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Rock and a Hard Place
Expert mountain climber Jayden Harris has the world at feet until an avalanche at Everest base camp sweeps it all out from under her. She wants nothing more to do with the mountains, and turns her back on it all.
Rhian Phillips is a successful London marketing executive who has the chance of a lifetime fall in her lap. She’s sent to produce a reality TV series on competitive climbers, while showcasing the stunning beauty of a Patagonian glacier and the Cerro Fitz Roy range.
An accident brings Jayden and Rhian together, and outside pressures keep them at each other’s sides. When you’re stuck between a rock and a hard place eventually something has to give. The one thing they never counted on was them both wanting to stay together.
A lesbian romance about pushing onwards and defying expectations.
Rhian Phillips is a successful London marketing executive who has the chance of a lifetime fall in her lap. She’s sent to produce a reality TV series on competitive climbers, while showcasing the stunning beauty of a Patagonian glacier and the Cerro Fitz Roy range.
An accident brings Jayden and Rhian together, and outside pressures keep them at each other’s sides. When you’re stuck between a rock and a hard place eventually something has to give. The one thing they never counted on was them both wanting to stay together.
A lesbian romance about pushing onwards and defying expectations.
312 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 15, 2017
25 people are currently reading
796 people want to read
About the author
Andrea Bramhall
28 books298 followersAndrea Bramhall wrote her first novel at the age of six and three-quarters. It was seven pages long and held together with a pink ribbon. Her Gran still has it in the attic. Since then she has progressed a little bit and now has a number of published works held together with glue, not ribbons, an Alice B. Lavender certificate, and a Lambda Literary award cluttering up her book shelves.
She studied music and all things arty at Manchester Metropolitan University, graduating in 2002 with a BA in contemporary arts. She is certain it will prove useful someday… maybe.
When she isn’t busy running a campsite and hostel on the North Norfolk Coast, Bramhall can be found hunched over her laptop scribbling down the stories that won’t let her sleep. She can also be found reading, walking the dogs up mountains while taking a few thousand photos, scuba diving while taking a few thousand photos, swimming, kayaking, playing the saxophone, or cycling.
She studied music and all things arty at Manchester Metropolitan University, graduating in 2002 with a BA in contemporary arts. She is certain it will prove useful someday… maybe.
When she isn’t busy running a campsite and hostel on the North Norfolk Coast, Bramhall can be found hunched over her laptop scribbling down the stories that won’t let her sleep. She can also be found reading, walking the dogs up mountains while taking a few thousand photos, scuba diving while taking a few thousand photos, swimming, kayaking, playing the saxophone, or cycling.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 114 reviews
November 5, 2017
'Ylva-Publishing ARC received in exchanged for a fair and honest review'
3.5star!
In no way is this book an easy read; it is moody and often lovely but exhausting to follow at times. Been a huge fan of this author since i read her first book(Clean Slate) so when i started off with this book why was the storyline so difficult and impossible to connect with,maybe because of the sad/prologue and the slow start but eventually it picked up and turned into a remarkable story about grief,friendship,family,love,redemption,rediscovery,realism,ownership and self analysis. Despite an occasional wandering and unfocused bit of narrative here and there,it is well-written,very descriptive and extraordinarily insightful. The dreamy writing verges on steam of consciousness as characters' thoughts spring up and disappear under new ones quickly as they panic or try to puzzle out what is happening as well with its unique plot. A setting that's also fascinating,thrill-seeking,adventurous and dangerous at times with completely believable characters who were in turn sometimes annoying and absorbing with strong personalities. Pitch-perfect clever dialogue,lots of humor,angst add to readers enjoyment to the very end..recommend to everyone
3.5star!
In no way is this book an easy read; it is moody and often lovely but exhausting to follow at times. Been a huge fan of this author since i read her first book(Clean Slate) so when i started off with this book why was the storyline so difficult and impossible to connect with,maybe because of the sad/prologue and the slow start but eventually it picked up and turned into a remarkable story about grief,friendship,family,love,redemption,rediscovery,realism,ownership and self analysis. Despite an occasional wandering and unfocused bit of narrative here and there,it is well-written,very descriptive and extraordinarily insightful. The dreamy writing verges on steam of consciousness as characters' thoughts spring up and disappear under new ones quickly as they panic or try to puzzle out what is happening as well with its unique plot. A setting that's also fascinating,thrill-seeking,adventurous and dangerous at times with completely believable characters who were in turn sometimes annoying and absorbing with strong personalities. Pitch-perfect clever dialogue,lots of humor,angst add to readers enjoyment to the very end..recommend to everyone
November 10, 2017
I have always been fascinated by mountain climbing books. Everest, K2, fiction and non-fiction, I have enjoyed them all. Maybe it’s because very few people ever conquer these mountains. Maybe it’s the danger and excitement, whatever it is mountain climbing books appeal to me. I’m glad to say this was another good book by Bramhall.
The story is about Rhian, who is a marketing executive constantly trying to prove to her boss and stepmother how good she is at her job. When the chance to produce a reality show about climbers in Patagonia comes by, Rhian jumps at the chance. Rhian is paired with expert climber Jayden, who is dealing with her own issues. Can the two of them work together to make the show a success? And what happens if feeling get involved?
One of my guilty pleasures is watching the occasional reality show. Mix that in with climbing and a romance, this book was checking off plenty of my likes. I really got sucked into the storyline and was enjoying the read. I do have to admit, I wish there was more ice climbing. The climbing scenes were interesting and exciting. I have a feeling Bramhall didn’t want to overwhelm readers who might not be interested in such things, but I wanted more.
When it came to the main characters both were likable. There was also a good cast of secondary characters. Ones to enjoy like Rhian’s stepmom and some of the other climbers, plus characters that purposely got under your skin. It was a good mix.
The romance is very slow burn. I enjoy slow burn romances, so that didn’t bother me. But what did bother me was the reason why. There was a lot of miscommunication. In fact there was no communication at times. It was like the characters would forget how to talk. I found myself yelling at the book “just spit it out already”. A lot could have been smoothed over with a few words. But the book did need some drama, so I get it, I just didn’t like it.
I enjoyed this read but I do wish it was longer. Just when I was really hooked into the story, I look down and see I am at the 95% mark. No! I wanted more! I wonder if Bramhall would consider a book two. A second season of the reality show, and more of Rhian and Jayden, that is a book I would read.
If you are a Bramhall fan, a mountain climbing fan, or a slow burn romance fan, give this book a shot. This is the fourth book in a row I have enjoyed that Bramhall has written. I look forward to reading what she puts out next.
An ARC was given to me by YLVA, for a honest review.
The story is about Rhian, who is a marketing executive constantly trying to prove to her boss and stepmother how good she is at her job. When the chance to produce a reality show about climbers in Patagonia comes by, Rhian jumps at the chance. Rhian is paired with expert climber Jayden, who is dealing with her own issues. Can the two of them work together to make the show a success? And what happens if feeling get involved?
One of my guilty pleasures is watching the occasional reality show. Mix that in with climbing and a romance, this book was checking off plenty of my likes. I really got sucked into the storyline and was enjoying the read. I do have to admit, I wish there was more ice climbing. The climbing scenes were interesting and exciting. I have a feeling Bramhall didn’t want to overwhelm readers who might not be interested in such things, but I wanted more.
When it came to the main characters both were likable. There was also a good cast of secondary characters. Ones to enjoy like Rhian’s stepmom and some of the other climbers, plus characters that purposely got under your skin. It was a good mix.
The romance is very slow burn. I enjoy slow burn romances, so that didn’t bother me. But what did bother me was the reason why. There was a lot of miscommunication. In fact there was no communication at times. It was like the characters would forget how to talk. I found myself yelling at the book “just spit it out already”. A lot could have been smoothed over with a few words. But the book did need some drama, so I get it, I just didn’t like it.
I enjoyed this read but I do wish it was longer. Just when I was really hooked into the story, I look down and see I am at the 95% mark. No! I wanted more! I wonder if Bramhall would consider a book two. A second season of the reality show, and more of Rhian and Jayden, that is a book I would read.
If you are a Bramhall fan, a mountain climbing fan, or a slow burn romance fan, give this book a shot. This is the fourth book in a row I have enjoyed that Bramhall has written. I look forward to reading what she puts out next.
An ARC was given to me by YLVA, for a honest review.
January 26, 2019
Fans of adventure - family - romance, this should not be missed. The stunning cover had a story to match, it kept me entertained from the prologue to the last page.
After the hs got over their initial dissatisfaction towards each other, they got along pretty well, they shared the same love/passion towards mountains and became an agreeable pair to all the decisions regarding work except for the affairs of the hearts.
Jayden and Rhian were amazing characters. They each had a shoulder to cry on - Jayden had her sister, Fen while Rhain had her mum/boss, Rachel. Adding the family element into the story was a brilliant move by Ms.Bramhall, the local food mentioned had me googling several times and added into 'to be cooked' list.
Please note that the romance did not come surging after a few pages. When they first officially met, it was through Rhain's POV and the usual eyes description was missing too .. I failed to see the importance of such. I was mesmerized with the adventure element and halfway through, I wondered how was the author going to setup the love connection, how was she going to make Jayden and Rhian see/accept that there was something greater waiting for them onced they minimized their insecurities and misunderstandings.
I felt that she waited until the extra time to score the romance goal, giving me limited time to enjoy the hs as a couple but that was just a minor setback. Loads of wow factors, A Rock And A Hard Place should be added into your tbr list.
After the hs got over their initial dissatisfaction towards each other, they got along pretty well, they shared the same love/passion towards mountains and became an agreeable pair to all the decisions regarding work except for the affairs of the hearts.
Jayden and Rhian were amazing characters. They each had a shoulder to cry on - Jayden had her sister, Fen while Rhain had her mum/boss, Rachel. Adding the family element into the story was a brilliant move by Ms.Bramhall, the local food mentioned had me googling several times and added into 'to be cooked' list.
Please note that the romance did not come surging after a few pages. When they first officially met, it was through Rhain's POV and the usual eyes description was missing too .. I failed to see the importance of such. I was mesmerized with the adventure element and halfway through, I wondered how was the author going to setup the love connection, how was she going to make Jayden and Rhian see/accept that there was something greater waiting for them onced they minimized their insecurities and misunderstandings.
I felt that she waited until the extra time to score the romance goal, giving me limited time to enjoy the hs as a couple but that was just a minor setback. Loads of wow factors, A Rock And A Hard Place should be added into your tbr list.
March 13, 2020
MCs barely had a conversation in the first half of the book. Then later the miscommunication between them was frustrating as hell. Plus it moved so slow, I am just happy it's finally over.
November 1, 2017
Wow, what can I say that would do justice to this book. If I could give 10 stars I would. Maybe if I could work out how to make the stars flash. Yes, I'm serious. This book is beyond excellent.
The story line is good, the scenery breathtaking and the characters are really likable with the exception of one or two. I really didn't know Argentina had such a beautiful glacier. Nope, no pictures. Bramhall describes it with such precision that you can't help but picture it in your mind. I even looked it up and yes it is spectacular.
The two main characters are Rhian a marketing consultant and Jayden a very experienced and skilled mountain climber. They have chemistry even if they don't see it. There is action, adventure, and so much that will make you laugh. Some of the secondary characters are colourful. It is a really good ' feel good ' novel tinged with bad memories. Both the main characters are dealing with their pasts. Both are reluctant to trust. But together with the help of Rhian's stepmother Rachel and Jayden's sister Fen they finally learn to trust each other.
There is so much I want to say, but honestly if I start I'll end up telling you everything. You need to read this book. As you can probably tell I loved it and really hope Bramhasll brings out more like this. She has definitely moved up my favorite authors list. Enjoy!
*ARC provided by publisher via Ylva Publishing*
The story line is good, the scenery breathtaking and the characters are really likable with the exception of one or two. I really didn't know Argentina had such a beautiful glacier. Nope, no pictures. Bramhall describes it with such precision that you can't help but picture it in your mind. I even looked it up and yes it is spectacular.
The two main characters are Rhian a marketing consultant and Jayden a very experienced and skilled mountain climber. They have chemistry even if they don't see it. There is action, adventure, and so much that will make you laugh. Some of the secondary characters are colourful. It is a really good ' feel good ' novel tinged with bad memories. Both the main characters are dealing with their pasts. Both are reluctant to trust. But together with the help of Rhian's stepmother Rachel and Jayden's sister Fen they finally learn to trust each other.
There is so much I want to say, but honestly if I start I'll end up telling you everything. You need to read this book. As you can probably tell I loved it and really hope Bramhasll brings out more like this. She has definitely moved up my favorite authors list. Enjoy!
*ARC provided by publisher via Ylva Publishing*
July 8, 2019
Good grief I had trouble getting through this book. The beginning immediately grabbed my attention and I thought it was going to be another great read since I really liked Lost for Words and Clean Slate. Alas as it turns out this particular book was a swing and a miss.
The first thing that didn't work for me was the amount of time spent on the main characters together. Half of the book was almost over and they barely interacted aside from sniping at each other.
Rhian's character also grated on my nerves. I love reading about strong women who can hold their own. This 28 year old however couldn't even find her spine long enough to tell another woman to take her hand off of her knee.
Yet the real killer for me was a mix of their lack of communication / miscommunication. Blind mimes would do a better job talking than Rhian and Jayden.
By the time I got to the last part of the book their relationship arc had been so mangled that I even considered calling it a DNF just to be done with the book.
Oh well, you win some you lose some. Next!
The first thing that didn't work for me was the amount of time spent on the main characters together. Half of the book was almost over and they barely interacted aside from sniping at each other.
Rhian's character also grated on my nerves. I love reading about strong women who can hold their own. This 28 year old however couldn't even find her spine long enough to tell another woman to take her hand off of her knee.
Yet the real killer for me was a mix of their lack of communication / miscommunication. Blind mimes would do a better job talking than Rhian and Jayden.
By the time I got to the last part of the book their relationship arc had been so mangled that I even considered calling it a DNF just to be done with the book.
Oh well, you win some you lose some. Next!
March 17, 2019
Another Bramhall hit at 3.75 stars! I quite enjoyed this one with its mix of extreme adventure (mostly climbing mountains, but also white water rapids! Wheeee!) and romance, though we readers really do gotta wait for that romance. I didn't feel it was quite as strong as some of Ms. Bramhall's other books, but it was well written and had fairly strong characters. Something was missing, but as I stew over the read I can't quite put my finger on what that is......could be the fact I am in somewhat of a carb coma after hoovering the largest plate of pad thai known to man...
MC Rhian works in advertising in London and has been delegated by the boss (aka: her step-mother) to lead an adventure reality show in Argentina. Big promotion, go Rhian!
MC Jayden: climber extraordinaire, stopped climbing due to a trauma she experienced on Everest, but gets pulled back to her old life due to unforeseen circumstances and ends up being the host of the above reality show. She ain't so happy about that.
Firstly, setting: Patagonia. I have had a fascination with the place for years, so that was an added bonus. Very cool.
Second: Reality show featuring mountain climbing. New and unique. I don't like reality shows, but can't say the I have come across any lesfics with these two themes at the helm. At least not yet.
Aside from her budding relationship with Jayden, which was good but somewhat slow, I quite liked Rhian's banter back and forth b/w her and her step-mum. That was a well fleshed out dynamic that I thought tied two separate stories: the start up of the reality show and all it's zany/deplorable characters (Brooke Shields? Really? There's got to be a story there, Ms. Bramhall!) and also Rhian's fractured family life. The latter is definitely a side story, but it's important to understanding Rhian's trust issues. I would have liked a little more out of Rhian though, she felt somewhat flat to me.
Regarding Jayden, well, what a start to her story when we are basically thrown right into the trauma she endured on Everest in Chapter 1. I felt like I was there. She has experienced absolute horror and there are very depressing moments throughout the book when referencing this incident. Just like Rhian with her step-mum, Jayden with her sister also share a very tight, unique bond. I like that Ms. Bramhall incorporates these secondary characters so well. The added reasons for the "faux-mance" was a quirky twist and smoothly executed.
Maybe the lack of communication with the two MCs is what made me drop my rating a bit. We all know this is a common theme in lesfic. It also seemed to end quite abruptly and I wanted just a tad more. Overall though, I would recommend.
MC Rhian works in advertising in London and has been delegated by the boss (aka: her step-mother) to lead an adventure reality show in Argentina. Big promotion, go Rhian!
MC Jayden: climber extraordinaire, stopped climbing due to a trauma she experienced on Everest, but gets pulled back to her old life due to unforeseen circumstances and ends up being the host of the above reality show. She ain't so happy about that.
Firstly, setting: Patagonia. I have had a fascination with the place for years, so that was an added bonus. Very cool.
Second: Reality show featuring mountain climbing. New and unique. I don't like reality shows, but can't say the I have come across any lesfics with these two themes at the helm. At least not yet.
Aside from her budding relationship with Jayden, which was good but somewhat slow, I quite liked Rhian's banter back and forth b/w her and her step-mum. That was a well fleshed out dynamic that I thought tied two separate stories: the start up of the reality show and all it's zany/deplorable characters (Brooke Shields? Really? There's got to be a story there, Ms. Bramhall!) and also Rhian's fractured family life. The latter is definitely a side story, but it's important to understanding Rhian's trust issues. I would have liked a little more out of Rhian though, she felt somewhat flat to me.
Regarding Jayden, well, what a start to her story when we are basically thrown right into the trauma she endured on Everest in Chapter 1. I felt like I was there. She has experienced absolute horror and there are very depressing moments throughout the book when referencing this incident. Just like Rhian with her step-mum, Jayden with her sister also share a very tight, unique bond. I like that Ms. Bramhall incorporates these secondary characters so well. The added reasons for the "faux-mance" was a quirky twist and smoothly executed.
Maybe the lack of communication with the two MCs is what made me drop my rating a bit. We all know this is a common theme in lesfic. It also seemed to end quite abruptly and I wanted just a tad more. Overall though, I would recommend.
December 8, 2017
Review of 'Rock and a hard place' by Andrea Bramhall.
This is a slow burn romance with some mountain climbing action on the background. I thought it was going to be the opposite so I was a bit disappointed about it, but this is just related to my expectations. Ms. Bramhall is one of my favourite lesfic authors (see here for my top ten https://lezreviewbooks.wordpress.com/...) and this is an enjoyable read but I personally think that she excels at writing mysteries. I recommend to read 'Collide-O-Scope', book 1 of her 'Norfolk Coast Investigation Story' series and continue with 'Under Parr' which is on my list of best lesfic books of 2017 (https://lezreviewbooks.wordpress.com/...)
'Rock and a hard place' is the story of mountain climber Jayden Harris and marketing executive Rhian Phillips who meet while filming a reality show in Patagonia. Jayden is recovering from a traumatic experience while climbing Mount Everest which made her quit the sport altogether. She's not happy when circumstances force her to a comeback. Will she be able to overcome her initial antagonism with Rhian to work together as a team and, moreover, find love in the process?
As a native Argentine I was very excited to see that this book is set in the area surrounding Mount Fitz Roy, in the Patagonia.
I found Ms. Bramhall's descriptions of the landscape and Argentine typical food very authentic. I was surprised to learn that the author has never visited the area. The action scenes are fast paced and full of tension but I wish there were more. The main characters' chemistry is sizzling and their source of conflict a bit frustrating at times. However, Ms. Bramhall manages to keep the reader turning pages and enjoying the story.
Overall, an enjoyable romance with a bit of action on the background. 4 stars.
ARC provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
See all my reviews at
www.lezreviewbooks.wordpress.com
This is a slow burn romance with some mountain climbing action on the background. I thought it was going to be the opposite so I was a bit disappointed about it, but this is just related to my expectations. Ms. Bramhall is one of my favourite lesfic authors (see here for my top ten https://lezreviewbooks.wordpress.com/...) and this is an enjoyable read but I personally think that she excels at writing mysteries. I recommend to read 'Collide-O-Scope', book 1 of her 'Norfolk Coast Investigation Story' series and continue with 'Under Parr' which is on my list of best lesfic books of 2017 (https://lezreviewbooks.wordpress.com/...)
'Rock and a hard place' is the story of mountain climber Jayden Harris and marketing executive Rhian Phillips who meet while filming a reality show in Patagonia. Jayden is recovering from a traumatic experience while climbing Mount Everest which made her quit the sport altogether. She's not happy when circumstances force her to a comeback. Will she be able to overcome her initial antagonism with Rhian to work together as a team and, moreover, find love in the process?
As a native Argentine I was very excited to see that this book is set in the area surrounding Mount Fitz Roy, in the Patagonia.
I found Ms. Bramhall's descriptions of the landscape and Argentine typical food very authentic. I was surprised to learn that the author has never visited the area. The action scenes are fast paced and full of tension but I wish there were more. The main characters' chemistry is sizzling and their source of conflict a bit frustrating at times. However, Ms. Bramhall manages to keep the reader turning pages and enjoying the story.
Overall, an enjoyable romance with a bit of action on the background. 4 stars.
ARC provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
See all my reviews at
www.lezreviewbooks.wordpress.com
July 19, 2019
Had the ebook sitting on my shelf for quite a while and for whatever reason I always missed it! Now that I’m home-bound for the next 2 weeks or so, am able to catch-up on my reading and had this book and many more slated during this time
Story was interesting enough and well-researched with detailed description of the surroundings and the sports itself. If you are into mountain climbing/sports romance, then this would probably be your cuppa. Well the gist of it, what makes this story angsty is the level of communication, or rather lack of it, between Rhian and Jayden. I mean, come on, enough already, just say it out loud your attraction with each other and stop beating about the bush! Time and time again, they avoid talking about their attraction with each other and when they spoke about it, they actually misunderstood each other! What!
Anyhow, still an ok read though I doubt I’ll be reading it again.
3.5 🌟
Story was interesting enough and well-researched with detailed description of the surroundings and the sports itself. If you are into mountain climbing/sports romance, then this would probably be your cuppa. Well the gist of it, what makes this story angsty is the level of communication, or rather lack of it, between Rhian and Jayden. I mean, come on, enough already, just say it out loud your attraction with each other and stop beating about the bush! Time and time again, they avoid talking about their attraction with each other and when they spoke about it, they actually misunderstood each other! What!
Anyhow, still an ok read though I doubt I’ll be reading it again.
3.5 🌟
November 16, 2017
When a book’s focus is on mountain climbers it’s only natural to expect some highs and lows. Thrill seekers are inspiring to watch because they rely on their physical strength and training to master goals few of us will ever achieve. We also watch extreme sports because of the element of danger, that one wrong decision or equipment failure which can lead to disaster for the competitor.
I loved the concept of the clothing company and tourist board coming together with Rachel’s marketing company to create a reality show for mountain climbers. I’m a big fan of Amazing Race and enjoyed reading about behind the scenes prep work necessary to set up and film a competition in such an inhospitable environment. The physical challenges are often dwarfed by personality clashes in reality shows and the author did not disappoint giving Jayden and Rhian plenty of crises to handle.
Rock and a Hard Place delivers on the extreme sports aspect of the story. The slow burn romance between Jayden and Rhian had its moments but thanks to some frustrating miscommunication their relationship was my least favourite part of the novel. I found myself enjoying other characters as they interacted with the mains more than the awkward one on one time shared by Jayden and Rhian.
The relationship between Rhian and her boss/stepmom Rachel was fascinating and well developed. I loved the way she pushed Rhian outside of her comfort zone because Rachel believed in her. As tough and demanding as she was, I was impressed with the love and pride she had for Rhian. Rhian’s issues with her father were touched on and did help to form the person Rhian has become but I felt that thread was left unfinished. It had potential and I would have loved to see it explored. I also loved the relationship Jayden had with her sister Fen. The author captures that love-hate, loyalty mixed with sarcasm bond that many sisters share.
Frustrating romance aside, there is so much to love about this book that I would still recommend it for the captivating writing, the adventure and the dramatic moments that take your breath away.
ARC received with thanks from publisher for review.
I loved the concept of the clothing company and tourist board coming together with Rachel’s marketing company to create a reality show for mountain climbers. I’m a big fan of Amazing Race and enjoyed reading about behind the scenes prep work necessary to set up and film a competition in such an inhospitable environment. The physical challenges are often dwarfed by personality clashes in reality shows and the author did not disappoint giving Jayden and Rhian plenty of crises to handle.
Rock and a Hard Place delivers on the extreme sports aspect of the story. The slow burn romance between Jayden and Rhian had its moments but thanks to some frustrating miscommunication their relationship was my least favourite part of the novel. I found myself enjoying other characters as they interacted with the mains more than the awkward one on one time shared by Jayden and Rhian.
The relationship between Rhian and her boss/stepmom Rachel was fascinating and well developed. I loved the way she pushed Rhian outside of her comfort zone because Rachel believed in her. As tough and demanding as she was, I was impressed with the love and pride she had for Rhian. Rhian’s issues with her father were touched on and did help to form the person Rhian has become but I felt that thread was left unfinished. It had potential and I would have loved to see it explored. I also loved the relationship Jayden had with her sister Fen. The author captures that love-hate, loyalty mixed with sarcasm bond that many sisters share.
Frustrating romance aside, there is so much to love about this book that I would still recommend it for the captivating writing, the adventure and the dramatic moments that take your breath away.
ARC received with thanks from publisher for review.
November 6, 2017
Romance novels that have a sport of some sort tend to draw me in just on the premise alone. Rock climbing especially when you bring in climbing the major summits like Everest, Annapurna or Denali I am beyond intrigued. The thought of people willingly putting their lives at risk for their passion is both badass and terrifying. No desire to do it, I'll keep my feet on the ground, thanks, but read it oh hell yeah.
The premise is tricky though. You either are going to weave the romance perfectly in with the sport or you tip too far technical and it becomes way more sport related than I need. The line is pretty thin here. Unfortunately, the latter seems to be the case in Rock and a Hard Place by Andrea Bramhall. While I liked the romance, too much time was spent on tieing knots, safety measures, and climbing techniques.
Overall, the rating of this book was kind of a conundrum to me. The writing overall is done well. I thought the relationship development was based on too much miscommunication, but not bad. I also thought that there were too many dramatic, unnecessary conflicts that didn’t make the story more enjoyable. I wished it had focused more on the budding relationship between the two main characters with less dramatic interferences. Now with that being said, I would pick up an Andrea Bramhall book with zero reservations any day. 3.75 stars
The premise is tricky though. You either are going to weave the romance perfectly in with the sport or you tip too far technical and it becomes way more sport related than I need. The line is pretty thin here. Unfortunately, the latter seems to be the case in Rock and a Hard Place by Andrea Bramhall. While I liked the romance, too much time was spent on tieing knots, safety measures, and climbing techniques.
Overall, the rating of this book was kind of a conundrum to me. The writing overall is done well. I thought the relationship development was based on too much miscommunication, but not bad. I also thought that there were too many dramatic, unnecessary conflicts that didn’t make the story more enjoyable. I wished it had focused more on the budding relationship between the two main characters with less dramatic interferences. Now with that being said, I would pick up an Andrea Bramhall book with zero reservations any day. 3.75 stars
December 2, 2017
A great novel with a slow burning romance in an adventurous surrounding.
Bramhall describes the places and beautiful landscapes, where the novel takes place, very detailed and pictorial. You want to go there, to see it by yourself. I‘m not a climber but I love very much to be in the nature.
I loved both main characters from the beginning. When Rhian and Jayden met for the first time, they both are still struggling with some issues from the past. For that they start on the wrong foot to work together.
Jayden has to overcome her demons from a disastrous avalanche on a trip to Mount Everest. Can she trust herself and her abilities to keep the other climbers as safe as possible? And also will she take the risk to lose her heart again?
Since her father throws her out of his life, Rhian has to overcome the pain and anger of the rejection and starts to trust other people again. But sometime that’s easier said then done. Can she trust her feelings or are the doubts stronger?
Both are fighting with insecurities and that leads to misunderstandings and misinterpretations. Sometimes you want to shake them. But as it’s in the real world, people don’t always say what they really thinking or feeling.
And I also liked very much the secondary characters. They were very important for the storyline, to keep up the tension for the competition and the interaction between the characters. I’m not a fan of reality tv shows, but maybe this one I would watch.
The romance is slow burning, but this makes her more believable. I was impressed of Bramhalls ability to bring the feelings and struggles between the pages. There was not much sex, but there was a beautiful and hot love scene.
I recommend this book for everybody who loves aromance in a breathtaking and competitive surrounding with people who get to your heart.
My rating 4,5 stars
Thanks to Ylva for receiving an ARC for a honest review.
Bramhall describes the places and beautiful landscapes, where the novel takes place, very detailed and pictorial. You want to go there, to see it by yourself. I‘m not a climber but I love very much to be in the nature.
I loved both main characters from the beginning. When Rhian and Jayden met for the first time, they both are still struggling with some issues from the past. For that they start on the wrong foot to work together.
Jayden has to overcome her demons from a disastrous avalanche on a trip to Mount Everest. Can she trust herself and her abilities to keep the other climbers as safe as possible? And also will she take the risk to lose her heart again?
Since her father throws her out of his life, Rhian has to overcome the pain and anger of the rejection and starts to trust other people again. But sometime that’s easier said then done. Can she trust her feelings or are the doubts stronger?
Both are fighting with insecurities and that leads to misunderstandings and misinterpretations. Sometimes you want to shake them. But as it’s in the real world, people don’t always say what they really thinking or feeling.
And I also liked very much the secondary characters. They were very important for the storyline, to keep up the tension for the competition and the interaction between the characters. I’m not a fan of reality tv shows, but maybe this one I would watch.
The romance is slow burning, but this makes her more believable. I was impressed of Bramhalls ability to bring the feelings and struggles between the pages. There was not much sex, but there was a beautiful and hot love scene.
I recommend this book for everybody who loves aromance in a breathtaking and competitive surrounding with people who get to your heart.
My rating 4,5 stars
Thanks to Ylva for receiving an ARC for a honest review.
January 24, 2018
The vast majority of the angst driven romance arc sports the a-typical ingredient list of bad feels because of lack of communication, or outright lies between the MC's. It's all pretty draining to get through it and once the page flipping past all the bad feels it's usually the death knell for me and a book. But out of loyalty to both author and publisher I pushed on. Otherwise this would have easily been a DNF for me.
There's also a side order of father issues with Rhian. Which considering it's the second book in a row with father issues makes me wonder what the universe is trying to tell me. Cause last I checked I was an all right guy. Heh.
As far as the climbing aspect goes in it's own plot arc it's done really really well. As a certified rescue climber I can relate to a lot of what she researched here. And it's well done.
There's also a side order of father issues with Rhian. Which considering it's the second book in a row with father issues makes me wonder what the universe is trying to tell me. Cause last I checked I was an all right guy. Heh.
As far as the climbing aspect goes in it's own plot arc it's done really really well. As a certified rescue climber I can relate to a lot of what she researched here. And it's well done.
May 1, 2018
This was a unique book. I loved the setting and the characters. I feel like I might be unfairly removing a star, because it could have been spectacular. My favorite books feature stories in settings or professions that I don't know very much about, and let me learn and live a new experience. This had that potential -- IF we had more rock climbing/challenge details. But, I know other readers complain when authors spend time on that instead of characters, so maybe it's just me. Even so, I'll be reading this again. And maybe Bramhall will do a sequel where we get to experience The Great Climbing Challenge.
December 2, 2017
Wow, what a ride, or more what a climb ;) I loved this book from the beginning. Adventures, mountains, competition, great story. Great characters!
April 3, 2022
This was a promise; it was worship. It was devotion and freedom all at the same time. And she never wanted it to end.
4.5 stars. This was some intense, emotional-but-light slow burn between really intriguing and engaging characters, and I ate it up. I was in the mood for a wilderness or survival romance and saw this on my TBR, and while it isn't really either of those things, it was close enough to scratch my itch. We're following Jayden, a professional mountain climber who gave up climbing after a tragedy, and Rhian, the producer for a new reality TV climbing show who needs Jayden to act as their expert.
Some things the book did great: the research into climbing and the techniques and gear and different mountains. I'm a layperson of course, so who knows how good it actually was, but it felt super well done. There aren't a tonne of climbing scenes, but the setting and atmosphere were so well done, you never lost that sense of wilderness/adventure, no matter how slight. I adooooored the romance. Super slow burn, but not so much that it was unsatisfying (imo). I LOVE when a book can make me feel insane just by putting two characters in a room, so much do I want them to get together. That's what Jayden and Rhian did to me; I their their attraction and pull so much. There's a fake dating aspect that I didn't expect, but was so so good. Both characters have their own little personal journeys, and I loved how Rhian's relationship with her step-mother (which was so unique and fun and just great to see) and Jayden's past and trauma were explored alongside the romance.
Lack of communication/miscommunication is probably my least favourite romance trope when done badly... and I honestly think here it was done well! To a certain extent, at least. Time and time again, they could have talked, but I completely sympathised with and understood their reasons for not talking, and the reasons why they misunderstood each other. And on the plus side, it drew out the slow burn in a way that was just delicious for me. There WAS a certain point when I thought 'okay, enough is enough' and I felt like it was really being dragged out. But thankfully, the lack of communication didn't last much longer than that. I really thought it was well done overall, and coming from me, that's something. (For real, I hate that trope lol.)
I thought the other conflicts in the books were good; didn't love or hate them. I did really like the last 1/4 of the book, and everything that happened on the show, and all the secondary characters and the parts they played. The action/tension was really well-written. There was one aspect concerning Rhian's father that wasn't explained well at all and that kept bugging me. There are some things about the writing that I wish had been different, but nothing that majorly affected my enjoyment.
Listened to the audiobook as read by Nicola Victoria Vincent; loved loved loved it. She has a voice that's super easy to listen to and made all the characters distinct. There were a lot of different accents, and though I didn't love the way she did them all, I was impressed by the range. This was such a great read, and I'm definitely going to check out Bramhall again.
Content warnings: .
December 5, 2018
Jayden is a master rock climber that shuns the mountains after a terrible accident.
Rhian works for her stepmom in an advertising firm. They need a guide and host for a new reality TV show to market a major outdoors brand.
Personalities collide. Crazy things happen. Some intense mountain scenarios are experienced. Fake romances are established to control the media.
I really liked this one. It was more than just a romance. There were real family conflicts that I was invested in as well
Of course, it was extremely well written. That is what you can expect from this author.
4 stars. I feel like Carlos just vanished from the story. And I kind of wanted him to play a part toward the end.
Rhian works for her stepmom in an advertising firm. They need a guide and host for a new reality TV show to market a major outdoors brand.
Personalities collide. Crazy things happen. Some intense mountain scenarios are experienced. Fake romances are established to control the media.
I really liked this one. It was more than just a romance. There were real family conflicts that I was invested in as well
Of course, it was extremely well written. That is what you can expect from this author.
4 stars. I feel like Carlos just vanished from the story. And I kind of wanted him to play a part toward the end.
September 13, 2019
So I read this book at the beginning of the year and gave it 4 Stars. And now I re-read it and I changed it to 5 stars because honestly, I enjoyed this more than I expected to and I don't exactly know what bothered me the first time that I rated it lower.
November 8, 2017
You know an author is talented when they create an intense emotional bond with the characters at only 20% of the way into the book. When you start crying on the bus in broad daylight because of the strength of the story and connection to the characters and depth of emotions portrayed in their words. Some books take longer than that to even get into the story, some books never get such an emotional reaction. But this one....damn.
Rhian is offered the opportunity of a lifetime, a marketing job wrapped up in a reality show, showcasing Patagonia clothing and the incredible glacial peaks of Patagonia, Argentina. She's tasked with creating The Amazing Climb, finding contestants and camera people and guides, but most importantly to find a host for the show. Jayden comes into Rhian's life when it seems they need each other most. Jayden and Rhian tackle the drama and the work head on, and run right into each other's arms. Is it real? Or is it just for show?
I can be a sucker for reality challenge TV shows - add some lesbian romance, a couple extra doses of drama, a beautiful setting, and an incredible writer - and you really can't go wrong at all. I really loved all the details into the challenges, the eliminations, and all the inner workings of the show and what goes into making a show like that. I kind of wish this part had been longer because I wish I could have watched the show. I loved all meeting all the contestants, even the ones I loved to hate. I definitely cheered when the Canadian showed up!! Everyone was unique and multidimensional. In fact all the secondary and all the background characters had great depth and created a rich and well rounded story.
Gosh as I neared the end, I lost it. My girlfriend watched me burst into tears and she asked if I was happy or sad. I blubbered and sniffled and finally got out that I was so happy, of course I was. I had to put the book down and cry a few more minutes before my poor little heart could keep reading. Damn these characters really freaking stole my heart! Andrea Bramhall has written some of my absolute favourite lesfic books ever and this one is definitely joining that list. She's so incredibly talented.
The story was fascinating, the romance destroyed me in the best possible way, the setting was gorgeous (and a little terrifying), but most of all the characters in this book found their way into my heart and took this story to the next level.
I know this is a book that I will read over and over again - I loved it so much! (I'll stop gushing now but to say) I'm buying the paperback first chance I can get my hands on it.
I received an ARC from YLVA in exchange for an honest review.
Rhian is offered the opportunity of a lifetime, a marketing job wrapped up in a reality show, showcasing Patagonia clothing and the incredible glacial peaks of Patagonia, Argentina. She's tasked with creating The Amazing Climb, finding contestants and camera people and guides, but most importantly to find a host for the show. Jayden comes into Rhian's life when it seems they need each other most. Jayden and Rhian tackle the drama and the work head on, and run right into each other's arms. Is it real? Or is it just for show?
I can be a sucker for reality challenge TV shows - add some lesbian romance, a couple extra doses of drama, a beautiful setting, and an incredible writer - and you really can't go wrong at all. I really loved all the details into the challenges, the eliminations, and all the inner workings of the show and what goes into making a show like that. I kind of wish this part had been longer because I wish I could have watched the show. I loved all meeting all the contestants, even the ones I loved to hate. I definitely cheered when the Canadian showed up!! Everyone was unique and multidimensional. In fact all the secondary and all the background characters had great depth and created a rich and well rounded story.
Gosh as I neared the end, I lost it. My girlfriend watched me burst into tears and she asked if I was happy or sad. I blubbered and sniffled and finally got out that I was so happy, of course I was. I had to put the book down and cry a few more minutes before my poor little heart could keep reading. Damn these characters really freaking stole my heart! Andrea Bramhall has written some of my absolute favourite lesfic books ever and this one is definitely joining that list. She's so incredibly talented.
The story was fascinating, the romance destroyed me in the best possible way, the setting was gorgeous (and a little terrifying), but most of all the characters in this book found their way into my heart and took this story to the next level.
I know this is a book that I will read over and over again - I loved it so much! (I'll stop gushing now but to say) I'm buying the paperback first chance I can get my hands on it.
I received an ARC from YLVA in exchange for an honest review.
March 12, 2018
The first half of this was so good. I was absolutely in love with it. It was a different premise than I’d read before, I loved the characters, and there was fake dating. My favorite trope! But the second half didn’t live up to the potential the first half promised. The romance plot line relied too much on miscommunication between the main characters. The action plot line, which was unique and so interesting, didn’t give enough detail. I’m so frustrated with the second half of this book because it could have been amazing! I feel like something wonderful has just slipped through my fingers.
January 26, 2025
I absolutely enjoyed reading this one. At the end though I was torn between 4 stars and 5 stars, because I felt like there were a few loose ends the author could have tied up better. And I really would have loved to read about the other challenges! But overall I loved the book too much to not rate it 5 stars.
That sex scene and the two contestants who won the final challenge sealed the 5 lol.
That sex scene and the two contestants who won the final challenge sealed the 5 lol.
November 25, 2017
4.5 stars
Jayden is a world class mountain climber. With her sister she owns a small company and leads climbs up some of the toughest mountains in the world. When disaster strikes she can’t help but blame herself, and retreats from life on several levels.
Rhian is a marketing executive who is handed her dream project, setting up and managing a reality show based around professional climbing. The pair are forced together by circumstances beyond their control, and held there by the demands of the show and the glare of social media. But love has a way of working things out over time, in ways neither of them expected.
An excellent new story from Andrea Bramhall. The setting is unusual, feels extremely real and well researched with detailed and knowledgeable descriptions of an environment and sport most of us have never experienced. The nearly fatal episode we witness vicariously with the team caries you away completely, well written, cleverly narrated and imagined, it feels like we are right there with them.
The cast of characters are wide ranging from the typical London marketing agency high powered executives to the alternate lifestyle climbers who range from dreadlocked modern day hippies to attention grabbing egomaniacs. All are fully real and simply, yet cleverly, filled in. The central cast, Jaydem, Rhian, their immediate family and core team, are well drawn and well rounded, with flaws and bright spots, journeys to travel and lessons to learn.
It’s a very traditional romance, a simple misunderstanding creating the drama, but for me it was well done. The multiple plot lines and constant action of the climbing mitigated what could have become a rather too much angst, but was well balanced and cleverly thought through.
Overall another excellent story; there is definitely room for a sequel with this cast and a second series in the making. Well written and executed it felt different and that made it a very welcome addition to the traditional romance collection.
Jayden is a world class mountain climber. With her sister she owns a small company and leads climbs up some of the toughest mountains in the world. When disaster strikes she can’t help but blame herself, and retreats from life on several levels.
Rhian is a marketing executive who is handed her dream project, setting up and managing a reality show based around professional climbing. The pair are forced together by circumstances beyond their control, and held there by the demands of the show and the glare of social media. But love has a way of working things out over time, in ways neither of them expected.
An excellent new story from Andrea Bramhall. The setting is unusual, feels extremely real and well researched with detailed and knowledgeable descriptions of an environment and sport most of us have never experienced. The nearly fatal episode we witness vicariously with the team caries you away completely, well written, cleverly narrated and imagined, it feels like we are right there with them.
The cast of characters are wide ranging from the typical London marketing agency high powered executives to the alternate lifestyle climbers who range from dreadlocked modern day hippies to attention grabbing egomaniacs. All are fully real and simply, yet cleverly, filled in. The central cast, Jaydem, Rhian, their immediate family and core team, are well drawn and well rounded, with flaws and bright spots, journeys to travel and lessons to learn.
It’s a very traditional romance, a simple misunderstanding creating the drama, but for me it was well done. The multiple plot lines and constant action of the climbing mitigated what could have become a rather too much angst, but was well balanced and cleverly thought through.
Overall another excellent story; there is definitely room for a sequel with this cast and a second series in the making. Well written and executed it felt different and that made it a very welcome addition to the traditional romance collection.
February 8, 2019
I was born and raised in the flatlands by the sea. Our highest 'mountain' is 156m (on a good day). And I live in the flatlands now. I often feel like Bilbo "Mountains, Gandalf, I want to see mountains again!" And right from the start we were there. An action packed prologue at Everest basecamp. Disaster strikes. And then we are off on our journey. In every sense of the word. This is a great book. Full of action, and characters, and fun. Up until 50% in it was a clear 5* for me. But then cracks appeared. Not enough to crash into a crevasse... but enough to make it a bit less enjoyable. The villains were a bit 2d cartoonish, the sets not very believable, the relationship angst a bit too 'we can't have them be together until the last chapter, so let's make up some stuff'. It dragged a bit from that point. A bit like a hike that goes on for a bit too long and you wish you were back by the car because your feet hurt.
Still, a really good read all around.
Still, a really good read all around.
December 2, 2017
Hmmmm.....
I love books where the storyline is about climbing a mountain. This was different from some I have read and I liked that. I like the characters of Rhian and Jayden two women deAling with issues. The secondary characters where great. Rachel, Fen, Mel they all made me laugh. The only thing I can say I had a problem with was the going back and forth of she hates me...no she hates me. But I did enjoy the book. I would definitely recommend this book.
I love books where the storyline is about climbing a mountain. This was different from some I have read and I liked that. I like the characters of Rhian and Jayden two women deAling with issues. The secondary characters where great. Rachel, Fen, Mel they all made me laugh. The only thing I can say I had a problem with was the going back and forth of she hates me...no she hates me. But I did enjoy the book. I would definitely recommend this book.
November 23, 2018
Rock and a Hard Place by Andrea Bramhall is a slow-burn romance in the world of rock climbing. You have the usual highs and lows of rock climbing, which keeps you turning the pages! Than, with the added romance thrown in, which keeps the story interesting. The reality TV project gives the added interest and tension in the story. The romance between the main leads, reality tv producer Rhian Phillips and mountain climber Jayden Harris started an unlikely friendship after they began a fauxmance. What kept me turning the pages, is whether or not both ladies can overcome their differences and personal obstacles to allow their romance to blossom?
November 5, 2017
I enjoyed the climbing descriptions, but have to say the secondary characters made this an enjoyable read. The romance was very slow burning and I did feel little short changed as quickly picked up towards the end. I would have preferred more real couple time.
Enjoyable read, little frustrating at times, lack of communication and assumptions.
Arc received from vulva for honest review.
Enjoyable read, little frustrating at times, lack of communication and assumptions.
Arc received from vulva for honest review.
November 17, 2017
Rock and a Hard Place is another Andrea Bramhall winner! Jayden is forced to face her fears and her losses when asked to help her sister in Patagonia.
The plot is exciting and engaging and the characters are diverse. You are drawn into their world quickly.
I have never wanted to try mountain climbing however the people who do fascinate me. This novel has given me insight into the allure of climbing and the risk and rewards assigned to the sport.
Climbers are risk takers in life and in this novel love as well. You will be highly entertained on both fronts by Rock and a Hard Place.
Enjoy.
The plot is exciting and engaging and the characters are diverse. You are drawn into their world quickly.
I have never wanted to try mountain climbing however the people who do fascinate me. This novel has given me insight into the allure of climbing and the risk and rewards assigned to the sport.
Climbers are risk takers in life and in this novel love as well. You will be highly entertained on both fronts by Rock and a Hard Place.
Enjoy.
February 8, 2019
Not sure what to say about this one. I liked the theme of this one, but it was a tad bit slow. Also, I am not normally into a romance that is full of angst. I swear by 85% I was ready to kill both of the MC's. :) I also need romance in my romance novel...this didn't have alot of romance to me. Anyway, I still thought it was decent so I will rate it 3 stars.
January 16, 2019
4.5 stars. I really enjoyed this book, having been to the locations in which it is set. I would love to have had a little more about the climbing and competition included but the basic story line was solid anyway so it didn't detract.
December 23, 2017
The scenery of the book was stunning and how the mountains and the climbing were described made me feel like I’m on the mountain. The only thing I didn’t really understand was that the whole challenge and sponsorship from Patagonia for the tv show was to promote their clothing and sportswear to woman and to bring the brand closer to female customers. So I didn’t really understand that there were half men and half women in the competition - that seemed a little odd to me just because of how the challenge was described earlier in the book. I liked the characters - both female and male and they were well developed.
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