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Ethan and Michelle
Before they were Nova and Noah's parents, they were two friends in college, getting to know each other and falling in love. This is a stand-alone interracial erotic romantic comedy set in the 90's.
Interracial romance. BWWM Standalone with a HEA.
Interracial romance. BWWM Standalone with a HEA.
208 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 15, 2016
11 people are currently reading
90 people want to read
About the author
Gisele R. Walko
6 books121 followersI am a wife, mother and Media Assistant at an Elementary School. I like to write in my spare time. In my past life I was a social worker, so some of my stuff focuses on social issues. My children are products of an interracial marriage, and there are lots of biracial kids in my extended family, so lots of my characters are biracial. I love watching horror shows, and puzzles.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 39 reviews
September 30, 2016
Ethan and Michelle...Where do I begin? For one, just look at my tags, lolol...But seriously:
This is a new adult, interracial romance unlike anything I've ever read. It's a page-turner because Michelle will drive you nuts! I wanted to shake this child til her teeth fell out, but I could not stop reading...
As the title says, this story is about Ethan, the hunky, white grad student, and Michelle, the alt blerd psych major. They meet by chance, and it was love at first sight--only one of them is already in a relationship, and they do not cheat--no matter how much her mind, body, and soul wants Ethan (Oops, I just gave away which one LOLOL). Ethan respects the boundaries Michelle has put in place, but that doesn't stop him from still wanting her nor wasting any time being in her presence and silently coercing her with his masculine charms.
Michelle is likable enough, except when it comes to her loser boyfriend, Derrick. He's manipulative (not abusive, just manipulative because he knows he can get away with it) and boring and basically wants Michelle for the company, 'cause he sure ain't in it for the booty. And this is where I want to throttle this girl! She's a pleaser in nature, putting everyone else's needs before her own. She escapes by literally running away and almost loses the best thing that happens to her.
What I like most about this story, besides Ethan, is that it does not paint a "PC" IR romance (I love this new shift because let's be real, even in 2016, interracial relationships still aren't universally accepted no matter how progressive people claim to be.) Some real shit goes down, with some blunt talk and even blunter actions. And did I mention Ethan? Good gracious, he's a keeper, putting up with Michelle's and his family's shenanigans. Keke and Kevin, their BFFs, are awesome, supporting characters too.
With a sweet epilogue, this story is definitely worth the read. I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review. And I can honestly say that I truly enjoyed this story. Even Michelle (once she got her shit together...)
This is a new adult, interracial romance unlike anything I've ever read. It's a page-turner because Michelle will drive you nuts! I wanted to shake this child til her teeth fell out, but I could not stop reading...
As the title says, this story is about Ethan, the hunky, white grad student, and Michelle, the alt blerd psych major. They meet by chance, and it was love at first sight--only one of them is already in a relationship, and they do not cheat--no matter how much her mind, body, and soul wants Ethan (Oops, I just gave away which one LOLOL). Ethan respects the boundaries Michelle has put in place, but that doesn't stop him from still wanting her nor wasting any time being in her presence and silently coercing her with his masculine charms.
Michelle is likable enough, except when it comes to her loser boyfriend, Derrick. He's manipulative (not abusive, just manipulative because he knows he can get away with it) and boring and basically wants Michelle for the company, 'cause he sure ain't in it for the booty. And this is where I want to throttle this girl! She's a pleaser in nature, putting everyone else's needs before her own. She escapes by literally running away and almost loses the best thing that happens to her.
What I like most about this story, besides Ethan, is that it does not paint a "PC" IR romance (I love this new shift because let's be real, even in 2016, interracial relationships still aren't universally accepted no matter how progressive people claim to be.) Some real shit goes down, with some blunt talk and even blunter actions. And did I mention Ethan? Good gracious, he's a keeper, putting up with Michelle's and his family's shenanigans. Keke and Kevin, their BFFs, are awesome, supporting characters too.
With a sweet epilogue, this story is definitely worth the read. I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review. And I can honestly say that I truly enjoyed this story. Even Michelle (once she got her shit together...)
March 30, 2018
Rating: 3 1/2 stars
Ethan and Michelle is an insta-lurv sassy, at times smexy and humor-filled interracial romance that addresses everything from college life, friendship, family and relationships (all types). The Elephant in the room is racism of all types whether it's light-skinned black people looking down on darker-skinned black people, or it's someone "subtly" asking, "Why didn't you tell me so-so was black" or asking inappropriate questions.
The way Ethan and Michelle meet and bond is flirty, funny and downright goofy but at the end of the day, very sweet. Their sexual romps are far from wholesome but just raw nasty passion and an all out expression of love-lust. They were both likable and very human. At first, Michelle annoyed me with her passive aggressive behavior and special brownies while clinging to her useless b.f. Derrick. But then she got a back-bone and it was groovy. The ish was that she should have kept it going towards the end. Ethan is consistent and comes off too good to be true. Book boyfriend material! Preppie Caveman! Yes!
I recommend this totally adorable book that was easy to slide into. Despite some predictable and OTT moments, it kept me laughing and cheering all the way to the end.
Ethan and Michelle is an insta-lurv sassy, at times smexy and humor-filled interracial romance that addresses everything from college life, friendship, family and relationships (all types). The Elephant in the room is racism of all types whether it's light-skinned black people looking down on darker-skinned black people, or it's someone "subtly" asking, "Why didn't you tell me so-so was black" or asking inappropriate questions.
The way Ethan and Michelle meet and bond is flirty, funny and downright goofy but at the end of the day, very sweet. Their sexual romps are far from wholesome but just raw nasty passion and an all out expression of love-lust. They were both likable and very human. At first, Michelle annoyed me with her passive aggressive behavior and special brownies while clinging to her useless b.f. Derrick. But then she got a back-bone and it was groovy. The ish was that she should have kept it going towards the end. Ethan is consistent and comes off too good to be true. Book boyfriend material! Preppie Caveman! Yes!
I recommend this totally adorable book that was easy to slide into. Despite some predictable and OTT moments, it kept me laughing and cheering all the way to the end.
September 27, 2016
Have you ever read a book that you just didn't want to end??????
I just did.....all I can say is I loved Ethan and of course Michelle.
I just did.....all I can say is I loved Ethan and of course Michelle.
October 2, 2016
ARC received in exchange for an honest review.
Ethan has a crush on Michelle but she has a boyfriend Derrick, so it's just not gonna happen. Ethan is patient so he decides to resign himself to the role of friend. The two hang out, eat and buy furniture together -- just like a married couple. Then one day, everything changes. Ethan finds out that Michelle dreams of him and he gets angry that she won't let go of a certain someone.
So angry, that it causes a rift between the pair and they part ways, but his heart and head can't let her go. Days go by and he refuses to be without her any longer. They reconcile over dirt, water and sweat and make plans for Michelle to change her relationship status. Ethan has his friend back but he's no longer content to be the friend on the side. Michelle's plan to end her relationship with Derrick is thwarted at every turn. Universe ... can you please take several seats?!
Meanwhile, Ethan is losing patience -- but he has Michelle's number ... Oh yes, he does. This book is going into my favorites pile to be read again and again.
I leave you with two of my favorite (out of many) quotes:
==>"I’m the stupidest girl in the world for not doing this sooner."
==>“Oh, God, Ethan, that feels good. I’m never, never gonna stop sassin’ you.”
Gisele's an author to read and watch. I l♥ved it!
Ethan has a crush on Michelle but she has a boyfriend Derrick, so it's just not gonna happen. Ethan is patient so he decides to resign himself to the role of friend. The two hang out, eat and buy furniture together -- just like a married couple. Then one day, everything changes. Ethan finds out that Michelle dreams of him and he gets angry that she won't let go of a certain someone.
So angry, that it causes a rift between the pair and they part ways, but his heart and head can't let her go. Days go by and he refuses to be without her any longer. They reconcile over dirt, water and sweat and make plans for Michelle to change her relationship status. Ethan has his friend back but he's no longer content to be the friend on the side. Michelle's plan to end her relationship with Derrick is thwarted at every turn. Universe ... can you please take several seats?!
Meanwhile, Ethan is losing patience -- but he has Michelle's number ... Oh yes, he does. This book is going into my favorites pile to be read again and again.
I leave you with two of my favorite (out of many) quotes:
==>"I’m the stupidest girl in the world for not doing this sooner."
==>“Oh, God, Ethan, that feels good. I’m never, never gonna stop sassin’ you.”
Gisele's an author to read and watch. I l♥ved it!
October 4, 2016
** I received an ARC of this book for a honest review. I was not paid for my review. **
As the title indicates this story is about Ethan and Michelle, who are both at college. They meet by chance at Michelle's work place. There is an instant attraction but unfortunately, Michelle is already in a relation with a douche called Derrick. I never believed that Derrick ever loved Michelle by the way he tries to control and manipulate her. Michelle regardless of her growing feelings for Ethan won't dump Derrick. There is no cheating by Michelle she is not that girl. All the time their in the friends-zone, I found myself wishing that they would hurry up and figure out that they should be together.
I nearly lost it when Michelle attends the funeral without speaking to Ethan first and all the actions that she took surrounding this trip was totally shocking to me. I wanted to slap her, how could she do that to Ethan!!
There are many twists and turns. This is a sweet engrossing story. The author made the characters very engaging thereby holding the reader's attention. Definitely worth a read.
As the title indicates this story is about Ethan and Michelle, who are both at college. They meet by chance at Michelle's work place. There is an instant attraction but unfortunately, Michelle is already in a relation with a douche called Derrick. I never believed that Derrick ever loved Michelle by the way he tries to control and manipulate her. Michelle regardless of her growing feelings for Ethan won't dump Derrick. There is no cheating by Michelle she is not that girl. All the time their in the friends-zone, I found myself wishing that they would hurry up and figure out that they should be together.
I nearly lost it when Michelle attends the funeral without speaking to Ethan first and all the actions that she took surrounding this trip was totally shocking to me. I wanted to slap her, how could she do that to Ethan!!
There are many twists and turns. This is a sweet engrossing story. The author made the characters very engaging thereby holding the reader's attention. Definitely worth a read.
October 14, 2016
First off when I started reading this book it came out very natural. I could wholeheartedly relate to the characters Ethan and Michelle. The interaction between the characters was authentic and realistic. I also liked that both characters were both intellectuals, but faced challenges like any other couple in an interracial relationship. Reading this book throughout was in a lot of ways like going back in time revisiting experiences like these in this book that I've experienced in my own interracial relationship and then marriage. It was like reading my own life story from start to finish. Certain aspects became very emotional and gut wrenching for me, but all an all a fabulous read. I wouldn't mind reading more from this author. She's a real class act.
March 31, 2018
Gone too soon...RIP Gisele Walko
Giselle Walko's "Ethan and Michelle" was a fun, funny, romantic and very heartwarming tale set in OKC in the '90's.
Trust fund charming guy, Ethan and quirky but cute Michelle are college students who met by chance and had that strange but magical connection from the start even with Ethan's unwise flirt ("Hey, Black Beauty") and Michelle zany name-calling counterstrike reply calling him 'white lightning'.
Although Michelle was dating Derrick ('the robot'), a manipulative and judgmental TA at the beginning of the story, Lord how I was so ready for her 'to drop that zero' and 'pull up to the bumper' with Ethan like her friends, Kevin (Que Dog) and Keisha aka KeKe (BFF) another great couple in "Ethan & Michelle."
The universe was all for Kevin and KeKe being together and Ethan and Michelle too but E&M encounters were brought about in hidden ways by K&K and because they really had that chemistry and wanted to be in each other company. What I found ironic about Michelle was that as a Psychology major she fail to see Derrick for what he wasn't for her even surrounded by the most loveable couple she knew (KeKe and Kevin). Michelle was CONTENT with the dud and sex was overrated ...or maybe she just didn't want to leave one relationship if the later one with Ethan was just a fluke. WHEN E&M's RELATIONSHIP MOVED FROM FRIENDSHIP TO LOVERS WITH DUD out of the picture, boy was MICHELLE happy and that fidgeting she once had around judgmental Derrick vanished and was then at peace to love Ethan. Sex was no longer overrated it was perfect with Ethan!!!! lol
Ok enough spoilers and reflections, this was an exciting and well-written book! Read it and see for yourself! You want be disappointed!
BTW Ethan's family were a hot mess! Thank goodness Ethan was nothing like them and was a good match for Michelle.
Really looking forward to part 2 to their story!
5+ EXCELLENT AND ONE OF MY FAVORITE BOOKS OF 2017 STARS *****
Giselle Walko's "Ethan and Michelle" was a fun, funny, romantic and very heartwarming tale set in OKC in the '90's.
Trust fund charming guy, Ethan and quirky but cute Michelle are college students who met by chance and had that strange but magical connection from the start even with Ethan's unwise flirt ("Hey, Black Beauty") and Michelle zany name-calling counterstrike reply calling him 'white lightning'.
Although Michelle was dating Derrick ('the robot'), a manipulative and judgmental TA at the beginning of the story, Lord how I was so ready for her 'to drop that zero' and 'pull up to the bumper' with Ethan like her friends, Kevin (Que Dog) and Keisha aka KeKe (BFF) another great couple in "Ethan & Michelle."
The universe was all for Kevin and KeKe being together and Ethan and Michelle too but E&M encounters were brought about in hidden ways by K&K and because they really had that chemistry and wanted to be in each other company. What I found ironic about Michelle was that as a Psychology major she fail to see Derrick for what he wasn't for her even surrounded by the most loveable couple she knew (KeKe and Kevin). Michelle was CONTENT with the dud and sex was overrated ...or maybe she just didn't want to leave one relationship if the later one with Ethan was just a fluke. WHEN E&M's RELATIONSHIP MOVED FROM FRIENDSHIP TO LOVERS WITH DUD out of the picture, boy was MICHELLE happy and that fidgeting she once had around judgmental Derrick vanished and was then at peace to love Ethan. Sex was no longer overrated it was perfect with Ethan!!!! lol
Ok enough spoilers and reflections, this was an exciting and well-written book! Read it and see for yourself! You want be disappointed!
BTW Ethan's family were a hot mess! Thank goodness Ethan was nothing like them and was a good match for Michelle.
Really looking forward to part 2 to their story!
5+ EXCELLENT AND ONE OF MY FAVORITE BOOKS OF 2017 STARS *****
September 29, 2016
I have never been so in love with a book. Ethan and Michelle romance had me at grinning like an Cheshire Cat around work. I was so hooked from the beginning to the very end. The sex was hot. The supporting characters was funny and cute. (Keke and Kelvin) The cock blocker (Derick), who I side eyed for most of the book. End up having me crackling like crazy. And Lord please don't let me get started on Ethan parents, let's just say they need some help.
*arc
* 1st pov dual
*arc
* 1st pov dual
October 10, 2016
I loved it!!
More detail review coming soon
More detail review coming soon
September 30, 2016
What a wonderful love story. After reading about Ethan and Michelle and I couldn't stop smiling, and it left me all dreamy eyed. I fell in love with this couple from the beginning and when the story came to an end, it left me wanting more. I found myself crying along with Michelle when she didn't know who to choose, fussing along with Ethan when it seemed he was fighting a loosing battle, and celebrating along with them both when they finally realized that there was nothing better than being with each other. Thoroughly enjoyed this sweet passionate love story, and I give it 5 stars!
October 1, 2016
This is Walko's best book to date, and I've enjoyed all her other novels. This story is more adult than some of her others and the characters more mature in their characterization and actions. Walko creates, in this story, some of the most amazingly awkward moments between characters I've ever read. Literally mouth open in shock kind of moments, leaving me wondering how she wrote such scenes and not crack up. Because yeah, they are that good. Read "Ethan and Michelle" and see for yourself.
October 16, 2016
This story made me smile and feel good all over. It was reminiscent of my late teens early twenties when I first entered college and the fun I had during those early years of going to school, working, and meeting new people. I liked both Ethan and Michelle right from the start. Truth be told, I enjoyed the supporting characters as well (even the shady ones.) Ethan and Michelle is the telling of how life began for this interracial couple.
As I said before I liked both Ethan and Michelle from the beginning however, Ethan made a faux pas where Michelle was concerned early on
leaving Michelle less than enthused to get to know Ethan on a personal level if not for her best friend and roommate Keisha aka Keke.
he later redeemed himself
The mistake ends up being mentioned throughout the book as a part of the history of how they met.
One of the reoccuring themes in this book is cheating. It was interesting to read how this author tackled this couple's relationship issues from the moment they met as Michelle was currently dating someone up to the point her and Ethan relationship transitioned from strangers to friends, to the awkward stage of I'm interested but I'm taken, to friends to lovers. Ethan was always reassuring Michelle his intent was not to come between her current relationship and Michelle was constantly questioning her motives for being Ethan's friend.
Other issues Gisele Walko mentions in this awesome read are abortion, societal judgments interracial couples experience, and inter breeding. If any of the abovementioned items are triggers here's your warning.
Ethan and Michelle made me shake my head, roll my eyes, sigh, and laugh. I thoroughly enjoyed this book and all the twists. The characters and plot felt realistic and nothing felt forced in my opinion. There were a few places where I got lost with the dialogue but I quickly recovered. After reading the epilogue, I can't wait to read the follow up to this story and all stories that surround any family member.
Ethan and Michelle is a feel good book with a HEA that I recommend. It gets 4.5 I'm glad Michelle found her own Kevin and Keke type of love stars upgraded to 5.
***I received a free copy of this book from the author via Instafreebie in exchange for an honest review***
Ethan Frankle aka White Lightnin' is a white rich kid, but not your typical spoiled one. While he's easy on the eyes he is also honarable.
"Well, Ethan always did like making his own way. Working for the things he has. Not a bad trait."Michelle aka Black Beauty aka Mimi aka Shelly wasn't raised with a silver spoon in her mouth but comes from parents who love her and knows the meaning of hard work as well. She has a strained relationship with her sister and views the world in terms of karma and the universe.
As I said before I liked both Ethan and Michelle from the beginning however, Ethan made a faux pas where Michelle was concerned early on
leaving Michelle less than enthused to get to know Ethan on a personal level if not for her best friend and roommate Keisha aka Keke.
he later redeemed himself
The mistake ends up being mentioned throughout the book as a part of the history of how they met.
One of the reoccuring themes in this book is cheating. It was interesting to read how this author tackled this couple's relationship issues from the moment they met as Michelle was currently dating someone up to the point her and Ethan relationship transitioned from strangers to friends, to the awkward stage of I'm interested but I'm taken, to friends to lovers. Ethan was always reassuring Michelle his intent was not to come between her current relationship and Michelle was constantly questioning her motives for being Ethan's friend.
...I'm not goint to try to make a move." I like spending time with Ethan, too, but when we're together I feel like he's a threat to my sanity and my relationship...It's obvious the connection these two have and although there's no physical cheating between the two, there's an emotional connection.
Other issues Gisele Walko mentions in this awesome read are abortion, societal judgments interracial couples experience, and inter breeding. If any of the abovementioned items are triggers here's your warning.
Ethan and Michelle made me shake my head, roll my eyes, sigh, and laugh. I thoroughly enjoyed this book and all the twists. The characters and plot felt realistic and nothing felt forced in my opinion. There were a few places where I got lost with the dialogue but I quickly recovered. After reading the epilogue, I can't wait to read the follow up to this story and all stories that surround any family member.
Ethan and Michelle is a feel good book with a HEA that I recommend. It gets 4.5 I'm glad Michelle found her own Kevin and Keke type of love stars upgraded to 5.
***I received a free copy of this book from the author via Instafreebie in exchange for an honest review***
November 20, 2016
This was a sweet, satisfying read. I loved Ethan's sexiness and no-nonsense character, and I loved Michelle's sweet quirkiness. They are probably one of my favorite I/R contemporary couples, for sure.
The secondary characters also fleshed out the story well - even the ones I didn't care for (Like Derrick The Robot, and 'I left my favorite sweater' Lucy *cough-cough*). And the visit to Ethan's family? What a hoot. To some readers, the dinner scene may come across as over-the-top, but for us black folks who have actually been in similar circumstances, it was real...and also funny as hell, once one stepped back from the racially charged outrageousness of it all.
I loved the humor dispersed throughout the book, and on several occasions, I was laughing out loud.
Reading about Nova and Noah's parents was a real treat!
(And the 'side cameo' appearance of Kei from 'Beignets and Fangs' added a nice twist - lol).
The secondary characters also fleshed out the story well - even the ones I didn't care for (Like Derrick The Robot, and 'I left my favorite sweater' Lucy *cough-cough*). And the visit to Ethan's family? What a hoot. To some readers, the dinner scene may come across as over-the-top, but for us black folks who have actually been in similar circumstances, it was real...and also funny as hell, once one stepped back from the racially charged outrageousness of it all.
I loved the humor dispersed throughout the book, and on several occasions, I was laughing out loud.
Reading about Nova and Noah's parents was a real treat!
(And the 'side cameo' appearance of Kei from 'Beignets and Fangs' added a nice twist - lol).
October 1, 2016
This book was amazing as I knew it would be. I really wish it could have been longer because it was so freaking good. A love like Ethan and Michelle doesn't come by in life too often and the way, Gisele Walko wrote them made you believe that Ethan and Michelle were an actually couple in real life but who knows maybe they are? And Keisha and Kevin were awesome too really good friends to have in their lives. Good job again sista I can't wait to read your next book!!!!!
November 14, 2016
*ARC received in exchange for an honest review*
In my opinion, this multilayered story is proof, that Giselle Walko is one to watch for quality Interracial Romance with a twist..
Although it wasn't pitch perfect, I enjoyed getting wrapped up in Ethan & Michelle's world.
Because of her passion for writing, this author is now on my auto-buy list of fantastic authors..
Giving this one: 3.5 stars...
In my opinion, this multilayered story is proof, that Giselle Walko is one to watch for quality Interracial Romance with a twist..
Although it wasn't pitch perfect, I enjoyed getting wrapped up in Ethan & Michelle's world.
Because of her passion for writing, this author is now on my auto-buy list of fantastic authors..
Giving this one: 3.5 stars...
June 12, 2017
Disclaimer: Gisele is my friend but this has no bearing on my rating.
Ethan and Michelle follows a similar format as the author's novel Beignets and Fangs (except with no vampires). Two people meet, fall in love, overcome drama with exes, meet the parents, and have babies.
The reason I'm rating this lower is because I really didn't like Ethan. He had his moments, but for the most part I found him kind of a jackass. First, he lashed out at Michelle for something she had NO idea about, which utterly confused her. Then he talked down to a police officer because the cop didn't make full use of his advantages and "only" became a cop. He also treated Lacy horribly, and Lacy's only crime was leaving her sweater at his apartment on purpose. On another note, Ethan seemed a bit too sassy for a white boy from Connecticut.
Michelle, however, was a delight. She made me laugh on multiple occasions. I also liked how at the end she started to get neurotic because of things outside her control.
There was tons of sex but also a story to go along with it. Lots of drama, lots of bad decisions before the happy ending. Overall, this was a pretty solid offering.
Ethan and Michelle follows a similar format as the author's novel Beignets and Fangs (except with no vampires). Two people meet, fall in love, overcome drama with exes, meet the parents, and have babies.
The reason I'm rating this lower is because I really didn't like Ethan. He had his moments, but for the most part I found him kind of a jackass. First, he lashed out at Michelle for something she had NO idea about, which utterly confused her. Then he talked down to a police officer because the cop didn't make full use of his advantages and "only" became a cop. He also treated Lacy horribly, and Lacy's only crime was leaving her sweater at his apartment on purpose. On another note, Ethan seemed a bit too sassy for a white boy from Connecticut.
Michelle, however, was a delight. She made me laugh on multiple occasions. I also liked how at the end she started to get neurotic because of things outside her control.
There was tons of sex but also a story to go along with it. Lots of drama, lots of bad decisions before the happy ending. Overall, this was a pretty solid offering.
May 30, 2017
I was positively thrilled with this story! Ethan and Michelle were the cutest couple that just seemed like they were made for each other. That is until Michelle finally stopped fighting their attraction and dumped her terrible "robot" like boyfriend, Derrick. Who couldn't remember any defining aspect of her personality or preferences, even with a loaded gun to his head. And I just adored the cute little domestic scenes of Michelle and Ethan growing as a couple. Both of their pov's were equally engaging and funny. Michelle was extra funny and relatable because she was very much like me in all her sassy yet vulnerable ways. And Ethan just loved the heck out of her! Everything from the great cast of characters and the plot just wrapped it up for me as a great read!
November 4, 2016
Loved the humour in this book. That kept me interested the most. The main characters had dimension. All characters were given a voice-got to know a little about them. Sweet love story between main characters-and I loved that the setting was in the 90's. I identify with the setting and era and references to music.
November 4, 2016
Love and friendship
I really loved this book. The pacing was perfect. I'm a huge fan of friendship romances. I also love how fleshed out not characters were. I will definitely read more from this author.
I really loved this book. The pacing was perfect. I'm a huge fan of friendship romances. I also love how fleshed out not characters were. I will definitely read more from this author.
October 3, 2016
I loved the backdrop of this story of finding love in the 90's because even though I wasn't grown up, I remember the 90's fondly and I absolutely loved everything about it. The music, the time of excited changes, and just being alive. Michelle and Kevin are so good together. They felt that pull of attraction but kept it platonic even though they were emotionally entangled with one another as Mimi (as she is affectionately called by those close to her) had a boyfriend. Michelle's boyfriend Derrick is not very attentive to her as he doesn't allow her to be herself and so he doesn't see her as she is but he tries to make her what he wants her to be. I loved Ethan and his desire to be in Michelle's life no matter what even if it's just as her friend but he was ready to swoop in and be her knight and shining armor when, not if, her and Derrick broke up. I liked that they were consistent even during times that may have been tense to their relationship, they didn't do anything stupid that would further inflame the situations. There were some dialogue that was a bit confusing to me as the story is told from dual points of view, but I believe Ms. Walko did a pretty good job in walking that line. The meeting of the parents were interesting and I liked the story overall. :)
It was a 3.5 story for me, as I said that some of the dialogue was confusing to me, but I did enjoy their journey which is why it was given the half tick up. :)
I received this story as an ARC from instafreebe.
It was a 3.5 story for me, as I said that some of the dialogue was confusing to me, but I did enjoy their journey which is why it was given the half tick up. :)
I received this story as an ARC from instafreebe.
August 23, 2025
A full review as promised...
This book was my introduction to Gisele Walko. After reading a string of disappointing books by authors new and familiar, I came across Ethan and Michelle and thought, What the heck! What do I have to lose? Turns out, nothing. I had everything to gain. I describe reading this book, like the moment you realize you’ve succumb to a new crush. What do the kids call it nowadays in bookland? A book crush. Yes! That’s exactly what this book felt like; a crush. I read it straight through: After work, during my break, while waiting for my daughter to finish her dance rehearsal, after I got home from work, and before I left the next morning. In this genre, books like this are far and few in between. So, you might ask, what makes this one so special? Turn the page and find out.
My Summary
So, I’d rather start with the cons of this book and end on a good note. Here we go:
On to the Pros, yay!
There’s more I want to write about this book, but its been a couple of days since I read it and I’ve forgotten some points I wanted to make. I should have taken notes; I suck at that. Damn. Overall, I enjoyed this one. It was funny, engaging, although not without flaws. I read this book on Kindle Unlimited. But found it so enjoyable, I bought it afterward. Well worth the price of admission, and its current price is only .99 cent. A crime really. The author deserves so much more compared to other books I’ve read (in this genre) of late; the ones that cost double or triple that. *Sigh* Support good authors.
My rating: A fantabulous 4.8
This book was my introduction to Gisele Walko. After reading a string of disappointing books by authors new and familiar, I came across Ethan and Michelle and thought, What the heck! What do I have to lose? Turns out, nothing. I had everything to gain. I describe reading this book, like the moment you realize you’ve succumb to a new crush. What do the kids call it nowadays in bookland? A book crush. Yes! That’s exactly what this book felt like; a crush. I read it straight through: After work, during my break, while waiting for my daughter to finish her dance rehearsal, after I got home from work, and before I left the next morning. In this genre, books like this are far and few in between. So, you might ask, what makes this one so special? Turn the page and find out.
My Summary
What happens when two college kids fall in love? Or better yet, what happens when the year is 1994 and white lightening meets black beauty? Do they fall in love, or fall into disaster? Humor, fun, and lots of steamy bed sheet wrestling ensues. A book that will make you smile, laugh, and sometimes cringe, but never want to put down.
So, I’d rather start with the cons of this book and end on a good note. Here we go:
1. One of the characters is involved with someone else for a significant chunk of the book. This I did not like, because 1. It made no sense, this person was completely dispassionate, and frankly rude. Who would want to be with that when, you have tall, fun and handsome over here? That just doesn’t fly.
2. Not to spoil (so don’t read this next part) but… I say deal with it honestly, and then move on. I don’t mind flawed characters; I do mind flawed characters that are presented as righteous when doing flat out wrong.
3. Some aspects of Ethan’s inner dialogue skirted the edge of fetishistic. His preoccupation with Michelle’s skin tone rubbed me wrong. But it didn’t overwhelm the story to the point where I felt icky or grossed out. Call it a clueless white boy faux pas.
4. Ethan’s of course, Wealthy. How typical and of course his parents are caricatures of the bigoted douchebag variety. Of course. A dinner table scene almost took me out. It was so over the top. Sorry but even in the 90s well-to-do white folks would be remiss to use the N word around their children’s mates. It just would not happen in polite post 80s society. This is not the 50s. These are not rednecks.
5. Why is almost everyone in an IR romance in this story? In Midwest America? In Oklahoma? In racially tense Massachusetts? Maybe in California. But this was not set anywhere near Cali. Not realistic. This was my first Walko book, so it was easier to dismiss as an, okay. By the second book, not so much. I see it’s a trend. Not one I’m liking.
On to the Pros, yay!
1. The characters feel real. The story felt realier. In that Ethan works, Michelle works. They both go to school. We don’t get exhausting scenes that drag on about their work and school life. But we get enough to understand that they live in the real world. I appreciate this. Walko appreciates this, I can tell. She gets that readers want a certain level of tangibility in their fantasy. I adore her for it. I adore this book for it.
2. Ethan is a male character that isn’t trying to be something he’s not. He is what he is. He’s characterized as such. His fish-out-of-water-ness works. It isn’t forced. He’s in situations that are different for him, but he acknowledges and goes with it. If you’re having trouble getting what I’m saying here, just read the book. You’ll get it.<
3. Michelle is a character I can relate to. In looks, in personality. She’s either us, or someone we know (speaking of Black women here, young and old). Her friends too. I liked reading about her. I liked visualizing her. I see what Ethan saw and why he would be into her. I can dig it.
4. The editing was tight.
5. It had an HEA that didn’t make me want to puke. I kind of needed it by the end. I liked these characters and wanted them to have what they wanted; happiness. Even a cranky, old, angst ridden witch like me can do happy now and then.
There’s more I want to write about this book, but its been a couple of days since I read it and I’ve forgotten some points I wanted to make. I should have taken notes; I suck at that. Damn. Overall, I enjoyed this one. It was funny, engaging, although not without flaws. I read this book on Kindle Unlimited. But found it so enjoyable, I bought it afterward. Well worth the price of admission, and its current price is only .99 cent. A crime really. The author deserves so much more compared to other books I’ve read (in this genre) of late; the ones that cost double or triple that. *Sigh* Support good authors.
My rating: A fantabulous 4.8
October 22, 2016
Minnie Rippleton's "Loving You".. It's what I heard in the background while reading this book.
Ethan and Michelle by Gisele Walko is a realisticly told love story and about two young college students. Though they are very much attracted to one another they start off. They decide on a friendship and end up falling in love along the way. Gisele tackles real life issues on blind trust, manipulation, forgiveness and unconditional love. I went into the book a little hesitate, but I ended up being wrong. I was trapped after chapter one. I must say I am really Glad that I paid for this read. If you are looking for a good book filled with funny and romance you should read Ethan and Michelle. I forward to reading more from Gisele Walko in the future.
Ethan and Michelle by Gisele Walko is a realisticly told love story and about two young college students. Though they are very much attracted to one another they start off. They decide on a friendship and end up falling in love along the way. Gisele tackles real life issues on blind trust, manipulation, forgiveness and unconditional love. I went into the book a little hesitate, but I ended up being wrong. I was trapped after chapter one. I must say I am really Glad that I paid for this read. If you are looking for a good book filled with funny and romance you should read Ethan and Michelle. I forward to reading more from Gisele Walko in the future.
October 16, 2016
Really good book
I have never read this author before but I have to say that I'm intrigued. It seems like there is a paranormal element that will be introduced to the series and I'm a sucker for that kind of stuff. I have to say that Michelle irked my soul in so many ways. Frankly, I don't think she deserves Ethan. It's probably why I gave the book a 4 because the book is pretty solid all around otherwise.
I have never read this author before but I have to say that I'm intrigued. It seems like there is a paranormal element that will be introduced to the series and I'm a sucker for that kind of stuff. I have to say that Michelle irked my soul in so many ways. Frankly, I don't think she deserves Ethan. It's probably why I gave the book a 4 because the book is pretty solid all around otherwise.
October 25, 2016
I love me some Ethan!
March 26, 2017
Thanks for this one Giselle, I enjoyed it and loved Ethan's and Michelle's progression from friendship to lovers, awesome read!
December 12, 2016
I loved it. Ethan could create likeable tension just by walking into a room, and there was a whole stretch of happy acceptance.
October 22, 2016
Ethan and Michelle is a great love story. I was thoroughly entertained throughout the book. I knew I was in for a good time when I literally laughed out loud on the first page. The writer did a good job with building the relationship between the main characters. I found myself willing Michelle to break up with "The Robot" already. She made me so mad when she went to the funeral, but she came to her senses. There were times when I wanted to smack Ethan's parents. The fried chicken thing was too much. I loved the HEA and would like to know what happens to the other couples in the book. Nice job!
October 9, 2016
I had fun reading this book, the romance is lovely and natural. Love Ethan and Michelle. Their romance felt realistic. I liked the friends to lovers romance.
And the interacial aspect, the way their families reacted to their relastionship. It was well written and realistic.
I'm looking forward to read Noah's book
Thanks to Gisele walko for letting me read that beautiful book :)
And the interacial aspect, the way their families reacted to their relastionship. It was well written and realistic.
I'm looking forward to read Noah's book
Thanks to Gisele walko for letting me read that beautiful book :)
April 1, 2017
An overall good read. Funny in parts; annoying in parts.
November 4, 2016
Update: 4*
This was my first time reading something by this author and I will definitely read more from her. I enjoyed the tale of Ethan and Michelle. There were some parts of this story that were hard to bear, specifically the boyfriend of Michelle. He was aggravating and borderline abusive. I was over him as soon as he was introduced. There were no redeeming qualities about him and unfortunately he added nothing to the story. If anything, it made me question Michelle and her decision-making.
There was definitely a lot of angst when it came to Ethan and Michelle. That could be a good or bad thing depending on what you prefer. I struggle with angst, but I was not put off by it with this story.
I would have preferred to stick to the perspective of Ethan and Michelle. The head hopping was a bit confusing sometimes. Good read.
This was my first time reading something by this author and I will definitely read more from her. I enjoyed the tale of Ethan and Michelle. There were some parts of this story that were hard to bear, specifically the boyfriend of Michelle. He was aggravating and borderline abusive. I was over him as soon as he was introduced. There were no redeeming qualities about him and unfortunately he added nothing to the story. If anything, it made me question Michelle and her decision-making.
There was definitely a lot of angst when it came to Ethan and Michelle. That could be a good or bad thing depending on what you prefer. I struggle with angst, but I was not put off by it with this story.
I would have preferred to stick to the perspective of Ethan and Michelle. The head hopping was a bit confusing sometimes. Good read.
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