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Pepper Jones #1-5
The Pepper Jones Series
Get the first five books in the best-selling YA/NA crossover series! This bundle (1) Pepped Up, (2) All Pepped Up, (3) Pepped Up and Ready, (4) Pep Talks, and (5) Pepped Up Forever.
My best friend’s that guy. You know the one. Popular. Quarterback. Trouble. And clueless about my deeper feelings for him. So I’m focused on my other love, running. I want to qualify for cross country nationals, and I don’t need to be distracted by Jace Wilder’s latest shenanigans. Good thing there's a new guy in town. Even better, Ryan Harding is a running star, and it seems I've caught his interest. I can handle long miles and hill sprints, but guys? That’s an entirely different challenge. * No cliff hangers. While the series should be read in order, each book is a complete story. * *This series contains mature content.*
My best friend’s that guy. You know the one. Popular. Quarterback. Trouble. And clueless about my deeper feelings for him. So I’m focused on my other love, running. I want to qualify for cross country nationals, and I don’t need to be distracted by Jace Wilder’s latest shenanigans. Good thing there's a new guy in town. Even better, Ryan Harding is a running star, and it seems I've caught his interest. I can handle long miles and hill sprints, but guys? That’s an entirely different challenge. * No cliff hangers. While the series should be read in order, each book is a complete story. * *This series contains mature content.*
798 pages, Kindle Edition
Published February 3, 2017
152 people are currently reading
56 people want to read
About the author
Ali Dean
47 books1,023 followersAli is a USA Today Bestselling author of sports romance. She has always loved to read, especially when there's a happily ever after, but found that there weren't enough books out there featuring girl athletes. So, she decided to work on that. Like the heroines in her books, Ali is an athlete, with running and skiing her favorite sports these days. Ali hails from Vermont and now lives in her own happily-ever-after in Colorado with her husband, two sets of twins, and golden retriever Pancake. When she's not pursuing an outdoor adventure, Ali's less healthy passions include ice cream, coffee, and beer.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 35 reviews
April 11, 2020
This is a collection of the first five books in the Pepper Jones series. It was interesting reading these in a row, seeing Pepper and Jace grow up and mature, as well as the road their relationship goes down.
In the first book, we're seeing Pepper's crush on Jace and have to watch her be hurt by his partying and promiscuity. I really felt for her in this one and was happy they got together.
The second, third, and forth books show them grow closer in some ways, but there's also lingering trust issues. Pepper has a hard time dealing with girls that throw themselves at Jace and is waiting for him to drop her. Jace doesn't know how to express his emotions and keeps Pepper at arm's length, which only exacerbates the trust problem.
The fifth book is by far my favorite. It still has the drama of the others, but we've seen Jace make huge strides with his anger and trust problems and now he's working to be deserving of Pepper. I also enjoyed that we got quite of bit of his perspective. I flipped a bit in this one and was liking Jace more and wanted Pepper to give him another chance.
The ending was sweet and these are enjoyable to read. They fly by and keep a great pace. The running aspect is a lot of fun too, especially since that isn't a sport you see much in fiction. I'm definitely going to check out the sixth (and last?) book of the series!
In the first book, we're seeing Pepper's crush on Jace and have to watch her be hurt by his partying and promiscuity. I really felt for her in this one and was happy they got together.
The second, third, and forth books show them grow closer in some ways, but there's also lingering trust issues. Pepper has a hard time dealing with girls that throw themselves at Jace and is waiting for him to drop her. Jace doesn't know how to express his emotions and keeps Pepper at arm's length, which only exacerbates the trust problem.
The fifth book is by far my favorite. It still has the drama of the others, but we've seen Jace make huge strides with his anger and trust problems and now he's working to be deserving of Pepper. I also enjoyed that we got quite of bit of his perspective. I flipped a bit in this one and was liking Jace more and wanted Pepper to give him another chance.
The ending was sweet and these are enjoyable to read. They fly by and keep a great pace. The running aspect is a lot of fun too, especially since that isn't a sport you see much in fiction. I'm definitely going to check out the sixth (and last?) book of the series!
February 4, 2017
Where to start?
After an unfortunate misread on NetGalley I realised I had received all five books in the series in one sitting. Maybe if you were reading them separately, with a bit of time in between each, this would not have felt quite so irritating.
Pepper Jones when we first meet her is in high school, a great athlete and she just happens to be like family with the hottest boy in the school. Of course she wants more, then she learns he wants more...so follows five books charting one of the most tempestuous relationships I think I've read about in a while.
Jace and Pepper are cute together, and there's a small part of me that kept hoping things would work out. Unfortunately, Jace's issues and tendency to act like a prize muppet really grated with me.
The style of writing is okay, and there's some great characters in here - gran Bunny, Zoe and some of the people Pepper meets during the course of the series - but there was so much that made me want to scream. Pepper spent most of the novels ignorant of the effect she had on everyone, and turned into a total doormat when Jace was around. Jace had some positives, but nobody in their right mind would put up with his behaviour!
I really got into the focus on running and it's role within the story, but for supposedly serious athletes the casual sex, drug-taking and partying seemed a bit unrealistic. The whole plot with Clayton, which comes to the fore in book five, was crazy...are we really meant to see these events as realistic?
This is one of those things that I've read, enjoyed elements of and disliked a fair amount of, and can now safely ignore it. I'm sure it will have its fans, but I am not one of them.
NetGalley, thank you for forcing me to try something different but I won't be in a hurry to read more like this.
After an unfortunate misread on NetGalley I realised I had received all five books in the series in one sitting. Maybe if you were reading them separately, with a bit of time in between each, this would not have felt quite so irritating.
Pepper Jones when we first meet her is in high school, a great athlete and she just happens to be like family with the hottest boy in the school. Of course she wants more, then she learns he wants more...so follows five books charting one of the most tempestuous relationships I think I've read about in a while.
Jace and Pepper are cute together, and there's a small part of me that kept hoping things would work out. Unfortunately, Jace's issues and tendency to act like a prize muppet really grated with me.
The style of writing is okay, and there's some great characters in here - gran Bunny, Zoe and some of the people Pepper meets during the course of the series - but there was so much that made me want to scream. Pepper spent most of the novels ignorant of the effect she had on everyone, and turned into a total doormat when Jace was around. Jace had some positives, but nobody in their right mind would put up with his behaviour!
I really got into the focus on running and it's role within the story, but for supposedly serious athletes the casual sex, drug-taking and partying seemed a bit unrealistic. The whole plot with Clayton, which comes to the fore in book five, was crazy...are we really meant to see these events as realistic?
This is one of those things that I've read, enjoyed elements of and disliked a fair amount of, and can now safely ignore it. I'm sure it will have its fans, but I am not one of them.
NetGalley, thank you for forcing me to try something different but I won't be in a hurry to read more like this.
November 6, 2018
To start I want to say that I am completely NEW to Pepper! I have seen teasers and heard about this series but I have yet to actually read the series! I have read some of Ali’s other works and decided to try Pepper and I am competent BLOWN away!
We are introduced to pepper and her best friends Jace and Wilder! As the story continues we see that Jace and pepper are still close but aren’t as close with Wilder! They are all in high school and navigating their separate lives! As time goes on Jace and Pepper come to realize that they love each other more than just friends and decide to take their relationship further! Wes is welcome back into the fold and revelations are made that once again change the dynamics of their bond but they still stay solid! Jace and Pepper are faced with many challenges as a new couple but they seem to come out stronger than ever.....then comes college!
As Jace and Pepper get older they are faced with new challenges and some just can’t be faced together! Jace breaks Peppers heart in such a ugh gosh awful way( even thinking about it all again makes me cry all over again) but Jace realizes what he has done and though it takes time he finds a way to rectify his ways!
In this amazing series you meet so many amazing friends of both Jace and Pepper and it feels like you’re going through it all with them! I loved seeing the bonds formed and the love grow as we grew with Pepper and Jace! There are so many twists and turns in their lives but I love how they handle it all together!
We are introduced to pepper and her best friends Jace and Wilder! As the story continues we see that Jace and pepper are still close but aren’t as close with Wilder! They are all in high school and navigating their separate lives! As time goes on Jace and Pepper come to realize that they love each other more than just friends and decide to take their relationship further! Wes is welcome back into the fold and revelations are made that once again change the dynamics of their bond but they still stay solid! Jace and Pepper are faced with many challenges as a new couple but they seem to come out stronger than ever.....then comes college!
As Jace and Pepper get older they are faced with new challenges and some just can’t be faced together! Jace breaks Peppers heart in such a ugh gosh awful way( even thinking about it all again makes me cry all over again) but Jace realizes what he has done and though it takes time he finds a way to rectify his ways!
In this amazing series you meet so many amazing friends of both Jace and Pepper and it feels like you’re going through it all with them! I loved seeing the bonds formed and the love grow as we grew with Pepper and Jace! There are so many twists and turns in their lives but I love how they handle it all together!
December 22, 2018
One of my favorite series
March 21, 2020
Book 1
I've read great high school romances before and with this being my first book from this author I was excited to read it. It was a good read but I was expecting something in this story to wow me and it didn't happen. There really wasn't anything special about this story to make it stand out and some parts of the story were a bit slower than I liked. I enjoyed Pepper and her grandmother Buns, Jace, Ryan and some of the side characters. Buns was one of my favorites; she definitely made the story interesting. Pepper and her childhood friend Jace have shared everything but things are changing in more ways than one. There were times I thought Jace was a bit selfish but there was no doubt he cared about Pepper. I enjoyed the moments they had together, there was no denying their chemistry. Ryan was sweet, caring and supportive, but definitely a bit too understanding about certain things. However, that made me love his character even more and I'm hoping he finds someone for him but who knows, it might still be Katie. The story was good and I do want to read the second book in this series to get the rest of the story, but I think this story will be a one time read for me. Was it worth reading? Yes. Would I give other books from this author a try? Yes.
Book 2
This is a series that must be read in order so if you haven't read the first book don't start this one yet. There is no denying how much Jace loves Pep and what she means to him. In this book a blast from the past comes back and although I know Pep is feeling a little protective over Jace, I believe that it's up to him on how to handle the situation and she should just support him. This story is full of drama, jealousy, revenge and back-stabbing. More secrets also comes to light and I think Pepper is taking it to heart a little too much but at the same time I understand why she could feel that way. Madeline needs to get herself together instead of trying to ruin things between Pep and Jace because Jace no longer wants to be with her. Although this story had a ton on drama, the flow of the story was still slow and I had to fight against skipping pages to get through the story. It wasn't a bad story, it's just that I'm finding it so slow but I do still enjoy the characters that I did in the first book. However, since I have the next book in the series I will be reading it but once again this story will be a one time read for me. So, was it worth reading? Yes. Will I read the next book? Yes. Would I recommend it? I would say to give it a try and see if it works for you. It's not a bad story-line it's just that this story is missing that something special that would make it great for me. Well that and the pace of it.
Book 3
Another good but slow read. Jace and Pepper's story continues in this one so I recommend reading this series in order. In this book, Jace starts college and Pep feels a little insecure about his popularity among his peers. Being with Jace have challenges of its own. There are a lot of jealous females and males looking to destroy their relationship. Pepper is using running as her outlet and as she pushes herself harder than ever, that brings challenges of its own. Wes is trying to figure out what's best for him regarding his future. I'm really enjoying his character with Zoey. Annie has come a long way and seems to be on the right track but I'm wondering how long that will last with her track record. After all, she has a way of disappearing. This story is full of drama and it keeps things interesting to say the least but the flow of the story is killing it for me. Gran is hilarious and I absolutely her. Just like the previous books, this is a good read but it will be a one time read for me. Will I read the next book? Yes. Would I recommend it? I'd say give it a try and see if it works for you. It's not bad it's just slow.
Book 4
This is a good series, the flow is just slow. Jace and Pepper story continues in this book so please read this story in order. I was not surprised by what Annie did. Disappointed? Yes, but not surprised at all. It's sad that she fell off track and her actions affected Jace more than ever. It causes major changes to his and Pep's relationship. I hated how he hurt Pep but after a while I was over it and wanted her to fake it til she make it. I hated the way she let Jace see her hurt and I wanted her to exact a little revenge. However, she was too good for that but she had great friends to support her, and lets not forget an amazing grandmother. I didn't hate Jace in this book but I didn't like his actions either and that goes for how he was with his brother. This was a good one time read for me and I do look forward to reading the next book to get the rest of Jace and Pep's story.
Book 5
I thought that this would be the final book for Jace and Pep but it's not. It's a little disappointing that I couldn't get an epilogue that shows what they talked about at the end of this book. Five books, and it gave us a HEA. but for me it doesn't feel like the "complete" ending I was hoping for. Don't get me wrong, once again this was a good read even if it was slow but I expected more. Pep and Jace are trying to rebuild their friendship but it isn't so easy after being hurt. The threats keep coming from different directions and Pep always seems to be the one getting hurt. What happened with Clayton wasn't all that surprising, I knew he had a lot to do with what happened. I was so happy for Buns, she deserved her HEA too. This was a good one time read for me. However, I don't think I will continue with this series. It wasn't bad but it isn't one that I want to continue after reading 5 books and not getting the complete ending I had hoped for. I really wish this would have given me the ending for Pep and Jace and maybe had other books for Wes and Zoe but also have Pep and Jace making appearances in their story. Was it worth reading? Yes. Would I recommend it? I'd say give it a try and see if it works for you.
Overall, this boxset was a good one-time romance read. After reading other high school and college romances there was nothing about these stories that stood out for me. I've read better, but with that being said, they weren't bad stories. I enjoyed the characters and the storyline but I thought that the flow of the story was too slow in every book. There were definitely things I liked and disliked about this set but it was worth giving a try.
I've read great high school romances before and with this being my first book from this author I was excited to read it. It was a good read but I was expecting something in this story to wow me and it didn't happen. There really wasn't anything special about this story to make it stand out and some parts of the story were a bit slower than I liked. I enjoyed Pepper and her grandmother Buns, Jace, Ryan and some of the side characters. Buns was one of my favorites; she definitely made the story interesting. Pepper and her childhood friend Jace have shared everything but things are changing in more ways than one. There were times I thought Jace was a bit selfish but there was no doubt he cared about Pepper. I enjoyed the moments they had together, there was no denying their chemistry. Ryan was sweet, caring and supportive, but definitely a bit too understanding about certain things. However, that made me love his character even more and I'm hoping he finds someone for him but who knows, it might still be Katie. The story was good and I do want to read the second book in this series to get the rest of the story, but I think this story will be a one time read for me. Was it worth reading? Yes. Would I give other books from this author a try? Yes.
Book 2
This is a series that must be read in order so if you haven't read the first book don't start this one yet. There is no denying how much Jace loves Pep and what she means to him. In this book a blast from the past comes back and although I know Pep is feeling a little protective over Jace, I believe that it's up to him on how to handle the situation and she should just support him. This story is full of drama, jealousy, revenge and back-stabbing. More secrets also comes to light and I think Pepper is taking it to heart a little too much but at the same time I understand why she could feel that way. Madeline needs to get herself together instead of trying to ruin things between Pep and Jace because Jace no longer wants to be with her. Although this story had a ton on drama, the flow of the story was still slow and I had to fight against skipping pages to get through the story. It wasn't a bad story, it's just that I'm finding it so slow but I do still enjoy the characters that I did in the first book. However, since I have the next book in the series I will be reading it but once again this story will be a one time read for me. So, was it worth reading? Yes. Will I read the next book? Yes. Would I recommend it? I would say to give it a try and see if it works for you. It's not a bad story-line it's just that this story is missing that something special that would make it great for me. Well that and the pace of it.
Book 3
Another good but slow read. Jace and Pepper's story continues in this one so I recommend reading this series in order. In this book, Jace starts college and Pep feels a little insecure about his popularity among his peers. Being with Jace have challenges of its own. There are a lot of jealous females and males looking to destroy their relationship. Pepper is using running as her outlet and as she pushes herself harder than ever, that brings challenges of its own. Wes is trying to figure out what's best for him regarding his future. I'm really enjoying his character with Zoey. Annie has come a long way and seems to be on the right track but I'm wondering how long that will last with her track record. After all, she has a way of disappearing. This story is full of drama and it keeps things interesting to say the least but the flow of the story is killing it for me. Gran is hilarious and I absolutely her. Just like the previous books, this is a good read but it will be a one time read for me. Will I read the next book? Yes. Would I recommend it? I'd say give it a try and see if it works for you. It's not bad it's just slow.
Book 4
This is a good series, the flow is just slow. Jace and Pepper story continues in this book so please read this story in order. I was not surprised by what Annie did. Disappointed? Yes, but not surprised at all. It's sad that she fell off track and her actions affected Jace more than ever. It causes major changes to his and Pep's relationship. I hated how he hurt Pep but after a while I was over it and wanted her to fake it til she make it. I hated the way she let Jace see her hurt and I wanted her to exact a little revenge. However, she was too good for that but she had great friends to support her, and lets not forget an amazing grandmother. I didn't hate Jace in this book but I didn't like his actions either and that goes for how he was with his brother. This was a good one time read for me and I do look forward to reading the next book to get the rest of Jace and Pep's story.
Book 5
I thought that this would be the final book for Jace and Pep but it's not. It's a little disappointing that I couldn't get an epilogue that shows what they talked about at the end of this book. Five books, and it gave us a HEA. but for me it doesn't feel like the "complete" ending I was hoping for. Don't get me wrong, once again this was a good read even if it was slow but I expected more. Pep and Jace are trying to rebuild their friendship but it isn't so easy after being hurt. The threats keep coming from different directions and Pep always seems to be the one getting hurt. What happened with Clayton wasn't all that surprising, I knew he had a lot to do with what happened. I was so happy for Buns, she deserved her HEA too. This was a good one time read for me. However, I don't think I will continue with this series. It wasn't bad but it isn't one that I want to continue after reading 5 books and not getting the complete ending I had hoped for. I really wish this would have given me the ending for Pep and Jace and maybe had other books for Wes and Zoe but also have Pep and Jace making appearances in their story. Was it worth reading? Yes. Would I recommend it? I'd say give it a try and see if it works for you.
Overall, this boxset was a good one-time romance read. After reading other high school and college romances there was nothing about these stories that stood out for me. I've read better, but with that being said, they weren't bad stories. I enjoyed the characters and the storyline but I thought that the flow of the story was too slow in every book. There were definitely things I liked and disliked about this set but it was worth giving a try.
October 15, 2018
Wow... what a roller coaster ride through 5 books. I wanted to give the same rating for all of the books, but they made me feel so differently that I had to rate them separately.
First one: 5 stars
Second one: 4.5 stars
Third: 4 stars
Fourth: 4.5 stars
Fifth: 3 stars
Overall rating: 4.2 stars (unfortunately cannot give such a rating)
So.. why such a different opinion regarding each of the books of the series? Mostly because in some of them I loved Pepper a lot, the second leads were just perfect (Wes, Zoe, Bunny, even Ryan in most cases et al.) and funny, the plot was a bit twisted, a bit of jealousy included etc., in some of them I wanted to stop reading some of the POVs.
The books:
In the first one, Pepper seemed so strong, so independent young girl with goals to achieve, dreams to reach and, of course, she was no bootleg for any of the boys. What is the best part - how she feels about running. If a reader wants to read about young girl who is not shy about reaching her goals and dreams, go for it without hesitation.
The second book starts a bit later that the first ends (like 2 months later). Pepper has to live with the "fame" of being Jace's girlfriend. It looks like "full-time job". She struggles not only with her goals and future running career, but also with being Jace's girlfriend. Actually, I did not understand, why? She is a running star, she has looks, she has everything, but the rest of world just cannot understand why Jace needs her?! It is just stupid.
Third:
I just could not understand Pepper. Why overdo the running? Why she thinks that she is better than coaches, Ryan or even her friends? I feel like she lost it. Jace was his usual controlling boyfriend.
In the fourth book finally comes Jace's POV and the plot twist that I love. But... Jace is not my favorite book-boyfriend at all (I gave him so many opportunities to change my attitude, but he could not manage it). He has so much psychological trouble and what he did and HOW he did it.. nooo... I could not have forgiven him such an attitude...
Fifth:
I was so in the Clayton's team,that I was really disappointed that all turned out like it did.
Actually, there were 2 reasons why I gave 3 stars - first, I do not like Pepper as a heroine in this book, second, the time lapse of 2 years was just too much, I wanted to see more insights in their lives and struggles. I hoped that she would have moved on.
The biggest problem was Jace. One moment he is like the ruler of the world, in the next - so unsure of himself. No, such a playboy had to be more self-confident.
*I received the ARC from the author and am voluntary reviewing the whole series book set.
First one: 5 stars
Second one: 4.5 stars
Third: 4 stars
Fourth: 4.5 stars
Fifth: 3 stars
Overall rating: 4.2 stars (unfortunately cannot give such a rating)
So.. why such a different opinion regarding each of the books of the series? Mostly because in some of them I loved Pepper a lot, the second leads were just perfect (Wes, Zoe, Bunny, even Ryan in most cases et al.) and funny, the plot was a bit twisted, a bit of jealousy included etc., in some of them I wanted to stop reading some of the POVs.
The books:
In the first one, Pepper seemed so strong, so independent young girl with goals to achieve, dreams to reach and, of course, she was no bootleg for any of the boys. What is the best part - how she feels about running. If a reader wants to read about young girl who is not shy about reaching her goals and dreams, go for it without hesitation.
The second book starts a bit later that the first ends (like 2 months later). Pepper has to live with the "fame" of being Jace's girlfriend. It looks like "full-time job". She struggles not only with her goals and future running career, but also with being Jace's girlfriend. Actually, I did not understand, why? She is a running star, she has looks, she has everything, but the rest of world just cannot understand why Jace needs her?! It is just stupid.
Third:
I just could not understand Pepper. Why overdo the running? Why she thinks that she is better than coaches, Ryan or even her friends? I feel like she lost it. Jace was his usual controlling boyfriend.
In the fourth book finally comes Jace's POV and the plot twist that I love. But... Jace is not my favorite book-boyfriend at all (I gave him so many opportunities to change my attitude, but he could not manage it). He has so much psychological trouble and what he did and HOW he did it.. nooo... I could not have forgiven him such an attitude...
Fifth:
I was so in the Clayton's team,that I was really disappointed that all turned out like it did.
Actually, there were 2 reasons why I gave 3 stars - first, I do not like Pepper as a heroine in this book, second, the time lapse of 2 years was just too much, I wanted to see more insights in their lives and struggles. I hoped that she would have moved on.
The biggest problem was Jace. One moment he is like the ruler of the world, in the next - so unsure of himself. No, such a playboy had to be more self-confident.
*I received the ARC from the author and am voluntary reviewing the whole series book set.
November 14, 2018
The Pepper Jones Series by Ali Dean is a YA/NA crossover series and includes the first five books in one anthology. The books are Pepped Up; All Pepped Up; Pepped AUp & Ready; Pep Talks and Pepped Up Forever.
Pepped Up starts Pepper's story in highschool. She's a girl with a crush on the shools star player, Jace. But he isn't easy to love. He starts dealing and consuming drugs, throws his life away. He wants to take care of Pepper, need control. Both have a complicated relationship. While Jace is on a downward spiral, Pepper and her running keeps her sane. Both are so young and in the author's words you can feel the pain of growing up. I loved this first book and give 4,5 stars.
All Pepped Up is book two and tells the story from Pepper's POV. Pepper won the nationals in cross running, and Jace is still not aneasy to love guy. Pepper has to go through a lot in this book. On the trails are her goals clear but loving Jace is messy and sticky.
Pepped Up and Ready is book three. Pepper is in her senior year at highschool and Jace is at college. Both concentrate at their sports careers, but tghey discover rather quickly their social status has followed them. This third book is my least favorite in the series. I can't explain why, only Jace isn't my favorite character and I wished for something more hea-ish for Pepper, more of a partner. I give 4 stars.
Pep Talks is book four and one of my favorites. Pep Talks in in Jace's POV and he's about to become a good one. He isn't happy at college, but he has Pepper and that helps a lot. While Pepper is struggling, Jace knows what he wants and that is Pepper. But he has a lot of groveling to do to win her back. Like I said, favorite one, stars.
Pepped Up Forever is the fifth book in this anthology and told in a dual POV. Pepper is about to become a senior at college and she made it far. Her running career is strong and she loves college life. Only Jace is whining. He wants her back, ladida. Shoulda, woulda, coulda. I have not much sympathy for his character. He reaps what he sows. My heart beats for Pepper. Go Pepper !!
All in all is this a great anthology. I bing read all five books and what can I say, Go Pepper !! I recommend the anthology and give stars.
Pepped Up starts Pepper's story in highschool. She's a girl with a crush on the shools star player, Jace. But he isn't easy to love. He starts dealing and consuming drugs, throws his life away. He wants to take care of Pepper, need control. Both have a complicated relationship. While Jace is on a downward spiral, Pepper and her running keeps her sane. Both are so young and in the author's words you can feel the pain of growing up. I loved this first book and give 4,5 stars.
All Pepped Up is book two and tells the story from Pepper's POV. Pepper won the nationals in cross running, and Jace is still not aneasy to love guy. Pepper has to go through a lot in this book. On the trails are her goals clear but loving Jace is messy and sticky.
Pepped Up and Ready is book three. Pepper is in her senior year at highschool and Jace is at college. Both concentrate at their sports careers, but tghey discover rather quickly their social status has followed them. This third book is my least favorite in the series. I can't explain why, only Jace isn't my favorite character and I wished for something more hea-ish for Pepper, more of a partner. I give 4 stars.
Pep Talks is book four and one of my favorites. Pep Talks in in Jace's POV and he's about to become a good one. He isn't happy at college, but he has Pepper and that helps a lot. While Pepper is struggling, Jace knows what he wants and that is Pepper. But he has a lot of groveling to do to win her back. Like I said, favorite one, stars.
Pepped Up Forever is the fifth book in this anthology and told in a dual POV. Pepper is about to become a senior at college and she made it far. Her running career is strong and she loves college life. Only Jace is whining. He wants her back, ladida. Shoulda, woulda, coulda. I have not much sympathy for his character. He reaps what he sows. My heart beats for Pepper. Go Pepper !!
All in all is this a great anthology. I bing read all five books and what can I say, Go Pepper !! I recommend the anthology and give stars.
July 2, 2023
The Pepper Jones Series (Pepper Jones #1-5) was a great read by Ali Dean. This series includes: Pepped Up, All Pepped Up, Pepped Up and Ready, Pep Talks, and Pepped Up Forever. Pepped Up: Pepper Jones Book One was a great read by Ali Dean. Pepper is the running star of her high school is just looking to qualify for Nationals. Pepper has always had hidden feelings for her best friend and neighbor Jace. Jace has never seen pepper in that way, until Ryan comes to town and starts to show interest in Pepper. Pepper is caught between her feelings for Jace and Ryan and trying to do everything in her power to qualify for Nationals. All Pepped Up (Pepper Jones #2) was a great read by Ali Dean. Pepper not only won nationals but is now dating her dream man, Jace. Unfortunately they face a lot of hurdles and drama at school. They are also dealing with family secrets about Jace's family. Pepper is having a hard time getting psyched about the new cross country season. Pepped Up and Ready was another great read by Ali Dean. Pepper is a senior and wants to defend her national cross-country title. Unfortunately Jace is starting college and is busy with football. But he does continue to support Pepper and her goals. Pepper has been focused on her goals and is pushing her body too far. Jace's status has followed him to college which unfortunately makes Pepper a target. Pep Talks (Pepper Jones #4) was another good read by Ali Dean. Jace feels how lonely college can be but feels lucky to have Pepper. Unfortunately once he realizes just how badly Pepper can hurt him he decides to push her away. It may be too late once he realizes that he was wrong. I absolutely loved reading Pepper and Jace's story even though I wanted to yell at the both of them many times. Pepped Up Forever: Pepper Jones, Book Five was another great read by Ali Dean.Pepper has been working hard as a junior in college to start her professional running career. Jace made a huge mistake when he broke things off with Pepper. He wants her back badly although he's reluctant to act on those feelings. He doesn't want to hurt her again even if he doesnt mean to. Pepper is looking to find her happily ever after even if that doesn't involve Jace.
March 22, 2020
A new author to me and I new series. I felt this series is fit for a younger audience. I enjoyed most of it but it read quite slow for me and I didn’t enjoy the 5th book. The first story starts with Pepper in highschool. She's a girl with a crush on the shools star player, Jace but he soon starts dealing and enjoying drugs. He domineering and controlling but his drug usage is his downfall and he basically throws his life. Book 2 is Pepper's POV. Pepper is a runner and wins the nationals in cross running, and Jace is still in the picture but not an easy person in her life. In Book 3, Pepper is in her senior year at highschool and Jace is at college. Both concentrate at their sports careers. I really don’t care for Jace and the fact he’s still hanging on made me like this book even less. I did like Book 4 though. It is told in Jace’s POV - so go figure. Finally, Jace has pulled his head out and becoming the man he was meant to be. He isn't happy at college, but he has Pepper and that helps a lot. While Pepper is struggling, Jace knows what he wants and that is Pepper. But he has a lot of groveling to do to win her back. Book 5 is probably my least fav out of the 5 books. It’s told in dual POV’s. Pepper is about to become a senior at college and she made it far. Her running career is strong and she loves college life. Jace, on the other hand feels m0re like he is constantly whining and complaining. I voluntarily received an arc copy of this book from HiddenGems
April 2, 2020
Sports romance with a ton of heart!
This is the story of running phenom Pepper Jones and the football star that she loves, Jace Wilder. They grew up right next door to each other, and have been there for the other through thick and thin. As they are getting older, Pepper is starting to feel a real attraction to Jace, but he seems to just look at her like a sister. When she tries to date other people she quickly finds out that the way he feels about her is anything but sisterly. This is a real epic love story with characters that have to navigate a lot of tricky situations and deceit to be together. Jace has a multitude of issues that he needs to work through in order to love Pepper the way she deserves to be loved. She in return, has to learn to trust him and hope that he is on the right path, and help him stay on that path. Their story is not always a happy one, but you will be cheering for them in the end. Can't wait to read their next book.
This is the story of running phenom Pepper Jones and the football star that she loves, Jace Wilder. They grew up right next door to each other, and have been there for the other through thick and thin. As they are getting older, Pepper is starting to feel a real attraction to Jace, but he seems to just look at her like a sister. When she tries to date other people she quickly finds out that the way he feels about her is anything but sisterly. This is a real epic love story with characters that have to navigate a lot of tricky situations and deceit to be together. Jace has a multitude of issues that he needs to work through in order to love Pepper the way she deserves to be loved. She in return, has to learn to trust him and hope that he is on the right path, and help him stay on that path. Their story is not always a happy one, but you will be cheering for them in the end. Can't wait to read their next book.
October 16, 2018
Follow pepper from high school to college
Pepper's passion is cross country running on the school cross team she starts to make a name for herself. With an almost nonexistent social life she's a little sheltered from the world around her . Peppers in love with her best friend next door neighbour and the hottest football star at her school but so are all the other girls.
Jace is the hot football star all brooding and over protective of pepper keeping pepper out of his social life. He makes lots of mistakes along the way
And makes you want to smack him up the back of the head and tell him to sort him self out .
Follow them both on a jammed pack journey you'll find love heartbreak secrets jealously and a crazy bunny with piggy slippers .
A most read for any YA sports romance lovers .
Pepper's passion is cross country running on the school cross team she starts to make a name for herself. With an almost nonexistent social life she's a little sheltered from the world around her . Peppers in love with her best friend next door neighbour and the hottest football star at her school but so are all the other girls.
Jace is the hot football star all brooding and over protective of pepper keeping pepper out of his social life. He makes lots of mistakes along the way
And makes you want to smack him up the back of the head and tell him to sort him self out .
Follow them both on a jammed pack journey you'll find love heartbreak secrets jealously and a crazy bunny with piggy slippers .
A most read for any YA sports romance lovers .
January 24, 2019
Wow 6 books!
It’s kinda amazing I just finished 6 books like that! I just kept reading, rolling right into the next one great way to spend two rainy days.
Usually sweet high school/college romances are not for me. This was a good change of pace for me. It was sweet but not overly sweet, angsty but not to angsty, and long without being to long. I really got to know Jace and Piper throughout their time at school. I felt like they grew as a couple and individuals. Their relationship was realistic with typical issues (although I guess not the normal situations).
I wouldn’t be opposed to catching back up with them to see how they are doing in the future but I’m super happy the series ended with me feeling like I really got to know them.
It’s kinda amazing I just finished 6 books like that! I just kept reading, rolling right into the next one great way to spend two rainy days.
Usually sweet high school/college romances are not for me. This was a good change of pace for me. It was sweet but not overly sweet, angsty but not to angsty, and long without being to long. I really got to know Jace and Piper throughout their time at school. I felt like they grew as a couple and individuals. Their relationship was realistic with typical issues (although I guess not the normal situations).
I wouldn’t be opposed to catching back up with them to see how they are doing in the future but I’m super happy the series ended with me feeling like I really got to know them.
November 1, 2018
This is definitely the best way to read this series. I remember having to wait for each book to come out but you lucky new readers to the Pepper phenomenon, don’t have to do that. This is one of my favourite series ever and for any woman that enjoys sports themselves. I have read in other reviews that they find Pepper’s lack of confidence in herself frustrating, especially when it comes to her view of Jace being to good for her. I found this more realistic. Especially of girls/woman in this age group.
Enjoy. Definitely great value for money.
Enjoy. Definitely great value for money.
April 5, 2020
I voluntarily read and reviewed an ARC of this book. This is my first book by this author and I definitely enjoyed them.
This is the first 5 books in the Pepper Jones series. This series starts with Pepper and Jace in high school and all the trials and tribulations that are involved in growing up best friends and making the switch to boyfriend/girlfriend and then heading to college. Learning to grow on their own and then finally finding their way back to one another.
It was a really great series and I hope we see more from some of the other characters in spin offs.
This is the first 5 books in the Pepper Jones series. This series starts with Pepper and Jace in high school and all the trials and tribulations that are involved in growing up best friends and making the switch to boyfriend/girlfriend and then heading to college. Learning to grow on their own and then finally finding their way back to one another.
It was a really great series and I hope we see more from some of the other characters in spin offs.
February 21, 2018
Best way to read this series
The story of Pepper Jones will draw you in and have you hooked from chapter 1. She is an absolutely beautiful character but the circumstances and the people that surround her are what makes this series great. I dare anyone to read this series and not fall in love with Bunny and her sidekick Lulu. I am glad i read this series consecutively because the story is so captivating that you will not want to stop reading
The story of Pepper Jones will draw you in and have you hooked from chapter 1. She is an absolutely beautiful character but the circumstances and the people that surround her are what makes this series great. I dare anyone to read this series and not fall in love with Bunny and her sidekick Lulu. I am glad i read this series consecutively because the story is so captivating that you will not want to stop reading
December 22, 2018
**REVIEWED BY CASSIE**
This series is the perfect example of a well --written sports romance. I love that it spans from high school to college. The transition to YA to NA was perfect. You really felt like you were growing up with them. Pepper Jones is a true competitor and a genuine good girl. Jace Wilder is the typical bad boy goes straight for the right girl. I love this friends-to-lovers turned second-chance romance.
This series is the perfect example of a well --written sports romance. I love that it spans from high school to college. The transition to YA to NA was perfect. You really felt like you were growing up with them. Pepper Jones is a true competitor and a genuine good girl. Jace Wilder is the typical bad boy goes straight for the right girl. I love this friends-to-lovers turned second-chance romance.
August 28, 2021
Not for me
I really wanted to like this book and best friends to more is definitely my favourite trope but in the first book I wanted her to end up with Ryan not Jace (her BFF) as it seemed to be a much healthier relationship and he wasn’t an arsehole to her. If I hadn’t bought the series I would’ve stopped after the first book as it was I skipped most of it and just read the last little bit to find out who she ended up with.
I really wanted to like this book and best friends to more is definitely my favourite trope but in the first book I wanted her to end up with Ryan not Jace (her BFF) as it seemed to be a much healthier relationship and he wasn’t an arsehole to her. If I hadn’t bought the series I would’ve stopped after the first book as it was I skipped most of it and just read the last little bit to find out who she ended up with.
October 10, 2017
Book one: 3 stars.
Book two: 3 stars.
Book three: 3 stars.
Book four: Did that need to happen? Yeah. It did. It was brutal. Never before have I read a break up scene(s) that harsh.
Book five: Two year time jump?!? Waaaay too long. This was also just rushed. I thought book four was a bit rushed too, but it was slow compared to this book. Also, totally saw that character being that bad.
Book two: 3 stars.
Book three: 3 stars.
Book four: Did that need to happen? Yeah. It did. It was brutal. Never before have I read a break up scene(s) that harsh.
Book five: Two year time jump?!? Waaaay too long. This was also just rushed. I thought book four was a bit rushed too, but it was slow compared to this book. Also, totally saw that character being that bad.
March 25, 2020
The Pepper Jones Series by Ali Dean is an absolute must!! I instantly fell in love with Pepper and Jace. The struggles and self-doubt that both experienced are relatable to all readers. Anyone who loves sport romances needs to read this series.
*I voluntarily reviewed this book after receiving a free copy.
*I voluntarily reviewed this book after receiving a free copy.
April 14, 2020
The Pepper Jones series is one of my favorites! Pepper and Jace have grown up together and you just know they belong together. So many things and people are determined to get in their way. Will they find their way? Can they survive the circumstances life throws in their way? Such an enjoyable series!
April 20, 2020
This series is one of my all time favorites by Ali, hands down! I think that partially biased since I’m a runnner myself, but none the less, the development, heartaches, real life moments, and the out come kept me reading to the very end without stopping!
Job well done, I love the coming of age this book develops and morphs into. The characters are just a great creation as well.
Job well done, I love the coming of age this book develops and morphs into. The characters are just a great creation as well.
May 3, 2020
"I recieved an Advanced Review Copy of this book."
I read the first book of this series elsewhere but I was so happy I got to read it all. I loved the story line and the characters. The whole best friends to lovers is a fantastic concept. I love how the FML feels she can't be with the MML because he is hot and popular. I think this series shows you that anything is possible.
I read the first book of this series elsewhere but I was so happy I got to read it all. I loved the story line and the characters. The whole best friends to lovers is a fantastic concept. I love how the FML feels she can't be with the MML because he is hot and popular. I think this series shows you that anything is possible.
July 4, 2017
Love and running. Nothing better
As the book is actually made up of 5 different books it is long and well worth the ready. You see Pepper and Jace move from high school best friends to college graduates and along the way plenty of action
As the book is actually made up of 5 different books it is long and well worth the ready. You see Pepper and Jace move from high school best friends to college graduates and along the way plenty of action
March 21, 2020
This is an absolutely fabulous read. It keeps your attention at every turn of the page, plus it has some incredible plot twists I never saw coming!
I highly, highly recommend this series!!! Ali Dean DOES NOT disappoint!
I highly, highly recommend this series!!! Ali Dean DOES NOT disappoint!
February 7, 2019
4 Stars
Four Stars
This was a reread for me. I enjoyed it just as much the second time as the first.
Four Stars
This was a reread for me. I enjoyed it just as much the second time as the first.
April 25, 2020
I'm new to the pepper series. But liked it. Good characters. It was a fun, intriguing book. I received a free copy of the book. And am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
January 5, 2020
Pep and Jayce
This was such a sweet coming of age series which I plan to continue with book six. What fun and excitement these two and high school and college .
This was such a sweet coming of age series which I plan to continue with book six. What fun and excitement these two and high school and college .
February 2, 2017
3.5 stars
Sadly for me this series wasn't for me, is like the more I read the less I like it.
Everyone has different genre they like, Some like the whole friendship turns into more, some don't. Well I don't like it, is like the leads are too consume already in the friendship, their lives revolve too much around each other. You don't see their love grow is already there when the viewers read. In this case Pepper was too consumed into Jace.
Well let me write a few things about what I like and disliked in this series.
In book one Pepper was a Role Model to follow. She was a runner, She lived to run. She had goals and achieve so many goals because of her constant hard work. She always push herself to be better, too run that extra mile. At the beginning she had no desire to party or to date. She wanted all her time and attention to be better at runner. Than she meet Ryan, which didn't change her goals at all but on the contrary she was reaching for more. Ryan helped her with reaching her goals and pushed her boundaries. But when Pepper saw the first chance to get with Jace he dropped poor Ryan like a hot potato. I found that Ryan was a better match for Pepper. I feel that Pepper getting with Jace only brought her down.
After pepper got together with Jace her Role Model status when down, and that is one of the least thing I like about this book. She didn't want to grow or push more to be a better runner. She used as an excuse she felt tired when she never did before dating Jace. Jace brought so much drama in her life, Yes he was a sweet boyfriend to her but at time controlling and his ex hook ups would appeared bringing more drama to Peppers life. Which was the sole purpose of her not wanting to reach more of her goals, she wouldn't think straight when practicing. Her coach wanted to her to be in more races she didn't want to. Well thinks just went down hill when they got together. and I think that is the reason I only loved the first book because Pepper seem stronger.
Things I like Ryan, Bunny, Her friends Oh and Wes (which at some point I thought he was going to get the lead girl before Jace got his hands on her, wouldn't that be amazing a different ending) Mostly all the second leads during all this series. The leads weren't on my like list.
The writing style was pretty great but I just didn't like where the story went. I know that the author is capable of write about great characters because I got to read about Ryan and Bunny and her groups of friend even fall for Wes. I guess I just didn't like the decisions Jace and Pepper took.
ARC was given by Netgalley in exchange of an honest review.
Sadly for me this series wasn't for me, is like the more I read the less I like it.
Everyone has different genre they like, Some like the whole friendship turns into more, some don't. Well I don't like it, is like the leads are too consume already in the friendship, their lives revolve too much around each other. You don't see their love grow is already there when the viewers read. In this case Pepper was too consumed into Jace.
Well let me write a few things about what I like and disliked in this series.
In book one Pepper was a Role Model to follow. She was a runner, She lived to run. She had goals and achieve so many goals because of her constant hard work. She always push herself to be better, too run that extra mile. At the beginning she had no desire to party or to date. She wanted all her time and attention to be better at runner. Than she meet Ryan, which didn't change her goals at all but on the contrary she was reaching for more. Ryan helped her with reaching her goals and pushed her boundaries. But when Pepper saw the first chance to get with Jace he dropped poor Ryan like a hot potato. I found that Ryan was a better match for Pepper. I feel that Pepper getting with Jace only brought her down.
After pepper got together with Jace her Role Model status when down, and that is one of the least thing I like about this book. She didn't want to grow or push more to be a better runner. She used as an excuse she felt tired when she never did before dating Jace. Jace brought so much drama in her life, Yes he was a sweet boyfriend to her but at time controlling and his ex hook ups would appeared bringing more drama to Peppers life. Which was the sole purpose of her not wanting to reach more of her goals, she wouldn't think straight when practicing. Her coach wanted to her to be in more races she didn't want to. Well thinks just went down hill when they got together. and I think that is the reason I only loved the first book because Pepper seem stronger.
Things I like Ryan, Bunny, Her friends Oh and Wes (which at some point I thought he was going to get the lead girl before Jace got his hands on her, wouldn't that be amazing a different ending) Mostly all the second leads during all this series. The leads weren't on my like list.
The writing style was pretty great but I just didn't like where the story went. I know that the author is capable of write about great characters because I got to read about Ryan and Bunny and her groups of friend even fall for Wes. I guess I just didn't like the decisions Jace and Pepper took.
ARC was given by Netgalley in exchange of an honest review.
May 4, 2022
This series was recommended. I also highly recommend this book.
Overall, I give the series 4.5 stars.
#1 Pepped Up: 5 Stars
#2 All Pepped Up: 4.5 Stars
#3 Pepped Up and Ready: 4.5 Stars
#4 Pepped Talk: 5 stars, my favorite
#5 Pepped Up Forever: 4 Stars
I read Pepped up and was hooked. (Also recommended.) I had to read the rest of the books.
The author takes you through the life of Pepper from high school to college.
The first book, Pepped Up, Pepper is in high school and has a crush on Jace. Jace isn’t easy to love. He turns to dealing and using drugs. Pepper is strong and independent. Jace throws his life away.
All Pepped Up. Pepper goes through a lot in the second book. She wins the cross country nationals. Jace is still hard to love.
Pepped Up and Ready, #3. We find Pepper in her senior year of high school. Jace is in college. They are both concentrating on their sports. I really don’t care for Jace has the guy for Pepper. She deserves more.
#4 Pep Talks. This was my favorite of the series. Jace is unhappy in college. He has Pepper, which helps.Pepper is overdoing it in her running. Jace wants Pepper and does a lot of talking and groveling to win her back.
#5 Pepped Up Forever. A big time span from the last book. Why?? Pepper is about to be a senior in college. She is doing great with her running. She enjoys college. Jace is still having a pity party and wants Pepper back.
Read the series in order, or you are lost
Overall, I give the series 4.5 stars.
#1 Pepped Up: 5 Stars
#2 All Pepped Up: 4.5 Stars
#3 Pepped Up and Ready: 4.5 Stars
#4 Pepped Talk: 5 stars, my favorite
#5 Pepped Up Forever: 4 Stars
I read Pepped up and was hooked. (Also recommended.) I had to read the rest of the books.
The author takes you through the life of Pepper from high school to college.
The first book, Pepped Up, Pepper is in high school and has a crush on Jace. Jace isn’t easy to love. He turns to dealing and using drugs. Pepper is strong and independent. Jace throws his life away.
All Pepped Up. Pepper goes through a lot in the second book. She wins the cross country nationals. Jace is still hard to love.
Pepped Up and Ready, #3. We find Pepper in her senior year of high school. Jace is in college. They are both concentrating on their sports. I really don’t care for Jace has the guy for Pepper. She deserves more.
#4 Pep Talks. This was my favorite of the series. Jace is unhappy in college. He has Pepper, which helps.Pepper is overdoing it in her running. Jace wants Pepper and does a lot of talking and groveling to win her back.
#5 Pepped Up Forever. A big time span from the last book. Why?? Pepper is about to be a senior in college. She is doing great with her running. She enjoys college. Jace is still having a pity party and wants Pepper back.
Read the series in order, or you are lost
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