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Courting San Diego #2
Stalemate
Emme Ford loves her job as a bar promoter. She runs in the same circles as musicians and socialites, getting paid to party with them. She’s content with life just the way it is, and she has no interest in marriage, kids, or growing up. But what happens when the party’s over?
Axel Jones wants to marry Emme, but she denied his proposal. They both pretend it didn’t affect their relationship, but it did. A wedge divides them, and now they’re stuck in a stalemate. What do you do when only one person wants more?
Axel Jones wants to marry Emme, but she denied his proposal. They both pretend it didn’t affect their relationship, but it did. A wedge divides them, and now they’re stuck in a stalemate. What do you do when only one person wants more?
284 pages, Kindle Edition
Published March 31, 2017
276 people are currently reading
542 people want to read
About the author
Lisa Suzanne
109 books3,252 followersLisa Suzanne is an Amazon Top Ten Bestselling author of swoon-worthy superstar heroes, emotional roller coasters, and all the angst. She resides in Arizona with her husband and two kids. When she's not chasing her kids, she can be found working on her latest romance book or watching reruns of Friends.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 77 reviews
April 7, 2017
Stalemate was a heartwarming and captivating story that grabbed my attention right front the start. I couldn't put it down from the moment I opened the book and ended up reading in one sitting. The sex is hotter than hot throughout the whole book. Lisa Suzanne did an exceptional job of writing the storyline.
The characters Axel and Emme were perfect together, through the good times and the bad. The storyline was amazing and the chemistry was beyond. Axel and his Cousin Carter own a bar, The Port, together where he met Emme. The friendship between Emme and Courtney is wonderful; they met freshman year at college. They were there for each other throughout everything.
I can't wait to read more. It was the first book I have read by her. I will definitely be recommending this book to other readers.
The characters Axel and Emme were perfect together, through the good times and the bad. The storyline was amazing and the chemistry was beyond. Axel and his Cousin Carter own a bar, The Port, together where he met Emme. The friendship between Emme and Courtney is wonderful; they met freshman year at college. They were there for each other throughout everything.
I can't wait to read more. It was the first book I have read by her. I will definitely be recommending this book to other readers.
March 28, 2017
***ARC Provided by the Author for an Honest Review***
In a couple of recent books commitment seems to be one of the main conflicting issues being dealt with by one of the lead characters. What I found refreshing about Lisa Suzanne’s book Stalemate is that it’s the leading lady Emme who has a bit of a commitment phobia.
For those who read Clickbait, you will already be aware of Emme and Axel. You don’t need to read that book but I would suggest buying that first. I love knowing the whole story and sometimes, regardless of whether a book in a series is a standalone, or not you always get some vital background history that helps you relate more.
Axel wants what his cousin is getting, the perfect wedding with that perfect girl, and in Axel’s eyes that girl is Emme. For Emme though, she has been burnt before and isn’t looking to walk down that path again. When Axel asks Emme to marry him she laughs him off, telling him no.
Can two people get through the awkwardness of a denied proposal, and continue on with a kind of friends with benefits – no strings attached relationship?
This is a great read and I am happy to recommend.
In a couple of recent books commitment seems to be one of the main conflicting issues being dealt with by one of the lead characters. What I found refreshing about Lisa Suzanne’s book Stalemate is that it’s the leading lady Emme who has a bit of a commitment phobia.
For those who read Clickbait, you will already be aware of Emme and Axel. You don’t need to read that book but I would suggest buying that first. I love knowing the whole story and sometimes, regardless of whether a book in a series is a standalone, or not you always get some vital background history that helps you relate more.
Axel wants what his cousin is getting, the perfect wedding with that perfect girl, and in Axel’s eyes that girl is Emme. For Emme though, she has been burnt before and isn’t looking to walk down that path again. When Axel asks Emme to marry him she laughs him off, telling him no.
Can two people get through the awkwardness of a denied proposal, and continue on with a kind of friends with benefits – no strings attached relationship?
This is a great read and I am happy to recommend.
March 22, 2017
Lisa Suzanne has quickly become one of my favorite romance authors! I really enjoyed Clickbait after receiving an ARC and quickly asked for an ARC of Stalemate when I saw that it was available. I absolutely LOVED this story! Stalemate leaves you with the perfect push and pull between the characters and enough 'all the feels' that you will find it difficult to put down this book! One of the funniest parts of the book is learning about Axel's middle name...
Will the bearded bar owner reignite Emme's trust in happily ever afters or will she be stuck in a stalemate? You must one-click once this book is released, its so good and full of surprises!
Will the bearded bar owner reignite Emme's trust in happily ever afters or will she be stuck in a stalemate? You must one-click once this book is released, its so good and full of surprises!
December 18, 2018
After reading this book I finally realized that I’m a hypocrite.
That’s how the H called the h after he found out her ex kissed her (but she didn’t kiss him back).
Why didn’t she tell him? Because the H confessed to her earlier that their co-worker (at the bar) kissed him and he kissed her back: with tongue and some arousal.
Since I read this scene from his POV I felt how he was attracted to OW and the fact that he deepened the kiss was not my assumption, but it happened indeed.
He did confess it to the h, but after she asked him to quit this OW he refused…
Why did he kiss this OW back? Because he was hurt that the h didn’t want to marry him after a couple of moths dating… not years, but months!
The h had commitment issues and he knew about it.
But since he was 28 and wanted to have a family he thought maybe it was time to find someone else who would love him back. It sounds like he really loved the h, yeah?! *eye roll*
Ah, almost forgotten, he also was hurt because the h refused to have sex with him (as I understood she said no for the 1st time, till that day she was always sexually willing) and he was 24 hours (or so) celibate and horny, so he kissed OW back.
I’m the biggest hypocrite, because in my world if my bf kissed OW I would consider this cheating.
In order to avoid unnecessary misunderstandings I didn’t shelf it as cheating, but I also didn’t shelf it as safe.
How the H found out that the h’s ex kissed her? My personal highlight of the book – h wrote articles for blog and send this one by mistake to her female BFF and she/BFF put it online. So, h’s friend knew that H wasn’t aware of this kiss, but anyway made this essay public.
Thanks God for my friends who would never ever do something like this! Despite me being a hypocrite I still have decent friends!
I liked the h at the beginning, she was cool and sassy. But she lost her strong appeal very fast and after they made her feel guilty, because she was a hypocrite plus the H played offended and avoided her, so she was the one to beg for forgiveness.
Rapid transformation from a strong independent woman to a whiny scared girl.
And another unplanned pregnancy…The birth control in romance seems to fail more often than to be effective…
Commitment issues + kisses with OP + misunderstanding + baby on the way = happy life?
Only because I’m a hypocrite I didn’t quite believe in their love and HEA.
Alex - freaking hypocrite!
That’s how the H called the h after he found out her ex kissed her (but she didn’t kiss him back).
Why didn’t she tell him? Because the H confessed to her earlier that their co-worker (at the bar) kissed him and he kissed her back: with tongue and some arousal.
Since I read this scene from his POV I felt how he was attracted to OW and the fact that he deepened the kiss was not my assumption, but it happened indeed.
He did confess it to the h, but after she asked him to quit this OW he refused…
Why did he kiss this OW back? Because he was hurt that the h didn’t want to marry him after a couple of moths dating… not years, but months!
The h had commitment issues and he knew about it.
But since he was 28 and wanted to have a family he thought maybe it was time to find someone else who would love him back. It sounds like he really loved the h, yeah?! *eye roll*
Ah, almost forgotten, he also was hurt because the h refused to have sex with him (as I understood she said no for the 1st time, till that day she was always sexually willing) and he was 24 hours (or so) celibate and horny, so he kissed OW back.
I’m the biggest hypocrite, because in my world if my bf kissed OW I would consider this cheating.
In order to avoid unnecessary misunderstandings I didn’t shelf it as cheating, but I also didn’t shelf it as safe.
How the H found out that the h’s ex kissed her? My personal highlight of the book – h wrote articles for blog and send this one by mistake to her female BFF and she/BFF put it online. So, h’s friend knew that H wasn’t aware of this kiss, but anyway made this essay public.
Thanks God for my friends who would never ever do something like this! Despite me being a hypocrite I still have decent friends!
I liked the h at the beginning, she was cool and sassy. But she lost her strong appeal very fast and after they made her feel guilty, because she was a hypocrite plus the H played offended and avoided her, so she was the one to beg for forgiveness.
Rapid transformation from a strong independent woman to a whiny scared girl.
And another unplanned pregnancy…
Commitment issues + kisses with OP + misunderstanding + baby on the way = happy life?
Only because I’m a hypocrite I didn’t quite believe in their love and HEA.
Alex - freaking hypocrite!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 29, 2017
Emme and Axel have been dating for six months!! Emme is happy with the way their relationship is going!! Axel is wanting more, marriage and a family!! With a few ups and downs, and a surprise thrown in?? Can't say to much without giving the story away, but l would give this book a read!! I really enjoyed this Stalemate!!
May 30, 2019
I thought this was a refreshing change, where you actually see problems and couples trying to work on them. I enjoyed it.
January 20, 2020
Still a no
I tried to give another novel by this author a shot. I was bored and since I had read one good one and crappy one, I thought it would help me decide if I could like her. In this book we circle back to cheating, AGAIN. The male lead was angry at the female lead, and when one of him employees kisses him he gets into it. He has this entire internal monologue about how he was kissing her back, was enjoying it, and getting hard before he pulled away. That was just too much. It immediately made me think of how I wouldn’t want to date him after that. This was his employee, and they were both at work. Completely inappropriate and he still got into it before pulling away. What really made me decide that I didn’t like the book or this authors writing style was that he is a complete hypocrite and had no respect for the woman he was “in love” with. He refused to fire the girl who hit on him (while she was on the clock and new he has a girlfriend) and it gets worse. When he found out that the female leads ex kissed her, he became angry. He was ready to punch him, and when he found out he would be playing at the friends wedding he was even more angry. This was over a quick peck, at a public restaurant, that she didn’t even return. Not a make out, in a secluded corner where they were alone, involving his hard on. He couldn’t imagine being stuck for one night with this guy, but gave zero consideration for her feelings. He flat out refused to fire the girl, even though they would BOTH have to to work with her everyday from now on. I couldn’t get past that. It made me think the heroine was a complete doormat as well, because she just took it and didn’t point this out. By the end of the book she is pregnant and they are getting married and he still doesn’t have the respect to not make her have to deal with the woman who tried to move in on him knowing they were together. It’s so screwed up. I can’t imagine being pregnant with the mood swings and self consciousness about gaining weight and having to see that girl every day knowing when I wasn’t there she would be there trying to get into my husbands pants. You can have self confidence in your relationship and that kind of thing would still bother you. It would be different if he hadn’t have kissed her back, but that’s where the author screwed up. That and she had him be super sweet etc to her after she kissed him. She was 100% wrong, she kissed her boss (who was in a relationship) while on the clock when she should have been working. His kissing her back was on him, (and yeah I like alpha men who would have pushed her away and been like “whoa chick you’re nothing compared to the woman I’m in love with” etc) but that doesn’t mean he couldn’t have sat her down later to explain that her behavior was inappropriate and it would be better if she no longer worked there. She wasn’t the owner or manager, just an easily replaceable bartender (with no respect) who he put over his wife who is carrying his child. It’s kind of hard to respect a guy or find him sexy after that.
I tried to give another novel by this author a shot. I was bored and since I had read one good one and crappy one, I thought it would help me decide if I could like her. In this book we circle back to cheating, AGAIN. The male lead was angry at the female lead, and when one of him employees kisses him he gets into it. He has this entire internal monologue about how he was kissing her back, was enjoying it, and getting hard before he pulled away. That was just too much. It immediately made me think of how I wouldn’t want to date him after that. This was his employee, and they were both at work. Completely inappropriate and he still got into it before pulling away. What really made me decide that I didn’t like the book or this authors writing style was that he is a complete hypocrite and had no respect for the woman he was “in love” with. He refused to fire the girl who hit on him (while she was on the clock and new he has a girlfriend) and it gets worse. When he found out that the female leads ex kissed her, he became angry. He was ready to punch him, and when he found out he would be playing at the friends wedding he was even more angry. This was over a quick peck, at a public restaurant, that she didn’t even return. Not a make out, in a secluded corner where they were alone, involving his hard on. He couldn’t imagine being stuck for one night with this guy, but gave zero consideration for her feelings. He flat out refused to fire the girl, even though they would BOTH have to to work with her everyday from now on. I couldn’t get past that. It made me think the heroine was a complete doormat as well, because she just took it and didn’t point this out. By the end of the book she is pregnant and they are getting married and he still doesn’t have the respect to not make her have to deal with the woman who tried to move in on him knowing they were together. It’s so screwed up. I can’t imagine being pregnant with the mood swings and self consciousness about gaining weight and having to see that girl every day knowing when I wasn’t there she would be there trying to get into my husbands pants. You can have self confidence in your relationship and that kind of thing would still bother you. It would be different if he hadn’t have kissed her back, but that’s where the author screwed up. That and she had him be super sweet etc to her after she kissed him. She was 100% wrong, she kissed her boss (who was in a relationship) while on the clock when she should have been working. His kissing her back was on him, (and yeah I like alpha men who would have pushed her away and been like “whoa chick you’re nothing compared to the woman I’m in love with” etc) but that doesn’t mean he couldn’t have sat her down later to explain that her behavior was inappropriate and it would be better if she no longer worked there. She wasn’t the owner or manager, just an easily replaceable bartender (with no respect) who he put over his wife who is carrying his child. It’s kind of hard to respect a guy or find him sexy after that.
May 3, 2017
3.33 stars-- I'm noticing a pattern with this author that I'm not too sure I like: selfish heroines.
Yeah, yeah, they don't usually remain selfish throughout the books, and sure, they generally see the error of their ways when it's all said and done. And *eyeroll* fine, these girls are emotionally battered and damaged and have a reason for their selfishness, but I still don't know if I like it.
I know if books didn't have flawed characters and at least a mild amount of angst they'd be the boring books I never read. Yet here I am complaining.
I did like the realness of the story; the fact that it didn't feel like a too-perfect scenario was nice. I liked Axel, the almost too-nice guy who makes stupid mistakes. I liked the relationship Emme had with her bestie. And I loved the ending, except it was a bit abrupt.
So, if you love this author, this book shouldn't disappoint, (unless you're one of those strict "kissing is cheating" chippies who will be pissed if your characters do that).
Yeah, yeah, they don't usually remain selfish throughout the books, and sure, they generally see the error of their ways when it's all said and done. And *eyeroll* fine, these girls are emotionally battered and damaged and have a reason for their selfishness, but I still don't know if I like it.
I know if books didn't have flawed characters and at least a mild amount of angst they'd be the boring books I never read. Yet here I am complaining.
I did like the realness of the story; the fact that it didn't feel like a too-perfect scenario was nice. I liked Axel, the almost too-nice guy who makes stupid mistakes. I liked the relationship Emme had with her bestie. And I loved the ending, except it was a bit abrupt.
So, if you love this author, this book shouldn't disappoint, (unless you're one of those strict "kissing is cheating" chippies who will be pissed if your characters do that).
March 31, 2017
Omg once I hit chapter 5 I couldn't place this damn story down I stayed up almost all night reading this. I loved it and wanted more once it was over and how it ended left my jaw hanging opening and me with so many questions. What does this really mean? of course that I want more of Axel and Emme, come on they are this amazing couple that grows with there love for each other. As you read the story your mind goes in so many different directions with each character and the way their thinking is you get so many different ways on how something is going to end or turn out. Im happy with the events in the story and how everything played out. I really enjoyed seeing all the same characters but the best part was watching them all grow into the people they are now. The banter that was between the characters had me laughing as hard as I could I truly did enjoy reading this story. The patience Axel has in this story is super amazing and hott, he makes everything known how he is feeling while waiting for Emme to come to terms that she knows what love is and can't stand not being without Axel. True Love is put to the ringer on this one. I wish I could give some spoilers away but I'm not going to jut know that you want to read Clickbait first as the characters cross over into this one. Lisa Suzanne really has outdone her self with this story the writing is super amazing the story line is hott, and the whole story makes you a jaw dropping hott mess of tears from sadness or laughter. This is one of her best stories ever and you don't want to miss out on reading it. MUST READ this story I'm not kidding it's edge of your seat worthy with a little drool on the side lol. Read it.
***I received this ARC for free in exchange for my honest thoughts***
***I received this ARC for free in exchange for my honest thoughts***
April 9, 2017
http://rpmbt-blog.com/rpmbt/review-st...
Stalemate was a refreshing, angsty book that had me hooked from beginning to end! After reading Clickbait (Courtney and Carter’s) book, I was needing to read Emme and Axel’s book to see if they would ever figure things out so when Stalemate released I immediately jumped in and was not disappointed!
Emme and Alex have been “dating” for over six month but nothing has been solidified between these two. Axel wants more and has even proposed but Emme is happy with how things are. She has been hurt in the past and it has jaded her and her refusal to commit to more with Axel has put a kink in their relationship. What was working between these two is no longer working and this book dives into the problems these two encounter.
Watching these two go through all of these problems and how they dealt with it was heartbreaking at times. They didn’t always communicate well, and how they dealt with some things wasn’t always the best. Sometimes it pushed them further apart instead of bringing them closer together, but everything they went through helped them in the end. Watching these two sort through everything alone and together was rough at times, but it helped them both figure out what they both wanted. I enjoyed watching them figure out things on their own as well as Emme’s realization’s at the worst times at how she felt.
Not only seeing these two go through everything and watching them fall apart and come back together again, but seeing Courtney and Carter finally make it down the aisle made this entire book. For those of you who have read Clickbait this is the perfect book, if you haven’t read it, don’t worry you can read Stalemate without having read Clickbait previously, but trust me you’ll want to read that book one day, it’s a definite must read! Stalemate was an agsty read that kept me hooked and rooting for these two from beginning to end. I wanted Emme and Axel to work through their issues and realize that their HEA was already standing right in front of them, they just needed to let go of their apprehension and accept it. I highly suggest picking this book up today!
Stalemate was a refreshing, angsty book that had me hooked from beginning to end! After reading Clickbait (Courtney and Carter’s) book, I was needing to read Emme and Axel’s book to see if they would ever figure things out so when Stalemate released I immediately jumped in and was not disappointed!
Emme and Alex have been “dating” for over six month but nothing has been solidified between these two. Axel wants more and has even proposed but Emme is happy with how things are. She has been hurt in the past and it has jaded her and her refusal to commit to more with Axel has put a kink in their relationship. What was working between these two is no longer working and this book dives into the problems these two encounter.
Watching these two go through all of these problems and how they dealt with it was heartbreaking at times. They didn’t always communicate well, and how they dealt with some things wasn’t always the best. Sometimes it pushed them further apart instead of bringing them closer together, but everything they went through helped them in the end. Watching these two sort through everything alone and together was rough at times, but it helped them both figure out what they both wanted. I enjoyed watching them figure out things on their own as well as Emme’s realization’s at the worst times at how she felt.
Not only seeing these two go through everything and watching them fall apart and come back together again, but seeing Courtney and Carter finally make it down the aisle made this entire book. For those of you who have read Clickbait this is the perfect book, if you haven’t read it, don’t worry you can read Stalemate without having read Clickbait previously, but trust me you’ll want to read that book one day, it’s a definite must read! Stalemate was an agsty read that kept me hooked and rooting for these two from beginning to end. I wanted Emme and Axel to work through their issues and realize that their HEA was already standing right in front of them, they just needed to let go of their apprehension and accept it. I highly suggest picking this book up today!
March 30, 2017
The concept of this book was very interesting. What happens when two people are having a fling and one wants more, while the other doesn't.
Emme did not want commitment. She was not sure if Axel was the One for her although they were together since the last six months Axel is the typical alpha, you see what you get.
When they reach a stalemate, a time apart is warranted. Can emme finally figure out what her heart wants??
A nice story with some very interesting characters. Though both Emme & Axel were not really very memorable me. I did not understand Emme's reasons initially. I dunno, it just didn't click with me.
Rating: 3.5/5
*~*~*ARC generously provided by the author in exchange of an honest review *~*~*
Emme did not want commitment. She was not sure if Axel was the One for her although they were together since the last six months Axel is the typical alpha, you see what you get.
When they reach a stalemate, a time apart is warranted. Can emme finally figure out what her heart wants??
A nice story with some very interesting characters. Though both Emme & Axel were not really very memorable me. I did not understand Emme's reasons initially. I dunno, it just didn't click with me.
Rating: 3.5/5
*~*~*ARC generously provided by the author in exchange of an honest review *~*~*
March 31, 2017
4 stars
Once I started Stalemates, I could not put it down. It was like watching a crazy car crash, but it was so realistic. So true to what some couples go through, that I could not wait to see it unfold. This story was a beautiful depiction of hoe couples grow and change.
Axel and Emme are going through a rough patch. Axel wants marriage and kids and Emme doesn't want more. She is happy where she is. That is until something wakes her up from her partying ways and makes her see there is more that she can get out of life.
I loved this story. It was real and raw and at times funny. Like I said, once I picked it up, I did not want to put it down. I had to see what was going to happen!
Once I started Stalemates, I could not put it down. It was like watching a crazy car crash, but it was so realistic. So true to what some couples go through, that I could not wait to see it unfold. This story was a beautiful depiction of hoe couples grow and change.
Axel and Emme are going through a rough patch. Axel wants marriage and kids and Emme doesn't want more. She is happy where she is. That is until something wakes her up from her partying ways and makes her see there is more that she can get out of life.
I loved this story. It was real and raw and at times funny. Like I said, once I picked it up, I did not want to put it down. I had to see what was going to happen!
March 11, 2017
Stalemate by Lisa Suzanne is the second book in this series and picks up where Clickbait ends.
Stalemate is Emme and Axel´s book.
Emme Ford, the bar promoter and best friend of Courtney has a " thing " with Axel, bar co-owner and cousin of Carter, Courtney´s boyfriend.
Axel wants his HEA, a ring white picket fence, kids, a dog and a wife. He loves Emme with his whole heart.
But Emme wants nothing of these things. She turns his proposal down. But she wants his hot body.
They are on and off, on and off. I so pitied Axel, and I didn´t like Emme very much. But then there are unexpected twists and turns, very unexpected turns.
Stalemate is a great fun read and I greatly enjoyed this book, just like Clickbait.
Book three will be Carson´s story and I can´t wait.
5 Stars and Thank you Lisa Suzanne !!
Stalemate is Emme and Axel´s book.
Emme Ford, the bar promoter and best friend of Courtney has a " thing " with Axel, bar co-owner and cousin of Carter, Courtney´s boyfriend.
Axel wants his HEA, a ring white picket fence, kids, a dog and a wife. He loves Emme with his whole heart.
But Emme wants nothing of these things. She turns his proposal down. But she wants his hot body.
They are on and off, on and off. I so pitied Axel, and I didn´t like Emme very much. But then there are unexpected twists and turns, very unexpected turns.
Stalemate is a great fun read and I greatly enjoyed this book, just like Clickbait.
Book three will be Carson´s story and I can´t wait.
5 Stars and Thank you Lisa Suzanne !!
March 13, 2017
"how do u know when you're in love..." a question I am sure everyone has asked once in their lifetime. Emme is asking it too. things are perfect, she loves her job being the promoter at The Port, the man she is sleeping with, Axel, her boss, is amazing, the sex is amazing....but...he purposed, he wants more, the wife the kids, and a dog...emme is happy with life the way it is...or was, now there's a rift...how do you move on, when you're at a stalemate? the author effectively draws you in to Emme and Axel's world. She made me feel sorry for Ax and a bit pissy with Emme, then as she weaves her story further with a few lil twists, you find yourself pulling a 180 and hoping for a HEA. I thoroughly enjoyed getting sucked into Axel and Ems story, and look forward to reading Carson's!
March 30, 2017
After being blown away by Clickbait, and being pretty sure I could not love characters more, Stalemate has thrown that right away.
I have found my new favourite couple and have not been disappointed by the next book in the series.
The story is well written and you can resonate with the characters are their situation.
Can a relationship come back from a rejected proposal? Can a couple move away from the awkwardness and find their way back to each other? Grab a coffee, find a comfortable spot, and read...trust me you won't be able to put it down.....
Now to wait for the next one in the series....any time Lisa!
I have found my new favourite couple and have not been disappointed by the next book in the series.
The story is well written and you can resonate with the characters are their situation.
Can a relationship come back from a rejected proposal? Can a couple move away from the awkwardness and find their way back to each other? Grab a coffee, find a comfortable spot, and read...trust me you won't be able to put it down.....
Now to wait for the next one in the series....any time Lisa!
March 9, 2017
OMG - I thought Carter and Courtney (Clickbait) were the best couple - move over - Emme and Axel are even better!!! Totally swoon worthy. This book was romantic and heart warming. Never has there been a couple who loved each other more but yet could not communicate to save their relationship. Finally, though laughter and tears they both get on the same page and I cannot wait to read more about them in the next book. Awesome read that I highly recommend!!
March 30, 2017
http://amzn.to/2mU2eVO
Both the characters and their struggles were very relatable and believable – which made the storyline seem very real. I mean what are the chances that someone is on a different time schedule or plan as you? Is it realistic to believe that everyone will get to where they’re going at the same time? I think not, which is why Stalemate struck me as so genuine and real.
This story was H.O.T. – I loved Axel
#pantydroppingjuice
The pace was spot on – I mean who doesn’t have hesitations and uncertainties at some point and time in their life?
There were times when I wanted to throttle both Emme and Axel - #potmeetkettle
In relationships we often experience frustrations and if communications do not occur – chaos can ensue and that is exactly what I felt the characters were experiencing in the midst of their story. Sometimes our hearts and minds are at war with each other - we fear the unknown or dislike change.
To sum up this book in a nutshell – it’s real and relatable in the midst of chaos!
One of my favorite quotes:
Lisa Suzanne never ceases to amaze me in the depth of her characters and how much I fall in love with them!
Both the characters and their struggles were very relatable and believable – which made the storyline seem very real. I mean what are the chances that someone is on a different time schedule or plan as you? Is it realistic to believe that everyone will get to where they’re going at the same time? I think not, which is why Stalemate struck me as so genuine and real.
This story was H.O.T. – I loved Axel
#pantydroppingjuice
The pace was spot on – I mean who doesn’t have hesitations and uncertainties at some point and time in their life?
There were times when I wanted to throttle both Emme and Axel - #potmeetkettle
In relationships we often experience frustrations and if communications do not occur – chaos can ensue and that is exactly what I felt the characters were experiencing in the midst of their story. Sometimes our hearts and minds are at war with each other - we fear the unknown or dislike change.
To sum up this book in a nutshell – it’s real and relatable in the midst of chaos!
One of my favorite quotes:
"This isn't make-up sex; no, this is make-up sex's hotter cousin, angry sex."
Lisa Suzanne never ceases to amaze me in the depth of her characters and how much I fall in love with them!
April 5, 2017
As soon as I finished Clickbait, I knew I wanted...no needed to know more about what went down with Axel and Emme and man, did I love digging in.
What a fun read.
I loved that this was a story about the man being the one wanting the commitment and the woman having cold feet. Even better was reading both of their journeys as they try to find middle ground on how to move on from their stalemate. The party girl not wanting to settle down and the guy in a party career that his dream is to settle down. The push and pull is frustrating and fabulous at the same time.
"We're at an impasse. A stalemate. What do you do when only one person wants more?"
You freak out for the next book, is what you do. There is not a total cliffhanger, but more of a "I gotta know" kind of moment. I cannot wait for Outwait!!
What a fun read.
I loved that this was a story about the man being the one wanting the commitment and the woman having cold feet. Even better was reading both of their journeys as they try to find middle ground on how to move on from their stalemate. The party girl not wanting to settle down and the guy in a party career that his dream is to settle down. The push and pull is frustrating and fabulous at the same time.
"We're at an impasse. A stalemate. What do you do when only one person wants more?"
You freak out for the next book, is what you do. There is not a total cliffhanger, but more of a "I gotta know" kind of moment. I cannot wait for Outwait!!
March 31, 2017
Stalemate was well written it had me hooked from the start I was on the edge of my seat waiting to see what would happen , sometimes the characters were frustrating but other times they were really likable . There were many emotions put into play you could be happy , sad , angry and the sex scenes were super hot . Stalemate is the second book in the series it can be read as a standalone but if you want to know the story behind the secondary characters Carter and Courtney start with Clickbait you wont regret it .
copy provided for honest review
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hero = 10 heroine = 9 secondary characters = 10
Chemistry = 10 romance = 8 humor = 8
darkness level = 5 enjoyment = 10 story line = 10
character development = 10 pacing = 10
cover = 10 stars = 4 author = 8
would I recommend this book = yes
would I re read this book = yes
would I read future books by this author = yes
copy provided for honest review
****************************************
hero = 10 heroine = 9 secondary characters = 10
Chemistry = 10 romance = 8 humor = 8
darkness level = 5 enjoyment = 10 story line = 10
character development = 10 pacing = 10
cover = 10 stars = 4 author = 8
would I recommend this book = yes
would I re read this book = yes
would I read future books by this author = yes
July 4, 2017
Jesus, I almost DNF this. How is it getting such good reviews? Emme is a HUGE BABY AND HYPOCRITE. Quite honestly? I cannot stand her, at all. Grow the F up. Anyway, been scanning through. Don't waste your time if you cannoy stand a girl who keeps a double standard, who is a huge baby, and so immature it makes me sick. I really cannot stand her, can you tell? Axel should have said peace out.
July 31, 2017
This book just wasn't for me, unfortunately. The writing was good, the pace was good, but the storyline just wasn't my type of book. I felt that because the writing was good, I didn't want to go lower than 3 stars just based on a personal preference storyline.
It kind of goes as follows: the book starts as Axel and Emme have hit a rough patch in their already established relationship. He wants more, she doesn't. They fight/make up, never really break up, there's OM/OW drama and a whole lot of hypocrisy thrown in. They spend from about 35% of the book on apart, each too stubborn to admit they are wrong in their own ways. They then reconcile at about 75% with a short, less than 30 minute car ride conversation.
I just wasn't a fan of the way their relationship played out. They both did things that I would find unforgivable in a relationship. And quite honestly Emme didn't deserve Axel. He was way too good to her and way too understanding and forgiving. I just disliked her for majority of the book and she didn't really do much to redeem herself to me. Axel was almost perfect. He was sweet and understanding and completely in love with Emme....until he proved that he wasn't and I just didn't see him the same.
It kind of goes as follows: the book starts as Axel and Emme have hit a rough patch in their already established relationship. He wants more, she doesn't. They fight/make up, never really break up, there's OM/OW drama and a whole lot of hypocrisy thrown in. They spend from about 35% of the book on apart, each too stubborn to admit they are wrong in their own ways. They then reconcile at about 75% with a short, less than 30 minute car ride conversation.
I just wasn't a fan of the way their relationship played out. They both did things that I would find unforgivable in a relationship. And quite honestly Emme didn't deserve Axel. He was way too good to her and way too understanding and forgiving. I just disliked her for majority of the book and she didn't really do much to redeem herself to me. Axel was almost perfect. He was sweet and understanding and completely in love with Emme....until he proved that he wasn't and I just didn't see him the same.
August 9, 2021
Dual perspective (which is totally my preference) although it is mainly from the females perspective. No cliffhanger, HEA. I love how this book built off the previous book in the series (I love the character growth and development in a series.)
Hot scenes, were hot. Story line overall was very good. I had a serious soft spot for the male again, I was way more on his side than hers...
My biggest gripe was how long the pregnancy scare was. I get not wanting to find out right away, but for me that slowed down the story a bit by listening to the internal dialogue surrounding this and then rehashing it again with others. (Although how can I say it truly killed my desire to find out what happens when I still finished the book in a day.)
All in all, good book, but this one doesn't have the re-readablity (if that's even a word) for me. But there are some scenes that I do have highlighted that I will read again in the future.
Hot scenes, were hot. Story line overall was very good. I had a serious soft spot for the male again, I was way more on his side than hers...
My biggest gripe was how long the pregnancy scare was. I get not wanting to find out right away, but for me that slowed down the story a bit by listening to the internal dialogue surrounding this and then rehashing it again with others. (Although how can I say it truly killed my desire to find out what happens when I still finished the book in a day.)
All in all, good book, but this one doesn't have the re-readablity (if that's even a word) for me. But there are some scenes that I do have highlighted that I will read again in the future.
March 21, 2017
***ARC provided by author in exchange for an honest review***
Stalemate is the second book in the series. It can be read as a standalone, but if you want to know the story behind the secondary characters Carter & Courtney, start with Clickbait.
Emme books bands for The Port, which is a bar that Axel owns with his cousin Carter. The two of them have a relationship in which Axel wants more, but Emme is happy with what they have. They are at standoff, each unwilling to give.
The author brings us strong characters that are going through the ups and downs of love. Trying to overcome doubts and things that life throws at them. It's full of emotions, and misunderstandings. It was nice to see Axel, being all in and the one to convince Emme that they are meant to be together.
Likable characters and lots of feels! I would definitely recommend this book!!
Stalemate is the second book in the series. It can be read as a standalone, but if you want to know the story behind the secondary characters Carter & Courtney, start with Clickbait.
Emme books bands for The Port, which is a bar that Axel owns with his cousin Carter. The two of them have a relationship in which Axel wants more, but Emme is happy with what they have. They are at standoff, each unwilling to give.
The author brings us strong characters that are going through the ups and downs of love. Trying to overcome doubts and things that life throws at them. It's full of emotions, and misunderstandings. It was nice to see Axel, being all in and the one to convince Emme that they are meant to be together.
Likable characters and lots of feels! I would definitely recommend this book!!
March 22, 2017
Axel and his cousin Carter bought a bar, The Port, that Axel had been working at for awhile. Emme worked there to as a promoter. Axel and Emme have been sleeping together for about six months. Axel asks Emme to marry him while they are having sex. Emme laughs it off as she wants to keep everything status quo. Her last boyfriend that she had been with for a few years cheated on her. She wondered if love and marriage was a real thing that lasted for her. Once Axel had asked her to marry him, their relationship was not the same. You will need to read the book to see what happens.
Sometimes you don't realize what you have is what you want until you don't have it anymore. Emme knows that Axel is handsome, kind and has great sex with him. Emme always feels safe with Axel. Axel was a handsome man and had women hitting on him, but he was in love with Emme. I felt bad for Axel and how Emme wasn't completely truthful with him. If was a good book about relationships. I loved the book and strongly encourage you to read it. I voluntarily read an Advanced Reader's Copy of this book.
Sometimes you don't realize what you have is what you want until you don't have it anymore. Emme knows that Axel is handsome, kind and has great sex with him. Emme always feels safe with Axel. Axel was a handsome man and had women hitting on him, but he was in love with Emme. I felt bad for Axel and how Emme wasn't completely truthful with him. If was a good book about relationships. I loved the book and strongly encourage you to read it. I voluntarily read an Advanced Reader's Copy of this book.
October 11, 2019
Love on the rocks
Stalemate cocktail: one hot, bearded bar owner and one tipsy, sexy bar promoter. Mix thoroughly and watch out for dangerous reactions.
I'm more a fan of the guys so far in this series than the women. The guys are sensual, dedicated to their chosen ladies, and hard working. The women jump to conclusions, think they can do no wrong, and seem fairly self centered.
That said, the writing is solid and made me want to see what happens next. Sex scenes are attention getting, and there's a steady flow of sensuality through the book. An example:
"He takes a step toward me, and my heart races. This man still gives me butterflies even though we’ve been together for six months. Sometimes the haze of tequila gives those butterflies wings, and right now they’re flying around my stomach like they’re trying to find their way out."
Stalemate cocktail: one hot, bearded bar owner and one tipsy, sexy bar promoter. Mix thoroughly and watch out for dangerous reactions.
I'm more a fan of the guys so far in this series than the women. The guys are sensual, dedicated to their chosen ladies, and hard working. The women jump to conclusions, think they can do no wrong, and seem fairly self centered.
That said, the writing is solid and made me want to see what happens next. Sex scenes are attention getting, and there's a steady flow of sensuality through the book. An example:
"He takes a step toward me, and my heart races. This man still gives me butterflies even though we’ve been together for six months. Sometimes the haze of tequila gives those butterflies wings, and right now they’re flying around my stomach like they’re trying to find their way out."
September 18, 2019
Fun read
Enjoyed the book. Fast-paced. Funny. And of course a happily ever after.
Fav quotes:
"He doesn't have time for a relationship.... “Gets it where he can’? Sex isn’t like a grocery store.” “You’re right, it isn’t. For him, I think it’s more like a gas station.” I give him a look. “A gas station?” Axel shrugs and grins. “It’s either full-service or it’s self-service. He prefers full-service.”
“Denver?” I ask once the door closes and his mom is out of earshot. “I was hoping you missed that.” “Where did that come from?” “My mom has a thing about middle names.” “What’s the thing?” He rolls his eyes. “Place of conception.” “You were conceived in Denver?” “Apparently,” he says dryly. “She almost named my brother Jett Backseat.”
Enjoyed the book. Fast-paced. Funny. And of course a happily ever after.
Fav quotes:
"He doesn't have time for a relationship.... “Gets it where he can’? Sex isn’t like a grocery store.” “You’re right, it isn’t. For him, I think it’s more like a gas station.” I give him a look. “A gas station?” Axel shrugs and grins. “It’s either full-service or it’s self-service. He prefers full-service.”
“Denver?” I ask once the door closes and his mom is out of earshot. “I was hoping you missed that.” “Where did that come from?” “My mom has a thing about middle names.” “What’s the thing?” He rolls his eyes. “Place of conception.” “You were conceived in Denver?” “Apparently,” he says dryly. “She almost named my brother Jett Backseat.”
October 6, 2017
Stalemate by Lisa Suzanne was the first book I had read by this author and I will gladly read others. In this story the question ""How do you know if you are in love"" is asked by Emme frequently. She has a hard time understanding the concept of it and with that it hard time it causes frustration from her ever loving boyfriend Axel who knows he is in love with her and even asked her to marry him. When she denied him, they try to move on, but it is getting harder and harder for Axel to move forward.
With time and help from friends Axel and Emme grow and Emme is able to answer the question she has asked so many times before.
With time and help from friends Axel and Emme grow and Emme is able to answer the question she has asked so many times before.
March 20, 2017
What can I say besides perfect! It's a great companion book to Clickbait. You don't have to read that for this book but it'll help. We got a glimpse of Axel and Emme in Clickbait. It's so great they got their own book. Emme is afraid of commitment. She's just living for right now. She works the fast high life as a bar promoter. She works with Axel as he now owns part of the bar with is cousin Carter. She's confused on what she wants/needs but is content with how things are right now. Axel is trying to see his future. He wants more from their non committed, not even labeled relationship. She's not sure what she can give him. She spends this book "growing up" emotionally. Axel is just along for the ride. This all takes place around Carter and Courtney's wedding. I don't want to give away what happens between them so I won't get into what else goes on between them but they do get their HEA. It's too easy to spill. This is a bit more of a drama that the hilarious Clickbait but totally worth it. I can't wait for the next book though. I am liking this series. I read this book for an honest review. I truly hope you love it. I did! Enjoy!
January 29, 2018
This was a good book, but it was not my favorite in the series. I liked the storyline, and I appreciated the story for moving along the series. However, I didn't connect with Emme like I did with the other characters. At times, she appeared whiny to me. At times, I really liked her and wanted her to be my friend. Even though it wasn't my favorite book out of the three, I still recommend reading it.
November 18, 2018
The heroines in this series are toxic and I don’t think I’ll be able to continue. I don’t know how old they are but they act like bratty teenagers that shouldn’t be allowed online access. The hypocrisy and bratty behaviour were awful to read. However, I did finish the book and I’m glad they worked out their differences but like stated at the beginning of the review I won’t be continuing the series.
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