Kissing Frogs

by Kim Deister

Sometimes you have to kiss a lot of frogs...

To say that Cassidy's love life has been a hot mess would be an understatement. Bad boys have been just that... bad. Love and fairy tale romance? She's over it. But her family won't give it up, so Operation Marry Cassidy is born, throwing one guy after another at her. So Cassidy has kissed a lot of frogs and not one of them turned into a prince.

But when Cassidy agrees to take care of her niece's beloved pet frog, little does she know just how much her life is about to change...

Genres: Fantasy

331 pages, Kindle Edition

Published August 14, 2017

About the author

I was born and raised in a tiny town in the wilds of northern New York, a pretty, little college town called Potsdam. I grew up in a family of lawyers and teachers and bucked all the traditions. Before becoming a writer, I spent a lot of years wearing combat boots in the US Army. I spent most of my time in boots working as a Signals Intelligence Analyst (no jokes!) and a linguist. I also worked as a tech writer, an entirely different kind of writing, for Corning Glass Works. Now, I’m an Army wife and a mom to four sons.  Over the years, our Army life has taken us all over the place and I have been lucky enough to work and live in some pretty amazing places.  Now we live in Hawaii, just minutes from the beach!

I am a writer thoroughly in love with words. Reading them, writing them… I love that words can take you outside of your world and let the unimaginable become imaginable. When I’m not writing or lounging on the beach, I’m probably somewhere with my nose in a book.

Reviews

[DJ Sakata · Rating 4 out of 5]

My Rating:

4.5

Favorite Quotes:

To say I was in a dry spell would be an understatement of epic proportions. It was a lot like calling the Sahara “a little bit sandy.”

Life in a convent was once again looking pretty good. Besides, at this point, I was an expert at the celibacy part.

Black boxers with the Jolly Roger all over them. Oh, my God! Is this like the pirate version of Underoos?

My own grandmother smacked my boyfriend’s ass and had a healthy squeeze, too. Are you really going to deny me this? I should be allowed to drown my sorrows in raspberry turnovers.

The snort that emanated from her was less than ladylike, even worse than my cow-farting noise. She obviously didn't buy my claims of virginity and purity. I felt like I should be offended by her reaction, but it was best to just be amused. One never knew what else would come out of her mouth if challenged.

I didn’t know how it was possible for an intelligent chick to be so stupid, but I did it. When I got nervous, I got dumb and way too outspoken. Neither of these were terribly good survival skills.


My Review:

I absolutely adored 75% of this creative and entertaining storyline that was packed with clever humor, meddlesome family members, a cursed sexy pirate, a murderously enraged fairy, and a once jilted frog-kissing jeweler with abysmal luck with men. The first half of the book kicked off an inventive and unique tale loaded with amusing and snarky inner musings, humorous descriptions and introductions of the quirky and eccentric characters, clever plot lines, and a sweet and steamy love story. But the tale took a rather sobering and angsty turn into the complicated rules of fairy lore and magic with a period of tension and turmoil that I was eager to put behind me before it picked back up into a more pleasurable and interesting cat and mouse stage that lead into the final showdown with the scorned magical creature. I greatly enjoyed Ms. Deister’s clever and inventive plotting as well as her engaging humor and enticing characters. I look forward to reading many more of her innovative stories.

[Mary Fazzi · Rating 5 out of 5]

You have to love fairy tails. Cassidy has not had the best luck in men. Dates that go wrong and a family that's in her business and trying to marry her off with whom ever is available. She goes toe to toe with her mom and sister McKenzie or Mac. Her love is unconditional to her family and friends no matter what. So when her sister basically tells her that the frog her niece loves is going to be staying with her until it's no longer around it's a hard thing to swallow, but her niece, Kyra, is like her own she gives in and does everything she's told to do. Feed it and sing and make sure he's next to her bed. Then something happens and Cassidy just starts talking to Finn the frog and somewhat enjoying it. Till one night she goes into the shower and comes out with a stranger in her room. Finn isn't the frog anymore he's a man that fits Cassidy's ideal man in every way but she has to have an open mind to wrap around the things he's telling her. With the help of Cassidy's grandma Fi Cassidy learns that having an open mind will help open her heart and that the fairy tails grandma Fi would tell aren't so far out of there. A lot of things go on in the book and I hate to spoil it all. I love fairies and fairy tails. It was a great story and loved every moment. You have to read it.

[Jacqui Norris · Rating 5 out of 5]

I absolutely loved this book! The fairy tale story and the comic relief will have you staying up late and reading. It is a love story that only happens in fairy tales, but in this case to a girl named Cassidy.

Cassidy is ready to marry her longtime boyfriend. She has been planning up until the last day. But then, a note and a returned tux have ruined everything she has wanted and worked so hard for. She is devastated but her meddling family is bound and determined to find her another man. She becomes Operation Marry Cassidy. Everyone knows someone who would be perfect for her. Or so they think. It leads to some pretty bad dates and stalkers. She is tired of her family getting involved but that does not stop them. The only family member on her side is her adorable niece Kyra, but she is too young to help. Being the favorite aunt to Kyra (really her only aunt), Cassidy would do anything for Kyra. Anything including taking on Kyra’s beloved frog Finn. So now Finn the frog is Cassidy’s new confidante. She tells Finn everything not thinking he understands her. But what a surprise she has when in a single moment, she plants a kiss on the blue eyed frog. Her life is about to change. What happens next is the stuff of fairy tales, with a few choice words mixed in. Cassidy is about to get a very real lesson of her Irish heritage and the Seelie. A tale over three hundred years in the making.

This story was so much fun to read. I laughed through a lot of it and wanted to throttle certain relatives of Cassidy. But in the end, I wanted more. I can’t wait to see what Kim Deister comes up with next. Kim Deister, you have a new fan. Congrats on your first book. Much success. Thank you for giving me the chance to read it.

[Cindy Fong · Rating 5 out of 5]

I thoroughly enjoyed reading this story. It is a spin on the "Princess and the Frog" story with a modern day twist. Cassidy (Cass) is absolutely hilarious. Her sass, spunk and snark had me chuckling throughout the book. Finn is unexpected, but soon becomes swoon worthy and a hero at the end. When Cass is suckered into watching her niece's pet the true fun begins. Can Cass and Finn overcome many (many) obstacles including her family and a fairy to truly find true love?

[Jaimed · Rating 4 out of 5]

I liked this book. The characters and storyline are interesting. I enjoyed a new take on the frog prince. I'm pretty sure most woman want a Finn in their life and their beds. Cassidy is an interesting character, but I feel like more should have been known about her past, asides from her Ex.
The book started out slow and didn't get going until chapter 10/11. I feel like too much needless information was put in and not enough actual story for the start. Anyone would hate to have your family try to set you up all the time, but more time was spent on that than was needed.
I love how much she adores and loves her niece. I enjoyed their interactions together and how they have each other's back and believe in each other. I also l liked how the both interact with the frog. How he is there for them both.
I wish that we got a like more info on Finn, such as how did he get the money he has invested, how much does he have, and why has no one noticed? I feel like parts of the ending were rushed and that more time could have been spent on her recovery and on a scene, that should have been included or talked about, that leads up to the final scene.

If you enjoy some fantasy with a hot pirate who does the dishes then give this a read. If you enjoy snark and bad dates then check this out. If you want love against the odds then give this a try.

[Amy Crull · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was so much fun to read! I loved Cassidy. She may not have had the best track record with guys but it didn't stop her family from setting her up with some winners(not). It was operation marry Cassidy and it wasn't going good. Here's why I love Cassidy. She loves hard, she's determined and she fights for love. She may not have her ducks in a row but she's working on it. Here's the thing.. this is what every girl wants, right. You kiss a frog and find a prince, well in Cassidy's case, a sexy, tattooed pirate. This is when the story gets good. I laughed so hard and was in unbelief right along with Cassidy. I loved the Irish magic and folklore mixed in with the romance. It made the story so much more! This was my first time reading this author and I ready to read more from her!! So good! Finn and Cassidy are amazing together! I love how they are together and how determined they were to beat the past.

[Britt Chaotic Creatives · Rating 4 out of 5]

Kissing Frogs is a lovely mix of sweet, funny, steamy, and adventurous. Cassidy has had the worst luck when it comes to love. After her fiancé leaves her the day before their wedding her overbearing and eccentric family decides they're going to take over her love life, setting her up with one disastrous man after another. I felt for Cassidy so much in regards to her family. They just didn't understand her and didn't want to take the time to either. After yet another disaster thanks to her meddling sister she's close to just giving up, but that's when her niece's frog changes everything. Finn turns out to be the frog, I mean, man of her dreams. I loved Finn! He wasn't your typical bossy alpha man (don't get me wrong I love my alphas) he had so much patience in the way he let Cassidy come to terms that he was in fact real. As their love grows with the help of Cassidy's grandmother they work to find a way to fully beat his curse and the fairy who cast it. Cassidy's grandmother had me laughing out loud constantly during this! When everything comes down to the final fight you see the truth of how much Cassidy is loved, not only by Finn but her family and friends. I highly recommend Kissing Frogs for everyone who still believes in a bit of magic.

[Kimberly · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book is a modern spin on The Princess and the Frog and contains some really fun characters. Cassidy, Grandma Fi, and Finn are all relatable characters. I really enjoyed the humor of both Cassidy and Grandma Fi. I also liked the message behind the fact that love can be greater than revenge.
Overall, I found the plot to be interesting, the writing was great, and the characters lovable.

[Charlotte Coles · Rating 4 out of 5]

I couldn't believe this was a debut book from Kim Deister, what a fabulously different way to tell a modern day romance by using a bit of old school magic.
Follow Cassidy on her journey of kissing lots of frogs sent by her meddling family and friends in the hope they can find her Mr prince charming.
This book has lots of laugh out loud momemts and i can not wait to see what more this talented author has in store for us.
Definate reccomend to anyone who enjoys a well written romance

[Robyn · Rating 5 out of 5]

Kissing Frogs is a great read. It had me laughing out loud, and glued to the edge of my seat. This book had intrigue, humor, romance, suspense, and some nail biting. The characters were well developed, the story was well written, and the words flowed. Kim Deister is a great author, and I highly recommend this book.

[Elsie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Kissing frogs is a beautiful paranormal story about finding your one true love in the last place you ever thought.

Cassidy is a great girl, she's funny, hardworking, she comes from a crazy and loving family, although some of them remind me of the mon in Pride & Prejudice lol. She has been deceived by a loved one and didn't want to love again.

She then meet Finneas (Finn) a handsome guy a little bit older than her and she helps him breake a curse. That's all I'll say so I won't spoil it for others.

Ever since I read the blurb I was intrigued and captivated. Must admit that it didn't disappoint.

[Abby · Rating 4 out of 5]

Out of the ordinary and I loved it. The story is so unique and fun. I want to do some research on Irish myths now after reading this. I would love to see Cassidy's jewelry in real life. The description Kim provided really painted a pretty picture of the jewelry.

[Bubbles The Book Pimp · Rating 5 out of 5]

First read by this author.

Now I've read a lot... and I mean ALOT of fairytale based books..some good, some bad.. but Wow what a book! Laughter, suspense, action and a whole lot of those 'FEELS'.
This book literally has it all....wrapped up beautifully with Irish folk law and faeries...#WINNING

Cassidy is a Jewelry designer, on the eve of her wedding to her long term boyfriend...he dumps her and runs off with another woman...and so starts her meddling but somewhat 'well meaning' and overbearing friends and family's..get Cassidy married plan...endless bad dates after endless bad dates and Cassidy has had enough.

After being conned into frog sitting permenantly by her neice, Cassidy reluctantly decides Finn the frog isn't so bad and kisses him.....

I'm not saying anymore. Other than it's a wonderful read... I will be looking out for more by this author.

[Toni Cox · Rating 4 out of 5]

A wonderfully written novel with a twist.

[Suzanne Giorgione · Rating 5 out of 5]

I absolutely loved this book! A modern day spin on The Princess and the Frog that had me laughing and wanting my own frog! Cassidy was ready to marry her boyfriend Luke. They had been together for 12 years. The night before the wedding the loser breaks it off in a note, deciding a big break for his band was more important than her. Of course he wipes out the savings account before he leaves and that was to pay for the wedding, most of which was her hard earned money. From then on, her family and best friend decide to begin Operation Cassidy to get her married off. The endless amount of losers they chose is hilarious. Cassidy is so great with her snarky and sassy attitude and her determination to not get married. Her family just don't have a clue about what she wants at all. When she takes her niece's frog Finn because her brother-in-law is suddenly allergic to it, everything changes! It's like he becomes her muse. She gets all kinds of ideas for her jewelry collection and then she gets a whole lot of something else! A dream come true and a battle she never bargained for! Who knew magic really existed (Grandma Fi did try to tell her)! Don't miss this awesome book! I voluntarily reviewed and ARC of this book.

[Micheala · Rating 1 out of 5]

DNF at 25%. I tried but the book is a painful read for me that I just couldn't get into. I'm sure if I waited it out it would have gotten better..or maybe not considering that I was a quarter through the book and nothing happened. I can sum up the first 25% of the book in a couple lines: young adult who was left before going to the alter so her family is constantly trying to set her up. She's determined not to like any of them. She takes her niece's frog to care for him. And that's it. a qauter of the book was spent on her complaining about the set ups.

But its not only the complaining that gets annoying. It's the way she complains. She's 25 years old or something but acts like shes's 16. I find the author's writing and tone very juvenile. As much as I tried it does not sound like a mid-20 year old woman narrating to me. Which leads into all the set ups; she complains and yells at them ALL THE TIME. As readers, I get it! You don't want to be set up with men but I don't need the reminder every four pages.

She takes in her niece's frog despite all complaints. She basically had no say in the matter because the little girl is quite persuasive. In response, she was quite rude to her niece and it just turned me off the whole thing.

The synopsis sounded really good and as much as I would like to continue I just can't get past the writing or the progress of the story. Again, by 25% all that happened was she took in the frog and was set up with another guy at her family event. That could have been a 10% thing but instead she spends about that much of the book whining.

Overall this book wasn't for me. The writing and the characters just didn't do it for me. Judging from many of the reviews though it is for so many others so I still urge new readers to give it a try cause who knows, you may be one of the ones who liked it.

[Angelina · Rating 5 out of 5]

Kissing Frogs is a modern day fairytale based on the well loved story of The Princess and The Frog. However, this story also shows us what happens after the princess kisses the frog, and it's not all happily ever after. Kim Deister weaves in the magic of Irish folklore along with lots of humour to give us a 5 star read that leaves single women contemplating the idea of finding their own frog to kiss. As a single woman who was hurt by the person I expected to spend the rest of my life with, I was able to relate with parts of this story and really felt for poor Cassidy.

I had a love-hate relationship with Cassidy’s family and close friends who were determined to find her another man, but did it because of their love for her. Cassidy ends up suffering through some rather disastrous dates, and she wonders about the possibility of writing a book about those dates. This is something I'd love to read as the author has already shown her amazing sense of humour and I believe a book about Cassidy’s dates would be a fun read.

In this book, we learn little bits about Finn’s past, but you're left with the need to know more about the pirate captain covered in tattoos. Thankfully, Kim Deister has just released a prequel to Kissing Frogs called One Stormy Night and it's all about Finn’s life up to him meeting Cassidy. I can't wait to read it!

[Laura · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Frog Prince is one of childhood's most beloved fairytales and has been translated and retold many times. Kim Deister puts her own spin on it unlike any I have encountered before. Finn, her niece's pet frog, is also not your typical amphibian. From his generous size to his sparkling blue eyes, Finn is one of a kind.
Despite her Irish heritage and being raised with a grandmother who professes magical abilities, Cassidy and sister, Mac, are not believers in the fae and fantastical realms. Also, despite the present time in which we live, where settled down, married life is not a requirement for a woman's happiness, it seems Cassidy's family can't rest until she is bound by matrimony. Their matchmaking efforts are a combination of crazy, laughable and the stuff nightmares are made of.
Even when you are full of rage over how her family is treating her you'll laugh at the messes she finds herself in. Kim writes scenes which elicit strong, believable emotion.
She also writes tantalizingly HOT scenes between Cassidy and Finn.
A wonderful twist on a well loved tale with a fresh take on the Mean Girl out for revenge. Finn is not the only one being taught a lesson.

[Angelina · Rating 5 out of 5]

Kissing Frogs is a modern day fairytale based on the well loved story of The Princess and The Frog. However, this story also shows us what happens after the princess kisses the frog, and it's not all happily ever after. Kim Deister weaves in the magic of Irish folklore along with lots of humour to give us a 5 star read that leaves single women contemplating the idea of finding their own frog to kiss. As a single woman who was hurt by the person I expected to spend the rest of my life with, I was able to relate with parts of this story and really felt for poor Cassidy.

I had a love-hate relationship with Cassidy’s family and close friends who were determined to find her another man, but did it because of their love for her. Cassidy ends up suffering through some rather disastrous dates, and she wonders about the possibility of writing a book about those dates. This is something I'd love to read as the author has already shown her amazing sense of humour and I believe a book about Cassidy’s dates would be a fun read.

In this book, we learn little bits about Finn’s past, but you're left with the need to know more about the pirate captain covered in tattoos. Thankfully, Kim Deister has just released a prequel to Kissing Frogs called One Stormy Night and it's all about Finn’s life up to him meeting Cassidy. I can't wait to read it!

[Rebecca Austin · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a great book about losing love and how to pick up the pieces of your life until you are ready to move on.

I liked Cassidy and completely understood why she wasn't in a rush to get back into the dating scene after spending 12 years with Luke. It was like none of her family members really knew what she wanted or needed in a guy and some of the guys, like Matt, were definitely interesting.

I loved the Irish folklore that the book looks at and the mix of a traditional tale and yet it spins it into something totally different.

The man of Cassidy's dreams was awesome and came at such a great moment! I loved the whole part and I must admit that I would think I had hit my head or something!

There were lots of twists and turns in the book and I was definitely concerned about what Mackenzie was going through. I loved the moose scene!! The ending was awesome and I loved how they came together to save Cassidy from what she was going through!

I loved Grandma Fiona and think she needs a book of her own!

[Cassandra Happyb · Rating 5 out of 5]

OMGOSH! I LOVED IT!
I can NOT say enough, about how much, I loved this book! I had read the description, somewhere & I was hooked, and dying to read it. And, I was NOT disappointed, at all! I loved the characters, the writing, the story... the lore! It was a fairytale, for the modern day female. I have to say, I am pretty cynical & NOT gushy. But, this book had me, OMGOSH!! I LOVE IT!! And cheesing, like a school girl. Cassidy is so relatable, she has been put through the ringer, does NOT believe in love. At least NOT the love of storybooks & fairytales, much like many of us. But, like us, a part wishes that kind of love/fairytale does actually exists... Her family is hilarious & so much like our own family & friends that try to set you up with a "nice man". But, the love she has for them... They have for her. If, it were NOT for having to actually work, sleep & maybe eat, I would NOT have put the book down! If you have Not read this book... What are you waiting for?!

[Teri · Rating 4 out of 5]

What do you do when all no not some but ALL of the guys you have dated have been frogs. Oh and not to mention everyone has taken over your love life or lack there of by setting you up because you couldn't possibly do it yourself. What I don't get it why he family so so hostile about her love life. That's it though. This was a great read and tons of fun. Love the characters and especially the feisty side of Cassidy that never gave up no matter what was going on. Love the niece and brother in law, pops even gets a pass but sister and moms dump them quick.

This is my first read by this author and I loved it I will most definitely be reading more. I love her characters and her style. Tons of laughs and even some intrigue all mixed together and turned out awesome.

[Bookish · Rating 4 out of 5]

I loved this book. A very different story line but wonderfully written. Cassidy was jilted by her fiance the day before her wedding and now a year later is struggling to avoid her match making family and trust again. To top off Cassidy's current luck, she gets conned by her niece into frog sitting for the summer. Finn is the reformed rake, cursed by a wronged fairy who was turned into a frog. This is the story of what happens when you kiss that frog. The characters in this story are fun and crazy. I don't know how Kim Deister did it but she made this story believable. Add this to your "to read" list and you won't regret it.

[Julie Alvarez · Rating 4 out of 5]

Kissing Frogs is a comedic modern fairy tale. I found myself laughing a lot throughout the book. This was my introduction to the work of author, Kim Deister. Kim's writing of this book was very good. The characters were very funny and somewhat quirky. I found myself relating to the main character, Cassidy because she had to kiss a lot of frogs before she can find her Prince Chaming. The funny thing was she kisses her niece's frog, Finn and so the story begins. If you love fairy tales I would suggest reading this book. You will enjoy it.

[Tammy Deighan · Rating 4 out of 5]

I have to say I didn't see this coming. It was a very big twist in the story. I did enjoy the author's way that she told the story as well. I felt in some places it was a little long winded but for the most part I enjoyed the twist to the story. The characters in the story were great. Cassidy and the people in her life were great. It had a few hot spots as well but mostly a great twist of a story. I would suggest giving it a read.

[Treena · Rating 4 out of 5]

I've always loved fairy tales and this modern spin on the princess and the frog is one I really enjoyed. It's not sickeningly sappy. It's got some heat and steam. It has moments that are dreamy. It's got magic and some action. It's an overall fun read --- the perfect thing I needed to get me out of a mini-DNF book slump.

[Andrea · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is my first experience with Kim Deister's writing and I thoroughly enjoyed it!! It's a modern spin on a The Princess and the Frog and it's funny, the characters were well written and enjoyable, the plot was intriguing and had you hooked immediately. The message behind it is also great. I definitely recommend it!! I voluntarily reviewed an advanced copy of this book.

[M.A. Foster · Rating 5 out of 5]

Once Upon a Time. I loved this book! I felt like I was reading an episode from once upon a time. If you're a fan of that show or if you love sexy pirates, then you will absolutely love this book. This is my first time reading fantasy and I'm glad it was this book. It's funny, sarcastic and sexy. Great job! Love it.

[Deborah Lane · Rating 5 out of 5]

Kim is a new author to me and I read with an open mind. Retelling of frog prince, and it is folklore of the Irish kind. Story slow in the beginning, and family match making gets old. She writes well, the story is funny, and develops in second half of book. Liked it. Recommended.

[Melissa · Rating 5 out of 5]

I can't tell you enough how much I loved this book! The humor, the tension, the suspense...it all had me on the edge of my seat and not wanting to stop reading. I absolutely loved the Irish folklore and Grandma Fi. I want more to read by Kim!!!!