What do you think?
Hearts of Stone #3
Hated
***This book can be read as a standalone***
Frankie DiGorgio has returned home for the summer to fix up and sell the home she grew up in. But when Frankie discovers Austin Stone is also back home and right next door, her summer suddenly seems more exciting than the motocross tracks she races on.
Four years ago, Austin was her best friend. Her first love. The only boy who saw more than just her rough edges.
But Austin left Frankie behind to perform in Las Vegas with his brother Dallas after winning Rising Stars. And Frankie didn’t wait around for him. Instead, she disappeared with no explanation and she hasn’t spoken to Austin since then.
Austin hates Frankie now.
Unfortunately, they’re next door neighbors again and Frankie and Austin can’t avoid each other anymore. With little more than bitterness, heartbreak, and secrets between them, they soon find themselves reverting to their childhood habits—prank wars. As Frankie and Austin’s past is put back together and old feelings resurface, they discover it’s a fine line between love and hate.
And the secrets Frankie has kept could cross the line right into hate.
Frankie DiGorgio has returned home for the summer to fix up and sell the home she grew up in. But when Frankie discovers Austin Stone is also back home and right next door, her summer suddenly seems more exciting than the motocross tracks she races on.
Four years ago, Austin was her best friend. Her first love. The only boy who saw more than just her rough edges.
But Austin left Frankie behind to perform in Las Vegas with his brother Dallas after winning Rising Stars. And Frankie didn’t wait around for him. Instead, she disappeared with no explanation and she hasn’t spoken to Austin since then.
Austin hates Frankie now.
Unfortunately, they’re next door neighbors again and Frankie and Austin can’t avoid each other anymore. With little more than bitterness, heartbreak, and secrets between them, they soon find themselves reverting to their childhood habits—prank wars. As Frankie and Austin’s past is put back together and old feelings resurface, they discover it’s a fine line between love and hate.
And the secrets Frankie has kept could cross the line right into hate.
Unknown Binding
Published September 18, 2017
About the author
Christine Manzari
15 books1,272 followersThe first thing Christine does when she's getting ready to read a book is to crack the spine in at least five places. She wholeheartedly believes there is no place as comfy as the pages of a well-worn book. She's addicted to buying books, reading books, and writing books. She even turned her dining room into a library—reading is more important than eating. She also has a weakness for adventure and inappropriate humor. Christine is from Forest Hill, Maryland where she lives with her husband, three kids, and her library of ugly spine books.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 52 reviews
September 18, 2017
3.5 Prank Wars Stars
Hated the 3rd book in the Hearts of Stone series and can be read as a stand alone as I didn't read any of the other books and I followed it just fine. I haven't read any books by Christine Manzari and I enjoyed her writing style. I love the friends to lovers, and second chance tropes and I got plenty of that in this book. I really liked both Frankie and Austin. I thought they made a cute couple. They were both a little immature at times but since they are young adults it could be overlooked. I laughed so hard at their prank wars. I felt like the author gave us readers a good build up to Frankie and Austin relationship including their backstory. I only had two little problems with this book were the secret that Frankie kept from Austin for so long and Austin's mom. Though the secret and Frankie's age were understandable I hate when there is a secret in a book that last almost the whole book. If Frankie had been up front sooner in the book I would have enjoyed it more. I hated Austin's mom. I mean I hated her guts, and I felt she needed to be punished for being a horrible human being. I needed some karmic payback! Still this was an enjoyable read.
https://jessicasoverthetopbookobsessi...
Hated the 3rd book in the Hearts of Stone series and can be read as a stand alone as I didn't read any of the other books and I followed it just fine. I haven't read any books by Christine Manzari and I enjoyed her writing style. I love the friends to lovers, and second chance tropes and I got plenty of that in this book. I really liked both Frankie and Austin. I thought they made a cute couple. They were both a little immature at times but since they are young adults it could be overlooked. I laughed so hard at their prank wars. I felt like the author gave us readers a good build up to Frankie and Austin relationship including their backstory. I only had two little problems with this book were the secret that Frankie kept from Austin for so long and Austin's mom. Though the secret and Frankie's age were understandable I hate when there is a secret in a book that last almost the whole book. If Frankie had been up front sooner in the book I would have enjoyed it more. I hated Austin's mom. I mean I hated her guts, and I felt she needed to be punished for being a horrible human being. I needed some karmic payback! Still this was an enjoyable read.
https://jessicasoverthetopbookobsessi...
September 24, 2017
Christine Manzari? Where have you been all my life?!
This book offered the perfect balance of laugh out loud moments, hurt moments, romantic moments and backstory resulting in one really good read.
Frankie is another one of my favorite heroines. Tough, no nonsense, funny and charismatic. Austin was sweet, sexy, broody (for good reason) and emotionally balanced. (None of that caveman BS here. And even if, Frankie would never fall for it!)
When she returns to repair her Nana's home and put it up for sale, she didn't expect her childhood best friend and first love to be at his home next door. When a loud late night party sends Frankie next door to ask him to quiet down, she realizes that Austin hates her. Hurt but angry, she decides to sabotage his party... And oh does she ever get them good!! And this act starts a prank war between the two that last through the summer. The pranking was BRILLIANT!!!
Of course they have loads of baggage and hurt feelings between them. Austin feels hurt and betrayal, but also a need to understand why she did what she did. While Frankie tries to wrestle with letting him in on her big secret. (Its predictable... but meh!) Bottom line is, they still long for each other.
I say no more! If you want to know how that hot summer progresses between these two lost lovers, you'll have to read it.
Personally this is one of my new favorites. I don't hand out 4 stars easily. I would have handed it 5 if the HEA was a little bit longer and the resolution between Austin and his mother would have been more satisfying.
This book offered the perfect balance of laugh out loud moments, hurt moments, romantic moments and backstory resulting in one really good read.
Frankie is another one of my favorite heroines. Tough, no nonsense, funny and charismatic. Austin was sweet, sexy, broody (for good reason) and emotionally balanced. (None of that caveman BS here. And even if, Frankie would never fall for it!)
When she returns to repair her Nana's home and put it up for sale, she didn't expect her childhood best friend and first love to be at his home next door. When a loud late night party sends Frankie next door to ask him to quiet down, she realizes that Austin hates her. Hurt but angry, she decides to sabotage his party... And oh does she ever get them good!! And this act starts a prank war between the two that last through the summer. The pranking was BRILLIANT!!!
Of course they have loads of baggage and hurt feelings between them. Austin feels hurt and betrayal, but also a need to understand why she did what she did. While Frankie tries to wrestle with letting him in on her big secret. (Its predictable... but meh!) Bottom line is, they still long for each other.
I say no more! If you want to know how that hot summer progresses between these two lost lovers, you'll have to read it.
Personally this is one of my new favorites. I don't hand out 4 stars easily. I would have handed it 5 if the HEA was a little bit longer and the resolution between Austin and his mother would have been more satisfying.
September 21, 2017
I hope you enjoy Frankie and Austin's pranks as much as I enjoyed writing them.
October 2, 2017
"If you want a war, you’ve got one, sweetheart.”
New-to-me author, Christine Manzari, made my heart skip all over the damn place with book three in her Hearts of Stone Series! In this interconnected contemporary romance standalone, we are introduced to Frankie DiGorgio, our feisty and bold heroine - and Austin Stone, our broken hero with a HUGE chip on this shoulder. Frankie returns to her hometown only to find the boy she fell in love with years ago, has returned as well. Neighbors once again, these two quickly figure out that pranking each other is a good icebreaker - but paintball shots and ridiculously loud music is the least of their problems. Broken trust, secrets, and heavy questions hang between these two childhood sweethearts. They just have to surrender to each other long enough to pick up all the pieces of their still shattered hearts.
”Sometimes you lose something you love. And sometimes you find a love you didn’t know you were missing.”
There was so much beauty and heartbreak weaved between the words of this friends-to-lovers/enemies-to-lovers romance. Ms. Manzari was bold in her choice of coupling. It was unique and it worked so well. The chemistry was on point, and the push/pull dynamic was a thing of beauty. The hate/love attraction was charming, heart wrenching, and entertaining. The hatred that Austin felt towards Frankie was palpable, but underneath the tough facade, you could tell that the love was still deep between these two. They both had their reasons for walking away, and sometimes a fresh start is what is needed to put things into perspective. It gave them time to grow, time to break, and time to find their way back to one another.
”It had become clear that falling out of love with Frankie was impossible. Falling more in love with her was the only choice I’d ever had.”
This was a FANTASTIC first impression of an author that I will certainly want more from. Being that this is book three of the series, and the first one I’ve read in the series, I had no issues reading it as a standalone. I am also excited to go back and start from the beginning, because Christine Manzari has quickly made me fall in love with her writing. If you haven’t discovered this author yet, trust me, you need to grab a copy of this book, or any book in this series and I just know you will fall hard, just like I have.
New-to-me author, Christine Manzari, made my heart skip all over the damn place with book three in her Hearts of Stone Series! In this interconnected contemporary romance standalone, we are introduced to Frankie DiGorgio, our feisty and bold heroine - and Austin Stone, our broken hero with a HUGE chip on this shoulder. Frankie returns to her hometown only to find the boy she fell in love with years ago, has returned as well. Neighbors once again, these two quickly figure out that pranking each other is a good icebreaker - but paintball shots and ridiculously loud music is the least of their problems. Broken trust, secrets, and heavy questions hang between these two childhood sweethearts. They just have to surrender to each other long enough to pick up all the pieces of their still shattered hearts.
”Sometimes you lose something you love. And sometimes you find a love you didn’t know you were missing.”
There was so much beauty and heartbreak weaved between the words of this friends-to-lovers/enemies-to-lovers romance. Ms. Manzari was bold in her choice of coupling. It was unique and it worked so well. The chemistry was on point, and the push/pull dynamic was a thing of beauty. The hate/love attraction was charming, heart wrenching, and entertaining. The hatred that Austin felt towards Frankie was palpable, but underneath the tough facade, you could tell that the love was still deep between these two. They both had their reasons for walking away, and sometimes a fresh start is what is needed to put things into perspective. It gave them time to grow, time to break, and time to find their way back to one another.
”It had become clear that falling out of love with Frankie was impossible. Falling more in love with her was the only choice I’d ever had.”
This was a FANTASTIC first impression of an author that I will certainly want more from. Being that this is book three of the series, and the first one I’ve read in the series, I had no issues reading it as a standalone. I am also excited to go back and start from the beginning, because Christine Manzari has quickly made me fall in love with her writing. If you haven’t discovered this author yet, trust me, you need to grab a copy of this book, or any book in this series and I just know you will fall hard, just like I have.
September 15, 2017
Frankie DiGorgio was the tomboy sister with three older brothers. Brought up by her mother and then by her nan whilst her ne'er do well father spent most of her life in prison for one con after another she was the original girl from the wrong side of the tracks. Her great passions were dirt bike riding and Austin Stone.
Growing up, Frankie's BFF was Austin the boy next door, a nerdy cello-playing musical prodigy who, with his twin brother Dallas went on to win a talent show and took their duelling cellos act to a sell out Vegas show. Austin and Dallas' mother was your typical pushy mom and she hated Frankie. Over the years their opposites attract friendship turned into first love, but something happened on the night of the premiere of Austin's show in Vegas which changed everything.
Four years later Frankie returns to her nana's home in Texas for the first time since Vegas, nana is in a nursing home and the family has made the decision to sell her house to pay for the best treatment they can. Beset by the memories of the past, Frankie is surprised to find that Austin has moved back into his family's home. Tortured by the secrets she has kept Frankie can't help but be attracted to the man her first love has become. But Austin is bitter and angry, lashing out at her. Does she have the courgae to tell him the truth about that night four years ago?
Told in a mixture of present day and out of sequence flashbacks from both Frankie and Austin's POV this was a surprisingly enjoyable NA second-chance romance. I say surprisingly because at first Frankie came across as too brash, she also indulged in just a leetle bit of slut shaming (or at least calling total strangers sluts just because they were flirting with Austin). Also Frankie became a little self-righteous and claimed that Austin didn't deserve to know the sacrifice she had made for him whereas even at that early stage in the book I suspected his attitude was a direct result of what she had done. There was also a cringe-worthy moment for me when Austin described himself thus
As a devotee of romance I didn't think that Frankie's big sacrifice/ secret was all that much of a surprise, maybe it wasn't meant to be, although then why tell the story through flashbacks?
What I did love about this book which elevated above the rest of the run-of-the-mill NA genre was the pranking. As a chid Frankie would get even with people who slighted her by pulling a monumental prank. Now, faced with packing up a family home full of memories with a hostile former lover next door she resorts to pranking Austin. as the tit-for-tat pranking escalates Austin and Frankie start to unravel their issues from the past.
This is the third book in a series, I haven't read any of the others and I felt this was easy to read as a stand alone.
I received a free copy of this book from the publisher via NetGalley in return for an honest review.
Growing up, Frankie's BFF was Austin the boy next door, a nerdy cello-playing musical prodigy who, with his twin brother Dallas went on to win a talent show and took their duelling cellos act to a sell out Vegas show. Austin and Dallas' mother was your typical pushy mom and she hated Frankie. Over the years their opposites attract friendship turned into first love, but something happened on the night of the premiere of Austin's show in Vegas which changed everything.
Four years later Frankie returns to her nana's home in Texas for the first time since Vegas, nana is in a nursing home and the family has made the decision to sell her house to pay for the best treatment they can. Beset by the memories of the past, Frankie is surprised to find that Austin has moved back into his family's home. Tortured by the secrets she has kept Frankie can't help but be attracted to the man her first love has become. But Austin is bitter and angry, lashing out at her. Does she have the courgae to tell him the truth about that night four years ago?
Told in a mixture of present day and out of sequence flashbacks from both Frankie and Austin's POV this was a surprisingly enjoyable NA second-chance romance. I say surprisingly because at first Frankie came across as too brash, she also indulged in just a leetle bit of slut shaming (or at least calling total strangers sluts just because they were flirting with Austin). Also Frankie became a little self-righteous and claimed that Austin didn't deserve to know the sacrifice she had made for him whereas even at that early stage in the book I suspected his attitude was a direct result of what she had done. There was also a cringe-worthy moment for me when Austin described himself thus
"Need some help?" I asked, my voice a low growl of amusement.I mean really who EVER describes their own voice like that? But these were minor niggles. Luckily, as with many other NA books, Frankie's 'attitude' toned down a bit as the book went on and it became much more enjoyable as a result.
As a devotee of romance I didn't think that Frankie's big sacrifice/ secret was all that much of a surprise, maybe it wasn't meant to be, although then why tell the story through flashbacks?
What I did love about this book which elevated above the rest of the run-of-the-mill NA genre was the pranking. As a chid Frankie would get even with people who slighted her by pulling a monumental prank. Now, faced with packing up a family home full of memories with a hostile former lover next door she resorts to pranking Austin. as the tit-for-tat pranking escalates Austin and Frankie start to unravel their issues from the past.
This is the third book in a series, I haven't read any of the others and I felt this was easy to read as a stand alone.
I received a free copy of this book from the publisher via NetGalley in return for an honest review.
September 17, 2017
I thoroughly enjoyed every word of this story, from the first to the last. It was hilarious and heart-wrenching. The story of two former friends and lovers finding their way back to each other just flowed and took me right along. Loved the heroine because she was always on equal footing with the hero - without having to prove herself to anyone. It was simply her. What a story! Absolutely loved it.
***I received an ARC for this book from NetGalley.***
***I received an ARC for this book from NetGalley.***
August 31, 2017
Manzari has done it again. This is my favorite read of hers to date. The humor, sexual tension, and chemistry between Frankie and Austin is off the charts! Trust me and pick up this fabulous romance. You won't be sorry!
December 17, 2017
I received a copy via Net Galley and voluntarily left a review
Nothing gets my motor running like a second chance romance, something about the characters already knowing each other so immensely and passion smoldering all over again, it just does it for me. Throw in a new to me author and characters who were best friends and now are involved in a prank war, and you have me transfixed and ready to pop some popcorn and have the characters get down to business! Soon Frankie and Austin had me engrossed in their paint slinging, glitter throwing, boxer stealing shenanigans and cackling like a fool all while burning up from their pent up sexual tension.
Frankie DiGorgio is my kind of heroine, with dirt in her hair and under her nails and her tomboy tendencies. I love a girl with a bad ass attitude and smart mouth to match and Frankie has it in spades! I already had a girl crush from the beginning but when Christine gave us glimpses into Frankie's confidence crushing, pride bruising past, I couldn't help but fall harder for this girl with a passion for dirt bikes and the nerdy next door neighbor. Her spirit shines brighter than all the stars in the sky and I can see why Austin loves her so fiercely and would protect her at all cost, even after his love turns to hate.
Austin Stone is still a nerd wrapped in a muscular body that has reached celebrity status. He has a talent of playing the cello and Frankie's heart strings to the point of beauty and tears. Austin had me intrigued by all his contradictions and his obsessive need to hate Frankie and protect his heart from her since she broke it years ago in Las Vegas. He gambled with his love for her and lost and he will never let her forget it. The more I got to know of the quiet, sedate boy behind the cello who always wore his feelings on his sleeve for the girl next door with skinned knees, the more he won me over and owned my heart right along with Frankie's.
Christine Manzari delivers a laugh inducing, heat building love story that is sure to have you stoking the flames and keep you consumed with humor. I highly recommend Hated for a second chance at love that contains all the fun and passion that a reader could ask for. Now having experienced Christine's remarkable story telling skills and fantastic characters, I can't wait to start at the beginning of The Heart of Stone series and find more of her fictional couples to laugh and love with.
Nothing gets my motor running like a second chance romance, something about the characters already knowing each other so immensely and passion smoldering all over again, it just does it for me. Throw in a new to me author and characters who were best friends and now are involved in a prank war, and you have me transfixed and ready to pop some popcorn and have the characters get down to business! Soon Frankie and Austin had me engrossed in their paint slinging, glitter throwing, boxer stealing shenanigans and cackling like a fool all while burning up from their pent up sexual tension.
Frankie DiGorgio is my kind of heroine, with dirt in her hair and under her nails and her tomboy tendencies. I love a girl with a bad ass attitude and smart mouth to match and Frankie has it in spades! I already had a girl crush from the beginning but when Christine gave us glimpses into Frankie's confidence crushing, pride bruising past, I couldn't help but fall harder for this girl with a passion for dirt bikes and the nerdy next door neighbor. Her spirit shines brighter than all the stars in the sky and I can see why Austin loves her so fiercely and would protect her at all cost, even after his love turns to hate.
Austin Stone is still a nerd wrapped in a muscular body that has reached celebrity status. He has a talent of playing the cello and Frankie's heart strings to the point of beauty and tears. Austin had me intrigued by all his contradictions and his obsessive need to hate Frankie and protect his heart from her since she broke it years ago in Las Vegas. He gambled with his love for her and lost and he will never let her forget it. The more I got to know of the quiet, sedate boy behind the cello who always wore his feelings on his sleeve for the girl next door with skinned knees, the more he won me over and owned my heart right along with Frankie's.
Christine Manzari delivers a laugh inducing, heat building love story that is sure to have you stoking the flames and keep you consumed with humor. I highly recommend Hated for a second chance at love that contains all the fun and passion that a reader could ask for. Now having experienced Christine's remarkable story telling skills and fantastic characters, I can't wait to start at the beginning of The Heart of Stone series and find more of her fictional couples to laugh and love with.
September 18, 2017
This is the first book I’ve read by this author. I kind of went about it backwards and read book number 3 first. At least it can be read as a standalone so I didn’t spoil the other books for myself!
This was a really enjoyable second chance romance.
The book starts off with Frankie going back home for the summer to fix up and the house she grew up in. What she wasn’t expecting was to find Austin Stone, her childhood crush and first love living in his old house next door. It’s clear from their first reunion that something bad happened between them, and Austin is none too happy to see Frankie again. What ensues from there is a prank war that had me chuckling like crazy!
The book had a little bit of everything humour, angst, secrets, deceit, betrayal and love.
As I said, this is my first book by this author and I thoroughly enjoyed it. The writing was flawless, the story engaging and the characters likeable and relatable. I have just downloaded Hooked and Hitched and can’t wait to get started on them!
4.5 stars!
*copy received via netgalley*
This was a really enjoyable second chance romance.
The book starts off with Frankie going back home for the summer to fix up and the house she grew up in. What she wasn’t expecting was to find Austin Stone, her childhood crush and first love living in his old house next door. It’s clear from their first reunion that something bad happened between them, and Austin is none too happy to see Frankie again. What ensues from there is a prank war that had me chuckling like crazy!
The book had a little bit of everything humour, angst, secrets, deceit, betrayal and love.
As I said, this is my first book by this author and I thoroughly enjoyed it. The writing was flawless, the story engaging and the characters likeable and relatable. I have just downloaded Hooked and Hitched and can’t wait to get started on them!
4.5 stars!
*copy received via netgalley*
September 5, 2017
Originally posted on NallaReads
Ok so I came in at book 3 on this series but I SO don't regret a THING! This book has it all! Angst (soo much angst!), romance, past loves, a RIDICULOUSLY AMAZING TWIST, heartbreak of the good and bad kind. JUST LOVE IT ALL! Hated will give you the second chance romance that will refresh you love of happy ever afters.
Frankie is back in her family home after spending years away. The memories that come back to her of her young love, Austin, threaten to break her heart all over again. So when she finds out that he's also back home, and next door again, she believes there could be another chance at closure. As Austin and Frankie begin to mold back into their ways of teenage prank wars there's an obvious learning curve as they've both grown and changed as adults.
I loved these two so much. Alongside the dual POV we get to see flashbacks of them when they first met. As the story progresses so does their history until we come to the twist that tore them apart years ago. There is a slow progression in this tale but its is worth every word. You can feel all the tension as Austin tries to learn what made Frankie run all those years ago and it will have you craving more and more!
Ok so I came in at book 3 on this series but I SO don't regret a THING! This book has it all! Angst (soo much angst!), romance, past loves, a RIDICULOUSLY AMAZING TWIST, heartbreak of the good and bad kind. JUST LOVE IT ALL! Hated will give you the second chance romance that will refresh you love of happy ever afters.
Frankie is back in her family home after spending years away. The memories that come back to her of her young love, Austin, threaten to break her heart all over again. So when she finds out that he's also back home, and next door again, she believes there could be another chance at closure. As Austin and Frankie begin to mold back into their ways of teenage prank wars there's an obvious learning curve as they've both grown and changed as adults.
I loved these two so much. Alongside the dual POV we get to see flashbacks of them when they first met. As the story progresses so does their history until we come to the twist that tore them apart years ago. There is a slow progression in this tale but its is worth every word. You can feel all the tension as Austin tries to learn what made Frankie run all those years ago and it will have you craving more and more!
September 12, 2017
Hated is an amazing second chance love story. It is well written with POV from both Frankie and Austin, and the story also describes past and present time. The whole story is heartbreaking, emotionally and also funny with their prank war. I really like it. Both Frankie and Austin are developed with a lot of baggage and pain. The story unfolds with each page you read and you can stop it until you figure out what will happen, how will it end. RECOMMENDED; HIGHLY!
I volunteered to review an ARC of this book for Netgelly
I volunteered to review an ARC of this book for Netgelly
September 7, 2017
This was a great young adult-ish, second chance romance. Frankie and Austin are perfect for each other and have been best friends and lovers until childhood, but they grow apart after one fateful night... the plot was predictable but still enjoyable, and my heart really broke for Austin's twin brother Dallas. "You're not a goddess... You are my future. My muse." This book definitely had some great heartfelt, swoon-worthy moments!!
January 23, 2018
I started (and finished) the third book, Hated, in the Hearts of Stone trilogy and seriously loved it! It’s such a great hate to love, second chance romance and obviously couldn’t put it down once I picked it up
Now I’m just sad I don’t have any more to read! I still think Hooked was my favorite of the three. But I really enjoyed them all.
Now I’m just sad I don’t have any more to read! I still think Hooked was my favorite of the three. But I really enjoyed them all.
October 16, 2017
This was such a great read! This book has everything I could want -- hilarious pranks, a fierce female lead, romance and LOTS of swearing! I had no idea what to expect going into reading this one and I was so immersed in the story of Frankie and Austin that I read the whole thing straight through!
What I appreciated the most about this story was that the author was true to the characters personalities when writing the dialogue. She doesn't shy away from using profanity or innuendo which was refreshing to see because this is how I know people to speak in day to day life. Not shying away from harsh language brought these characters to life in a way that another author may have missed the mark trying to use subtlety. I felt like I could easily be friends with the two leads in this story and that's exactly how I want to connect with main characters when I read!
I may be a little biased in my feelings towards this book because the storyline follows a relationship dynamic that is eerily similar to my personal experience with my high-school boyfriend/best friend. Reading this story I felt incredibly moved and connected to the characters, reliving my own memories along with Frankie and Austin as they remembered moments from their past that had led up to their current problematic and distant relationship. Frankie's situation with her father, her need to step up and take responsibility to care for other family members, and her choice to spare Austin's future by walking away from him is something that utterly broke my heart reading it. It's all to real for me and I completely felt the emotions these characters felt.
While it was real for me, I also believe this is a testament to Manzari's skills as an author. The narrative style of incorporating flashbacks with present day situations was a brilliant way for readers to learn more about Frankie and Austin's past while simultaneously falling in love as they fell in love. You're exposed to the deepening of their relationship in pieces and you start to feel the strain of those memories with the characters as the plot continues to get tangled up into drunken mistakes, uncertain feelings, protective instincts and general confusion as these two face the un-answered questions from their past.
If you're a fan of honest characters who are unapologetically raw, real and vulnerable, this is a great read for you! There is a great balance of sexual tension and truly heart warming moments, with underlying problems and uncertainty all leading up to the reveal of a buried secret that could make or break a relationship. I absolutely loved this book and can't wait to read more of her books!
What I appreciated the most about this story was that the author was true to the characters personalities when writing the dialogue. She doesn't shy away from using profanity or innuendo which was refreshing to see because this is how I know people to speak in day to day life. Not shying away from harsh language brought these characters to life in a way that another author may have missed the mark trying to use subtlety. I felt like I could easily be friends with the two leads in this story and that's exactly how I want to connect with main characters when I read!
I may be a little biased in my feelings towards this book because the storyline follows a relationship dynamic that is eerily similar to my personal experience with my high-school boyfriend/best friend. Reading this story I felt incredibly moved and connected to the characters, reliving my own memories along with Frankie and Austin as they remembered moments from their past that had led up to their current problematic and distant relationship. Frankie's situation with her father, her need to step up and take responsibility to care for other family members, and her choice to spare Austin's future by walking away from him is something that utterly broke my heart reading it. It's all to real for me and I completely felt the emotions these characters felt.
While it was real for me, I also believe this is a testament to Manzari's skills as an author. The narrative style of incorporating flashbacks with present day situations was a brilliant way for readers to learn more about Frankie and Austin's past while simultaneously falling in love as they fell in love. You're exposed to the deepening of their relationship in pieces and you start to feel the strain of those memories with the characters as the plot continues to get tangled up into drunken mistakes, uncertain feelings, protective instincts and general confusion as these two face the un-answered questions from their past.
If you're a fan of honest characters who are unapologetically raw, real and vulnerable, this is a great read for you! There is a great balance of sexual tension and truly heart warming moments, with underlying problems and uncertainty all leading up to the reveal of a buried secret that could make or break a relationship. I absolutely loved this book and can't wait to read more of her books!
September 12, 2017
**Arc provided by author for an honest review**
There is a thin line between love and hate, isn’t that what they say? In Hated, the third installment in the Hearts of Stone series by Christine Manzari, Frankie and Austin put this theory to the test. A story of best friends and first love destroyed by secrets and mistakes.
Frankie captivates Austin, a musical prodigy, from the moment she snaps her gum in his face. They become best friends, completely inseparable, they share everything, until Austin’s career takes off. Frankie runs, leaving Austin behind, and taking her secrets with her.
Four years later, Frankie is home for the summer and by fate so is Austin. Their rekindled friendship is strenuous at first, but they are soon back to their old pranks. Everything is fun and games until a secret unfolds, proving how close love and hate are. A secret that may tear them apart forever. Will they be able to cross that line back to love, or will hate destroy everything they had?
This book kept me on my toes with each page. I was crying for their love, screaming in agony at the hate, and laughing so hard at the pranks they pulled. This book was fun and yet it was steamy. It was the perfect balance of both and kept me engaged with the story.
My favorite part of the book and one that is dear to my heart is the use of the Maryland flag, which is given as a gift to Austin before he embarks on his musical journey. This line warmed my heart and soul because I know how prideful people of Maryland are of their flag. You can feel the sense of pride just in this short snippet.
“Not just any keychain,” I explained. “It’s the Maryland flag. So you will always know where home is."
“We do have the best flag, all the other states are jealous.”
This book hurts so good in all the right places, you will not want to put it down. FIVE love/hate stars!
There is a thin line between love and hate, isn’t that what they say? In Hated, the third installment in the Hearts of Stone series by Christine Manzari, Frankie and Austin put this theory to the test. A story of best friends and first love destroyed by secrets and mistakes.
Frankie captivates Austin, a musical prodigy, from the moment she snaps her gum in his face. They become best friends, completely inseparable, they share everything, until Austin’s career takes off. Frankie runs, leaving Austin behind, and taking her secrets with her.
Four years later, Frankie is home for the summer and by fate so is Austin. Their rekindled friendship is strenuous at first, but they are soon back to their old pranks. Everything is fun and games until a secret unfolds, proving how close love and hate are. A secret that may tear them apart forever. Will they be able to cross that line back to love, or will hate destroy everything they had?
This book kept me on my toes with each page. I was crying for their love, screaming in agony at the hate, and laughing so hard at the pranks they pulled. This book was fun and yet it was steamy. It was the perfect balance of both and kept me engaged with the story.
My favorite part of the book and one that is dear to my heart is the use of the Maryland flag, which is given as a gift to Austin before he embarks on his musical journey. This line warmed my heart and soul because I know how prideful people of Maryland are of their flag. You can feel the sense of pride just in this short snippet.
“Not just any keychain,” I explained. “It’s the Maryland flag. So you will always know where home is."
“We do have the best flag, all the other states are jealous.”
This book hurts so good in all the right places, you will not want to put it down. FIVE love/hate stars!
October 1, 2017
Every story in this series has been a huge 5* read for me, and if the Hearts of Stone series would be a never-ending one, I'll read every single one of them.
Frankie and Austin's story was as sweet as it was sexy, as witty as it was heartbreaking. With a perfect doze of everything; humor, angst, chemistry, hate, friendship and love, and the author's solid writing, this was a book I thoroughly enjoyed from start to finish and would recommend to everyone.
Frankie and Austin's story was as sweet as it was sexy, as witty as it was heartbreaking. With a perfect doze of everything; humor, angst, chemistry, hate, friendship and love, and the author's solid writing, this was a book I thoroughly enjoyed from start to finish and would recommend to everyone.
October 9, 2017
So this book was actually better than i thought and i enjoyed the pranks they did on one another lol. Also Loved how tough the main character was she was badass though...but that twist shocked me and it was so heartbreaking this book made me cry alot lol but he was so sweet that it had me clutching my chest like my feels i cant take this. I think it had a lovely ending.
September 22, 2017
Awesome add to the series. Frankie and Austin have a rough past with years apart. They are thrown together by circumstance and have to finally face each other, as much as they might hate each other there is a thin line between love and hate. Can't wait for the next.
February 1, 2018
Ahh…the feel of being young and in love. When you’re seventeen the whole world is at your feet and you just know you’re going to love and marry the boy next door. He’s been there for your entire life and you cannot imagine are you are going to end up with someone else. Life gets in the way you become an adult and you drifted apart. Both of you have your own lives and go your separate ways. You love and care for new people. But what happens when fate brings you back together now that you are adults? What happens when the boy next door turns into the man of your dreams? Well if you’re Frankie DiGorgio you make the best of the situation and turn a summer full of hard labor into a labor of love!
The Breakdown:
Even though this book was third in a series, I found that you could read it as a standalone and not have missed anything crucial. We all know that one boy that held our hearts when we didn’t know what love was and then something happened and all your dreams of marrying the boy next door or in your small town don’t come true. But unfortunately for Frankie in Austin, their path led to them not being fond of each other afterlife got in their way. So in Frankie has to move back home to fix up her house and finds Austin next-door they soon revert to their old ways – pranking each other! Only now it’s more intense because they’re adults have more opportunities to plotted out. Even though Austin seems to hold his hatred first and foremost for Frankie, her quick wit and hilarious personality soon start to win him over even if it is against his will.
The author does a fantastic job of building a world that is easy to fall into and characters that are easy to love. Her style of writing is fine and flirty and I didn’t want the book to end. There’s also a great deal of sexual tension and plot build that will leave the reader breathless.
The Characters Whom I Fell In Love With!
Frankie was the best heroine of any romance book that I have read thus far this year. I could easily relate to her sarcastic and prank-filled ways! I easily could relate to all of the angst and the feeling that come up when you’re first true love resurfaces in your life. All of the hurt, the secrets, and the pain are hard to edge out so it was great to see Frankie using her pranks to further heal her heart. I quickly found that I had a huge girl crush on Frankie and wanted to be her very best friend!
Then there’s Austin- I need a fan because its hot in here! Every time there’s a hot male nerd in a romance story, I find that they quickly become my new book boyfriend! Austin is the exact opposite of Frankie which is what makes them so attracted to each other. While she is extroverted and full of life, Austin is quiet and reserved and holds more patients than any one man should be able to.
Conclusion:
I think the story hit home for me because I was in a similar situation as Frankie and Austin with my first true love. We grew up next to each other and quickly became best friends. I also thought that would be my forever, but fate wasn’t so kind to our love. Which looking back is okay! I’m happy that I’m not a part of their train wreck of a life! So, reading about Frankie and Austin really help me come full circle and imagine what it could’ve been like had life being kinder to the both of us.
I would recommend this book to anyone who is a huge fan of romance and of finding your way through the heartache and pain to find your happily ever after.
Thank you so much, NetGalley and to the author Christine Manzarie for approving this binge-worthy book for me to read! I was not disappointed!
The Breakdown:
Even though this book was third in a series, I found that you could read it as a standalone and not have missed anything crucial. We all know that one boy that held our hearts when we didn’t know what love was and then something happened and all your dreams of marrying the boy next door or in your small town don’t come true. But unfortunately for Frankie in Austin, their path led to them not being fond of each other afterlife got in their way. So in Frankie has to move back home to fix up her house and finds Austin next-door they soon revert to their old ways – pranking each other! Only now it’s more intense because they’re adults have more opportunities to plotted out. Even though Austin seems to hold his hatred first and foremost for Frankie, her quick wit and hilarious personality soon start to win him over even if it is against his will.
The author does a fantastic job of building a world that is easy to fall into and characters that are easy to love. Her style of writing is fine and flirty and I didn’t want the book to end. There’s also a great deal of sexual tension and plot build that will leave the reader breathless.
The Characters Whom I Fell In Love With!
Frankie was the best heroine of any romance book that I have read thus far this year. I could easily relate to her sarcastic and prank-filled ways! I easily could relate to all of the angst and the feeling that come up when you’re first true love resurfaces in your life. All of the hurt, the secrets, and the pain are hard to edge out so it was great to see Frankie using her pranks to further heal her heart. I quickly found that I had a huge girl crush on Frankie and wanted to be her very best friend!
Then there’s Austin- I need a fan because its hot in here! Every time there’s a hot male nerd in a romance story, I find that they quickly become my new book boyfriend! Austin is the exact opposite of Frankie which is what makes them so attracted to each other. While she is extroverted and full of life, Austin is quiet and reserved and holds more patients than any one man should be able to.
Conclusion:
I think the story hit home for me because I was in a similar situation as Frankie and Austin with my first true love. We grew up next to each other and quickly became best friends. I also thought that would be my forever, but fate wasn’t so kind to our love. Which looking back is okay! I’m happy that I’m not a part of their train wreck of a life! So, reading about Frankie and Austin really help me come full circle and imagine what it could’ve been like had life being kinder to the both of us.
I would recommend this book to anyone who is a huge fan of romance and of finding your way through the heartache and pain to find your happily ever after.
Thank you so much, NetGalley and to the author Christine Manzarie for approving this binge-worthy book for me to read! I was not disappointed!
October 16, 2017
Hated is the perfect kind of NA read that doesn't come around too often. I've found with NA I either get children who act as if they're still young teens - immature, spiteful and bratty or would be adults who act as if they think they're mature and try to embody what they think adults are. But, Hated is different. Sure Austin and Frankie are young, and have youthful energy and even act somewhat immature at times. Hello, their prank wars are classic teen behavior, but oh so funny and witty! But, at their core, they are just themselves in a refreshing way. Considering that they were once best friends, and first loves, they can be themselves with each other. There's no trying to be someone else here. No hiding things (with the exception of Frankie's big, pretty predictable, secret). They're just themselves and I appreciate that.
Frankie and Austin were once best friends, best friends who became lovers, first loves. She was the sweet tomboy with older brothers, and he was the twin, nerdy cello playing prodigy. 4 years ago he and his twin left for an important performance in Vegas, but Frankie never showed up. Now in the present, she's happy, but sad, to see that Austin has moved back into his childhood home next to her nana's home, the home she's back in, fixing it up to sell in order to pay for nana's nursing home care. When she hears loud music one night and she goes next door to ask him to keep it down, she's surprised (not really) to see that Austin hates her. When she reacts by pranking him, the war is on and things will never be the same for them. As secrets come out, can Austin ever forgive Frankie? Can they move past the secret and the betrayal by one of the people who should have had his back, and make a relationship work?
I'll admit Frankie's secret was pretty predictable, but the way it's handled is flawless. And both Frankie and Austin's reactions were spot on for their age and their circumstances. There's a touch of angst here, after all, it is NA fiction, but nothing too OTT, a lot of funny, and the sexual tension between the two is so thick you could cut it with a knife. Waiting for it to explode was delicious. And when it did spark? Whew! If you like your NA romances with sassy, sweet, independent heroines, broody, sexy heroes and prank wars to keep you laughing, I highly recommend you 1 click Hated today!
I received an ARC via NetGalley for an honest review.
Frankie and Austin were once best friends, best friends who became lovers, first loves. She was the sweet tomboy with older brothers, and he was the twin, nerdy cello playing prodigy. 4 years ago he and his twin left for an important performance in Vegas, but Frankie never showed up. Now in the present, she's happy, but sad, to see that Austin has moved back into his childhood home next to her nana's home, the home she's back in, fixing it up to sell in order to pay for nana's nursing home care. When she hears loud music one night and she goes next door to ask him to keep it down, she's surprised (not really) to see that Austin hates her. When she reacts by pranking him, the war is on and things will never be the same for them. As secrets come out, can Austin ever forgive Frankie? Can they move past the secret and the betrayal by one of the people who should have had his back, and make a relationship work?
I'll admit Frankie's secret was pretty predictable, but the way it's handled is flawless. And both Frankie and Austin's reactions were spot on for their age and their circumstances. There's a touch of angst here, after all, it is NA fiction, but nothing too OTT, a lot of funny, and the sexual tension between the two is so thick you could cut it with a knife. Waiting for it to explode was delicious. And when it did spark? Whew! If you like your NA romances with sassy, sweet, independent heroines, broody, sexy heroes and prank wars to keep you laughing, I highly recommend you 1 click Hated today!
I received an ARC via NetGalley for an honest review.
October 10, 2017
* I received an ebook from the author, but that in no way affects my review or opinions. *
This book is listed as book #3 in the series, but it can be read as a stand-alone. The author is great about not having the reader have to start with book 1 (although, you SHOULD, because they are AMAZING). I have read ALL of author Christine Manzari's books and I love each one more and more! She writes in several different genres, several different series but they all have one thing in common, her love of writing! The author's heart and soul comes straight through the pages of her books and the reader can tell that she loves what she does.
This book is about Frankie and Austin (Who we briefly meet in other books). They were best friends, childhood sweethearts and each other's soul mates...until one day Frankie just disappeared...Austin never forgot about her and she never forgot about him. When Frankie goes back to her childhood home to fix it up to sell she runs into Austin and the past is no longer the past for either of them. Can they figure out how to move on from the past or will they be destined to be apart? Can love really fix everything?
The reader becomes fully invested in the characters, the story and the outcome. The reader will laugh, cry, yell and scream all while never being able to figure out what is going to happen next. The author does have a lighter side to the upset when Frankie and Austin continue with their childhood prank wars...just when you think that the book is too sad - Bam - a confetti filled helmet happens!
You will be on a roller coaster ride of emotions while reading this author and you will be going to get the next book in the series as soon as you finish because you won't be ready to leave the world that author Christine Manzari creates for us. If you haven't read this author yet, you are missing out! Go grab this one or any other one of her books because they will quickly become your favorite! This author is a MUST read!
**Review has been done in conjunction with Nerd Girl Official. For more information regarding our reviews please visit our Fansite: www.facebook.com/NerdGirl.ng **
This book is listed as book #3 in the series, but it can be read as a stand-alone. The author is great about not having the reader have to start with book 1 (although, you SHOULD, because they are AMAZING). I have read ALL of author Christine Manzari's books and I love each one more and more! She writes in several different genres, several different series but they all have one thing in common, her love of writing! The author's heart and soul comes straight through the pages of her books and the reader can tell that she loves what she does.
This book is about Frankie and Austin (Who we briefly meet in other books). They were best friends, childhood sweethearts and each other's soul mates...until one day Frankie just disappeared...Austin never forgot about her and she never forgot about him. When Frankie goes back to her childhood home to fix it up to sell she runs into Austin and the past is no longer the past for either of them. Can they figure out how to move on from the past or will they be destined to be apart? Can love really fix everything?
The reader becomes fully invested in the characters, the story and the outcome. The reader will laugh, cry, yell and scream all while never being able to figure out what is going to happen next. The author does have a lighter side to the upset when Frankie and Austin continue with their childhood prank wars...just when you think that the book is too sad - Bam - a confetti filled helmet happens!
You will be on a roller coaster ride of emotions while reading this author and you will be going to get the next book in the series as soon as you finish because you won't be ready to leave the world that author Christine Manzari creates for us. If you haven't read this author yet, you are missing out! Go grab this one or any other one of her books because they will quickly become your favorite! This author is a MUST read!
**Review has been done in conjunction with Nerd Girl Official. For more information regarding our reviews please visit our Fansite: www.facebook.com/NerdGirl.ng **
September 15, 2017
Hated is an interesting and amusing read of two old friends reunite after years of separation. Throughout a good portion of the book, I kept wondering what kind of betrayal took place that made these two best friends no longer speak to each other.
The way the two characters interact after not seeing each other for four years amused and frustrated me. The lack of communication between Austin and Frankie is frustrating. Too many years wasted over secrets. The secret was very drawn out and revealed far into the story. I wish it would have come up sooner. It is amusing that no matter how angry they were with each other, the prank wars they had to relieve their anger, get a reaction, and to actually feel always put a smile on my face.
The first chapter of the story was difficult for me to get into. It was a lot to set up the setting and story line about who Frankie and Austin were as children. By chapter two, I was curious to what happened between the two characters. As the story went on, the more and more I felt invested in their lives and wanting to know how everything works out between Frankie and Austin.
Frankie is outspoken, independent, and determined. I love her personality. No matter how hard things got, Frankie kept doing what she thinks is best for the other person. Her witty comebacks were my favorite.
Austin seems angry at first, but the anger doesn't seem to last long. It doesn't feel like it comes off as the level of hatred. Even though a lot has changed for Austin, deep down, there are still signs of the Austin described from their childhood.
There are moments in the story that are emotional. There were at least two times that I cried while reading this story due to what happened to some of the characters. It made me hope for the best for the characters even more.
Overall, Hated is a good read that's both amusing and emotional.
I received Hated as an Advance Reader Copy. All opinions on the story is my own.
The way the two characters interact after not seeing each other for four years amused and frustrated me. The lack of communication between Austin and Frankie is frustrating. Too many years wasted over secrets. The secret was very drawn out and revealed far into the story. I wish it would have come up sooner. It is amusing that no matter how angry they were with each other, the prank wars they had to relieve their anger, get a reaction, and to actually feel always put a smile on my face.
The first chapter of the story was difficult for me to get into. It was a lot to set up the setting and story line about who Frankie and Austin were as children. By chapter two, I was curious to what happened between the two characters. As the story went on, the more and more I felt invested in their lives and wanting to know how everything works out between Frankie and Austin.
Frankie is outspoken, independent, and determined. I love her personality. No matter how hard things got, Frankie kept doing what she thinks is best for the other person. Her witty comebacks were my favorite.
Austin seems angry at first, but the anger doesn't seem to last long. It doesn't feel like it comes off as the level of hatred. Even though a lot has changed for Austin, deep down, there are still signs of the Austin described from their childhood.
There are moments in the story that are emotional. There were at least two times that I cried while reading this story due to what happened to some of the characters. It made me hope for the best for the characters even more.
Overall, Hated is a good read that's both amusing and emotional.
I received Hated as an Advance Reader Copy. All opinions on the story is my own.
September 20, 2017
Hated by Christine Manzari didn't completely knock my socks off, but it's engaging and I am always excited to read a new romance.
The two main characters, motocross racer Frankie DiGorgio, and professional cellist Austin Stone, grew up together. They were madly in love by the time they attended high school and were each other's first. Frankie was crushed when Austin and his twin brother Dallas moved out to Las Vegas to bring their magical music to the masses. Austin had no desire to leave, but he did not want to let his sickly brother down. Frankie promised to visit him in Vegas shortly thereafter, but she never made it because Austin's hateful and devious mother had other plans for Austin's future.
Now four years have past and they are living next door to each other once again. Frankie is getting her Nana's house ready for sale, and she has three months to get the repairing and packing completed. Austin recently bought his childhood home from his parents. Seeing each other again brings back many emotions. The hate that Austin still feels is all encompassing. Frankie would love to share her secrets with Austin, but she has no idea how to go about it. They slowly get to know each other again, by reviving stories and creating new pranks.
I liked this book, however I found the pace to be quite slow. The main characters are well-defined and I enjoyed getting to know them intimately, both inside and out. I felt their love for each other deep within my soul. The author created a believable, beyond manipulative character with Austin's mother, which I attribute to great writing. Overall, a solid read.
Complimentary copy provided by the publisher via NetGalley.
The two main characters, motocross racer Frankie DiGorgio, and professional cellist Austin Stone, grew up together. They were madly in love by the time they attended high school and were each other's first. Frankie was crushed when Austin and his twin brother Dallas moved out to Las Vegas to bring their magical music to the masses. Austin had no desire to leave, but he did not want to let his sickly brother down. Frankie promised to visit him in Vegas shortly thereafter, but she never made it because Austin's hateful and devious mother had other plans for Austin's future.
Now four years have past and they are living next door to each other once again. Frankie is getting her Nana's house ready for sale, and she has three months to get the repairing and packing completed. Austin recently bought his childhood home from his parents. Seeing each other again brings back many emotions. The hate that Austin still feels is all encompassing. Frankie would love to share her secrets with Austin, but she has no idea how to go about it. They slowly get to know each other again, by reviving stories and creating new pranks.
I liked this book, however I found the pace to be quite slow. The main characters are well-defined and I enjoyed getting to know them intimately, both inside and out. I felt their love for each other deep within my soul. The author created a believable, beyond manipulative character with Austin's mother, which I attribute to great writing. Overall, a solid read.
Complimentary copy provided by the publisher via NetGalley.
September 27, 2017
"She tasted of sugar, and summer, and bad decisions. And I wanted it all."
Hated, the third book in the Heart of Stone Series, can be read as a stand alone, and i have yet to read the first two books, but definitely plan on adding them to my tbr list.
Hated follows the story of Frankie, who was the girl next door, who had 3 older brothers, and was practically one of the guys. Even though her life wasn't ideal, whenever she fell, she always got right back up swinging. And follows Austin, one half of the twins who lived next door, growing up to be musical prodigies because that was what their mother wanted them to do. The quickly became best friends, which grew into something more.
That was four years ago. Now, Austin was set to hating Frankie- how could she just simply walk away, without an explanation, or even a goodbye?
When they both end up back in their home town at the same time, hate and memories war for dominance. And a prank war insues. But where does that leave them? Is there anything left between them that may be able to be repaired? Or are they too far gone? And how will four years worth of secrets affect what they once had- or may be working towards, if they come to light?
I loved this book. Numerous points i was actually laughing at loud at their ridiculous prank wars, and fun, then moments later my heart aching for what once was to again resurface between them- even if it was just their friendship. Because it was clear they needed, wanted, and deserved each other. I give this book 5⭐ out of 5⭐, and loved reading Frankie and Austin's story.
I received this ARC for my honest review.
Hated, the third book in the Heart of Stone Series, can be read as a stand alone, and i have yet to read the first two books, but definitely plan on adding them to my tbr list.
Hated follows the story of Frankie, who was the girl next door, who had 3 older brothers, and was practically one of the guys. Even though her life wasn't ideal, whenever she fell, she always got right back up swinging. And follows Austin, one half of the twins who lived next door, growing up to be musical prodigies because that was what their mother wanted them to do. The quickly became best friends, which grew into something more.
That was four years ago. Now, Austin was set to hating Frankie- how could she just simply walk away, without an explanation, or even a goodbye?
When they both end up back in their home town at the same time, hate and memories war for dominance. And a prank war insues. But where does that leave them? Is there anything left between them that may be able to be repaired? Or are they too far gone? And how will four years worth of secrets affect what they once had- or may be working towards, if they come to light?
I loved this book. Numerous points i was actually laughing at loud at their ridiculous prank wars, and fun, then moments later my heart aching for what once was to again resurface between them- even if it was just their friendship. Because it was clear they needed, wanted, and deserved each other. I give this book 5⭐ out of 5⭐, and loved reading Frankie and Austin's story.
I received this ARC for my honest review.
December 3, 2017
Frankie & Austin used to be best friends, eventually their friendship evolved into a romance. After a being a no-show at an important event in Austin's life, they fall out of touch with each other. When a family emergency forces Frankie to return to her childhood home, she is surprised to find Austin next door, almost like old times. This time, however, Austin is no longer the boy she left behind in Vegas those years ago.
I haven't read any of the other Hearts of Stone stories, but I can say that "Hated" flowed quite well, and definitely can standalone. The flashbacks throughout give the reader a behind-the-scenes look at the secrets Frankie is hiding and the reasons for doing what she did. The pranks they pulled brought humour to the story line, and acted as a bridge for the pair to begin sorting their issues out. Austin's frustration over Frankie's reappearance & secrets & his own issues & is communicated well, too, allowing the reader to deeply feel grief for all that the pair missed out on.
They make a good pair: the tough girl and the sweet, nerdy, but manly boy from next door. While they go back and forth, there is this pull they have on each other. Austin tells himself he hates her, but the truth is, Frankie is it for him, but will it be good enough when he learns her secrets?
A theme central to the book is hope. Frankie hopes that Austin understands why. Austin hopes that he will be brave enough to totally love again, that he gets to live his dream for once. As we read on, we get what WE hoped for: their HEA.
I voluntarily read & reviewed an ARC of this book, and recommend it wholeheartedly.
I haven't read any of the other Hearts of Stone stories, but I can say that "Hated" flowed quite well, and definitely can standalone. The flashbacks throughout give the reader a behind-the-scenes look at the secrets Frankie is hiding and the reasons for doing what she did. The pranks they pulled brought humour to the story line, and acted as a bridge for the pair to begin sorting their issues out. Austin's frustration over Frankie's reappearance & secrets & his own issues & is communicated well, too, allowing the reader to deeply feel grief for all that the pair missed out on.
They make a good pair: the tough girl and the sweet, nerdy, but manly boy from next door. While they go back and forth, there is this pull they have on each other. Austin tells himself he hates her, but the truth is, Frankie is it for him, but will it be good enough when he learns her secrets?
A theme central to the book is hope. Frankie hopes that Austin understands why. Austin hopes that he will be brave enough to totally love again, that he gets to live his dream for once. As we read on, we get what WE hoped for: their HEA.
I voluntarily read & reviewed an ARC of this book, and recommend it wholeheartedly.
January 21, 2018
Independent Reviewer for Archaeolibrarian - I Dig Good Books!
This was an exceptional read! The characters were fun and real, the plot was intriguing, and the emotions were off the charts! This book was absolutely incredible and I enjoyed every single minute of it!
I would call this book beautifully tragic! Some of the flashbacks were incredibly heart breaking. They felt incredibly real which made it feel like the knife was twisted a little further! That being said, the funny, the charming, and romantic parts of the story were equally as good and left me in chills at times.
Details and descriptions made the book even more realistic. They made the characters seem realistic and made the scenes seem real. They made moments in the book just downright hilarious and made others heart meltingly sweet. They really just added that extra touch to make the book that much better.
I really enjoyed reading this story. I would agree that it can be read as a standalone. I’ve not read any of the other book but at no point was I confused about something in the past. I would read this story again and would recommend it to you as well!
* A copy of this book was provided to me with no requirements for a review. I voluntarily read this book, and my comments here are my honest opinion. *
October 3, 2017
I have been a huge fan on Ms. Manzari and this series since I was hooked by Hooked. And I just cannot get enough of these Stone men!
"Austin Stone. The boy who was once my best friend. The boy who stole my hear. The boy I loved..."
He was so much more than that too, especially to Frankie. But when friends turn to lovers turn to enemies there is so much that happens to one's emotions.
"Looking at her, I felt a yawning cavity inside. I wondered if it was possible to heal a heart if it was ripped out of your chest and then torn to shreds."
I loved this entire story, even the sad parts, because it made me feel. So Many Feels! I laughed (that prank war was epic); I cried; I smiled; I weeped; but most of all I loved! I adored both Frankie and Austin. I really liked how the story went back and forth from present to past and I couldn't put it down because I needed to know all of the secrets. Best of all, I got to see some of Huck & Cat! Please keep giving me amazing stories! (4.5 stars)
"Austin Stone. The boy who was once my best friend. The boy who stole my hear. The boy I loved..."
He was so much more than that too, especially to Frankie. But when friends turn to lovers turn to enemies there is so much that happens to one's emotions.
"Looking at her, I felt a yawning cavity inside. I wondered if it was possible to heal a heart if it was ripped out of your chest and then torn to shreds."
I loved this entire story, even the sad parts, because it made me feel. So Many Feels! I laughed (that prank war was epic); I cried; I smiled; I weeped; but most of all I loved! I adored both Frankie and Austin. I really liked how the story went back and forth from present to past and I couldn't put it down because I needed to know all of the secrets. Best of all, I got to see some of Huck & Cat! Please keep giving me amazing stories! (4.5 stars)
October 1, 2017
5 Crazy Ass Must Read Stars!!!!!
Oh My Word! Or rather Christine Manzari's words. This book was amazing. So many moments that had me laughing so hard, crying big fat tears, and feelings of frustration. There were few times I wanted to reach into my kindle and shake Austin or Frankie.
I recently read an article from Oct 2008, stating that "Scientists prove it really is a thin line between love and hate". I was researching extreme emotions and stumbled upon this. It was weird that I read that article and then read this book. Austin and Frankie didn't just walk "the line" though. They stomped all over it. The things they did to each whether pranks, thoughts, or words were extreme.
This is my favorite Heart of Stone book. I look forward to reading what comes next for Christine.
Oh My Word! Or rather Christine Manzari's words. This book was amazing. So many moments that had me laughing so hard, crying big fat tears, and feelings of frustration. There were few times I wanted to reach into my kindle and shake Austin or Frankie.
I recently read an article from Oct 2008, stating that "Scientists prove it really is a thin line between love and hate". I was researching extreme emotions and stumbled upon this. It was weird that I read that article and then read this book. Austin and Frankie didn't just walk "the line" though. They stomped all over it. The things they did to each whether pranks, thoughts, or words were extreme.
This is my favorite Heart of Stone book. I look forward to reading what comes next for Christine.
April 7, 2018
3.5/4 stars
A really great surprise. I was new to this author.
This book is easy to read, the characters were consistent, there was a lot of humor with all those pranks, but also a great amount of drama and sexual tension, added to Frankie and Austin’s past, the whole story was beautiful.
The flashbacks worked very well for me too, I just wished I had a little more in the end, maybe more scenes of both Frankie and Austin in the future, or more steamy stuff, but this story was really great and made me want to read the previous books in the series, which means the author did a great job!
***ARC kindly provided by author via NetGalley, in exchange for an honest review***
December 1, 2017
It's no secret this is my favorite type of book. Second chance love with enemies back to lovers. I'm a huge sucker for it and this was done beautifully, I loved the plot, the characters, man I want my own Austin. Frankie is my favorite kind of heroine feisty with a good heart. The story progressed well, I felt Frankie and Austins pain and I was fully invested in their happiness.
This story spans from Frankie and Austin 's childhood to now, a few points I got choked up and poor Austin. I haven't truly enjoyed many stories I've read recently but this one broke that trend.
If you enjoy sweet second chance loves with a bit of spice and venom then this is the book for you.
This story spans from Frankie and Austin 's childhood to now, a few points I got choked up and poor Austin. I haven't truly enjoyed many stories I've read recently but this one broke that trend.
If you enjoy sweet second chance loves with a bit of spice and venom then this is the book for you.
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