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Flipped #2
Grasping Air
We were the seconds after a grip released the bar, body floating through the air with nervous wonder. Would we successfully grab it again, or would we hit the mat, shattered and defeated?
Peyton Adams learned a long time ago that selfish and detached is the only way to be in life. What most people call shameless or obnoxious behavior, she considers key to getting where she needs to go. Most disapproving of all? America's gymnastics golden boy with an eight-pack, Jared Hargrove. After being cut from the women’s team, Peyton is back on the post-Summer Games tour. Not only is she the only one without a gold medal, but her history with Jared won’t stay buried for long.
Control and good manners; the two things drilled into Jared Hargrove’s head from birth. As a four-time gold medalist, he’s always obeyed the rules and reaped the reward. Well, except for the whirlwind week four years ago in London when wild-child Peyton Adams finally got under his skin, and into his bed. She broke his heart, and he hasn’t removed the ice wall around it since. Now she’s back to redeem herself to the world of gymnastics, and it seems, to push his buttons more than ever.
After years of resentment and heartache, can they repair a relationship so badly broken that most people wouldn’t even try? Or will they continue to fall, grasping at any last emotion before they finally collapse?
Peyton Adams learned a long time ago that selfish and detached is the only way to be in life. What most people call shameless or obnoxious behavior, she considers key to getting where she needs to go. Most disapproving of all? America's gymnastics golden boy with an eight-pack, Jared Hargrove. After being cut from the women’s team, Peyton is back on the post-Summer Games tour. Not only is she the only one without a gold medal, but her history with Jared won’t stay buried for long.
Control and good manners; the two things drilled into Jared Hargrove’s head from birth. As a four-time gold medalist, he’s always obeyed the rules and reaped the reward. Well, except for the whirlwind week four years ago in London when wild-child Peyton Adams finally got under his skin, and into his bed. She broke his heart, and he hasn’t removed the ice wall around it since. Now she’s back to redeem herself to the world of gymnastics, and it seems, to push his buttons more than ever.
After years of resentment and heartache, can they repair a relationship so badly broken that most people wouldn’t even try? Or will they continue to fall, grasping at any last emotion before they finally collapse?
230 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 23, 2016
31 people are currently reading
573 people want to read
About the author
Carrie Aarons
63 books2,991 followersAuthor of romance novels such as Fleeting and Love at First Fight, Carrie Aarons writes books that are just as swoon-worthy as they are sarcastic. Her stories are fueled by vanilla lattes, meloncholy music, and copious amounts of candles.
When she isn't writing, Carrie is busy binging reality TV, having a love/hate relationship with cardio, and trying not to burn dinner. She lives in farm country with her husband, two children and ninety-pound rescue pup.
When she isn't writing, Carrie is busy binging reality TV, having a love/hate relationship with cardio, and trying not to burn dinner. She lives in farm country with her husband, two children and ninety-pound rescue pup.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 69 reviews
October 23, 2016
***NOW AVAILABLE - FULL REVIEW***
4.5 BURN ME CROWNS
Grasping Air is the second stand-alone in the Flipped series by Carrie Aaron, and, similar to the first one, it is entertaining and romantic, a fun and quick read.
If you have read Blind Landing then you have already met Peyton and Jared. There is clear animosity between these two at the beginning of the novel, but their hatred comes from a place of hurt. They have both damaged each other in the past and continue to hurt each other as a way to preserve their shattered hearts. This lovers to enemies to lovers trope is one that I love and Carrie Aarons creates an engaging story centering on these two gymnasts as they tour the U.S.
Jared is a likeable character. He is kind, dedicated, straight-laced, and HOT in the bedroom, although some of the terminology he uses when talking dirty I found to be odd. Even with these small eccentric terms, it didn't deter from his dominance in the bedroom, which is incredibly attractive. Outside of the bedroom, Jared is just a good guy who is licking his wounds after his interactions with Peyton in London. He is dedicated to his family, and he knows exactly what he wants when he retires from gymnastics. He is staeadfast and solid and an anchor for Peyton in her chaotic world. Although Jared is a great character and there wasn't anything I disliked about him, he wasn't Spencer. He just lacked that spark for me.
Peyton is vibrant and full of life, but she is also hiding behind a mask, one she has carefully constructed in order to cover up pain from her childhood. This pain is the impetus for most of her decisions in her adult life and for her inability to settle. In addition to her childhood trauma, Peyton is also reeling from the events in London. Her character earns the sympathy of readers because she is lost and hurting, and they want her to find her sure landing, he place where she feels loved and safe.
What is enthralling about this story is watching the two of them come together. Told in dual points-of-view, the reader is able to see both sides to the story, both perspectives. Readers get to see the pain and the hurt they have caused and feel, resulting in heartache. The reader also gets to see their true feelings, even if they aren't able to vocalize them to each other. This only serves to heighten the reader's investment in them as a couple and in the story as a whole.
The plot of the story is well-paced. The animosity that radiates off the pages will capture the reader's attention from page one. The vivid description of the anguish each character feels as well as the attraction for each other enthrall the reader. And, what I love most about the story is the climax, as I never saw it coming. Carrie Aarons could have taken the easy way out with the standard trope conflict, but she didn't, and I enjoyed that the conflict and climax of the story left the integrity and love of the characters in tact. She also provides the reader with the HEA they will want for these characters.
Grasping Air is another fantastic hit in the Flipped series. There is romance, heat, angst, drama, pretty much everything one loves in a romance. This quick and entertaining read should definitely find a way onto your bookshelf.
--------------------
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 BURN ME CROWNS
Grasping Air is the second stand-alone in the Flipped series by Carrie Aaron, and, similar to the first one, it is entertaining and romantic, a fun and quick read.
If you have read Blind Landing then you have already met Peyton and Jared. There is clear animosity between these two at the beginning of the novel, but their hatred comes from a place of hurt. They have both damaged each other in the past and continue to hurt each other as a way to preserve their shattered hearts. This lovers to enemies to lovers trope is one that I love and Carrie Aarons creates an engaging story centering on these two gymnasts as they tour the U.S.
Jared is a likeable character. He is kind, dedicated, straight-laced, and HOT in the bedroom, although some of the terminology he uses when talking dirty I found to be odd. Even with these small eccentric terms, it didn't deter from his dominance in the bedroom, which is incredibly attractive. Outside of the bedroom, Jared is just a good guy who is licking his wounds after his interactions with Peyton in London. He is dedicated to his family, and he knows exactly what he wants when he retires from gymnastics. He is staeadfast and solid and an anchor for Peyton in her chaotic world. Although Jared is a great character and there wasn't anything I disliked about him, he wasn't Spencer. He just lacked that spark for me.
Peyton is vibrant and full of life, but she is also hiding behind a mask, one she has carefully constructed in order to cover up pain from her childhood. This pain is the impetus for most of her decisions in her adult life and for her inability to settle. In addition to her childhood trauma, Peyton is also reeling from the events in London. Her character earns the sympathy of readers because she is lost and hurting, and they want her to find her sure landing, he place where she feels loved and safe.
What is enthralling about this story is watching the two of them come together. Told in dual points-of-view, the reader is able to see both sides to the story, both perspectives. Readers get to see the pain and the hurt they have caused and feel, resulting in heartache. The reader also gets to see their true feelings, even if they aren't able to vocalize them to each other. This only serves to heighten the reader's investment in them as a couple and in the story as a whole.
The plot of the story is well-paced. The animosity that radiates off the pages will capture the reader's attention from page one. The vivid description of the anguish each character feels as well as the attraction for each other enthrall the reader. And, what I love most about the story is the climax, as I never saw it coming. Carrie Aarons could have taken the easy way out with the standard trope conflict, but she didn't, and I enjoyed that the conflict and climax of the story left the integrity and love of the characters in tact. She also provides the reader with the HEA they will want for these characters.
Grasping Air is another fantastic hit in the Flipped series. There is romance, heat, angst, drama, pretty much everything one loves in a romance. This quick and entertaining read should definitely find a way onto your bookshelf.
--------------------
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
October 24, 2016
Grasping Air takes us back into the world of competitive gymnastics with this brand new standalone romance. Peyton and Jared have a secret and sordid history. After a week spent passionately together four years ago it is undeniable that they have baggage. Especially since while Jared was open about his feelings for her she decided to stay closed off and ran. Now fours years of hurt and hate have passed and they are thrown together on a post Olympics tour and neither one is prepared for the barrage of emotions that will come out when they are in such close quarters.
“Be wild with me,”
While she never makes it easy, I quickly found myself falling for the hard to love Peyton. Jared is another story. He was easy to love with his southern charm and a momma’s boy kindness to him. But when he lashes out all that gentle kindness is thrown to the wayside and he lashes out at Peyton and knowing the genuine goodness that he is capable of made it hurt that much more. Grasping Air is a second chance romance that hit all my high notes. It was dramatic and sexy while remaining to be fun and exciting too.
‘For a brief period of time, so short it was like a shooting star, all of that was mine. And I was his. But that was a long time ago.’
I thoroughly enjoyed the book as a while. The characters and story were intriguing and I was hooked from the beginning when you find out that they had a quick affair that has haunted both for the past four years. For me, the first half of this story was the strongest but that was probably because my cold heart thrives on tension and angst and it was running rampant. By the second half the tension and drama were still there but we were clearly on the way to a adorably sweet HEA. I really enjoyed Grasping Air and found it to be a good solid book I would recommend to any sports romance lover.
~miranda
“Be wild with me,”
While she never makes it easy, I quickly found myself falling for the hard to love Peyton. Jared is another story. He was easy to love with his southern charm and a momma’s boy kindness to him. But when he lashes out all that gentle kindness is thrown to the wayside and he lashes out at Peyton and knowing the genuine goodness that he is capable of made it hurt that much more. Grasping Air is a second chance romance that hit all my high notes. It was dramatic and sexy while remaining to be fun and exciting too.
‘For a brief period of time, so short it was like a shooting star, all of that was mine. And I was his. But that was a long time ago.’
I thoroughly enjoyed the book as a while. The characters and story were intriguing and I was hooked from the beginning when you find out that they had a quick affair that has haunted both for the past four years. For me, the first half of this story was the strongest but that was probably because my cold heart thrives on tension and angst and it was running rampant. By the second half the tension and drama were still there but we were clearly on the way to a adorably sweet HEA. I really enjoyed Grasping Air and found it to be a good solid book I would recommend to any sports romance lover.
~miranda
September 4, 2019
I got my hands on the ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review and... I am speechless :) seriously people, I finished this book a few days ago and I still have troubles putting all my thoughts into order and deciding what is the best way for me to convince you guys to pick it up because it was freaking amazing :) and I did not expect to love it as much as I did :) mind you, I knew it would be a really good book, because I love Carrie Aarons and her writing style, but I definitely was not prepared for this book to hit me in all... the... feels... ALL OF THEM!!! :) *sighs happily* I love those kind of surprises... ;) so before I go into all the praises and stuff, I need to add that even though it's the second book in a series, don't worry, it works as a standalone as well, so you can pick it up out of order :) not only that, but it's written in 2 POVs, my favourite way if I'm being honest ;) and that means we get parts written from Peyton's perspective, and then other parts from Jared's point of view :) ok, now that this little explanation is out of the way, let me tell you a bit more about the book itself :)
I have to start with our main couple of course :) Jared and Peyton... man oh man, they are like night and day :) Peyton is the night... as in like a party at night ;) she's this colorful and loud and wild free spirit... of course that is only a part of her, but a part that takes almost all of her at the beginning... people think they know everything there is to know about her because of her behaviour and attitude... she's this diva / wild-child of gymnastic world, but... well... :) as with all the best characters, there are much more sides to her than just the one she is showing to the world... :) Jared on the other hand... Jared is the golden boy of the gymnastic world... :) responsible, serious... you see where I'm going with it? :) so they were definitely different... but... ;) there was something between them four years ago when they were in London during the Olympics :) I don't want to put a name to that, because whatever I will say might spoil you to how important, or not important, it was... :) but there was something ;) but things went wrong and they ended up, well... pretty much hating each other from that moment forward... it kept going on and on, but now the situation is even worse... because they have to endure one another during a tour after Olympics in Rio, and that means close proximity for the next three monhts :) yeah... you can guess how well it starts... ;) but after initial bickering and all that, they actually do the adult and mature thing, and try to act like grown ups around each other... I don't want to get into too much details what exactly happens between them, and how their relationship changes throughout the book, because it really is better if you're gonna be surprise just as I was :) the less you know before going into this book is definitely better ;)
Besides the main couple there was of course a bunch of secondary characters :) we had Nat and Spence, the main couple from the first book :) and of course quite a few other gymnasts who are on the tour as well... :) I don't want to name them though, mainly because I don't want to spoil you who might turn out to be more important, or who may or may not get the next story... I have a guess or two but ssshhhh... ;) to be honest I'm gonna take whatever story Carrie Aarons will write, because before reading this particular book, I wasn't really that much curious about the story between Peyton and Jared... I KNEW there's more to them and that they will get their own book, but I was more curious about other people... I should have know better and to just trust in the amazing ability of this author to create stories that can surprise me in the best possible way :)
I am really impressed people... :) I am sooooo in love with this story... and these characters... were they perfect? absolutely not :) did they annoy me? definitely... well, from time to time ;) but I adored how true and honest and just... raw, they felt... their journey to be together... to overcome everything that happened between them... everything they said or didn't say... the things they did or didn't do... *sighs happily* Carrie Aarons really has a very rare gift of creating flawed characters in a way that makes you relate to them... I was surprised by how much their story resonated with me... how much I connected to both of them... how much I cared about them and their relationship... I was cheering them on, and there were times when I was so captured by what was going on in the book that I forgot that I was reading... the real world disappeared for a moment or two while I was right there along Jared and Peyton whispering to them to trust in each other.. *sighs dreamily* it does not happen to me as often as I would like... :) so I treat each and every occurance like a beautiful gift :) I can wholeheartedly recommend you not only this book, but stories created by the lovely Carrie in general :) she is an amazing author, and if you don't know her yet, you are seriously missing out... :)
XOXO
A
I have to start with our main couple of course :) Jared and Peyton... man oh man, they are like night and day :) Peyton is the night... as in like a party at night ;) she's this colorful and loud and wild free spirit... of course that is only a part of her, but a part that takes almost all of her at the beginning... people think they know everything there is to know about her because of her behaviour and attitude... she's this diva / wild-child of gymnastic world, but... well... :) as with all the best characters, there are much more sides to her than just the one she is showing to the world... :) Jared on the other hand... Jared is the golden boy of the gymnastic world... :) responsible, serious... you see where I'm going with it? :) so they were definitely different... but... ;) there was something between them four years ago when they were in London during the Olympics :) I don't want to put a name to that, because whatever I will say might spoil you to how important, or not important, it was... :) but there was something ;) but things went wrong and they ended up, well... pretty much hating each other from that moment forward... it kept going on and on, but now the situation is even worse... because they have to endure one another during a tour after Olympics in Rio, and that means close proximity for the next three monhts :) yeah... you can guess how well it starts... ;) but after initial bickering and all that, they actually do the adult and mature thing, and try to act like grown ups around each other... I don't want to get into too much details what exactly happens between them, and how their relationship changes throughout the book, because it really is better if you're gonna be surprise just as I was :) the less you know before going into this book is definitely better ;)
Besides the main couple there was of course a bunch of secondary characters :) we had Nat and Spence, the main couple from the first book :) and of course quite a few other gymnasts who are on the tour as well... :) I don't want to name them though, mainly because I don't want to spoil you who might turn out to be more important, or who may or may not get the next story... I have a guess or two but ssshhhh... ;) to be honest I'm gonna take whatever story Carrie Aarons will write, because before reading this particular book, I wasn't really that much curious about the story between Peyton and Jared... I KNEW there's more to them and that they will get their own book, but I was more curious about other people... I should have know better and to just trust in the amazing ability of this author to create stories that can surprise me in the best possible way :)
I am really impressed people... :) I am sooooo in love with this story... and these characters... were they perfect? absolutely not :) did they annoy me? definitely... well, from time to time ;) but I adored how true and honest and just... raw, they felt... their journey to be together... to overcome everything that happened between them... everything they said or didn't say... the things they did or didn't do... *sighs happily* Carrie Aarons really has a very rare gift of creating flawed characters in a way that makes you relate to them... I was surprised by how much their story resonated with me... how much I connected to both of them... how much I cared about them and their relationship... I was cheering them on, and there were times when I was so captured by what was going on in the book that I forgot that I was reading... the real world disappeared for a moment or two while I was right there along Jared and Peyton whispering to them to trust in each other.. *sighs dreamily* it does not happen to me as often as I would like... :) so I treat each and every occurance like a beautiful gift :) I can wholeheartedly recommend you not only this book, but stories created by the lovely Carrie in general :) she is an amazing author, and if you don't know her yet, you are seriously missing out... :)
XOXO
A
October 23, 2016
Land safely or crash and burn? In gymnastics, it’s always about sticking the landing, and in life, while many people want to play it safe, the only way to truly soar is to take a risk, even if it means taking a step out of bounds.
Peyton Adams and Jared Hargrove may both be Olympic gymnasts, but that’s where their similarities end. She’s a city girl through and through while he’s a country boy at heart. She’s all about unpredictability, and he’s all about control. Regardless of their differences, though, for one week, they moved flawlessly together, getting to know one another intimately and realizing that despite their differences, they couldn’t help but want to be together. But when things got too real and Peyton felt her freedom being compromised, she ran, and for four years, she kept running, grasping for anything that would make her feel alive and free, even if it also felt a bit lonely.
Peyton and Jared flipped each other’s world upside down, never truly dealing with the fallout from Peyton walking away, but now that they’re traveling together in a gymnastics farewell tour, they’ll have to face the truth of what happened and decide if their true feelings for one another are worth making a move that will require not only a perfect landing but also the ability to hang on to one another regardless of the difficulties they face.
Grasping Air is a great follow-up to Blind Landing; Carrie Aarons, once again,
uses gymnastics as the backdrop of Peyton and Jared’s story, but there’s a less intense feeling that goes with it simply because the tour is not a competitive one, The atmosphere created meshes well with the kind of person Peyton is and it also allows Peyton and Jared to feel a little freer with their actions as well as take a few more risks with not only their bodies but also their hearts.
I do have to admit that it took me a bit to warm-up to Peyton, but once the reasons behind her wicked and unpredictable facade as well as her backstory were exposed, it was easy to understand who she truly was and what Jared saw in her despite their differences.
I loved witnessing Jared loosen up and relinquish a bit of the control that usually has him so tightly wound. If Jared wanted to be with Peyton, he needed to be willing to meet her halfway and understand the type of person she is and needed to be due to her past. But Peyton also had to realize the type of man Jared is and what he wanted in a relationship with her even if it scared the crap out of her.
Carrie Aarons definitely knows how to create steamy and sweet stories that have an edge to them due to the competitive nature of gymnastics, and because these gymnasts are used to dominating their sport, it stands to reason that they don’t mind dominating one another as well, on and off the mat;)
4 Poison Apples (The Fairest of All Book Reviews)
Peyton Adams and Jared Hargrove may both be Olympic gymnasts, but that’s where their similarities end. She’s a city girl through and through while he’s a country boy at heart. She’s all about unpredictability, and he’s all about control. Regardless of their differences, though, for one week, they moved flawlessly together, getting to know one another intimately and realizing that despite their differences, they couldn’t help but want to be together. But when things got too real and Peyton felt her freedom being compromised, she ran, and for four years, she kept running, grasping for anything that would make her feel alive and free, even if it also felt a bit lonely.
Peyton and Jared flipped each other’s world upside down, never truly dealing with the fallout from Peyton walking away, but now that they’re traveling together in a gymnastics farewell tour, they’ll have to face the truth of what happened and decide if their true feelings for one another are worth making a move that will require not only a perfect landing but also the ability to hang on to one another regardless of the difficulties they face.
Grasping Air is a great follow-up to Blind Landing; Carrie Aarons, once again,
uses gymnastics as the backdrop of Peyton and Jared’s story, but there’s a less intense feeling that goes with it simply because the tour is not a competitive one, The atmosphere created meshes well with the kind of person Peyton is and it also allows Peyton and Jared to feel a little freer with their actions as well as take a few more risks with not only their bodies but also their hearts.
I do have to admit that it took me a bit to warm-up to Peyton, but once the reasons behind her wicked and unpredictable facade as well as her backstory were exposed, it was easy to understand who she truly was and what Jared saw in her despite their differences.
I loved witnessing Jared loosen up and relinquish a bit of the control that usually has him so tightly wound. If Jared wanted to be with Peyton, he needed to be willing to meet her halfway and understand the type of person she is and needed to be due to her past. But Peyton also had to realize the type of man Jared is and what he wanted in a relationship with her even if it scared the crap out of her.
Carrie Aarons definitely knows how to create steamy and sweet stories that have an edge to them due to the competitive nature of gymnastics, and because these gymnasts are used to dominating their sport, it stands to reason that they don’t mind dominating one another as well, on and off the mat;)
4 Poison Apples (The Fairest of All Book Reviews)
May 11, 2022
Star-crossed lovers Peyton and Jared are temporarily thrust into each other’s presence on a post gymnastics tour.
Four years before, they were über friendly for one week. He confessed his love because she failed to reciprocate he called her utterly, vile, hateful names.
He called her a slut with no attachments.
“You know I didn’t mean that. I said it in a moment of passion.” Jared’s face is painted thick with grief.
I have to turn away as tears burn in my sockets. I thought he’d been joking all of those years ago in that hotel room when he’d told me he loved him. Of course I’d loved him too, it wasn’t just a whirlwind or a fluke. We had both found in each other the person we were meant to be with. But it was too new, they were too young. She wasn’t ready for more than a playful encounter, to be controlled in the way Jared needs to exert himself. She was petrified. But what he did, it’s unforgivable. He ranted, lashing out, calling her a slut, a whore. She sat stunned, as he’d accused her of leading him on, saying he didn’t care if she was … sexually assaulted.
That’s when she’d had enough. She ran, never looking back. I left London and didn’t call him, not for a long time. My heart was in tatters, my pride completely ripped from my body.
“You … you were cruel. I didn’t do what you wanted, wasn’t ready and so you … the names you called me. Jesus.” She tearfully added.
Jared was an arrogant, assuming jerk and Peyton…vulnerable under her party girl exterior. He knows she’s spending the holiday alone yet deliberately wishes her a happy holiday, he was cruel and mean.
This is not a romance but a prime example of what not to look for in a man, a Hero completely lacking in redeemable qualities.
Four years before, they were über friendly for one week. He confessed his love because she failed to reciprocate he called her utterly, vile, hateful names.
He called her a slut with no attachments.
“You know I didn’t mean that. I said it in a moment of passion.” Jared’s face is painted thick with grief.
I have to turn away as tears burn in my sockets. I thought he’d been joking all of those years ago in that hotel room when he’d told me he loved him. Of course I’d loved him too, it wasn’t just a whirlwind or a fluke. We had both found in each other the person we were meant to be with. But it was too new, they were too young. She wasn’t ready for more than a playful encounter, to be controlled in the way Jared needs to exert himself. She was petrified. But what he did, it’s unforgivable. He ranted, lashing out, calling her a slut, a whore. She sat stunned, as he’d accused her of leading him on, saying he didn’t care if she was … sexually assaulted.
That’s when she’d had enough. She ran, never looking back. I left London and didn’t call him, not for a long time. My heart was in tatters, my pride completely ripped from my body.
“You … you were cruel. I didn’t do what you wanted, wasn’t ready and so you … the names you called me. Jesus.” She tearfully added.
Jared was an arrogant, assuming jerk and Peyton…vulnerable under her party girl exterior. He knows she’s spending the holiday alone yet deliberately wishes her a happy holiday, he was cruel and mean.
This is not a romance but a prime example of what not to look for in a man, a Hero completely lacking in redeemable qualities.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 24, 2016
I wasn't sure how the author was going to resolve the relationship between Peyton and Jared. It seemed way to hateful to be anything more. But clearly they walked that fine line between love and hate. The story worked for them.
Full review to come.
Full review to come.
March 30, 2021
This was a good read! I didn’t like it quite as much as the first book but I still enjoyed it :)
November 3, 2016
The 2016 Summer Olympics may be over but the spirit of it lives on in this second installment in Ms. Aarons's Flipped series where one-time lovers reunite to undertake a rocky and sensual road to HEA. With compelling characters, exhilarating gymnastic sequences, and a lot of angst, readers will find themselves quickly captivated (yet frustrated at times too) by two very different people finding a connection that they never want to end.
Peyton's the wild child of the gymnastic world, a partier, and a player who loves to push people's buttons. The one person she especially likes pushing is the strait-laced Golden Boy of the Gym, Jared, who she spent an unforgettable week with at the previous Olympics and who still attracts her no matter how hard she tries to ignore him. Peyton's childhood was a tough one with an uncaring mother who offered no words of encouragement or approval. She came from poverty and feared that's where she'd remain which is why she was drawn to gymnastics and the adulation and wealth it brought her. She loves being the center of attention for the love given to her by others and fears anyone who can see past the persona she's created. Her fears have her pushing Jared away just as he offers his heart to her, but when an unexpected chance to come back to gymnastics is offered, their feelings will once again become entangled as hateful words and past feelings once again lead to love. Peyton's a tough girl who says and does some hurtful things throughout the story. She knows what she wants though, and with Jared becoming a bigger temptation the more time they spend together, the more willing she becomes to reigniting what they once had.
Jared's a true sportsman when it comes to gymnastics, a good and God-fearing man who doesn't curse and believes in true love. He's a serious-minded soul who's beloved by the fans and admired by his fellow gymnasts. When he's around Peyton though he loses all control and can't help cursing and talking dirty as he's drawn to her carefree spirit that's an intriguing dichotomy to his seriousness. As they quickly evolve from friends into lovers once again familial pressure and dangerous fans cause a few speed bumps in their erotic journey to HEA. I enjoyed watching Peyton poke at Jared's cage as he tended to be a bit stuffy at times and I enjoyed how sex-crazed he became in her presence which had him saying the most erotic comments. Unlike her he's quite happy to admit his love for her out loud which puts them at odds for awhile when it comes to their future, a future that might be over just as it began.
This was a delightful addition to the Flipped series that nicely incorporates characters from the first book while spending ample time with Jared and Peyton to give them a truly HEA. It stands strongly on its own while providing plenty of fodder for future installments by introducing readers to a memorable group of gymnasts from the strong and sexy Duke, who shows a connection to the prissy and icy Julia, to the sweet and committed lovebirds Anna and James. They're an immensely appealing group who become more like family as the story progresses. These gymnasts engage in playful banter, mocking each other with affection, and protecting one of their own when a crazed fan goes too far. Jared and Peyton are a formidable couple full of anger as the story begins but with a crackling connection teeming with sexual tension that has readers anticipating their pouncing on each other. Their encounters grow increasingly erotic and blush-worthy as their relationship takes unexpected twists and turns which had me turning the pages furiously. An event late in the story feels a bit over-dramatic with its soap opera-feel but luckily the fall-out from it doesn't mar my enjoyment of the overall story too much. Ultimately readers will find themselves hanging on by their fingertips in a romance that fully immerses you in the world of gymnastics while watching former lovers find their way back to each other in thia erotic, angsty, and exhilarating thrill-ride that I recommend to fans of sports romances!
Peyton's the wild child of the gymnastic world, a partier, and a player who loves to push people's buttons. The one person she especially likes pushing is the strait-laced Golden Boy of the Gym, Jared, who she spent an unforgettable week with at the previous Olympics and who still attracts her no matter how hard she tries to ignore him. Peyton's childhood was a tough one with an uncaring mother who offered no words of encouragement or approval. She came from poverty and feared that's where she'd remain which is why she was drawn to gymnastics and the adulation and wealth it brought her. She loves being the center of attention for the love given to her by others and fears anyone who can see past the persona she's created. Her fears have her pushing Jared away just as he offers his heart to her, but when an unexpected chance to come back to gymnastics is offered, their feelings will once again become entangled as hateful words and past feelings once again lead to love. Peyton's a tough girl who says and does some hurtful things throughout the story. She knows what she wants though, and with Jared becoming a bigger temptation the more time they spend together, the more willing she becomes to reigniting what they once had.
Jared's a true sportsman when it comes to gymnastics, a good and God-fearing man who doesn't curse and believes in true love. He's a serious-minded soul who's beloved by the fans and admired by his fellow gymnasts. When he's around Peyton though he loses all control and can't help cursing and talking dirty as he's drawn to her carefree spirit that's an intriguing dichotomy to his seriousness. As they quickly evolve from friends into lovers once again familial pressure and dangerous fans cause a few speed bumps in their erotic journey to HEA. I enjoyed watching Peyton poke at Jared's cage as he tended to be a bit stuffy at times and I enjoyed how sex-crazed he became in her presence which had him saying the most erotic comments. Unlike her he's quite happy to admit his love for her out loud which puts them at odds for awhile when it comes to their future, a future that might be over just as it began.
This was a delightful addition to the Flipped series that nicely incorporates characters from the first book while spending ample time with Jared and Peyton to give them a truly HEA. It stands strongly on its own while providing plenty of fodder for future installments by introducing readers to a memorable group of gymnasts from the strong and sexy Duke, who shows a connection to the prissy and icy Julia, to the sweet and committed lovebirds Anna and James. They're an immensely appealing group who become more like family as the story progresses. These gymnasts engage in playful banter, mocking each other with affection, and protecting one of their own when a crazed fan goes too far. Jared and Peyton are a formidable couple full of anger as the story begins but with a crackling connection teeming with sexual tension that has readers anticipating their pouncing on each other. Their encounters grow increasingly erotic and blush-worthy as their relationship takes unexpected twists and turns which had me turning the pages furiously. An event late in the story feels a bit over-dramatic with its soap opera-feel but luckily the fall-out from it doesn't mar my enjoyment of the overall story too much. Ultimately readers will find themselves hanging on by their fingertips in a romance that fully immerses you in the world of gymnastics while watching former lovers find their way back to each other in thia erotic, angsty, and exhilarating thrill-ride that I recommend to fans of sports romances!
November 6, 2016
I apparently feel 100% opposite of just about everyone else that read this book.
Let me preface this by saying that I liked Blind Landing a lot so I went into this very excited to read it and one-clicked it as soon as it popped up.
Let's start this off with Jared. I HATED HIM. He is a whiny, controlling, pretty damn close to verbally abusive asshole. Any time he got pissed off at Peyton, he called her some awful name or pointed out something bad about her- even after they got together. I'm sorry, but if you love someone you don't say to them "I thought you were done pimping yourself out to losers" when she doesn't introduce you as her boyfriend 2 minutes after she starts talking to someone and let's not forget about the other times he's commented on the fact that she didn't make it to the Rio Olympics. Talk about going for the jugular. I'm all for the slightly controlling, alpha male, but this was WAY overdone. He was just downright MEAN to her. Their initial conflict four years ago came from
Peyton, I admit, I didn't much care for her in the beginning because she seemed like a big attention seeker with a poor-me attitude, but then with everyone treating her horribly I really started to feel bad for her. Julia slut-shamed her at every turn, her love interest/boyfriend constantly brought up all these negative things about her (again, Rio) and her best friend Natalia barely acknowledged her. In all honesty, Duke was the only one that treated her with any kind of respect. I think the two of them had more chemistry than her and Jared.
I'm very confused about the relationship with Peyton and her mom. In the beginning she talks about how her mom would clean the gym and the coaches houses so she (Peyton) could train at the gym for free. Then, we're told her mom was an alcoholic who didn't care if Peyton ever got out of the situation they were living. I'm confused...did her mom care about her gymnastics career or not? Because if she didn't, I don't think she'd break her back trying to get her "free" training. I feel like that was something that should have been worked out in edits.
This book was such a complete 180 in regards to the writing, the story line, and the characters that I couldn't finish it at 67%. Reading through some other reviews it appears that something big, but mildly unrealistic happens at some point..my guess, since this was oddly brought up with Gail, is that some fan goes nutso because Peyton and Jared are in a relationship, but I'm not sure. Feel free to drop that spoiler in comments if you know :)
Overall, with a heavy heart, I would not recommend this book. It just fell so flat for me and I'm so disappointed. I'd still check out another book in the series, especially if it's Duke's. I'll be a little more skeptical given that it probably involves Julia and I already don't like her...but I'm still willing to give it a shot.
Let me preface this by saying that I liked Blind Landing a lot so I went into this very excited to read it and one-clicked it as soon as it popped up.
Let's start this off with Jared. I HATED HIM. He is a whiny, controlling, pretty damn close to verbally abusive asshole. Any time he got pissed off at Peyton, he called her some awful name or pointed out something bad about her- even after they got together. I'm sorry, but if you love someone you don't say to them "I thought you were done pimping yourself out to losers" when she doesn't introduce you as her boyfriend 2 minutes after she starts talking to someone and let's not forget about the other times he's commented on the fact that she didn't make it to the Rio Olympics. Talk about going for the jugular. I'm all for the slightly controlling, alpha male, but this was WAY overdone. He was just downright MEAN to her. Their initial conflict four years ago came from
Peyton, I admit, I didn't much care for her in the beginning because she seemed like a big attention seeker with a poor-me attitude, but then with everyone treating her horribly I really started to feel bad for her. Julia slut-shamed her at every turn, her love interest/boyfriend constantly brought up all these negative things about her (again, Rio) and her best friend Natalia barely acknowledged her. In all honesty, Duke was the only one that treated her with any kind of respect. I think the two of them had more chemistry than her and Jared.
I'm very confused about the relationship with Peyton and her mom. In the beginning she talks about how her mom would clean the gym and the coaches houses so she (Peyton) could train at the gym for free. Then, we're told her mom was an alcoholic who didn't care if Peyton ever got out of the situation they were living. I'm confused...did her mom care about her gymnastics career or not? Because if she didn't, I don't think she'd break her back trying to get her "free" training. I feel like that was something that should have been worked out in edits.
This book was such a complete 180 in regards to the writing, the story line, and the characters that I couldn't finish it at 67%. Reading through some other reviews it appears that something big, but mildly unrealistic happens at some point..my guess, since this was oddly brought up with Gail, is that some fan goes nutso because Peyton and Jared are in a relationship, but I'm not sure. Feel free to drop that spoiler in comments if you know :)
Overall, with a heavy heart, I would not recommend this book. It just fell so flat for me and I'm so disappointed. I'd still check out another book in the series, especially if it's Duke's. I'll be a little more skeptical given that it probably involves Julia and I already don't like her...but I'm still willing to give it a shot.
October 23, 2016
Grasping Air by Carrie Aarons is the second book in her "Flipped" series. Grasping Air is a lovers to enemies to possible lovers again story set in the beautiful world of gymnastics. Peyton Adams was heartbroken when cut from the US national team heading to RIO but after the Olympics the US team is now scheduled to tour across the US and they are down a female athlete for the tour. Peyton jumps at the opportunity to get back on the bars one more time but being matched up with her former flame Jared Hargrove is thrilling and intimating at all once. Jared knows his time in the gymnastics's world is coming to an end and is planning on retiring after the tour as the stress of years of beating his body have now taken a huge strain on his body. The effect of having Peyton so close and around all the time is doing things to Jared he hasn't felt in years but is he willing to risk his heart again.
Carrie's knowledge of the gymnastic's is beyond evident while reading this series and adds to the enjoyment of this series. I was really excited for this book after reading Blind Landing which I adored. Grasping Air didn't grab me as much as I hoped it would. I enjoyed the characters but I didn't feel the pull and angst I wanted from this type of story. The flow of the story was fine but in saying that I felt the plot ark could have been a bit stronger. Though saying that I didn't dislike this novel. Characters are great and I loved the idea of following the athletes across the tour and experiencing things besides gymnastics. They go to a professional sports event and their reactions are awesome! The sex scenes are off the charts and will keep you gripped to the story. 4 Stars for Grasping Air by Carrie Aarons
*** Reviewed for Sweet & Spicy Reads - ARC provided for a honest review ***
Carrie's knowledge of the gymnastic's is beyond evident while reading this series and adds to the enjoyment of this series. I was really excited for this book after reading Blind Landing which I adored. Grasping Air didn't grab me as much as I hoped it would. I enjoyed the characters but I didn't feel the pull and angst I wanted from this type of story. The flow of the story was fine but in saying that I felt the plot ark could have been a bit stronger. Though saying that I didn't dislike this novel. Characters are great and I loved the idea of following the athletes across the tour and experiencing things besides gymnastics. They go to a professional sports event and their reactions are awesome! The sex scenes are off the charts and will keep you gripped to the story. 4 Stars for Grasping Air by Carrie Aarons
*** Reviewed for Sweet & Spicy Reads - ARC provided for a honest review ***
October 21, 2016
Love and Hate, holding a grudge for 4 years, Payton and Jarod are about to be thrown into the lime light again and everything is about to resurface.
Payton is a fire cracker, not knowing how to love as she has never had it before, she does the only things she knows how to when feelings get to much, she pushes people away.
Jarod hasnt Stopped loving Payton in the 4yrs they have been apart. His protection of her never faded, there anger never gave up.
Hitting the gymnastics promotional tour together will have these two butting heads at every chance they get. But when that love continues to simmer and they are forced to work things through, Payton and Jarod will hash it out like they always do, with anger hurtful words and killer sex.
Grasping Air is the first book of have read by Carrie and it was quite enjoyable to read
when you love some one so much but have never had the security or know what it feels like, you do what comes naturally, you push them away. You hate them with so much passion and hold that grudge for 4 years. When second chances come your way, it will take seeing through all the hate to see what's right in front of you.
Second chance romances I enjoy. Grasping Air was an enjoyable book.
The constant bickering, the make up sex, the blossoming of there relationship felt realistic no relationship is perfect seeing these two fight through there past, the resentment they feel was enjoyable and we'll done
October 22, 2016
Grasping Air is the second book in the Flipped Series. We saw some of Peyton and Jared in the first book in Blind Landing but not enough to get a full grasp of their personalities. As we explore them a little bit further you can't help but fall in love with them as their story unfolds. Peyton Adams is the epitome of a party girl. After being dumped from the team before the Olympics she receives a phone call that will put her back in the limelight and back in the company of the man who broke her heart. Jared Hargrove is the veteran gymnast in the group headed out on the exhibition tour. This is his last hurrah before retirement he is frustrated and irritated that he is once again face to face with the woman who shattered his heart. The very woman he hasn't been able to move past for the last 4 years. Now force to exist withing a confined amount of space and even partnered with during the events their love-hate relationship is about to combust.
After an amazing week together in London 4 years ago caused them such heartache will 3 months together be able to fix what was broken? This book is a MUST READ!!! You can literally feel the sparks between these two. These two seem to bring out the worst in each other yet but eventually they realize that no amount of fighting how they feel is going to work and decide to give themselves another chance! And all I can say is woo hoo!! No spoilers for you but there is a pretty sweet little plot twist in there that will leave you thinking hmmmmmmmm what is gonna happen? This book is hot with some definite sweet moments and you will most likely find yourself smiling as you read. Great Job Carrie Aarons. I can't wait to see what you come up with next.
After an amazing week together in London 4 years ago caused them such heartache will 3 months together be able to fix what was broken? This book is a MUST READ!!! You can literally feel the sparks between these two. These two seem to bring out the worst in each other yet but eventually they realize that no amount of fighting how they feel is going to work and decide to give themselves another chance! And all I can say is woo hoo!! No spoilers for you but there is a pretty sweet little plot twist in there that will leave you thinking hmmmmmmmm what is gonna happen? This book is hot with some definite sweet moments and you will most likely find yourself smiling as you read. Great Job Carrie Aarons. I can't wait to see what you come up with next.
November 5, 2016
This review was originally posted on Cocktails and Books
I wasn't sure how the author was going to resolve the relationship between Peyton and Jared. They seemed way to hateful to be anything more. But clearly they walked that fine line between love and hate. The story worked for them.
Peyton and Jared had a week long "fling" at the end of the London Olympics before everything between them blew up. Four years later, they both claim to hate the other and do everything in their power to antagonize the other. But when they're forced to spend three months touring across the US after the Rio games, they discover what they thought was hate was thinly veiled love for one another.
Carrie Aarons had her work cut out for her with the couple. They were so horrible to one another I wasn't sure there was any way for them to have a believable relationship. But she made it work for them. Made the reader believe that underneath the ugly words were two people that had an issue with expressing themselves and learning how to compromise. It took a bit, but they figured out how to first get along and then work their way back to their relationship.
I liked how the author made Peyton a slightly broken girl hiding behind her sexuality and sass. And when her layers were peeled back we found a girl who was craving the love and protection of Jared. She may have run from him and made his life hell, but she wanted him and you wanted her to figure out how to have him.
Carrie Aaron is one of my new "go to" authors. She creates such interesting characters and makes it very hard to put the book down.
I wasn't sure how the author was going to resolve the relationship between Peyton and Jared. They seemed way to hateful to be anything more. But clearly they walked that fine line between love and hate. The story worked for them.
Peyton and Jared had a week long "fling" at the end of the London Olympics before everything between them blew up. Four years later, they both claim to hate the other and do everything in their power to antagonize the other. But when they're forced to spend three months touring across the US after the Rio games, they discover what they thought was hate was thinly veiled love for one another.
Carrie Aarons had her work cut out for her with the couple. They were so horrible to one another I wasn't sure there was any way for them to have a believable relationship. But she made it work for them. Made the reader believe that underneath the ugly words were two people that had an issue with expressing themselves and learning how to compromise. It took a bit, but they figured out how to first get along and then work their way back to their relationship.
I liked how the author made Peyton a slightly broken girl hiding behind her sexuality and sass. And when her layers were peeled back we found a girl who was craving the love and protection of Jared. She may have run from him and made his life hell, but she wanted him and you wanted her to figure out how to have him.
Carrie Aaron is one of my new "go to" authors. She creates such interesting characters and makes it very hard to put the book down.
October 23, 2016
I just love Carrie Aarons SO MUCH!
Grasping Air is the second book in this series and, if I am being honest, I loved it SO MUCH more than Blind Landing.
Jared and Peyton...you are introduced to them in Blind Landing, and you may have found yourself intrigued by the broody Jared yet annoyed by the peppy, outgoing and slightly obnoxious Peyton. You gather that something happened between these two years ago, but are not sure what.
So in Grasping Air, you get the truth, the whole truth and nothing but the truth. In London, they had one beautiful week together and GAH could Jared literally be any more perfect?? I mean, he falls and he falls hard. He knows who he is, what he wants, and he goes for it. But Peyton, oh no. NOPE. She just has to be difficult, pushing him away. But Jared, he's in this for the long haul. He's waiting, patiently. And does it pay off for him? Well, I guess you will just have to read this book to find out but lemme just say this. Carrie Aarons....is excellent in her story telling abilities. She is able to suck you in, get you attached and break your heart and mend it all in one book. Plus, the sexual tension between these two is off the charts and Jared....and is HOT alpha ways.....I just...have no words for him other than GAH!!!
Grasping Air is the second book in this series and, if I am being honest, I loved it SO MUCH more than Blind Landing.
Jared and Peyton...you are introduced to them in Blind Landing, and you may have found yourself intrigued by the broody Jared yet annoyed by the peppy, outgoing and slightly obnoxious Peyton. You gather that something happened between these two years ago, but are not sure what.
So in Grasping Air, you get the truth, the whole truth and nothing but the truth. In London, they had one beautiful week together and GAH could Jared literally be any more perfect?? I mean, he falls and he falls hard. He knows who he is, what he wants, and he goes for it. But Peyton, oh no. NOPE. She just has to be difficult, pushing him away. But Jared, he's in this for the long haul. He's waiting, patiently. And does it pay off for him? Well, I guess you will just have to read this book to find out but lemme just say this. Carrie Aarons....is excellent in her story telling abilities. She is able to suck you in, get you attached and break your heart and mend it all in one book. Plus, the sexual tension between these two is off the charts and Jared....and is HOT alpha ways.....I just...have no words for him other than GAH!!!
October 13, 2016
It's cute that Jared has a jealous streak in him, "I still can’t peel my eyes off of her cleavage. “You look incredible. It’s these other guys who might not look so good after I bash their faces in for looking at you.” Peyton can drive Jared insane, "that has Jared storming across the room and trapping me in his embrace. “You weren’t wearing a bra for..." I loved this book, so far the men are all broody in the series and I love it.
October 24, 2016
Peyton and Jared constantly go at each other. Trading insults and cutting with their words where they know it'll hurt the deepest - it's what defines them. But it's all because of their past. One amazing week between the two turned into a hatred that's lasted four years. Now they're stuck on a gymnastics tour for several months and being paired up together. The tension continues to ebb and it only leads to an amazing and steamy make up...
"We’re candles, melting together with no hope of not burning out. Not completely disintegrating. But we burn together anyway, because we have no choice but to get closer and closer as the flames take us down."
"We’re candles, melting together with no hope of not burning out. Not completely disintegrating. But we burn together anyway, because we have no choice but to get closer and closer as the flames take us down."
February 9, 2018
Peyton was a hard character to really like until you get her full back story.
Jared was serious, focused and polite to a fault. Peyton was wild and raunchy and pushed all limits. They had a past which is revealed a little at a time until we find out what really happened.
Jared was downright mean to Peyton for the first part of this book. We do find out why eventually, but I still did think he sometimes took it too far.
When they finally got together I thought they were good for each other because they balanced each other out. Good series.
Jared was serious, focused and polite to a fault. Peyton was wild and raunchy and pushed all limits. They had a past which is revealed a little at a time until we find out what really happened.
Jared was downright mean to Peyton for the first part of this book. We do find out why eventually, but I still did think he sometimes took it too far.
When they finally got together I thought they were good for each other because they balanced each other out. Good series.
August 6, 2020
Must Read Sports Romance
Jared is a world class gymnast who is fiercely loyal and alpha, in a way that is both hot and comforting. Payton is a sassy, confident woman who has also been a world class gymnast. Their romance is explosive and then a slow burn. The competitions are spot on. Carrie Aaron’s has a way of making you feel you are there. I loved their story and how Payton overcomes hardships in her life to connect her life to his.
Jared is a world class gymnast who is fiercely loyal and alpha, in a way that is both hot and comforting. Payton is a sassy, confident woman who has also been a world class gymnast. Their romance is explosive and then a slow burn. The competitions are spot on. Carrie Aaron’s has a way of making you feel you are there. I loved their story and how Payton overcomes hardships in her life to connect her life to his.
April 9, 2018
this book gave me anxiety. big time. we saw the tension between Jared and Peyton in the first book. now we find out what happened. I wanted to know but I also didn't.. kept going though and pulled an all nighter! this is the four years later story and I've decided I don't lijebthis kind of read! the past story where they hurt each other buuuuuut.... it was a good book
June 26, 2019
Yon and Yang. Opposites in so many ways
Peyton is the wild girl of the gymnastics world. She is vivacious. Jared is serious and the quintessential southern gentleman of the gymnastics world. They argue and clash often but discover a true love that will vault every hurdle they face together.
Peyton is the wild girl of the gymnastics world. She is vivacious. Jared is serious and the quintessential southern gentleman of the gymnastics world. They argue and clash often but discover a true love that will vault every hurdle they face together.
July 19, 2022
Horrible . I don’t condone the male character was disgustingly controlling had anger management issues and even forced her to say I love you!
And the gun scene too so just …. Why
Both don’t fit at all. I know it’s fake people but still awful relationship to portray no matter how many cutesy things you sprinkle in
Also if I hear them say I love you one more time holy crap
And the gun scene too so just …. Why
Both don’t fit at all. I know it’s fake people but still awful relationship to portray no matter how many cutesy things you sprinkle in
Also if I hear them say I love you one more time holy crap
October 26, 2016
Carrie continues us on the gymnastics path with the amazing story of Payton and Jared. Who new a week in London and 4 years of anger could turn into a love like no other.
Their amazing journey is a story worth reading, that will put a smile on your face and tears in your eyes.
Their amazing journey is a story worth reading, that will put a smile on your face and tears in your eyes.
October 25, 2016
Love gymnastics romance
Didn't want to put it down. Awesome romance story. Second chances. Happily ever after. Gymnastics storyline is intriguing. Love carrie's books.
Didn't want to put it down. Awesome romance story. Second chances. Happily ever after. Gymnastics storyline is intriguing. Love carrie's books.
March 9, 2017
Loved it, great edition to the series
July 5, 2017
Second chance..
Eek...Love Jared and Peyton. This is their second chance romance while the gang is on their gymnastics tour. It's an amazing read. Jared and Peyton sizzle together.
Eek...Love Jared and Peyton. This is their second chance romance while the gang is on their gymnastics tour. It's an amazing read. Jared and Peyton sizzle together.
August 29, 2021
"I can't figure out if the world is spinning too fast or just completely stopped when I'm with you."
February 10, 2017
Enjoyed finding out how these two end up. My only issue is I Want More!
November 15, 2016
Goes down as another off my 2016 Bookworm Bingo Challenge – A book that would make a good movie or TV series. Definitely think this would make an interesting TV series to see what all of them get up to.
We start this book just as the last one finished off with Peyton being called in to fill the gap they have for the Olympic Champions State Tour and Jared not being very happy about it. From the first book you got a very clear impression that there was a lot more to their story than meets the eye. Turns out that they first got together back at the London Olympics four years previous. We finally get a glimpse at how they started, but not how they broke up – yet. When you get to them rehashing it all its brutal on both parts. Tensions are high between these two but passion is what fuels most of it because once they let go of the past and live in the present they are beyond hot together.
When they say you could cut the tension with a knife I think they meant that literally when you look at Jared and Peyton. You know there is more to the story – everyone around them does too – it just takes a little while to put everything out there. With being the golden couple of gymnastics they have been partnered together for the duration of the Champion Tour, something neither are very happy about but its what the world wants to see even if its torture for them. After a few weeks into the four-month tour though it’s not just them that are tense from their fighting but everyone around them because of it. Peyton is the one to hold out an olive branch by basically saying look I know we hate each other but can we at least be civil until this is over. Works for a little while, even to the point of subtle flirting on and off the stage, but when at one of their tour stops a guy asks her out in front of him you can almost see her wanting a reaction and him barely holding it in. Its a few days after that she gets the reaction and that’s only after he’s back to acting like a bit of a dick to her again. His manners are a bit lacking when he is annoyed. You want her man you claim her because she clearly wants you!
Ok so both sides know that the chemistry is the one thing that didn’t go away after the heartache. Which can clearly be seen when Peyton meets Jared on a beach in a barely there bikini. When she says she basically wore it for him he all but drags her into a tent to have his wicked way with her – sexual frustration for our poor Jared. Days before they said they would take things slow this time but now look at them. Well that is before a memory from the past slams into Jared’s mind making him stop and run. Peyton knows the only way forward is to bring everything from past to the surface, it’s the only way they can move forward. So she goes to his place – where he had been hiding out mind you – and just tells him to let go and just say everything he wants/needs to say. For a moment you think he won’t but boy does he give what for; not that she holds back one bit either. When you hear some of the things he said to her back when they started/ended you just want to punch him in the face. So you do feel a bit better when he says he wanted to punch himself too. As soon as everything is in the open you can see both their walls crumble to the ground and what’s on the other side is nothing but love and some very hot passion. They have four years to make up for and they sure do like to try and catch up. The balance has been restored to a point between them in private but when things go public they get a bit of a mixed reaction from family and some not so nice fans, especially after their stop in Vegas. He’s calming her wild ways a little and she’s loosening him up, a perfect match for each other.
Loved when they were called together for a make a wish kid to take her to dinner. It was the turning point for them starting over. The place they really saw each other in a new light, one they wanted to continue with. Thought his family was a loud house of chaos around Christmas and I loved it. Peyton too as its something she had never had before. She used to think the only love she could have or deserve was adulation from fans but when she accepts Jared’s she starts to see things more clearly. Lets hope they both keep their eyes open clearly for the future. I also liked that you got to catch up with Spence and Nat throughout and I get the feeling the next story will focus on Duke and Julia – well here’s hoping anyway.
I received this ARC from Give Me Books for my honest review.
https://readingnook84.wordpress.com/2...
We start this book just as the last one finished off with Peyton being called in to fill the gap they have for the Olympic Champions State Tour and Jared not being very happy about it. From the first book you got a very clear impression that there was a lot more to their story than meets the eye. Turns out that they first got together back at the London Olympics four years previous. We finally get a glimpse at how they started, but not how they broke up – yet. When you get to them rehashing it all its brutal on both parts. Tensions are high between these two but passion is what fuels most of it because once they let go of the past and live in the present they are beyond hot together.
When they say you could cut the tension with a knife I think they meant that literally when you look at Jared and Peyton. You know there is more to the story – everyone around them does too – it just takes a little while to put everything out there. With being the golden couple of gymnastics they have been partnered together for the duration of the Champion Tour, something neither are very happy about but its what the world wants to see even if its torture for them. After a few weeks into the four-month tour though it’s not just them that are tense from their fighting but everyone around them because of it. Peyton is the one to hold out an olive branch by basically saying look I know we hate each other but can we at least be civil until this is over. Works for a little while, even to the point of subtle flirting on and off the stage, but when at one of their tour stops a guy asks her out in front of him you can almost see her wanting a reaction and him barely holding it in. Its a few days after that she gets the reaction and that’s only after he’s back to acting like a bit of a dick to her again. His manners are a bit lacking when he is annoyed. You want her man you claim her because she clearly wants you!
Ok so both sides know that the chemistry is the one thing that didn’t go away after the heartache. Which can clearly be seen when Peyton meets Jared on a beach in a barely there bikini. When she says she basically wore it for him he all but drags her into a tent to have his wicked way with her – sexual frustration for our poor Jared. Days before they said they would take things slow this time but now look at them. Well that is before a memory from the past slams into Jared’s mind making him stop and run. Peyton knows the only way forward is to bring everything from past to the surface, it’s the only way they can move forward. So she goes to his place – where he had been hiding out mind you – and just tells him to let go and just say everything he wants/needs to say. For a moment you think he won’t but boy does he give what for; not that she holds back one bit either. When you hear some of the things he said to her back when they started/ended you just want to punch him in the face. So you do feel a bit better when he says he wanted to punch himself too. As soon as everything is in the open you can see both their walls crumble to the ground and what’s on the other side is nothing but love and some very hot passion. They have four years to make up for and they sure do like to try and catch up. The balance has been restored to a point between them in private but when things go public they get a bit of a mixed reaction from family and some not so nice fans, especially after their stop in Vegas. He’s calming her wild ways a little and she’s loosening him up, a perfect match for each other.
Loved when they were called together for a make a wish kid to take her to dinner. It was the turning point for them starting over. The place they really saw each other in a new light, one they wanted to continue with. Thought his family was a loud house of chaos around Christmas and I loved it. Peyton too as its something she had never had before. She used to think the only love she could have or deserve was adulation from fans but when she accepts Jared’s she starts to see things more clearly. Lets hope they both keep their eyes open clearly for the future. I also liked that you got to catch up with Spence and Nat throughout and I get the feeling the next story will focus on Duke and Julia – well here’s hoping anyway.
I received this ARC from Give Me Books for my honest review.
https://readingnook84.wordpress.com/2...
October 15, 2016
review to come soon. ARC kindly provided by the author in exchange for an honest review
October 19, 2016
***4.5 STARS***
Grasping Air is the second book in the Flipped Series. It can be read as a standalone since it's a new couple. But, to get the full experience I would also read Blind Blinding where you meet Jared and Peyton. I loved them, especially Peyton so I was excited that they were getting their own book!
One week. Seven days and six nights of fun and sexy times. That is what Jared and Peyton had four years ago in London. Then it ended when the Olympic Games did. And since then it has been fights, bickering, death stares, and some fuck me eyes thrown in. Everyone feels the tension but only a few know their story and they are the only ones that know the full story. Over the years they have been able to avoid each other. It's been even easier since she left the training facility six months ago but now...it's a different story. Even though Peyton didn't make the Olympics in Rio she is going on tour with the team. Along with Jared and his damn sexy southern drawl and jealous streak.
Three months. Three months of practice, traveling, and performing together. They want this to work but Jared isn't even sure if they should be friends because their relationship could turn toxic. Well...more toxic. Between the fighting, sexual tension, and the whole hate/lust/love thing it's so complex but it's them. The week in London was intense, fast, and overwhelming so going slow could be what they need to make a working relationship survive the next three months. So...they are going slow. Not serious Jared slow but slower than a wild Peyton. They agree they want to go slow but how long will that last? And when it speeds up will history repeat itself? With two broken hearts and unforgettable memories.
I love this couple! Jared is protective with an alpha streak, sweet, sexy, and add in his southern drawl and manners. Damn. Then there is Peyton. I might have a bit of a girl-crush. She is a badass gymnast and woman. She is wild, beautiful, sassy, and complicated. I loved that they are complete opposites but they balance each other out. That their differences are what they love about one another. It's not easy but to them it's what they know. But, what will happen when the three-month tour is over?
Overall...it's a fast, fun, and sexy read. It's the perfect mix of sexiness, heart, and angst. I have a feeling there will be another book in the series. I am so hoping for it because there are some more amazing characters that I can seeing having their own stories.
Quotes:
Jared could never be good for me, but I want to experience him, taste him, so badly that it doesn’t matter if I get burned.
“I think I just had a foodgasm.” She sighs, leaning back and wiping her hands off with one of those towelettes that smell like lemon.
...Jared Hargrove is my Fourth of July sparkler. He’s shiny and beautiful, a forbidden kind of magic that is impossible not to get close to.
Grasping Air is the second book in the Flipped Series. It can be read as a standalone since it's a new couple. But, to get the full experience I would also read Blind Blinding where you meet Jared and Peyton. I loved them, especially Peyton so I was excited that they were getting their own book!
One week. Seven days and six nights of fun and sexy times. That is what Jared and Peyton had four years ago in London. Then it ended when the Olympic Games did. And since then it has been fights, bickering, death stares, and some fuck me eyes thrown in. Everyone feels the tension but only a few know their story and they are the only ones that know the full story. Over the years they have been able to avoid each other. It's been even easier since she left the training facility six months ago but now...it's a different story. Even though Peyton didn't make the Olympics in Rio she is going on tour with the team. Along with Jared and his damn sexy southern drawl and jealous streak.
Three months. Three months of practice, traveling, and performing together. They want this to work but Jared isn't even sure if they should be friends because their relationship could turn toxic. Well...more toxic. Between the fighting, sexual tension, and the whole hate/lust/love thing it's so complex but it's them. The week in London was intense, fast, and overwhelming so going slow could be what they need to make a working relationship survive the next three months. So...they are going slow. Not serious Jared slow but slower than a wild Peyton. They agree they want to go slow but how long will that last? And when it speeds up will history repeat itself? With two broken hearts and unforgettable memories.
I love this couple! Jared is protective with an alpha streak, sweet, sexy, and add in his southern drawl and manners. Damn. Then there is Peyton. I might have a bit of a girl-crush. She is a badass gymnast and woman. She is wild, beautiful, sassy, and complicated. I loved that they are complete opposites but they balance each other out. That their differences are what they love about one another. It's not easy but to them it's what they know. But, what will happen when the three-month tour is over?
Overall...it's a fast, fun, and sexy read. It's the perfect mix of sexiness, heart, and angst. I have a feeling there will be another book in the series. I am so hoping for it because there are some more amazing characters that I can seeing having their own stories.
Quotes:
Jared could never be good for me, but I want to experience him, taste him, so badly that it doesn’t matter if I get burned.
“I think I just had a foodgasm.” She sighs, leaning back and wiping her hands off with one of those towelettes that smell like lemon.
...Jared Hargrove is my Fourth of July sparkler. He’s shiny and beautiful, a forbidden kind of magic that is impossible not to get close to.
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