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Crazy Love
Three stories of love and longing for New Adult readers by bestselling romance author Jane Harvey-Berrick
♥ ♥ ♥
DAZZLED
Miles Stephens is a young actor from London. Out of work, unemployable, and fired from his last job, he unexpectedly gets the chance to star in a big-time Hollywood movie.
The film is a great success, propelling him to worldwide fame – but when the dream doesn’t match the reality, he turns to Clare, lifelong friend and girl next door.
Clare knows two important facts: when you break chocolate, the calories fall out; and that she’s totally in love with clueless Miles.
PLAYING IN THE RAIN - A NOVELLA
Ava Lawton can’t believe her run of bad luck. It’s supposed to be an exciting time in her life: fresh out of college, living in a new state, with a new job, and away from her family at last.
But when she’s forced to quit her job, everything falls apart quickly. Suddenly, she’s alone in a crowd, with no one to turn to.
At her lowest point, a stranger gives her a message that brings her hope.
Now is the time to live life her own way.
Now is the time to choose to be happy.
And maybe it’s time to let a beautiful stranger be part of her life.
Can summer love last a lifetime?
Listed in Huffington Post’s Best Ugly Cry reads
SUMMER OF SEVENTEEN
It was supposed to be the endless summer of sand, sea, and surf. Supposed to be. But, Nick’s life is crashing out of control. His girlfriend and his best friend have declared war, his sister’s constant interference in his life is driving him insane, and there are money problems that won’t go away. Being seventeen isn’t supposed to be this hard.
When cool surfer Marcus arrives in town with a string of women following, Nick sees that there are easier ways to live. But with his life falling to pieces around him, it’s hard to know who to trust.
As the scorching heat of summer grows, events begin to unravel, reaching a shattering conclusion—and a summer he’ll never forget.
♥ ♥ ♥
DAZZLED
Miles Stephens is a young actor from London. Out of work, unemployable, and fired from his last job, he unexpectedly gets the chance to star in a big-time Hollywood movie.
The film is a great success, propelling him to worldwide fame – but when the dream doesn’t match the reality, he turns to Clare, lifelong friend and girl next door.
Clare knows two important facts: when you break chocolate, the calories fall out; and that she’s totally in love with clueless Miles.
PLAYING IN THE RAIN - A NOVELLA
Ava Lawton can’t believe her run of bad luck. It’s supposed to be an exciting time in her life: fresh out of college, living in a new state, with a new job, and away from her family at last.
But when she’s forced to quit her job, everything falls apart quickly. Suddenly, she’s alone in a crowd, with no one to turn to.
At her lowest point, a stranger gives her a message that brings her hope.
Now is the time to live life her own way.
Now is the time to choose to be happy.
And maybe it’s time to let a beautiful stranger be part of her life.
Can summer love last a lifetime?
Listed in Huffington Post’s Best Ugly Cry reads
SUMMER OF SEVENTEEN
It was supposed to be the endless summer of sand, sea, and surf. Supposed to be. But, Nick’s life is crashing out of control. His girlfriend and his best friend have declared war, his sister’s constant interference in his life is driving him insane, and there are money problems that won’t go away. Being seventeen isn’t supposed to be this hard.
When cool surfer Marcus arrives in town with a string of women following, Nick sees that there are easier ways to live. But with his life falling to pieces around him, it’s hard to know who to trust.
As the scorching heat of summer grows, events begin to unravel, reaching a shattering conclusion—and a summer he’ll never forget.
669 pages, Kindle Edition
Published August 21, 2017
6 people are currently reading
45 people want to read
About the author
Jane Harvey-Berrick
80 books2,029 followersAuthor also writes under Jane H. Berrick
Writing is my passion and my obsession. I write every day and I love it. My head is full of stories and characters. I'll never keep up with all my ideas...
All through 2021, I'll be including a new and original short story in my monthly newsletter. You'll get a FREE copy of my little heartbreaker PLAYING IN THE RAIN when you do.
http://janeharveyberrick.co.uk/newsle...
I live in a small village by the ocean and walk on the beach every day. It’s on those beachside walks that I have all my best ideas.
Writing has become a way of life – and one that I love to share.
I've just published my first ever historical romance - partly set in Britain during World War Two, and partly set in Iowa and Las Vegas today: THE LILAC CADILLAC
Did you know that I also write books with STUART REARDON, talented, kind AND handsome!
UNDEFEATED
MODEL BOYFRIEND
GYM OR CHOCOLATE?
THE WORLD ACCORDING TO VINCE
THE BABY GAME (Nov 24th 2021)
Find me!
Amazon US http://amzn.to/1M3cFuw amazon.com/author/janeharveyberrick
Amazon UK http://amzn.to/1PdO987
FB Author page https://www.facebook.com/JHBWrites/
My Reader Group Jane’s Travelers https://www.facebook.com/groups/74596...
https://twitter.com/jharveyberrick
https://instagram.com/jharveyberrick
http://www.pinterest.com/jharveyberrick
Don’t want to miss a discounted book or a freebie? Follow me on Bookbub https://www.bookbub.com/authors/jane-...
Email jharveyberrick@gmail.com
Youtube https://goo.gl/YBjWdd
Website www.janeharveyberrick.com
Writing is my passion and my obsession. I write every day and I love it. My head is full of stories and characters. I'll never keep up with all my ideas...
All through 2021, I'll be including a new and original short story in my monthly newsletter. You'll get a FREE copy of my little heartbreaker PLAYING IN THE RAIN when you do.
http://janeharveyberrick.co.uk/newsle...
I live in a small village by the ocean and walk on the beach every day. It’s on those beachside walks that I have all my best ideas.
Writing has become a way of life – and one that I love to share.
I've just published my first ever historical romance - partly set in Britain during World War Two, and partly set in Iowa and Las Vegas today: THE LILAC CADILLAC
Did you know that I also write books with STUART REARDON, talented, kind AND handsome!
UNDEFEATED
MODEL BOYFRIEND
GYM OR CHOCOLATE?
THE WORLD ACCORDING TO VINCE
THE BABY GAME (Nov 24th 2021)
Find me!
Amazon US http://amzn.to/1M3cFuw amazon.com/author/janeharveyberrick
Amazon UK http://amzn.to/1PdO987
FB Author page https://www.facebook.com/JHBWrites/
My Reader Group Jane’s Travelers https://www.facebook.com/groups/74596...
https://twitter.com/jharveyberrick
https://instagram.com/jharveyberrick
http://www.pinterest.com/jharveyberrick
Don’t want to miss a discounted book or a freebie? Follow me on Bookbub https://www.bookbub.com/authors/jane-...
Email jharveyberrick@gmail.com
Youtube https://goo.gl/YBjWdd
Website www.janeharveyberrick.com
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Displaying 1 - 10 of 10 reviews
December 30, 2017
Crazy Love is a nice collection of Jane Harvey-Berrick books that will give new-to-her readers a good idea of the range of her writing.
I previously reviewed Dazzled in January 2016. It is a sweet friends-to-lovers romance with a heavy dollop of British humor added to the mix. The story is told in dual point of view by main characters Miles and Clare who are extremely likable characters. I loved their friendship, but it was a bit tiresome when time and again, Clare would run to Miles’ emotional rescue each time his attempt to fit in to the Hollywood scene failed. Although Miles’ is a good guy, he obtusely takes Clare for granted.
Miles is a Brit and an actor. He’s insecure and unsure of his ability after being fired from one acting job; maybe it’s just his natural British humility that makes him appear to be overwhelmed when he moves to America for a potential job. His misunderstanding of the local colloquialisms is hilarious. Once groomed by his publicist, he has a chance at becoming Hollywood hottest star. Miles soon finds out just how glamorous, harsh, and dog-eat-dog it is in the industry.
Clare is a fun, curvy, and witty college student and Mile’s best friend. She and Miles have been best friends for as long as they can remember. Clare is usually outspoken but she keeps her big-time crush on Miles a secret—mainly because she doesn’t believe it possible for anyone as gorgeous and talented as Miles to be interested in her.
I did find Dazzled a bit slow at times, but the behind the scenes view at actors on set and how movies are made was interesting. Jane Harvey-Berrick authentically portrays the heartache that comes along with the glamor of being a celebrity. The lusty bedroom scenes in a movie will never be the same for me after reading her depiction of all the crew on the set and everything the actors go through to make those scenes appear intimate.
Overall, Dazzled is a light-hearted, refreshing read. It was entertaining and enjoyable. A 3.5-4 star read for me.
Play in the Rain is a very quick read that is packed with emotions and messages. The main characters, Ava and Cody, are delightful. Their banter and easy chemistry is adorable. While there are several aspects of the story that I thought were implausible, I really enjoyed Ava and Cody’s journey. They have a summer of shared adventures while learning to not put living your life and finding love on the back-burner. A beautiful story, but the novella structure made for a rather abrupt ending. A 3.5-4 star read for me.
Summer of Seventeen is set in coastal Florida, and tells the tale of the struggle some teens have with the transition to adulthood and all its expectations.
Nick and his older sister, Julie, are struggling to find their footing as a family, and as individuals, after their mother succumbs to cancer. The weight of her new responsibilities changes Julie dramatically. Nick misses his mom terribly and seems to be floundering without guidance from a mature adult. We see the naivety of youth in his decisions as well as in his slow understanding of his financial situation. Nick and Julie’s situation is made worse by the lack of a supportive community. It is disheartening to read their struggles.
Summer of Seventeen was my least favorite story in this collection. Missing was the message of the importance of a good reputation as well as the impact the company you keep has on your reputation. Aside from that, the story was well crafted and deftly captured the struggles of boys becoming men, however, the characters—and their choices—didn’t compel me to care. A 2.5-3 star read for me.
I received a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. For more reading recommendations, visit Book Junkie Reviews at https://abookjunkiereviews.wordpress.com
I previously reviewed Dazzled in January 2016. It is a sweet friends-to-lovers romance with a heavy dollop of British humor added to the mix. The story is told in dual point of view by main characters Miles and Clare who are extremely likable characters. I loved their friendship, but it was a bit tiresome when time and again, Clare would run to Miles’ emotional rescue each time his attempt to fit in to the Hollywood scene failed. Although Miles’ is a good guy, he obtusely takes Clare for granted.
Miles is a Brit and an actor. He’s insecure and unsure of his ability after being fired from one acting job; maybe it’s just his natural British humility that makes him appear to be overwhelmed when he moves to America for a potential job. His misunderstanding of the local colloquialisms is hilarious. Once groomed by his publicist, he has a chance at becoming Hollywood hottest star. Miles soon finds out just how glamorous, harsh, and dog-eat-dog it is in the industry.
Clare is a fun, curvy, and witty college student and Mile’s best friend. She and Miles have been best friends for as long as they can remember. Clare is usually outspoken but she keeps her big-time crush on Miles a secret—mainly because she doesn’t believe it possible for anyone as gorgeous and talented as Miles to be interested in her.
I did find Dazzled a bit slow at times, but the behind the scenes view at actors on set and how movies are made was interesting. Jane Harvey-Berrick authentically portrays the heartache that comes along with the glamor of being a celebrity. The lusty bedroom scenes in a movie will never be the same for me after reading her depiction of all the crew on the set and everything the actors go through to make those scenes appear intimate.
Overall, Dazzled is a light-hearted, refreshing read. It was entertaining and enjoyable. A 3.5-4 star read for me.
Play in the Rain is a very quick read that is packed with emotions and messages. The main characters, Ava and Cody, are delightful. Their banter and easy chemistry is adorable. While there are several aspects of the story that I thought were implausible, I really enjoyed Ava and Cody’s journey. They have a summer of shared adventures while learning to not put living your life and finding love on the back-burner. A beautiful story, but the novella structure made for a rather abrupt ending. A 3.5-4 star read for me.
Summer of Seventeen is set in coastal Florida, and tells the tale of the struggle some teens have with the transition to adulthood and all its expectations.
Nick and his older sister, Julie, are struggling to find their footing as a family, and as individuals, after their mother succumbs to cancer. The weight of her new responsibilities changes Julie dramatically. Nick misses his mom terribly and seems to be floundering without guidance from a mature adult. We see the naivety of youth in his decisions as well as in his slow understanding of his financial situation. Nick and Julie’s situation is made worse by the lack of a supportive community. It is disheartening to read their struggles.
Summer of Seventeen was my least favorite story in this collection. Missing was the message of the importance of a good reputation as well as the impact the company you keep has on your reputation. Aside from that, the story was well crafted and deftly captured the struggles of boys becoming men, however, the characters—and their choices—didn’t compel me to care. A 2.5-3 star read for me.
I received a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. For more reading recommendations, visit Book Junkie Reviews at https://abookjunkiereviews.wordpress.com
August 28, 2017
Review for Dazzled:
The first 70% of the book was 3.5*, the remainder 4.5*, for a solid 4* read. Dazzled is a lovely friends-to-lovers romance…not quite YA because of some of the subject matter, but not full-on NA- there wasn’t a whole lot of angst or drama.
I had a hard time connecting with Clare at first. I liked her snarkiness and sarcasm, but I didn’t care for how she treated Miles for most of the beginning of the book, I thought she was kind of harsh at times. But she slowly grew on me, and at the end I was firmly in her corner.
Miles is so sweet and clueless, and at times just plain dense. But then again he’s a twenty-year-old male, what more could we expect! But oh how adorable he was, even while unknowingly breaking Clare’s heart over and over again.
Clare and Miles have been friends since childhood, and they love each other as best friends do. But in Clare’s case, she’s also in love with Miles, and has been for a long time. But she’s never worked up the nerve to tell him, not wanting to ruin their friendship.
Miles is a struggling actor who gets his big break when he goes to the US to audition for a movie and lands the part. Alone and unsure of himself in Hollywood, he convinces Clare to come over on her summer break to help him; he needs his friend by his side. While on location Miles once again falls for his leading lady, much to Clare’s disappointment. But she goes on as always, and their friendship continues on its same path.
Until it just gets to be too much and Clare has finally had enough with Miles- she’s been by his side through the filming, through the heartbreak, through the screw-ups. But there comes a point in life when you wake up and realize things might not work out like you hoped and wished them to, and you just have to move on. This is when I really started to empathize with Clare, and where the book started to get interesting. As much as she loved Miles, she was tired of being second best with him and needed to get on with her life.
Things may have moved a little fast towards the end, but I think that made up for the bit of a slow start. I completely adored the journey these 2 took, as they moved from friends to lovers. Miles is such a doll, and to see him come to the realization that Clare was the one for him, just ahhh! I’m not one who necessarily needs an epilogue for every book I read, but I would have loved one for these 2…something a couple of years in the future, how they are dealing with Miles success, setting up their life as a couple in Hollywood, just a little glimpse would have been perfect.
Review for Playing in the Rain
I can't stop crying. Sobbing is more like it. I need someone to hold me and tell me it's just a book.
Playing in the Rain was such a surpirse. I thought it was going to be a sweet little romance with maybe some angst and a little heartbreak. What I didn't expect was to have my heart completely ripped out! But I loved it, in the way that only other readers could ever understand.
This one is of those books, for as easy of a read (meaning the writing, not the content) as it was, it will stay with me. The characters and the storyline just really got to me, and I will hold them in that special place in my heart reserved for all the fictional characters I love. Cody will be in good company.
Review for Summer of Seventeen still to come
The first 70% of the book was 3.5*, the remainder 4.5*, for a solid 4* read. Dazzled is a lovely friends-to-lovers romance…not quite YA because of some of the subject matter, but not full-on NA- there wasn’t a whole lot of angst or drama.
I had a hard time connecting with Clare at first. I liked her snarkiness and sarcasm, but I didn’t care for how she treated Miles for most of the beginning of the book, I thought she was kind of harsh at times. But she slowly grew on me, and at the end I was firmly in her corner.
Miles is so sweet and clueless, and at times just plain dense. But then again he’s a twenty-year-old male, what more could we expect! But oh how adorable he was, even while unknowingly breaking Clare’s heart over and over again.
Clare and Miles have been friends since childhood, and they love each other as best friends do. But in Clare’s case, she’s also in love with Miles, and has been for a long time. But she’s never worked up the nerve to tell him, not wanting to ruin their friendship.
Miles is a struggling actor who gets his big break when he goes to the US to audition for a movie and lands the part. Alone and unsure of himself in Hollywood, he convinces Clare to come over on her summer break to help him; he needs his friend by his side. While on location Miles once again falls for his leading lady, much to Clare’s disappointment. But she goes on as always, and their friendship continues on its same path.
Until it just gets to be too much and Clare has finally had enough with Miles- she’s been by his side through the filming, through the heartbreak, through the screw-ups. But there comes a point in life when you wake up and realize things might not work out like you hoped and wished them to, and you just have to move on. This is when I really started to empathize with Clare, and where the book started to get interesting. As much as she loved Miles, she was tired of being second best with him and needed to get on with her life.
Things may have moved a little fast towards the end, but I think that made up for the bit of a slow start. I completely adored the journey these 2 took, as they moved from friends to lovers. Miles is such a doll, and to see him come to the realization that Clare was the one for him, just ahhh! I’m not one who necessarily needs an epilogue for every book I read, but I would have loved one for these 2…something a couple of years in the future, how they are dealing with Miles success, setting up their life as a couple in Hollywood, just a little glimpse would have been perfect.
Review for Playing in the Rain
I can't stop crying. Sobbing is more like it. I need someone to hold me and tell me it's just a book.
Playing in the Rain was such a surpirse. I thought it was going to be a sweet little romance with maybe some angst and a little heartbreak. What I didn't expect was to have my heart completely ripped out! But I loved it, in the way that only other readers could ever understand.
This one is of those books, for as easy of a read (meaning the writing, not the content) as it was, it will stay with me. The characters and the storyline just really got to me, and I will hold them in that special place in my heart reserved for all the fictional characters I love. Cody will be in good company.
Review for Summer of Seventeen still to come
December 6, 2017
1) Dazzled
Miles Stephens is an English actor who has just been fired from his latest job when he is offered a chance to audition in the US for a new movie based on a very popular book. When he lands the part he begins to learn the ins and outs of Hollywood and most importantly the press.
When he asks his best friend from back home, Claire Milton, to come out with him she does so to support him. But for Claire who has always been in love with Miles it also comes with difficulty as she has to watch him in a relationship with another woman.
When things spiral out of control for Miles will he turn to Claire again or will he try and manage on his own? Will Miles realize what he has had in front of him the entire time or will his new found celebrity status turn him into someone different?
This was a good story about all the highs and lows of becoming a celebrity and learning who truly has your back.
I liked watching the evolution of Miles and seeing how he adjusted to fame and realizing the pitfalls that came with it. He had to give up so much of his privacy and had to be careful to see what was acceptable and what wasn't. He definitely made some mistakes but ended up growing so much as an individual when eh realized who he truly wanted to be at the end.
I really liked Claire and felt bad for her as the supportive best friend as it was clear how uncomfortable she initially was when it was evident so many people did not want her to be around. Yet she also continued to stay to help Miles through it all.
I was so mad at some of the things that happened and how Claire was treated, especially by Miles in a few instances.
There was some great supporting characters that became great friends to both Miles and Claire and it was interesting to see how some of them supported them during the difficult times.
Good read!
2) Playing In The Rain
Ava Lawton has just quit her job after her boss requested her to certain things as part of her job and now she is in a new town, San Diego, with no family and no friends. Yet when she is at her lowest point she receives a note from a stranger that lifts her up and makes her want to find the guy who has brightened her day.
Cody Richards meets Ava in the park and knows right away that the two are meant to be together. He convinces her to help him make a list of things to accomplish in the summer together.
The two begin an incredible friendship which eventually turns into more and will Cody be able to push Ava into living the life that she wants to instead of the one she thinks will impress her father?
This was such a beautiful story although I had everything figured out at the beginning of the story. I still very much enjoyed the story and my heart broke for both Ava and Cody.
I felt bad for Ava in that she was trying to impress her dad and felt like she wasn't measuring up to what he expected of her. Cody pushed her to live outside her norm and she soon discovered that she enjoyed stepping out of her comfort zone as she felt safe with Cody.
I loved that Cody was living life the way most of us should. We should all enjoy life while we have it and not be afraid to try something new. He was ready for life and taught Ava all about living and giving back to the community.
I knew the ending was coming and it was so bittersweet. I was happy for what Ava was now going to do and the lessons Cody taught her about life.
3) Summer of Seventeen
Nick Andrews is 17 and is struggling with life. He lives with his sister Julia who is doign her best to raise him since the death of his mom. His best friend Sean hates his girlfriend, Yansi Alfaro, and the tension between the two of them gets to him.
Yet when Marcus moves into his mom's old room things begin to look up for Nick as Marcus shows him a different side to living life.
Nick also begins to work and tries to balance everything in his life, yet certain events keep pushing him down and soon he sees things spiral out of control. Can he get his life together and try to hang on to those he loves?
This was a great story about what some kids go through and the challenges they may face.
Nick lost so much when he lost his mom and he struggles with respecting Julia and her rules for him. I felt bad for him as well with the tension between Sean and Yansi also put him in a bad spot. I loved his passion for surfing although I wasn't pleased with the drug use and saw where that got him.
I felt the part with Sean was very realistic and I felt bad that Nick was being blamed by everyone for Sean's choices. I was glad that Nick was there to help him and get him to the hospital. I felt so bad for Sean with what was going on with his family and his ultimate actions that resulted from feelings like he was making too many mistakes.
I liked Nick's relationship with Yansi and the highs and lows of it. It was interesting to see how everything came about when they struggled and what happened with her family. The skateboard incident definitely made me sad with her dad. I liked the change with her parents and how they eventually came around to liking Nick and realizing he wasn't a bad kid!
Good read!!
Miles Stephens is an English actor who has just been fired from his latest job when he is offered a chance to audition in the US for a new movie based on a very popular book. When he lands the part he begins to learn the ins and outs of Hollywood and most importantly the press.
When he asks his best friend from back home, Claire Milton, to come out with him she does so to support him. But for Claire who has always been in love with Miles it also comes with difficulty as she has to watch him in a relationship with another woman.
When things spiral out of control for Miles will he turn to Claire again or will he try and manage on his own? Will Miles realize what he has had in front of him the entire time or will his new found celebrity status turn him into someone different?
This was a good story about all the highs and lows of becoming a celebrity and learning who truly has your back.
I liked watching the evolution of Miles and seeing how he adjusted to fame and realizing the pitfalls that came with it. He had to give up so much of his privacy and had to be careful to see what was acceptable and what wasn't. He definitely made some mistakes but ended up growing so much as an individual when eh realized who he truly wanted to be at the end.
I really liked Claire and felt bad for her as the supportive best friend as it was clear how uncomfortable she initially was when it was evident so many people did not want her to be around. Yet she also continued to stay to help Miles through it all.
I was so mad at some of the things that happened and how Claire was treated, especially by Miles in a few instances.
There was some great supporting characters that became great friends to both Miles and Claire and it was interesting to see how some of them supported them during the difficult times.
Good read!
2) Playing In The Rain
Ava Lawton has just quit her job after her boss requested her to certain things as part of her job and now she is in a new town, San Diego, with no family and no friends. Yet when she is at her lowest point she receives a note from a stranger that lifts her up and makes her want to find the guy who has brightened her day.
Cody Richards meets Ava in the park and knows right away that the two are meant to be together. He convinces her to help him make a list of things to accomplish in the summer together.
The two begin an incredible friendship which eventually turns into more and will Cody be able to push Ava into living the life that she wants to instead of the one she thinks will impress her father?
This was such a beautiful story although I had everything figured out at the beginning of the story. I still very much enjoyed the story and my heart broke for both Ava and Cody.
I felt bad for Ava in that she was trying to impress her dad and felt like she wasn't measuring up to what he expected of her. Cody pushed her to live outside her norm and she soon discovered that she enjoyed stepping out of her comfort zone as she felt safe with Cody.
I loved that Cody was living life the way most of us should. We should all enjoy life while we have it and not be afraid to try something new. He was ready for life and taught Ava all about living and giving back to the community.
I knew the ending was coming and it was so bittersweet. I was happy for what Ava was now going to do and the lessons Cody taught her about life.
3) Summer of Seventeen
Nick Andrews is 17 and is struggling with life. He lives with his sister Julia who is doign her best to raise him since the death of his mom. His best friend Sean hates his girlfriend, Yansi Alfaro, and the tension between the two of them gets to him.
Yet when Marcus moves into his mom's old room things begin to look up for Nick as Marcus shows him a different side to living life.
Nick also begins to work and tries to balance everything in his life, yet certain events keep pushing him down and soon he sees things spiral out of control. Can he get his life together and try to hang on to those he loves?
This was a great story about what some kids go through and the challenges they may face.
Nick lost so much when he lost his mom and he struggles with respecting Julia and her rules for him. I felt bad for him as well with the tension between Sean and Yansi also put him in a bad spot. I loved his passion for surfing although I wasn't pleased with the drug use and saw where that got him.
I felt the part with Sean was very realistic and I felt bad that Nick was being blamed by everyone for Sean's choices. I was glad that Nick was there to help him and get him to the hospital. I felt so bad for Sean with what was going on with his family and his ultimate actions that resulted from feelings like he was making too many mistakes.
I liked Nick's relationship with Yansi and the highs and lows of it. It was interesting to see how everything came about when they struggled and what happened with her family. The skateboard incident definitely made me sad with her dad. I liked the change with her parents and how they eventually came around to liking Nick and realizing he wasn't a bad kid!
Good read!!
August 20, 2017
Dazzled by Jane Harvey- Berrick is a charming friends to lovers and Hollywood romance. I thoroughly enjoyed the book. It was not the standard Hollywood type romance because this book starts at the beginning of stardom and how difficult the climb to the top is.
Miles and Clare have been friends all of their lives. They are completely different types of personalities. The yin and yang to one another. When Miles has a downfall in the London Theater scene it looks like his acting career is at an end. As the old saying goes, when one door closes another one opens, applies to Miles acting career. He is offered to read for a part in an upcoming Hollywood teen movie.
Miles lands the part and has to leave London and Clare behind. He’s sucked into the Hollywood world and is trying not to drown in a world of sharks. When he brings Clare across the pond to help him maneuver his way in the new world, the dynamics of their relationship begins to change. When Miles finally opens his eyes and sees Clare as a woman rather than his best bud, it may be too late.
Clare has finally taken her blinders off where Miles is concerned. Going to Hollywood as his assistant was a huge mistake. It’s not her world. Miles is no longer her Miles. She has finally realized it’s time to wrap it up and head back to London to build her own life.
It takes a huge Hollywood scandal and two meddling mothers to bring these two back where they belong.
I thoroughly enjoyed Dazzled. It was a fun, witty, and sexy Hollywood romance. I loved the English charm and dry humor that was prevalent throughout the book.
Jane Harvey-Berrick always delivers a good romance book.
***
Although Playing In The Rain by Jane Harvey-Berrick is considered a novella, the content and emotional renderings pack more of a punch than most full length novels. Grab a bottle of wine, a big box of chocolate, and a super size box of tissues before opening this novel. Be ready to be wrecked in the best possible way.
I was instantly charmed when I first started reading this book until the bucket list came out. My alarm bells started going off but as the story progressed I was deluding myself I was under the wrong impression, I grossly misconceived the reasoning. It was the perfect love story with beautiful moments in spite of the outcome. It was a happily ever after story in every aspect. The message was quite clear... live life to the fullest and love with everything you have.
Jane Harvey-Berrick wrecked me in the best possible way and I will never forget Playing In The Rain.
***
Summer of Seventeen by Jane Harvey-Berrick is my favorite novel in the Crazy Love Anthology. I connected with this novel because I am a native of coastal Florida and spent my teenage years exactly like Nick and his friends did. The ocean was our playground and life revolved around the beach. Another reason I connected with this novel is because I am the mother of a seventeen year old young man embarking on his senior year of high school and becoming an adult man.
Jane Harvey-Berrick captured the pure essence of a teenage boy struggling to become an independent man. She captured the turmoil of teenager vs. adulthood, the hardship of becoming a responsible individual rather than a carefree kid, finding one's place in the family structure as an adult rather than a child, the disappointment of realizing role models may not be what they were perceived to be, and lastly the realities of life in every aspect.
I loved how Nick had to overcome personal and financial obstacles but stayed true to himself. He strived to become better even though his choices weren't always the right ones. That's what growing up was about and Jane Harvey-Berrick captured that summer that led Nick on a new journey.
I absolutely loved this story and gave my seventeen year old son an extra hug because this story reminded me how difficult growing up can be no matter what the circumstance in life is.
August 21, 2017
A great little anthology consisting of 'Dazzled', 'Playing In The Rain' and 'Summer Of Seventeen' by Jane Harvey-Berrick.
~Dazzled
3.5*
I quite enjoyed this book once I started getting into it.
Clare and Miles' story was one of true beauty. Friends for most of their lives, Clare was Miles' anchor, always helping him through his struggles with dyslexia and his misfortunes when it came to his acting. When he lands himself the lead role in a new movie, Clare is alongside him again being his ever loyal friend. But she doesn't want to be just his friend. For years she has been in love with him, but he's been completely blind to it. It's just a matter of how long will she be able to keep hurting herself by sitting in the background...
I loved Clare. I loved her attitude and her humour and how she always had Miles' best interest at heart, even if he couldn't see it.
Miles...he frustrated the hell out of me. From his blatant 'guy' approach and not understanding Clare when it came to certain things and for letting a completely cow come between him and someone who's been there since childhood. I wanted to smack him across the head a few times and tell him to 'man up'.
All in all, it was a good friends to lovers story and the struggles an actor has when his fantasy becomes a reality..and the fact it's not all that it cracked up to be.
~Playing In The Rain
4*
I don't think i can really explain how I'm feeling right at this moment after finishing this novella. Not without giving anything away.
But what I will say is "Playing In The Rain" was a poignant read that definitely makes you think about life.
Ava and Cody were just perfect and came in to each other's lived when they needed it the most. A story of building friendships, experiencing life and falling in love.
A story that will touch you and one that you will think back to months after.
Janes words are beautiful and really does make you think about your own life.
And remember...
It's not "the quantity of a life that matters, but the quality, and the way you live it."
~Summer Of Seventeen
4*
I think this is another one of them stories that when you start reading you're not too sure about it. It's good. But it's not great...until you finish.
I felt like that.
Although I have come to love Jane's beautiful way with words, I felt that this book had a lot of waffling on...it could've been intentional, so you got more of a feel of what was going on inside Nick's mind and the struggles he faced as a 17yr old being thrown into adulthood so soon.
But at the same time i felt it gave us a sense of calmness... I know it doesn't make sense but my brain is completely muddled with this book and how to write this review.
Nick has had to grow up in a very short amount of time. He may only be 17 but with the death of his mother and the struggles him and his sister find themselves in to move forward without her, has made him feel completely lost. Nothing is the same, and everything just seem to sling a part around him.
The ending for me, is what gave this book the 4*. Even though you get a sense of what is going to happen, you're still knocked for six when you get to that ultimate page, and the aftermath that follows on. For me that made the book.
~ Out of the 3, I think 'Playing In The Rain' was definitely my favourite. I felt more connected with the characters and their story. I just loved the way the whole book made me feel and how it makes you think about your own life.
~Dazzled
3.5*
I quite enjoyed this book once I started getting into it.
Clare and Miles' story was one of true beauty. Friends for most of their lives, Clare was Miles' anchor, always helping him through his struggles with dyslexia and his misfortunes when it came to his acting. When he lands himself the lead role in a new movie, Clare is alongside him again being his ever loyal friend. But she doesn't want to be just his friend. For years she has been in love with him, but he's been completely blind to it. It's just a matter of how long will she be able to keep hurting herself by sitting in the background...
I loved Clare. I loved her attitude and her humour and how she always had Miles' best interest at heart, even if he couldn't see it.
Miles...he frustrated the hell out of me. From his blatant 'guy' approach and not understanding Clare when it came to certain things and for letting a completely cow come between him and someone who's been there since childhood. I wanted to smack him across the head a few times and tell him to 'man up'.
All in all, it was a good friends to lovers story and the struggles an actor has when his fantasy becomes a reality..and the fact it's not all that it cracked up to be.
~Playing In The Rain
4*
I don't think i can really explain how I'm feeling right at this moment after finishing this novella. Not without giving anything away.
But what I will say is "Playing In The Rain" was a poignant read that definitely makes you think about life.
Ava and Cody were just perfect and came in to each other's lived when they needed it the most. A story of building friendships, experiencing life and falling in love.
A story that will touch you and one that you will think back to months after.
Janes words are beautiful and really does make you think about your own life.
And remember...
It's not "the quantity of a life that matters, but the quality, and the way you live it."
~Summer Of Seventeen
4*
I think this is another one of them stories that when you start reading you're not too sure about it. It's good. But it's not great...until you finish.
I felt like that.
Although I have come to love Jane's beautiful way with words, I felt that this book had a lot of waffling on...it could've been intentional, so you got more of a feel of what was going on inside Nick's mind and the struggles he faced as a 17yr old being thrown into adulthood so soon.
But at the same time i felt it gave us a sense of calmness... I know it doesn't make sense but my brain is completely muddled with this book and how to write this review.
Nick has had to grow up in a very short amount of time. He may only be 17 but with the death of his mother and the struggles him and his sister find themselves in to move forward without her, has made him feel completely lost. Nothing is the same, and everything just seem to sling a part around him.
The ending for me, is what gave this book the 4*. Even though you get a sense of what is going to happen, you're still knocked for six when you get to that ultimate page, and the aftermath that follows on. For me that made the book.
~ Out of the 3, I think 'Playing In The Rain' was definitely my favourite. I felt more connected with the characters and their story. I just loved the way the whole book made me feel and how it makes you think about your own life.
August 26, 2017
Crazy Love is a box set of sweet stories by this author. In Dazzled, Miles & Clare are best friends, who lean completely on each other. But Clare is secretly in love with her best friend, but won't tell him. And when he gets the unexpected chance to star in a Hollywood movie, it propels him into stardom, however, being famous isn't all that it's cracked up to be. Playing in the Rain is Ava Lawton's story. She's fresh out of college and thinks the world is her oyster, but it quickly implodes. Summer of Seventeen is a summer read about Nick, who's life is out of control. When cool surfer, Marcus, arrives in town with a line of women, Nick starts to see that there's easier ways to live. Although I enjoyed this box set, it took me a bit to really imprint with the characters, at first, for whatever reason, so it was a bit of a slow start. But, it didn't stay that way the whole time, and when it got going, I couldn't turn the pages quickly enough. Jane Harvey-Berrick has a talented writing style that I really want to read more of in the immediate future, as her stories came off both sweet & realistic in my opinion, with some surprising twists along the way. So cannot wait to read what else she has out! HIGHLY RECOMMEND!
August 25, 2017
Crazy love is a collection of three beautifully written, coming of age tales. The writing style pulled me in and the character development was some of the best that I've ever seen. The only drawback, for me, was that some things seemed to be a little more drawn out than necessary. Other than that, all three stories are worthwhile reads and are jam packed with witty dialogue, some laugh out loud funny, a bit of steam, great big tears, and characters that I won't soon forget.
August 22, 2017
This is a great collection of books by author Jane Harvey-Berrick. There are three books. I laughed, cringed, cried, smiled, laughed and loved throughout the entire thing. Every book had its own purpose and message. This was a great compilation.
September 24, 2017
Enjoyed this wee story.. but not my favourite of Janes. Passed a pleasant few hours though :)
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August 23, 20173 Fabulous Heart Tugging Love Stories
Read all 3 books in one seating..
Dazzled really Dazzled Me...Loved It!!!💜
Summer of Seventeen will astound you. Make You feel Love and Hurt. Leaves You with tears.
Playing In the Rain is just Amazing!!
All 3 books are just WOW!!!
They are all must reads!!
** I voluntarily received an Advanced Reader's Copy for Review. **
Read all 3 books in one seating..
Dazzled really Dazzled Me...Loved It!!!💜
Summer of Seventeen will astound you. Make You feel Love and Hurt. Leaves You with tears.
Playing In the Rain is just Amazing!!
All 3 books are just WOW!!!
They are all must reads!!
** I voluntarily received an Advanced Reader's Copy for Review. **
Displaying 1 - 10 of 10 reviews