Alaska or Bust

by Rhonda James

This is an updated cover edition of B0178EN0FW.

Tucker Winslow and Gracie Madison, two strangers trying to survive a staggering loss. Both hop in their cars and set out on a cross-country adventure, hoping to leave the hurt behind. But, when Tucker's car breaks down, and he is forced to hitchhike the rest of the way, fate intervenes. When these two meet, the bond is instantaneous. Their losses connect them in a way that's impossible to ignore, and they form a friendship that helps soothe wounds that go far too deep to heal. They laugh, they cry, they blast 80's music and sing off-key, and they stop at every tourist trap they can find along the way. Then, as it always does, one night their laughter turns to lust and they both give in, knowing it will change everything they've come to rely on.

Losing someone you know and love can be the hardest thing in the world. So why does losing someone you've just met, yet have come to depend on, hurt twice as much? Join Tucker and Gracie as they embark upon the adventure of a lifetime, and end up on a journey toward finding happiness in a world that was once filled with pain.

Genres: Romance, Contemporary Romance, New Adult

Unknown Binding

About the author

Rhonda James is an Amazon bestselling author who loves a good HEA, believes nice guys don’t finish last, and strives to create a book boyfriend for all her readers. Rhonda is married and lives in Michigan with her family. When not writing, some of her guilty pleasures include kissing, diving into a good book, and wasting time on Facebook, though she may do one more than the others.

Reviews

[Dilek VT · Rating 2 out of 5]

2,5 stars (but not 3)

This book had things that I love and unfortunately it also had things that I hate.

I loved that

1. the heroine (35) was 9 years older than the hero. I love it when it is unconventional.
2. it included a fun road trip and their interaction was endearing.
3. their bond was both emotional and physical… they were so very sweet together most of the time.

I hated that

1. the hero once cheated on his girlfriend that he loved so much while he was drunk in a party. why would you get so drunk and sleep with your girlfriend's nemesis? how would you do that to her? he still regrets it but what's use of regret so late?
2. the heroine talked to the hero about her sex life with her now-dead husband in too many vivid details...
3. the hero was a stubborn as* who had a stupid pride.
4. the heroine made that stupid sacrifice and pushed him away.
5. there was miscommunication/lack of communication/lots of assumptions between them while they were apart.
6. there was one-year separation.
7. there was unplanned pregnancy (that’s my pet peeve. I just can't stand it when it happens).

Last words:

P.S. 1. I love my mother so very much and I believe all of us do but what was that about it in this book? I mean the book was more of “An ode to mothers” than a romance novel.

That weird dedication chapter should have warned me but I just went on with it. Well, maybe it’s me not the book but I found it "too much"!

P.S. 2. Dual point of view is used, which helps to understand both characters better.

The writing makes you feel but at the same time, it is very dragging and so very repetitive.

P.S. 3. Oh and the book is never-ending. It even has 3 Epilogues! Ergo my 3 notes and efforts for trying to write a never-ending review 😊

(Well, in a book I loved, I would have appreciated 3 epilogues but not here... sorry)

[Annmarie · Rating 4 out of 5]

No cheating older woman 35 younger man 24. Both have lost someone dear to them. A road trip adventure. HEA with multiple epilogues. Sweet story

[Melissa Mendoza · Rating 5 out of 5]

Received a copy in exchange for an honest review

“Meeting Gracie Madison had lifted my disheartened spirit and brought me back to life. With her winning personality, her beautiful smile, and that gorgeous mane of red hair, how could anyone look at her and not feel alive? Frankly, I never stood a chance.”

5 beautiful, gut wrenching stars! This book will make you laugh,cry and scream all at the same time, but damn it’s so worth it!!!

Tucker and Gracie have both experienced tremendous loss in their lives. With promises to live their lives to the fullest each decide it’s time to hit the road and live out their lives and promises. Tucker just lost his mom to cancer, and his dream was to be a king crab fisherman in Alaska. Not wanting to let his mom down he sets off on his own adventure “Alaska or Bust” is his motto and he intends to get there no matter what the cost is! Gracie has just suddenly lost the love of her life, her husband of 13 years. No longer wanting to live in the house she shared with her late husband in Boston, she sets off on her adventure to Seattle to be with her sister. Neither could ever imagine what they would find with each other or on the way. After Tucker’s car putters and dies, he’s left on the side of the road. He finds his salvation in Gracie, who offers him a ride, but only if he agrees to stop at every cheesy pit stop they could find. Of course he obliges. Along the way they get to know each others and their background, singing 80’s songs on the tops of their lungs and realizing that maybe, just maybe there might be more to what they are feeling for each other.

This book will have you laughing along with Gracie and Tucker and all their mishaps and roadside funnies!! And while you will laugh, you will also cry dealing with the tragedies that they’ve experienced in their lives. Rhonda James has a way of grabbing the reading and making them feel like they are a part of Gracie and Tucker’s journey and it’s nice to see that these characters have real life problems. I love that Tucker is never the typical jerk and treats Gracie with the respect and class she deserves. I can’t say anything more without ruining it, but you need to read this book…..now…...what are you waiting for??

**Received a copy in exchange for an honest review. Read and reviewed by Melissa for Alpha Book Club**

[Jaime · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is an amazing book! Tucker and Gracie's story will have you laughing and crying as you take a journey with them. There were moments in this story where I felt like my heart was literally being wrenched from my chest, then Author Rhonda James would have me smiling and laughing again as I traveled along with Tucker and Gracie! If you love 80's music, Reese's pieces, and tourist traps then grab your suitcase and join the ride!

Tucker and Gracie have more in common than they realize when fate first brings them together at a truck stop. They are both trying to move on but for slightly different reasons. Rhonda James has masterfully woven a tale of two people who both are reeling from recent loss, they find each other and through laughter, 80's music, talking, and listening to each other; these two shattered people are able help each other heal -- but all good things must come to an end, right? I mean what would the odds be that a broken down Honda would be the start to a long lasting relationship?

You really don't want to miss this book! 5 Stars all the way! This book has it all, a great plot, awesome character development, supporting characters that add to the story and the events are connected and well paced out, and to top it off it's a complete story -- yep, that's right no cliffhanger!! There is really nothing I can rate poorly about this contemporary romance. If you enjoy Corrine Michaels or Sawyer Bennett, pick up this book you won't be disappointed!!

ARC provided by author in exchange for an honest review. Reviewed by JLoves2Read from Alpha Book Club without influence from the author. Full review and promotion to be posted on http://www.alphabookclub.org October 28th, 2015.

[Jessica · Rating 5 out of 5]

5 Finding Love after Loss Stars

I should preface this review by saying, I know I will never do this book the justice it so deserves. I am so in awe that I can't find the words to describe just how deeply this book touched me. I read to escape and this was the perfect escape. I cried, laughed, sang along with the 80's music and cried some more.

Tucker Winslow and Gracie Madison seemed to be on different journeys and even in different phases of life as this book began. The common thread that connected them was their heartbreak in losing the people they loved the most. As they both set off separately on cross country journeys to new beginnings, a few chance encounters bring them together...some may even say it was fate. Through each other they find hope, healing and companionship. It's not a an easy road or one without heartache and struggle but Alaska or Bust is a beautiful example of what unconditional love truly is all about.

This story is raw and intense yet somehow still tender and sweet. It will bring you to your knees and then pick you right back up. I expect nothing less from Rhonda James. She writes from a place of truth and with more heart than most authors. She takes the time to develop each character with such care and love so that you can't help but to love them too.

This is one of my top reads this year. It is everything that a great love story is made of: friendship, passion, trust, heat, humor and authenticity.

ARC provided in exchange for honest review.

[Christine · Rating 5 out of 5]

Bookworms -- I was given an Beta copy for an honest review and critique. I have wanted to read Rhonda James work for awhile and was so excited to be given this 1st look opportunity with Alaska or Bust (Releasing Oct 28th). The teasers/blurb really grabbed me. This book gave me everything I wanted and more... Gracie, 35, recently widowed, starts out on a road trip from Boston to Seattle to live near her sister. Tucker, 24, lost his Mom from a battle with cancer, starts out on the road trip to Alaska he promised her he would fulfill on her dead bed. These two journeys come together out of need and possibly a higher power leading them to each other. What we have is a road trip of two people who need each other. From strangers to friends. From simple flirting to lovers and so much more. The push and pull of what you think you should do to what is right for someone else. This book had it all and more... I didn't ugly cry but I did sob little a small child. This book has all the "feels". I loved this book and I'd have to put it up in my library as one of my favorite reads of 2015!

[Jamie Reinhardt · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the first book that I've read but definitely not the last. After losing his mom to cancer, Tucker sets off across the country heading for Alaska. He's always dreamed of working on a fishing boat. After the loss of her husband, Gracie decides it's time to move to Seattle to be closer to her sister. A few twist and turns, maybe a lot of fate and one broken down car, has Tucker and Gracie's lives crossing paths.
I adore the characters. Tucker is sweet while still being sexy and Gracie is sassy and fiesty.

[Kathleen R. · Rating 5 out of 5]

Overall Stars: 5 STARS

Heartbreak
Starting Over


Their loss will become their connection to their future

Tucker Winslow was twenty-four, and the only son of a 4-Star Navy Admiral. His Father always expected that Tucker would follow in his footsteps, but he had other plans. He had his sights set on moving to Alaska and following his lifelong dream of fishing for king crab on the Bering Sea. He was charming, witty, and his Mom was always his best friend. Then she became ill, and his whole world was turned upside down. They spent her last months laughing, and singing the wrong lyrics to 80's music, just like they'd always done.

Gracie Madison married the man of her dreams when she was only twenty-two. Now, thirteen years later, she was a widow, trying to figure out how to get by without her best friend. She loves 80's music, driving with the top down, and snacking on greasy food. Her sister's family lives in Seattle, and they've finally persuaded Gracie to throw caution to the wind and leave Boston behind.

Both hop in their cars and head for the Northwest Territory. But, when Tucker's car breaks down he is forced to hitchhike the rest of the way. When these two meet, the bond is instantaneous. Their losses connect them in a way that's impossible to ignore, and they form a friendship that helps soothe wounds that go far too deep to heal. They laugh, they cry, they blast 80's music and sing off-key, and they stop at every tourist trap they can find along the way. Then, as it always does, one night their laughter turns to lust and they both give in, knowing it will change everything they've come to rely on.

Losing someone you know and love can be the hardest thing in the world. So why does losing someone you've just met, yet have come to depend on, hurt twice as much?

Join Tucker and Gracie as they embark upon the adventure of a lifetime, and end up on a journey toward finding happiness in a world that was once filled with pain. (Amazon blurb)

You've probably heard the rumours, the thread forums, the blogs and the numerous reviews praising Alaska or Bust for its emotional roller coaster ride and sizzling chemistry between two characters you'd only wish you could become for one single day. Truly, I had heard them all - from the author's facebook page, friends who had had the chance to read the novel and even bloggers leaving reviews on their pages - stating needing kleenexes, 80s music and breaths of fresh air, were simply too far fetched. Only, I was to learn just how wrong I really was. From the very beginning, I laid in my bed, my husband sleeping beside me, and at 2am, I'm silently crying desperately trying to hold the tears and emotions back, failing miserably because my husband wakes up and asks me if I'm ok. How do you explain that an author has broken me into pieces and I feel like I can't pick myself up?

Albeit the fact that the Kleenex box is an absolute must while reading Alaska or Bust, it is, without a doubt, one of the best novels of this genre that i've had the pleasure to read in years (let me specify that it is categorized in the romance comedy genre) and can only hope that more are in the works. Tucker and Gracie are the type of individuals you'd cross on the sidewalk everyday and never think twice about their secret suffering, they are the couple holding hands while they walk to the ice cream shop with their children in tow, and especially, they are what you expect: a man and his wife living their lives with their ups and downs, experiencing joys and sadness, and especially finding out once again what it means to love wholeheartedly after their loss.

How else can I describe a novel in which my emotions kept ricocheting right left and centre and from one end to the next, where I'd burst laughing at a moment's notice and make me weak in the knees wishing I could take Gracie's place? Simple: a damn good novel that quite frankly I will be talking about to anyone and everyone willing to listen to my talking about not only fictional characters, but the author who created them.
.
**Received a copy in exchange for an honest review. Read and reviewed by Kathleen for Alpha Book Club**

[Sarah Pie · Rating 5 out of 5]

"I needed this storm to pass through me like a flash flood, reminding me of all that I had lost, while preparing me for all I had yet to gain."

Sometimes you stumble upon a book that is so heart wrenching yet beautiful that it leaves its mark upon your soul. You read and reread it because you love the story, but you love what you learn from the story even more. Alaska or Bust is one of those stories.

My heart absolutely shattered for Tucker and Gracie. To have suffered the losses that they did, I wanted to wrap my arms around them and give them the biggest hug. But in losing someone we often find something within ourselves. Strength, the will to live, and the need to make every moment count.

"Over the last nine months I'd come to realize that I no longer wanted to only live for tomorrow. I wanted to live in the moment, as if it were a motion picture playing out, making sure to store every frame into my memory, so that I could play it over and over again anytime I wanted."

I loved experiencing the United States through their eyes. I found it delightful and fun that they picked all the quirky places to visit and that they took their time. We often get so caught up in the fast pace of life that we miss out on a lot of the little things. But don't you know that it's the little things that count and sometimes you need a reminder of that.

Most importantly, what I learned from Alaska or Bust is that there are no guarantees in life. You need to make the most of each moment and not take anyone or anything for granted. And that sometimes you just might be getting a little help from above. Remember, life is a journey, not a destination. Live, laugh, and love.

[Mollien Fote Osterman · Rating 5 out of 5]

Review
5 Tacky Tourist Traps
With a box of Tissue needed Warning

Oh fellow readers this book touched me on so many levels it isn’t even funny. I smiled, brushed away a tear, laughed out loud, almost sobbed. I even had to share a passage with my husband, who appreciated this quote: "Dance with me." I said, Huskily. She didn't argue, instead she draped her arms loosely around my neck and swayed back and forth with me as I Can't Fight This Feeling Played quietly above us." I am a woman of the 80’s and that was my wedding song.
Enough about me, you want to know about this book. This book will make you believe in love. A love based on a connection when two people just click. Tucker and Gracie have that kind of love, but Gracie is just too stubborn to commit to it. So she may lose her second chance at love. Now you need to “One Click” this book so you can be swept away on a road trip from one Tourist Trap to another while the music from the 80’s plays a major role in this book.

ARC Provided by Alpha Book Club. Honest review done by Mollien for Alpha Book Club without influence from publisher or author.

[Stacy Aube · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received this book as an ARC for a honest review.

Gracie suffered the greatest loss of her life when her husband died. Tucker suffered his own loss when his mother died. Tucker promised his mom that he would follow his dream to be a crab fisherman in Alaska. Gracie promised her sister when the time was right she would move to Seattle to live with her family.

Tucker and Gracie start their own journeys. Tucker scares Grace as he tries to get in her vehicle at a truck stop, she takes off. But seeing him again needing a ride changes everything. They spend the next 7 days traveling together. They part to do their own things. Will love bring them back together or will they deny their feelings and part ways.

This was a very entertaining ride. The laughter, joy and tears make for a great read.

[Zoe Starr · Rating 5 out of 5]

Title: Alaska or Bust
Author: Rhonda James
Genre: Contemporary Romance
Five 80’s tunes out of five

What you are about to read is true; details have not been exaggerated. I was reading Alaska or Bust by Rhonda James at the gym while on a stationary bike and I started crying ... hard. I couldn't believe myself. I had to stop reading several times to get a grip. And that was only the first chapter! It happened again, only thankfully not in public this time. Eventually, I came to expect the waterworks each time I picked up my ipad to continue reading. Rhonda James is now in a very select group of authors who have managed to make my cry . . . hard. Only two other authors have managed to do this and that’s saying a lot because I am a big-time book junkie. Now don’t get the wrong idea, yes, this book will break your heart but it will also put the pieces back together.

I cried for 24 year-old Tucker Winslow when he lost his mom — his best friend and greatest cheerleader — to cancer. I wept over their special bond and their shared love of art and music. I openly wept when Gracie Madison lost her husband, her “very best friend,” soul mate and confidante. I cried because somehow Rhonda James — this writer I had not even heard of up until now — made me connect with these two characters I had just met. And just as Gracie and Tucker do, I fell in love instantaneously.

Suffering tremendous loss, Tucker Winslow and Gracie Madison set out to start a new life by getting in their cars and heading for the Northwest Territory. Fate intervenes when Tucker and Gracie’s paths cross. Their connection is immediate as their losses bond them in ways neither of them expected. They talk, laugh, cry sing 80’s tunes out loud and off-key together, they dance and . . . fall in love. Their journey is so sweet and funny and genuine; it’s also painful, frustrating, heartbreaking and wonderfully beautiful.

If you don’t love this book you have a heart made of stone. Okay, that’s overstating things not to mention possibly offensive, but seriously, you will love this book! Yes, it will make you cry but it will also make you cry for joy because it will make you believe in fate, second chances and, above all else, love. Alaska or Bust is also proof that everything — good and bad — happens for a reason.

**Received a copy in exchange for an honest review. Read and reviewed by Zoe for Alpha Book Club**

[1-Click Addict Support Group · Rating 5 out of 5]

Gracie Madison and Tucker Winslow are both trying to nurse their hearts through tragic losses when their lives are thrown together on a cross-country road trip. They start as two strangers sharing a vehicle, but their connection is instant and bolstered by a mutual love for 80s music and kitschy tourist destinations and, before long, the two form a meaningful and devoted friendship.

If I had to categorize this romance somehow, I'd call it a friends-to-lovers romance because ultimately, that's exactly what it is. A great deal of time and attention is given to the friendship these two are building and while the timeline—in the beginning—is a quick one, it never feels rushed or like anything develops too quickly. In fact, Gracie and Tucker are both so instantly likeable that it's not hard to imagine how they would have connected so quickly. Their road trip is filled with flirty banter and adorable quirkiness. It was fun to read about their adventures, and watch their hearts begin to heal, while their feelings for each other deepen.

This story doesn't fit neatly into the friends-to-lovers box though—it's just so much bigger than that. It's a story of loss and learning to live and love again. A story of trusting your journey and keeping your heart open, even though it means you may get hurt again. It's a lovely, richly layered, deeply emotional story. My heart ached and my eyes watered, and I was just completely enchanted with Gracie and Tucker's story.

I don't want to give the impression that this is a sad book. I was wary of reading a book about loss, and while it is a story about loss and healing, it's not a sad book by any means. I spent the vast majority of this book with a big goofy smile plastered on my face. Tucker Winslow is sexy as hell and charming for days and Gracie has a ton of pluck. Their story is masterfully told in a way that doesn't trivialize their losses or their grief, but also doesn't get bogged down in angst and drama. It's just beautiful, nearly perfect.

I loved it. I loved every cheesy 80s song reference, every kitschy stop on the road trip, every flirt, every heart-wrenching moment and dear God, you guys, the epilogue(s)—so freaking good. This felt like the sleeper hit of the year for me. I had no idea I was getting such a treat when I picked this one up, but I'm so SO glad that I did. ~ Shelly, 5 stars

[Stephanie Lasley · Rating 5 out of 5]

Powerful and Engaging 5 Stars
The title to this book “Alaska or Bust” gives you the mindset of a comedic road trip adventure, shared between friends that would surely generate many fond memories. However, an amusing, lighthearted tale is not what’s inside these pages. For within, you will find an intensely deep, emotional, and at times, a heartbreaking story.
Tucker Winslow just lost the most important person in his life; his mother. After a long, brave battle she succumbs to cancer. Completely devastated, full of anger and pain, he packs his car and leaves town.
Just nine months ago, Gracie Madison was a happily married woman. After thirteen years of marriage, she is still madly in love with her husband. While celebrating their anniversary, her husband Matthew suffers a heart attack and dies. As time passed, she knew she must somehow find the strength to move forward with her life. Gracie decides to relocate to Seattle to be near her sister, Tara, and her family. She starts her car and her journey begins.
As fate would have it, these two people meet.
I have read and reviewed several books written by Rhonda James. This accomplished author skillfully creates a fresh, captivating tale of romance within each of the stories she pens. To date, I think this particular book is my favorite, but that’s what I think after I read every one of her books.
Stephanie Lasley, from The Kindle Book Review
The Kindle Book Review received a free copy of this book for an independent, fair, and honest review. We are not associated with the author or Amazon.

[Lisa · Rating 5 out of 5]

Alaska or Bust


Rhonda James


5 Stars


Romance


After watching his mom die from cancer, Tucker sets out to follow his dream of going to Alaska and working on a crab fishing boat. It was what his mom wanted him to do.. follow his dream.


After only a short time on the road his car breaks down and will cost more to fix than it’s worth. Determined to get to Alaska, he gets a piece of cardboard and writes “Alaska or Bust” and heads out hitchhiking his way across the US.


Gracie Madison, has her own story of heartache, and why she’s leaving Boston and driving across the US to go to Seattle to stay with her sister and her family. She makes it to Virginia and meets a hitchhiker... The next week is full of fun and adventure while sharing their stories and heartache with each other.


At this point I could tell you that the rest is history. But I’d be lying. A lot more happens in this book. You will laugh and cry as this story goes on. Will they make it to Seattle and will Tucker make it to Alaska to live his dream? You will have to read this awesome book to find out.


*** Received this ARC for my honest review. Reviewed by Lisa for Alpha Book Club, without influence from publisher or author.***

[Samantha · Rating 4 out of 5]

Alaska or Bust weaves a tale of tremendous heartbreak and loss, but realizing that you can find life, and love, after.

Gracie and Tucker both lose the most important person in their lives and are at an utter loss as to how to move on. In search of happiness, and a new beginning, both set out on a cross-country trip to find a new normal. Little did they know that a new normal was better than they could have ever hoped for.

What I really loved about this story was how I felt connected to the characters. I felt their losses. I felt their pain. I felt their hopelessness. But I also felt their connection when they met and loved seeing how their own experiences had prepared them to be exactly what the other one needed. One of my favorite things is a story where two people find each other and are the missing puzzle piece that they didn’t know they needed.

Also, Tucker is just the most charming and I can’t blame Gracie for being swept off her feet; anyone who rocks out to 80s music while driving through the never-ending flat terrain of Kansas sounds a-ok to me!

Thank you, Rhonda James, for a beautiful story with laugh out loud moments, emotional breakdowns, and a happily ever after that anyone would be jealous of.

[Judy Miracle · Rating 5 out of 5]

OMG!! heart wrenching but so damn good. This book will have you laughing, crying and wanting to throw your kindle all at the same damn time.

Gracie who is recently widowed is moving from Boston where she lived with her husband to Seattle to live near her sister. Tucker just lost his mom 2 weeks ago to cancer is on a cross country trip to Alaska. These two meet by chance and I think fate had a little something to do with it as well. They are immediate friends, both liking the same music, begin able to make one another laugh without effort, there is even a little sexual tension burning below the surface if they look hard enough.

This book is not only about getting over the loss of a loved one but for Gracie its about being able to find love again when you least expect or want it. Its finding that perfect person who your heart beats for not just faster around.

Will Gracie see what is right in front of her... a second chance at love or will she be to stubborn to recognize it and let it pass her by? Find out today when you 1 click a book that is going to the top of my list for amazing books written/read in 2015.

[Annamaria · Rating 5 out of 5]

Five Beautiful Stars! Gracie is suffering from the sudden loss of her husband and decides to move closer to her sister. She starts off on her journey across the country saying that she will stop at every cheesy tourist site. Along the way she meets Tucker and he joins her on her trip. Tucker is also suffering from the loss of his mother who past away from Cancer. They soon come to realize that they have a lot in common and become fast friends. This is a beautiful story about two people trying to overcome their loss and move on. Rhonda James knows how to write a heartwarming story that makes you laugh and cry. This is a standalone novel. I highly recommend it and you will not regret it.

I received this book as an ARC for an honest review. This book was read and reviewed by Annamaria for Alpha Book Club.

[Alex ♈]

DNF @10%

Sorry, can't do cheating, even if it wasn't on the heroine. He cheated on his gf years ago.

I don't have any issue with dead spouse trope - heroine's husband died 9 months ago (though I need at least 1 year of grief in my books), I would have probably gone over H's still lust after his ex-gf, plus I absolutely love older woman/younger man trope, and 1st 2 chapters were very touching. His love for his mother was beautiful.

But his cheating on his ex ruined it for me 👎

I have this book since a couple of years, so before I end up rating it low, I make a break.
Maybe someday I'd finish it. But someday is definitely not today.

[Jacks · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was very lucky to be given an ARC of this book for an honest review. It had me ugly crying at the beginning of the book I felt for Tucker because I lost my Mum to the big C. I'm not very good at reviews because I just don't know how to put down what I think (Love , like ect.) This book I loved it had me crying and laughing out load. Made me want to go on a road trip but I'd only go if Tucker (Stud) was with me lol. Well done Rhonda will be definitely be reading more of your work.

[JC (Jen) · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is my first book from Rhonda James and I am excited to read more by her! I absolutely loved this book! Gracie and Tucker’s story was so much fun. There was loss, heartbreak, and tears, it was an emotional ride but it also included a lot of fun and laughs! I don’t want to say too much because you really need to experience this story for yourself, one-click it you will love it! 5 stars all the way!

***ARC provided for an honest review***
JC @ https://www.facebook.com/jjbookbangers/

[Regina Frame · Rating 5 out of 5]

Get your tissues ready! Follow the journey of two people brought together by fate. Tucker finds himself stranded on the side of the road and Gracie comes to the rescue. I found myself laughing out loud one minute and doing the ugly cry the next. Rhonda James did an excellent job with this story. I highly recommend this heart warming read!

[Emma Taylor · Rating 5 out of 5]

I've never felt so bipolar in my life while reading a book haha. Rhonda pulls you in quickly and will make you bawl your eyes out for a minute then when you're recovering from your heart being ripped from your chest she will make you bust a gut from laughing so hard.

[Michelle Austin · Rating 5 out of 5]

Rhonda James has done it again with Alaska or Bust.
Romance, Ugly cry, humor

I longed for spontaneity. I longed for adventure.

I absolutely loved this read. It really captures your heart. You will laugh, cry, and want to sing along. I really want to go on a road trip now.

Tucker and Gracie are two individuals who are struggling to move forward after huge losses in their lives. Tucker finally decides to follow his dream of working on a crab boat in Alaska and Gracie decides to go live by her sister in Seattle. While traveling cross-country Tucker's car breaks down and leaves him hitchhiking.Gracie initially drives by Tucker too afraid to pick him up, however fate steps in and Gracie happens upon Tucker again and picks him up.

They discover that they are both traveling to Seattle and decide to road trip and sightsee as they go through each state. I love the relationship they build, it was so much fun reading about all their adventures. I loved how they both connected through 80’s music, candy, movies, etc. Through the journey you see two people who become fast friends, eventually into lovers. They both provide each other with exactly what they needed.

I so loved Tucker’s comebacks to Gracie, they were hilarious. The Hot dog at the drive in was my most favorite. “Well, how can I resist something that’s advertised as big and juicy?”

What will happen when they get to Seattle? Will Gracie be able to commit or will she lose her second chance at love?

Rhonda James did such a great job with Gracie and Tucker’s story. There is so many great elements to this story that I haven’t shared. This is a must read, 1-Click today, I guarantee you will love it.

ARC Provided by Rhonda James. Honest review done by MAustin for Alpha Book Club without influence from publisher or author.

[Vickie · Rating 5 out of 5]

WOW just WOW this book is a beautifully written, heart wrenching, thought inspiring read that will leave its mark firmly on your soul. It will have you reaching for tissues on more than one occasion. I cried tears of sadness, my heart genuinely ached for the losses both Gracie and Tucker experienced. I cried tears of happiness and then as if I had anymore tears left I cried from laughter, the one liners in this book are hilarious.

Both trying to come to terms with their losses they both hop in their cars and set out on a cross-country adventure, hoping to leave the hurt and heart ache behind in hopes that they finally start to heal and move on with their lives. However, fate has other ideas...

Tuckers car breaks down leaving him to make the decision to hitchhike the rest of his adventure. Gracie who sees him decides to step outside of her comfort zone and believes it probably safer to travel with a passenger and picks him up. The bond is instantaneous, their losses connecting them in ways impossible to ignore and they form a firm friendship that helps to soothe the pain. They laugh, they cry, they blast 80's music and sing to their hearts content and visit every tourist attraction they can find along the way in the hopes that they are helping to heal each other.

If you think you can handle all of the above then what are you waiting for get your case packed and join Gracie and Tucker on the adventure of a lifetime because I promise you, you won't regret it!

Fully deserving the five star rating I have awarded this story it had it all, a good well thought out plot line that flowed, well developed characters and secondary characters, dual POV's that I love and finally my heart handed back to me wrapped in a bow after having been ripped from my chest.

** ARC received from author in exchange for an honest review via Words Turn Me On Book Blog **

[Ronda Bearden · Rating 5 out of 5]

I could not pass this book up for a very crazy reason, which is that Rhonda and I have our name in common. I took a stab in the dark and can't tell you how glad I did. If you have not read this book go grab a copy of it and start reading. I'm telling you right now that you are not going to be able to put this book away until you finish it.

Gracie and Tucker are going to take you on a trip of all trips. These two form, an unbreakable friendship and bond that you just want to see them find their way. Gracie has had a traumatic lost in life that left her feeling lost and not wanting to live life. Trucker has lost his best friend in life wondering where to go from here he sets out on a trip of a lifetime. Promising the one person in life that means the world to him he starts out on a road trip to follow his dreams. When his car breaks down and leaves him depending on other to get across the country that is when Gracie comes into his life. These two have some fun time and sometimes that will leave in tears.

I fell in love with this book and can't wait for more from Rhonda. With this book you are remind of just how much being truthful to not only yourself but others is. You are also shown that age is just a number when it comes to love never hold back because you feel that other are going to judge you because of an age gap. Grab life by the horns and enjoy the ride!!! Life is way too short to live it for others. You only get one life live it to the fullest. I can't even began to tell you how much this book touch me and reminded me of things you tend to push to the back telling yourself I'll do it next time. There may not be a next time just enjoy life and do what you love.

[Jolanda Gelissen · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book will strike a chord with anyone who reads it, as it discusses topics we can all relate to in some way. You’ll find yourself smiling through your tears.

Tucker Winslow is heartbroken after his mother’s death. To honor her dying wish to fulfil his dream of moving to Alaska and join a fishing crew, he packs up his car for the cross-country drive. He hasn’t even left the state yet when it breaks down and he continues the journey hitchhiking.

Gracie Madison is a young widow trying to move on. She has finally accepted her sister’s invitation to come stay with her family in Seattle. At a truck stop she spots a handsome young hitchhiker. After some deliberation she decides to take him along for the drive.

They spend an interesting week together, visiting silly landmarks and listening to 80s music. They get along splendidly. That is, until those pesky feelings come lurking. They fight them, both for their own reasons, not wanting to hold each other back on their journey. But the heart wants what it wants, and that’s when things get even more complicated.

I enjoyed this book very much. It’s a lovely story about healing and finding love along the way. There is also a lesson to be learned: don’t let societal standards dictate your life choices.

One tip: keep those tissues ready, especially for Tucker’s mother’s letters.

[Ana Rita · Rating 5 out of 5]

Omg what can i say about this book? Only that i loved it.
Sweet mother, Rhonda you rock.
This book is so full of passion, love, sadness, loss. I cried, laugh, stressed, scream to my kindle waiting for him to do what i wanted.
You know, i really enjoy a book that make me feel the way this one did from thew begining.
The story between Tucker and Gracie is so beautiful.
Gracie lost her husband and she give up on life, she didn't wanna live without the love of her life beside her, but after her sister request, she end up in her car going to Seattle.
Tucker lost his mom, his best friend and left home to chase his dream and go to alaska.
They found each other on the road, after tucker break is car.
They started a journey and their friendship developed.
They laugh, cried an sing all 80's songs.
Can this friendship turn to something else?
I can't tell you the rest, because i refuse to spoil.
One thing i can say to you, read, you will not be desapointed. I know i didn't. It made me think if i lost the love of my life, would i be able to find love and hapiness again?Is it possible? Well to find Gracie's answer read the book.

[Jo Overfield · Rating 5 out of 5]

Tucker or Bust

I had to stop crying long enough to write my review. What a trip. This was a fantastic ride describing Tucker and Gracie's journey across the US. Both Tucker & Gracie have suffered the loss of the most important person in their lives. Fulfilling a promise Tuckers mother had ask of him by leaving and going to Alaska to fulfill his dreams, Gracie decides to move across the country to be closer to her sister and family. While traveling, Gracie takes on Tucker forced to hitchhiking, quickly discovers there's more to him than his sexy good looks and fun banter. Stopping, and visiting every odd tourists attraction on their way to Seattle, they both find in each other healing, love, and friendship. By the end of their trip,reality sets in, and choices are made, even one that will impact their lives forever. This book will have your heart tied in knots, laughing, crying, smiling, and falling in love. I highly recommend Alaska or Bust.

[Dani · Rating 5 out of 5]

Received a copy in exchange for an honest review. Read and reviewed by Dani for Alpha Book Club.

This story really tugged at my heart. It's a story about living your life for the present moment, enjoying what you have because you never know when it can be taken away. After tragic circumstances hit both Tucker and Gracie, they set off (separately) on a trip that will forever change their lives. Both characters are so 'real' that you can't help but laugh, cry, and most times shout at the screen telling them what to do. It's like watching a movie and you're wanting that happy ending. I would definitely recommend this book to everyone I know. It's a beautiful love story, with an amazing message -- to live your life, fight for your dreams, never give up and tell that person you love them!! So get your tissues and start reading!!