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By Design #8
Road Blocks
Life for Candace and Jameson Reid is never boring. A budget fight with the New York State Legislature, a potential serial killer on the loose, four children, three grandchildren, and an upcoming wedding could test the patience of a saint. That is the typical organized chaos in Candace and Jameson’s life. Now, Candace is under mounting pressure to decide whether she will seek the highest office in the nation. Competing priorities, the needs of children, dirty politics, and commitments to her constituents have Candace sitting on the fence regarding a possible run for The White House.
As Candace wrestles with her decision, new relationships begin to take shape and old secrets are revealed. Some sage advice from Grandma Pearl, a minor melt-down from Shell, a fortune cookie of two, a spider on the loose, and of course, a bit of Bible Study all lead to one conclusion—love is everything. For Candace Reid, the family she’s created will be the guiding force in her decision. Candace is on the path to become the first woman in The White House, that is if she can navigate all the Road Blocks.
As Candace wrestles with her decision, new relationships begin to take shape and old secrets are revealed. Some sage advice from Grandma Pearl, a minor melt-down from Shell, a fortune cookie of two, a spider on the loose, and of course, a bit of Bible Study all lead to one conclusion—love is everything. For Candace Reid, the family she’s created will be the guiding force in her decision. Candace is on the path to become the first woman in The White House, that is if she can navigate all the Road Blocks.
126 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 15, 2017
138 people are currently reading
98 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 46 reviews
May 18, 2017
As noted in my review for the other story - I’ve read two stories by Armstrong days apart, both of them being the 8th work in their particular series. Script Doctor is/was the one I called porn – what with all the sex scenes, many many sex scenes in that story. While there were many scenes where, basically everyone, mentioned/joked about ‘bible study’, I do not actually recall anyone actually humping in ‘Road Blocks’. It has been 4 days since I read it and it is possible, vaguely, that any sex that did occur got overshadowed by the marathon sessions in Script Doctor.
I recall Armstrong’s series by categories. ‘Off Screen’ is the ‘Hollywood’ one with actresses/writers/celebrities and the like. ‘Special Delivery’ is the medical/family one (what with it involving a doctor). ‘First Course’ is the culinary one. ‘Lesson Plans’, I assume, involves teachers in some way . . . maybe, didn’t actually complete a story in that one so not sure. ‘Road Blocks’, this story, falls inside the ‘By Design’ series and is the politics one (the By Design refers to both the first story in the series and the fact that one of the two main characters is one of those ‘women with tools’ types – J.D. has her own design/architect firm – but the focus is and has mostly been on Candy’s political career so I can’t even recall now if J.D. is also a contractor or not).
This 8th story in the series sees Candace ‘Candy’ Fletcher Reid, Governor of New York, dealing with the complications of being governor – budgets and stuff, serial killers loose, etc., while also attempting to figure out if she really will run for President or not – she’s under a lot of pressure to form an exploratory committee, and it is having an adverse impact on her job (the state level legislative branch is controlled by the opposite party, and while they can and do work with their opposite members they are somewhat reluctant to do so until they know where Candy stands on running or not running, and the initial national response to her decision).
Meanwhile there’s a wedding to plan, then have, a family to be a member of (and kids to raise and play with), and there is also the potential of another member of the family running for office (another member being pressured ‘by the party’ to come to a decision to run or not).
Good solid story. Apparently I rated it the same as the sex drenched story by Armstrong, 3.5 stars.
Rating: 3.5
May 18 2017
I recall Armstrong’s series by categories. ‘Off Screen’ is the ‘Hollywood’ one with actresses/writers/celebrities and the like. ‘Special Delivery’ is the medical/family one (what with it involving a doctor). ‘First Course’ is the culinary one. ‘Lesson Plans’, I assume, involves teachers in some way . . . maybe, didn’t actually complete a story in that one so not sure. ‘Road Blocks’, this story, falls inside the ‘By Design’ series and is the politics one (the By Design refers to both the first story in the series and the fact that one of the two main characters is one of those ‘women with tools’ types – J.D. has her own design/architect firm – but the focus is and has mostly been on Candy’s political career so I can’t even recall now if J.D. is also a contractor or not).
This 8th story in the series sees Candace ‘Candy’ Fletcher Reid, Governor of New York, dealing with the complications of being governor – budgets and stuff, serial killers loose, etc., while also attempting to figure out if she really will run for President or not – she’s under a lot of pressure to form an exploratory committee, and it is having an adverse impact on her job (the state level legislative branch is controlled by the opposite party, and while they can and do work with their opposite members they are somewhat reluctant to do so until they know where Candy stands on running or not running, and the initial national response to her decision).
Meanwhile there’s a wedding to plan, then have, a family to be a member of (and kids to raise and play with), and there is also the potential of another member of the family running for office (another member being pressured ‘by the party’ to come to a decision to run or not).
Good solid story. Apparently I rated it the same as the sex drenched story by Armstrong, 3.5 stars.
Rating: 3.5
May 18 2017
April 21, 2017
Again top-notch!
Family always comes first for JD and Candace and both would do everything for their family. Even if they drive them crazy sometimes. Outside forces always interfere with their lives and that makes their lives exciting but also enervating. Plus the children also need their attention. It's always fun watching them all together. The strong family connection will have you melting and wishing you where part of them. The dynamic between the family members is fantastic. As always the dialogues are sharp and flowed perfectly. I loved that we get a glimpse of one of the characters from another great series. A very pleasant surprise especially because she is one of my favorite character. Cooper and Spencer always make me smile and together they are the little stars of the story. I adore them both. This installment covers all what I love in a story; romance, love, loyalty, intrigue and terrific humor that had me laughing many times. Thanks J.A. for another excellent story and I'm looking forward to the next book in this series.
Family always comes first for JD and Candace and both would do everything for their family. Even if they drive them crazy sometimes. Outside forces always interfere with their lives and that makes their lives exciting but also enervating. Plus the children also need their attention. It's always fun watching them all together. The strong family connection will have you melting and wishing you where part of them. The dynamic between the family members is fantastic. As always the dialogues are sharp and flowed perfectly. I loved that we get a glimpse of one of the characters from another great series. A very pleasant surprise especially because she is one of my favorite character. Cooper and Spencer always make me smile and together they are the little stars of the story. I adore them both. This installment covers all what I love in a story; romance, love, loyalty, intrigue and terrific humor that had me laughing many times. Thanks J.A. for another excellent story and I'm looking forward to the next book in this series.
September 9, 2017
Why is there a serial killer? To introduce Alex? Love, love, love Candace and Jameson and their family. Soon I am going to go back and read book 1 again. Really enjoy the 'Bible Study' running gag.
August 31, 2017
This is the 8th book in the series, and I honestly skimmed some of it, it felt like I'd read it before, possibly because it rehashes a lot of the same things the past books have. Will Candace run for office (no suspense there, she always does)? Then there's the family stuff, everyone is super supportive of each other and anyone who isn't directly related is still 'like my son or daughter'. This one also features Shell and Mel's wedding, and introduces two new characters that appear to also have their own stories, but I haven't read any of them.
I can only give it three stars, not only is it repetitious, but it, like all of her other books, still badly needs an editor. There are wording mistakes in this one too, although thankfully I did not notice any of the 'your' for 'you are' that have appeared in other books.
I know Candace's job makes for a lot of the side storylines, but I wish Jameson was given more to do than just running around supporting everyone. Maybe in the next book, though I won't hold my breath.
I can only give it three stars, not only is it repetitious, but it, like all of her other books, still badly needs an editor. There are wording mistakes in this one too, although thankfully I did not notice any of the 'your' for 'you are' that have appeared in other books.
I know Candace's job makes for a lot of the side storylines, but I wish Jameson was given more to do than just running around supporting everyone. Maybe in the next book, though I won't hold my breath.
July 4, 2022
Can you imagine?
An out and proud president of the United States of America? I honestly like to think anything was possible in any country in the world. Armstrong kinda makes that a possibility. A possibility that I would for one support and vote for if i could. Hey it could happen in the States and it could happen in the U.K. . This series by Armstrong is definitely controversial but in a good way.
She makes you laugh, cry, frustrated, happy, sad but most of all I feel the underlying message is one of hope. She lets you in. You become part of the story because the passions she invokes are real. Her characters are very realistic, it's like you know them and are part of them.
You ride the rollercoaster with them and not just as an observer. The series so far has been an emotional and exciting ride. Yes, a few grammar issues but none that take away from the story. You become a part of the family and in a good way.
I'm looking forward to the next instalment. Number 9 if I remember correctly. As she also incorporates books by Nancy Ann Healey, who I have had the pleasure of reading. I really love the series. I know many do not share my feelings. But saying that reviews are as personal as the books authors write. You love or hate them. Saying that if you want a light hearted, short amusing read give this a go. Enjoy!
An out and proud president of the United States of America? I honestly like to think anything was possible in any country in the world. Armstrong kinda makes that a possibility. A possibility that I would for one support and vote for if i could. Hey it could happen in the States and it could happen in the U.K. . This series by Armstrong is definitely controversial but in a good way.
She makes you laugh, cry, frustrated, happy, sad but most of all I feel the underlying message is one of hope. She lets you in. You become part of the story because the passions she invokes are real. Her characters are very realistic, it's like you know them and are part of them.
You ride the rollercoaster with them and not just as an observer. The series so far has been an emotional and exciting ride. Yes, a few grammar issues but none that take away from the story. You become a part of the family and in a good way.
I'm looking forward to the next instalment. Number 9 if I remember correctly. As she also incorporates books by Nancy Ann Healey, who I have had the pleasure of reading. I really love the series. I know many do not share my feelings. But saying that reviews are as personal as the books authors write. You love or hate them. Saying that if you want a light hearted, short amusing read give this a go. Enjoy!
April 20, 2017
Another great addition
I love Armstrong's books because they are fairly lighthearted with some heavy but not overbearing topics. This is the next installment of the series so if you haven't read them, you have to in order fully understand the craziness of the whole family. I enjoyed it and i look forward to the next one.
I love Armstrong's books because they are fairly lighthearted with some heavy but not overbearing topics. This is the next installment of the series so if you haven't read them, you have to in order fully understand the craziness of the whole family. I enjoyed it and i look forward to the next one.
January 16, 2022
Returning to the novella format the focus is on two things. Will Candance announce her candidacy for President of the United States. And the super sweet nuptials of Michelle and Melanie. I love the family involvement in preparing for the wedding. (I think Michelle almost got left out of the last book.) The will she, won't she, get's drawn out a bit too much with too many conversations about family priorities and following your gut to your path. I did wonder why there is all of a sudden a serial killer on the loose. It did bring in an old friend that might be needed in future storylines but it seemed an odd placement especially when the case isn't resolved. (3.5 stars)
November 1, 2022
Very good book!
As always, this is another well done book by the author! The content was well developed and the characters were totally charming! Let’s see what the next book in the series has in store for us readers!
As always, this is another well done book by the author! The content was well developed and the characters were totally charming! Let’s see what the next book in the series has in store for us readers!
April 26, 2020
Good writing but still wish this book had been blended to create one larger one. Following the too long decision making and beginning of moving up in politics.
May 17, 2017
Good read
Could it get any better for the Reid family I hope so because this was one of the best books of the series. And we even got a little bit of Alex and Cassidy interdiction which I am happy to say another book about there story will be released this year.
Could it get any better for the Reid family I hope so because this was one of the best books of the series. And we even got a little bit of Alex and Cassidy interdiction which I am happy to say another book about there story will be released this year.
January 18, 2018
I haven’t read any of these books for a year and I found myself struggling to pick up on all the characters, especially all the women with names beginning with ‘M’. I think I am getting old.
I like these books because as well as the romance there is usually quite an interesting story happening at the same time, but in this book I thought the ‘will she or won’t she’ run for president just dragged on a bit too long and I wasn’t sure why Candace was involved in a serial killer case.
Without a decent story there was nothing to dilute the unbelievable ‘sweetness’ of the wedding and the two young boys, so I found myself skipping pages trying to find something more interesting.
I like these books because as well as the romance there is usually quite an interesting story happening at the same time, but in this book I thought the ‘will she or won’t she’ run for president just dragged on a bit too long and I wasn’t sure why Candace was involved in a serial killer case.
Without a decent story there was nothing to dilute the unbelievable ‘sweetness’ of the wedding and the two young boys, so I found myself skipping pages trying to find something more interesting.
July 26, 2021
Devoted go this series
As the story continues, it maintains the essence of a modern fairytale. I adore the stories and characters, and always look forward to the next one.
This time though, I am also going to be critical. Both of the younger boys should have already outgrown their "baby talk." I am disappointed about Marianne and Scott. All of the relationships since JD and Candace got together have been people already associated with their lives, except for Laura. It's just way too convenient.
As much as I'd love for Candace go be POTUS, I'd prefer that she didn't get it. In reality, being the governor already takes time away from her family, but it would be nothing compared to her being the president. Plus, Jameson will be as busy being FLOTUS as Candace is being governor (if not more.) I already greatly dislike the hatred and ignorance they face, but I feel that the time away from their family would be even harder on them. They'll miss out on some significant years with Cooper during those four years.
I'll stick with all of them until the end, but sometimes it's just too much fairytale for me.
As the story continues, it maintains the essence of a modern fairytale. I adore the stories and characters, and always look forward to the next one.
This time though, I am also going to be critical. Both of the younger boys should have already outgrown their "baby talk." I am disappointed about Marianne and Scott. All of the relationships since JD and Candace got together have been people already associated with their lives, except for Laura. It's just way too convenient.
As much as I'd love for Candace go be POTUS, I'd prefer that she didn't get it. In reality, being the governor already takes time away from her family, but it would be nothing compared to her being the president. Plus, Jameson will be as busy being FLOTUS as Candace is being governor (if not more.) I already greatly dislike the hatred and ignorance they face, but I feel that the time away from their family would be even harder on them. They'll miss out on some significant years with Cooper during those four years.
I'll stick with all of them until the end, but sometimes it's just too much fairytale for me.
May 7, 2024
4.5 stars. Another great read in the series. Michelle and Mel have their wedding in this one and there was a bit of drama surrounding it but the actual wedding scene was beautiful. Loved it. Jonah and Laura are having another baby (I swear this family loves having babies. lol), Marianne is feeling like she might be ready to start dating again, and Candace and Jameson work through some issues. A lot going on but still a fun read with humorous moments. Also, Cooper offering to walk Mel down the aisle had me heart in my throat. I love that kid so much. Him and Spencer are just the cutest kids ever.
October 3, 2022
Happy family
I love getting to see what happens after the couple meet, have a fight, get back together, then ride off into the sunset. So may authors leave the story with meet, fall in love, then tell you there is a happily ever after. This series is great because there are always stories after the romance trope. THANK YOU J.A. Armstrong for giving us so many more stories about two women (and their family) that we love!
I love getting to see what happens after the couple meet, have a fight, get back together, then ride off into the sunset. So may authors leave the story with meet, fall in love, then tell you there is a happily ever after. This series is great because there are always stories after the romance trope. THANK YOU J.A. Armstrong for giving us so many more stories about two women (and their family) that we love!
April 1, 2018
A strong story
This volume is a strong bridging story, in a way, wrapping up some older plot lines, introducing some cross series characters from the "Alex and Cassidy" series, and moving the story forward toward new storylines. The strong character development continues as well as the wonderful comedy and heartfelt moments.
This volume is a strong bridging story, in a way, wrapping up some older plot lines, introducing some cross series characters from the "Alex and Cassidy" series, and moving the story forward toward new storylines. The strong character development continues as well as the wonderful comedy and heartfelt moments.
April 6, 2018
Great read!
I have enjoyed this series since the first book. Candace and Jameson are quite the pair. I enjoy how the entire family is intertwined together, but each still have their separate stories that brings character and depth to the series. Brilliant as always, J.A. Armstrong. Thank you for writing a wonderful series that always leaves me eager to read the next book.
I have enjoyed this series since the first book. Candace and Jameson are quite the pair. I enjoy how the entire family is intertwined together, but each still have their separate stories that brings character and depth to the series. Brilliant as always, J.A. Armstrong. Thank you for writing a wonderful series that always leaves me eager to read the next book.
May 14, 2025
One of the things so wonderful about this series, besides falling for the strong MC's, is it runs parallel to the author's Cassidy and Alex series under the name Nancy Ann Healy. I listen to that series during the day and read this series at night.
Fun, excitement, intrigue and a bit of spice plus obstacles both personal and professional make both series read and listen worthy multiple times.
Fun, excitement, intrigue and a bit of spice plus obstacles both personal and professional make both series read and listen worthy multiple times.
August 5, 2017
J.A. Armstrong writes a tight concise story around JD & Candace. I especially liked how she wrote Alexis & Cassidy into the story; linking it to their story in Untold.
I've enjoyed reading how JD & Candace met to where they are within these pages & anxiously await the next installment.
I've enjoyed reading how JD & Candace met to where they are within these pages & anxiously await the next installment.
March 1, 2018
ROAD BLOCKS
Never a dull moment in the Fetcher-Reid household. Looks like it is going to get a little more exciting. Family keeps getting bigger and better. What will happen next?
Never a dull moment in the Fetcher-Reid household. Looks like it is going to get a little more exciting. Family keeps getting bigger and better. What will happen next?
April 1, 2018
The saga of the Fletcher-Reid household is always entertaing. Big decisions need to be made and as usually the characters handle them with their usual self effacing and down to earth style. Humor and love can help you handle anything as Armstrong shows us in this series.
May 22, 2018
Wonderful!
In this well written eighth installment of the story of Candace and Jameson, their lives are complicated by political and personal stressors. Amidst the organized chaos of life, Candace is struggling with the decision of whether or not to run for the office of POTUS.
In this well written eighth installment of the story of Candace and Jameson, their lives are complicated by political and personal stressors. Amidst the organized chaos of life, Candace is struggling with the decision of whether or not to run for the office of POTUS.
December 8, 2020
Diminishing returns for me with this series. There's no real conflict with the main couple, ever. Michelle is also starting to wear thin, possibly because we never really get to see her relationship aside from when she's being a petulant child and Mel is being incredibly supportive.
March 15, 2021
In the ongoing series that gets deeper and more complex as it goes, this book was a bit of a step back on that progress for me. It felt more like a necessary bridge to the rest of the series, and for that reason, I liked it.
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July 22, 2021Book 8
Fletcher-Reid clan continues to grow. Love in abundance. Laughter and tears with the family. JA Armstrong writes a wonderful story that you can't help but be addicted to starting on the first page. I can't wait to see what is next for this family.
Fletcher-Reid clan continues to grow. Love in abundance. Laughter and tears with the family. JA Armstrong writes a wonderful story that you can't help but be addicted to starting on the first page. I can't wait to see what is next for this family.
June 14, 2024
This is a feel-good Sapphic romance that warms my heart. These characters were and are a huge part of my coming out process. These books, as well as the books about Alex and Cassidy, are my comfort reads when things get heavy.
June 15, 2017
Lovely book beautiful story
This is a lovely book a beautiful family story. I love the way the characters are written. 2 strong women raising their family
This is a lovely book a beautiful family story. I love the way the characters are written. 2 strong women raising their family
December 29, 2017
This is book 8 in the Design series and just gets better with each new book.
December 12, 2018
Good read
I love the journey with this series , I feel like a know everyone of the characters personally, because i laugh and cry with them and my heart swells every time.😍😘
I love the journey with this series , I feel like a know everyone of the characters personally, because i laugh and cry with them and my heart swells every time.😍😘
July 15, 2020
The angst on this books keep increasing with every bok if the series lol I love how we can see the family grow and all the drama that happens in a big family like the Fletcher-Reid family.
October 9, 2020
Fantastic series
I absolutely love following the lives of Candice and JD. The family escapades are survived by togetherness and love. "Bible studies" from time to time help to!
I absolutely love following the lives of Candice and JD. The family escapades are survived by togetherness and love. "Bible studies" from time to time help to!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 46 reviews