amends.
Although this instant trust and love was a bit too much and unbelievable for me.
Everything the characters did together was perfect and they understand each other in a way nobody else did before. Maybe this could be true, maybe I'm just a bit cranky this week, that I couldn't understand this instant perfection. You see, it's me not you.
After all, it was well written and some of the thoughts about life are worth to be remembered from time to time.
But seeing that most reviews have 5 stars, it's clearly an it's-me-not-you kind of thing.
When I need 6 days to read a book, I must have some issues with it. It couldn't suck me in and I couldn't connect with the H and h. Oh they were likeable, but in my opinion simply too perfect, nearly saints and everybody who comes across them, falls in love with them. So they bored me to no end!
I also wished the father wouldn't spend half the week yelling at his daughter, when he clearly wants to make amends.
Although this instant trust and love was a bit too much and unbelievable for me.
Everything the characters did together was perfect and they understand each other in a way nobody else did before. Maybe this could be true, maybe I'm just a bit cranky this week, that I couldn't understand this instant perfection. You see, it's me not you.
After all, it was well written and some of the thoughts about life are worth to be remembered from time to time.
December 13, 2016
Kim trusted me with the privilege of beta-reading Complex Kisses earlier this year, and I loved it!
Jamie and Eric make a quick, intense connection in a time of high stress and worry for both of them. Their chemistry crackles right away. First in simple banter and flirtation, and then in the real bond that develops between them, they give each other support and a place of reprieve from their worries. In that place, understanding and love grows naturally.
This story is sweet and funny, and Jamie and Eric are a wonderful match. Their senses of humor and their outlooks on life and the world, their ideas about families—in all these ways, they are great complements to each other.
Not to say that their road is perfectly smooth and easy. They’re also dealing with trouble in their individual lives, and the story takes several interesting turns as they try to figure out how to help each other through.
The secondary characters, their family members, are richly drawn and interesting themselves, and I’m looking forward to reading about them as the series progresses. Even the background characters have personalities that pop in their moments.
This is a wonderful debut novel and an exciting start to a contemporary romance series!
Jamie and Eric make a quick, intense connection in a time of high stress and worry for both of them. Their chemistry crackles right away. First in simple banter and flirtation, and then in the real bond that develops between them, they give each other support and a place of reprieve from their worries. In that place, understanding and love grows naturally.
This story is sweet and funny, and Jamie and Eric are a wonderful match. Their senses of humor and their outlooks on life and the world, their ideas about families—in all these ways, they are great complements to each other.
Not to say that their road is perfectly smooth and easy. They’re also dealing with trouble in their individual lives, and the story takes several interesting turns as they try to figure out how to help each other through.
The secondary characters, their family members, are richly drawn and interesting themselves, and I’m looking forward to reading about them as the series progresses. Even the background characters have personalities that pop in their moments.
This is a wonderful debut novel and an exciting start to a contemporary romance series!
December 29, 2016
***AVAILABLE NOW - FULL REVIEW***
4.5 F*CK FEAR CROWNS
Kim Bailey's debut novel, Complex Kisses, blew me away with its emotional plot, delightful and endearing characters, and its live in the moment with no fear theme!
These characters are completely fantastic! Each one is complex and developed, with many layers to each. The heroine, Jamie, is a single mother who has returned home out of familial obligations. She is self-assured about her roles as a mother, but struggles elsewhere. She struggles between taking care of her estranged father and being there for her son. She is also struggles with reconciling with her father's memory and who he is now. These issues make her want to run, to return to the safe, the normal, the expected, but she never plans on Eric. He awakens something in her, and makes her want to face all of her fears and hope for something more. Eric has his own set of issues, but what drives him is the carpe diem attitude. He spouts living in the moment, and he entices Jamie to live in the moment with him. For this, we love him. His guidance, compassion, understanding, awaken sides of Jamie that is needed for her to really live. But just as he gives Jamie a reason to face her fears, she gives him a reason to plan and to make plans for the future. His protective nature of his family and friends is another amazing attribute of Eric's, and who can forget his courage to show and say how he feels! Eric has no qualms professing his love, and that made me love him as a hero even more.
Side note: Caleb and Hunter will steal your heart, and I am so excited for the next story in the series. Caleb's story will, I have no doubt captivate me.
This plot is wonderfully and emotionally beautiful. The romance between Eric and Jamie is filled with heat and raw emotion. They hold nothing back, often baring their souls to each other. With each declaration, their love becomes stronger, and I found myself hoping for them to find a way around their past pains. There is also the inevitable plot line of the family members in the hospital. Seeing their journey and struggle is painful at times, but it isn't a
frivolous use of their sickness. Kim Bailey's uses these diseases to really drive home the message of living every day, of living in be moment, and of living without fear. This idea of balancing living in the moment while planning for the future really spoke to me as a reader. The final part of the plot is the the relationship between Jamie and her father. Kim Bailey does an amazing job at allowing them reconcile in a way that fits who they are as people and as a family. It isn't forced, and it isn't all sunshine and rainbow, but it is real and authentic, and his message to his daughter to f*ck fear resonates with anyone seeking to live a life full of adventure and experiences.
Kim Bailey's debut novel has me in complete awe of her talent. Her tale of heartache, of reconciliation, and of love left me emotionally raw and truly exposed so many ideas about life that will resonate with any reader truly looking to live. Complex Kisses is an absolute must read!
--------------------
ARC received in exchange for an honest review.
For more reviews and other book news, check out Musings of the Modern Belle at www.modernbellebooks.com
4.5 F*CK FEAR CROWNS
Kim Bailey's debut novel, Complex Kisses, blew me away with its emotional plot, delightful and endearing characters, and its live in the moment with no fear theme!
These characters are completely fantastic! Each one is complex and developed, with many layers to each. The heroine, Jamie, is a single mother who has returned home out of familial obligations. She is self-assured about her roles as a mother, but struggles elsewhere. She struggles between taking care of her estranged father and being there for her son. She is also struggles with reconciling with her father's memory and who he is now. These issues make her want to run, to return to the safe, the normal, the expected, but she never plans on Eric. He awakens something in her, and makes her want to face all of her fears and hope for something more. Eric has his own set of issues, but what drives him is the carpe diem attitude. He spouts living in the moment, and he entices Jamie to live in the moment with him. For this, we love him. His guidance, compassion, understanding, awaken sides of Jamie that is needed for her to really live. But just as he gives Jamie a reason to face her fears, she gives him a reason to plan and to make plans for the future. His protective nature of his family and friends is another amazing attribute of Eric's, and who can forget his courage to show and say how he feels! Eric has no qualms professing his love, and that made me love him as a hero even more.
Side note: Caleb and Hunter will steal your heart, and I am so excited for the next story in the series. Caleb's story will, I have no doubt captivate me.
This plot is wonderfully and emotionally beautiful. The romance between Eric and Jamie is filled with heat and raw emotion. They hold nothing back, often baring their souls to each other. With each declaration, their love becomes stronger, and I found myself hoping for them to find a way around their past pains. There is also the inevitable plot line of the family members in the hospital. Seeing their journey and struggle is painful at times, but it isn't a
frivolous use of their sickness. Kim Bailey's uses these diseases to really drive home the message of living every day, of living in be moment, and of living without fear. This idea of balancing living in the moment while planning for the future really spoke to me as a reader. The final part of the plot is the the relationship between Jamie and her father. Kim Bailey does an amazing job at allowing them reconcile in a way that fits who they are as people and as a family. It isn't forced, and it isn't all sunshine and rainbow, but it is real and authentic, and his message to his daughter to f*ck fear resonates with anyone seeking to live a life full of adventure and experiences.
Kim Bailey's debut novel has me in complete awe of her talent. Her tale of heartache, of reconciliation, and of love left me emotionally raw and truly exposed so many ideas about life that will resonate with any reader truly looking to live. Complex Kisses is an absolute must read!
--------------------
ARC received in exchange for an honest review.
For more reviews and other book news, check out Musings of the Modern Belle at www.modernbellebooks.com
Want to read
September 7, 2020💝FREE on Amazon today (7/2/2018)!💝
Blurb:
When lost and living in the moment …
… can you be found with just a kiss?
Jamie Hartley ran away, leaving grief and heartache behind. Lost on her own. Raising a child. Her plan is simple. Make it through. Find her path. Survive.
Eric Anderson walked away, abandoning plans and expectations. Living day to day. Waiting for miracles. His goal is complicated. Make it through. Find a way. Endure.
In stolen moments of passion and pleasure, Jamie and Eric find reprieve from their complex lives. Together, they ease the burdens. Together, they soothe the pain.
But can they recognize the future when it finds them?
Here and now.
Blurb:
When lost and living in the moment …
… can you be found with just a kiss?
Jamie Hartley ran away, leaving grief and heartache behind. Lost on her own. Raising a child. Her plan is simple. Make it through. Find her path. Survive.
Eric Anderson walked away, abandoning plans and expectations. Living day to day. Waiting for miracles. His goal is complicated. Make it through. Find a way. Endure.
In stolen moments of passion and pleasure, Jamie and Eric find reprieve from their complex lives. Together, they ease the burdens. Together, they soothe the pain.
But can they recognize the future when it finds them?
Here and now.
January 5, 2017
4.5 STARS!!!!!
So I usually stay away from books that are too heavy or emotional. I read to escape into lala land and give myself a break from real life stress. Complex Kisses, while dealing with some pretty heavy subjects, was an awesome mix of heavy and light, emotional and funny, sexy and romantic.
I felt all of the feels!!!
What I love about this book:
~Caleb. Man oh man, I love Caleb. His charming flirtatious ways, his bravery, his optimistic attitude. I can't wait for Caleb's book. PLEASE GIVE ME CALEB's BOOK NOW.
~ Eric. He was a hot, strong, sweet hero. I love the way he was there for his family and for Jamie.
~ Jamie. I felt for her from the start - a single mom, doing the best she can without parental support, always putting her child first. I wanted her to find love and was rooting for her from the start.
Quotes:
“This is life, beautiful girl. This is truly living and feeling. Sometimes it hurts. Sometimes it hurts a fuck of a lot. But that’s only made me appreciate it more when it doesn’t.”
Be brave. Fuck fear.
If you want angst with sarcasm and heat, ONE CLICK NOW!!!
So I usually stay away from books that are too heavy or emotional. I read to escape into lala land and give myself a break from real life stress. Complex Kisses, while dealing with some pretty heavy subjects, was an awesome mix of heavy and light, emotional and funny, sexy and romantic.
I felt all of the feels!!!
What I love about this book:
~Caleb. Man oh man, I love Caleb. His charming flirtatious ways, his bravery, his optimistic attitude. I can't wait for Caleb's book. PLEASE GIVE ME CALEB's BOOK NOW.
~ Eric. He was a hot, strong, sweet hero. I love the way he was there for his family and for Jamie.
~ Jamie. I felt for her from the start - a single mom, doing the best she can without parental support, always putting her child first. I wanted her to find love and was rooting for her from the start.
Quotes:
“This is life, beautiful girl. This is truly living and feeling. Sometimes it hurts. Sometimes it hurts a fuck of a lot. But that’s only made me appreciate it more when it doesn’t.”
Be brave. Fuck fear.
If you want angst with sarcasm and heat, ONE CLICK NOW!!!
February 6, 2017
Such a wonderful story of finding yourself, finding forgiveness and finding love and learning to live.
January 7, 2017
Well done, Kim,well done!
I loved the story the dynamic between Eric and Jamie but sometimes i got the feeling that Jamie is a bit dramatic with her thinking of what could be...... (main reason i'm not giving 5 stars)
I'm not realy a fan of insta lust/love but in this case i do belive that Caleb was their little angel.
Realy likable story with charachters that you just must love and you keep your fingers crossed that their ending will be a happy one!
Can't wait for Caleb's story!
I loved the story the dynamic between Eric and Jamie but sometimes i got the feeling that Jamie is a bit dramatic with her thinking of what could be...... (main reason i'm not giving 5 stars)
I'm not realy a fan of insta lust/love but in this case i do belive that Caleb was their little angel.
Realy likable story with charachters that you just must love and you keep your fingers crossed that their ending will be a happy one!
Can't wait for Caleb's story!
September 17, 2017
I am voluntarily reviewing this arc of this book. She runs away after her dad hit her. It doesn't say why but it's explained later. She stayed away for years. Her son has never met him and his father Doesn't have a great relationship. She meets Caleb who's in the hospital for bone marrow transplant. They meet when he offers her his pudding minus the spoon he already are. There she meets Eric his brother. They got it off great. This book will keep you wanting more. I can't wait to read the rest is the books
December 29, 2016
Compelling sweet yet slightly emotional romance about a single mom & a sexy guy who finally find their HEA
Complex Kisses, as a debut novel, I have to admit, I enjoyed a lot more than I expected actually. It is well written with a solid plot and plenty of steamy and sexy romance. There are not many debut books that come across as strong reads but I have to give Kim Bailey massive credit as Complex Kisses was an intriguing and compelling sweet yet slightly emotional read about a single mom and a sexy guy who have both gone through tough periods and together end up on the road to love after meeting under tough circumstances.
Eric and Jaime, who tell the book through dual perspectives, have an incredible attraction from the very moment they meet, although Eric’s brother, Caleb, gives Eric a real run for his money in being my favourite guy in the book. The chemistry between them is scorching, developing at a fast pace and definitely leaves you feeling flush with the hot and sexy scenes and chemistry between the pair. Both characters are really likeable and evolve over the course of the book.
Complex Kisses is well written with a solid plot, fast pace and great flow. The range of emotions both characters experience is well captured by the author, allowing the reader to really experience how both feel. The book has a HEA and rounds off all things for Eric and Jamie and I loved the epilogue ending and the extra point of view we get. I can’t wait to read Caleb’s story because he is definitely one of those characters who just steal your heart with their natural charming persona.
Overall, I loved this romance and would highly recommend the book!
*I voluntarily reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book. I was not compensated for my review, and I was not required to write a positive review. The opinion expressed here is my own.
Complex Kisses, as a debut novel, I have to admit, I enjoyed a lot more than I expected actually. It is well written with a solid plot and plenty of steamy and sexy romance. There are not many debut books that come across as strong reads but I have to give Kim Bailey massive credit as Complex Kisses was an intriguing and compelling sweet yet slightly emotional read about a single mom and a sexy guy who have both gone through tough periods and together end up on the road to love after meeting under tough circumstances.
Eric and Jaime, who tell the book through dual perspectives, have an incredible attraction from the very moment they meet, although Eric’s brother, Caleb, gives Eric a real run for his money in being my favourite guy in the book. The chemistry between them is scorching, developing at a fast pace and definitely leaves you feeling flush with the hot and sexy scenes and chemistry between the pair. Both characters are really likeable and evolve over the course of the book.
Complex Kisses is well written with a solid plot, fast pace and great flow. The range of emotions both characters experience is well captured by the author, allowing the reader to really experience how both feel. The book has a HEA and rounds off all things for Eric and Jamie and I loved the epilogue ending and the extra point of view we get. I can’t wait to read Caleb’s story because he is definitely one of those characters who just steal your heart with their natural charming persona.
Overall, I loved this romance and would highly recommend the book!
*I voluntarily reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book. I was not compensated for my review, and I was not required to write a positive review. The opinion expressed here is my own.
January 5, 2017
Loved Kim Bailey's debut novel!!!
Complex Kisses is about meeting someone when you least expect it and living in the moment.
Can't wait to read more by this author!
Complex Kisses is about meeting someone when you least expect it and living in the moment.
Can't wait to read more by this author!
September 25, 2017
This book. There are so many things I enjoyed about this book. Eric & Jamie are the most amazing characters and their love came out of awful circumstances but wow. This book was beautifully written and I cannot wait keep read more in the series. I am not a fan of instant love but even this book had me swooning! Which is very difficult.
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