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Back to You #1
Hard Crush
HARD CRUSH is a sizzling standalone romance from USA TODAY Bestselling author Mira Lyn Kelly.
A jaded billionaire.
The girl who got away.
A second chance has never been so sexy.
ABBY
Technology has it out for me. And I’m not talking about my ever-ailing phone or the temperamental Smart Board in my classroom. I’m talking about the internationally hailed “Tech Genius” formerly known as the boy I used to love.
It was bad enough seeing that cocky smile staring back at me from my newsfeeds, the gossip sites, and—fine—the scorchingly hot men’s fitness magazine I bought in a moment of weakness. But now he’s back home, teasing me with the memories I’ve tried to leave behind, crowding into my space and taunting me with the kiss I can’t resist. I know it’s only a matter of time before I lose him again. He’s already told me he isn’t staying, warned me he’s changed. I know better than to let him get too close, so why can’t I push him away?
HANK
They call me a visionary. An innovator. Hell, last week a headline touted me as the billion-dollar geek keeping Silicon Valley’s panties wet. Try living that down. Strip away the media BS, and I’m just a tech-minded guy with my eyes on the future and no time for a past I can't change. So what am I doing following the sweet sound of its laugh back to the woman who passed on our chance at forever?
I tell myself all I want is to say hello. To see her smile. Just a few minutes to pretend we’re still the “us” I thought would never end. But once I've had a taste of the too tempting woman she's become, a few minutes isn’t enough.
The man I am today is used to getting what he wants, and I want her.
The problem? She wants the guy I used to be.
Ten years later, all that’s changed is… everything.
A jaded billionaire.
The girl who got away.
A second chance has never been so sexy.
ABBY
Technology has it out for me. And I’m not talking about my ever-ailing phone or the temperamental Smart Board in my classroom. I’m talking about the internationally hailed “Tech Genius” formerly known as the boy I used to love.
It was bad enough seeing that cocky smile staring back at me from my newsfeeds, the gossip sites, and—fine—the scorchingly hot men’s fitness magazine I bought in a moment of weakness. But now he’s back home, teasing me with the memories I’ve tried to leave behind, crowding into my space and taunting me with the kiss I can’t resist. I know it’s only a matter of time before I lose him again. He’s already told me he isn’t staying, warned me he’s changed. I know better than to let him get too close, so why can’t I push him away?
HANK
They call me a visionary. An innovator. Hell, last week a headline touted me as the billion-dollar geek keeping Silicon Valley’s panties wet. Try living that down. Strip away the media BS, and I’m just a tech-minded guy with my eyes on the future and no time for a past I can't change. So what am I doing following the sweet sound of its laugh back to the woman who passed on our chance at forever?
I tell myself all I want is to say hello. To see her smile. Just a few minutes to pretend we’re still the “us” I thought would never end. But once I've had a taste of the too tempting woman she's become, a few minutes isn’t enough.
The man I am today is used to getting what he wants, and I want her.
The problem? She wants the guy I used to be.
Ten years later, all that’s changed is… everything.
250 pages, ebook
First published February 27, 2018
1459 people are currently reading
2586 people want to read
About the author
Mira Lyn Kelly
93 books2,744 followersFor Mira's latest book news, sign up for her newsletter at http://www.miralynkelly.com/newsletter
Hard core romantic, stress baker, and housekeeper non-extraordinaire, Mira Lyn Kelly is the USA TODAY bestselling author of more than a dozen sizzly love stories with over a million readers worldwide. Growing up in the Chicago area, she earned her degree in Fine Arts from Loyola University and met the love of her life while studying abroad in Rome, Italy… only to discover he’d been living right around the corner from her back home. Having spent her twenties working and playing in the Windy City, she’s now settled with her husband in rural Minnesota, where their four amazing children and two ridiculous dogs provide an excess of action and entertainment. When she isn’t reading, writing, or running the kids around, she loves watching the Chicago Blackhawks and action/adventure movies, blabbing with the girls, and cooking with her husband and friends.
Hard core romantic, stress baker, and housekeeper non-extraordinaire, Mira Lyn Kelly is the USA TODAY bestselling author of more than a dozen sizzly love stories with over a million readers worldwide. Growing up in the Chicago area, she earned her degree in Fine Arts from Loyola University and met the love of her life while studying abroad in Rome, Italy… only to discover he’d been living right around the corner from her back home. Having spent her twenties working and playing in the Windy City, she’s now settled with her husband in rural Minnesota, where their four amazing children and two ridiculous dogs provide an excess of action and entertainment. When she isn’t reading, writing, or running the kids around, she loves watching the Chicago Blackhawks and action/adventure movies, blabbing with the girls, and cooking with her husband and friends.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 316 reviews
June 11, 2018
You guys .... THIS is what Mira Lyn Kelly was put on this earth to write. THIS is her voice. THIS is the author I fell in love with years ago. It is phenomenal. I only read a rough draft but it's pretty close to the end package so I'm very confident in saying this is a must read for not only Mira fans but romance fiction fans in general.
This second chance to get it right story will run you thru a rainbow of emotions, fill your heart with joy and put a huge smile on your face from the very beginning! #TRUST
This second chance to get it right story will run you thru a rainbow of emotions, fill your heart with joy and put a huge smile on your face from the very beginning! #TRUST
February 20, 2018
~WRITING - PLOT - PACE~This was a pretty decent read. Nothing revolutionary about the plot but it was a very well written book. The pace was perfect. It was a fairly quick read and the story while a little on the predictable side was nonetheless engaging and kept me turning the pages. Last, it was all wrapped up in a sweet ending.
~HERO~
HANK...I don't have anything bad to say about him. He was a sexy geek with glasses. He was a sweet guy. He appeared to be a bit of a manwhore in the ten years this couple was apart (shocking I know - roll eyes). I struggled a little with his not bothering to look up the heroine the ten years apart but then proclaiming he always loved her. But you know, it was what it was. Like I said, he was a decent hero.
~HEROINE~
ABBY...I liked her slightly less than Hank. I don't like heroines that make decisions for the hero thinking they are doing the best for HIM. That said, I understood her reasoning and how her past affected her present. Plus, it wasn't like Hank fought very hard. Her waffling back and forth annoyed me a bit. But she also put herself out there a couple times, so I couldn't hate her too much. I do wish authors would stop with the whole "heroine moved on but only had mediocre sex and bad dates while pining for the hero. While our hero goes on to f-ck everything that walks including supermodels. (Again I was shocked <-- sarcasm).
~SECONDARY CHARACTERS~
There was a good cast of secondary characters in this one. None play HUGE rolls, but all of them added to the story. I was intrigued by a couple friends of Hank's and by Wilson (Abby's friend and co-worker). I loved Helen as well.
~HEAT LEVEL~
Medium. There was some nice heat to this one and the frequency of the sex scenes felt organic to the story. This couple also had some good on page chemistry.
~ANGST LEVEL~
Low. I didn't find this particularly angsty. There was a lot of pushing away by the heroine and Hank's job caused some issues. There was a tiny bit of OW drama. Hank goes on a date with an OW, but nothing happens. There was also a tiny bit of OM drama in the form of a co-worker of Abby's. Neither bothered me overly much.
~IN THE END~
I liked it. Did it blow me away? No. There was nothing new with this story that I haven't read a million times in other books. But it was a sweet well written story with minimal angst. It had (fairly) likable main characters. A good cast of interesting secondary characters and it left me with a smile on my face. Therefore yours truly is giving this one a solid thumb and a half up.
February 1, 2018
With every Mira Lyn Kelly book I read, I enjoy her writing even more. Hard Crush is a wonderful second chance romance story with all the emotions!
Hank and Abby dated for four years when Hank was given the opportunity of a lifetime. Abby knew that she would have to step away from Hank so he could have the life he deserved, and she did. Ten years later, Hank is back and has his sights set on Abby.
I absolutely loved this book. Hard Crush ran through every single emotion possible. The writing is so flawless, you feel completely connected with the characters. I loved the banter, the chemistry after ten years that was still going strong, Abby’s reluctance and Hank knowing what he truly wanted. Hard Crush is one of the best second chance romances I’ve read!
Hank and Abby dated for four years when Hank was given the opportunity of a lifetime. Abby knew that she would have to step away from Hank so he could have the life he deserved, and she did. Ten years later, Hank is back and has his sights set on Abby.
I absolutely loved this book. Hard Crush ran through every single emotion possible. The writing is so flawless, you feel completely connected with the characters. I loved the banter, the chemistry after ten years that was still going strong, Abby’s reluctance and Hank knowing what he truly wanted. Hard Crush is one of the best second chance romances I’ve read!
March 5, 2018
4 - "It's time to stop waiting..." Stars!
Mira Lyn Kelly begins her new Back to You series in stellar style with Hard Crush, and second-chance-love never read so good!
"We aren’t the same people we were ten years ago…"
It’s been far too long since I read anything from this author, but having read and loved every book in her previous Dare to Love series, it was a no brainer when I was given the opportunity to read Abby and Hanks’ second chance reconnection.
This isn’t the shy boy who was mine… He’s the confident man the whole world wants a piece of.
Ten years without any contact is a long time to pass between people who were once so close to each other, and there have been more than few changes for both of them and not just in the looks department. Both now successful in their own rights, a (not so) chance meeting at their old school brings all the emotions and attraction crashing back to the surface for Abby and Hank.
I’m the guy who leaves… and she’s the girl who won’t wait.
The problem is that although a decade has passed and everything between them on an emotional and physical level fires up pretty quickly, the fact that Hank’s work will take him away still remains, something which Abby is not prepared to deal with, this ended their relationship as teens, and puts a stop to Abby allowing their relationship to develop as twenty somethings, even though the chemistry between them is scorching, and the sexy-times Kindle-meltingly hot.
She’s been haunting the shadows of my mind the whole time…
I loved Hank, and I mean total out-and-out adoration from this reader, he went from sweet to funny, to attentive, then dirty and for the whole time was just completely delectable, he knew that from their reconnection he didn’t want to let Abby drift out of his life again, and he did everything in his power to ensure that she didn’t.
"Thinking about you is the best part of my day…"
This is one of those books you pick up and read with a smile on your face pretty much the whole time you are involved with the couples story, the secondary characters added real value as well, so much so I cannot wait for June when Dirty Player; Greg’s book is due for release. The banter between him and Hank in this one made him intriguing to this reader, and I have a feeling I am going to fall in love with him as much as I have done with Hank when I get my hands on his story.
ARC generously provided by the author, and it was my pleasure to provide the above honest review in exchange.
Mira Lyn Kelly begins her new Back to You series in stellar style with Hard Crush, and second-chance-love never read so good!
"We aren’t the same people we were ten years ago…"
It’s been far too long since I read anything from this author, but having read and loved every book in her previous Dare to Love series, it was a no brainer when I was given the opportunity to read Abby and Hanks’ second chance reconnection.
This isn’t the shy boy who was mine… He’s the confident man the whole world wants a piece of.
Ten years without any contact is a long time to pass between people who were once so close to each other, and there have been more than few changes for both of them and not just in the looks department. Both now successful in their own rights, a (not so) chance meeting at their old school brings all the emotions and attraction crashing back to the surface for Abby and Hank.
I’m the guy who leaves… and she’s the girl who won’t wait.
The problem is that although a decade has passed and everything between them on an emotional and physical level fires up pretty quickly, the fact that Hank’s work will take him away still remains, something which Abby is not prepared to deal with, this ended their relationship as teens, and puts a stop to Abby allowing their relationship to develop as twenty somethings, even though the chemistry between them is scorching, and the sexy-times Kindle-meltingly hot.
She’s been haunting the shadows of my mind the whole time…
I loved Hank, and I mean total out-and-out adoration from this reader, he went from sweet to funny, to attentive, then dirty and for the whole time was just completely delectable, he knew that from their reconnection he didn’t want to let Abby drift out of his life again, and he did everything in his power to ensure that she didn’t.
"Thinking about you is the best part of my day…"
This is one of those books you pick up and read with a smile on your face pretty much the whole time you are involved with the couples story, the secondary characters added real value as well, so much so I cannot wait for June when Dirty Player; Greg’s book is due for release. The banter between him and Hank in this one made him intriguing to this reader, and I have a feeling I am going to fall in love with him as much as I have done with Hank when I get my hands on his story.
ARC generously provided by the author, and it was my pleasure to provide the above honest review in exchange.
January 20, 2018
I have loved each and every Mira Lyn Kelly’s Books I’ve read. This is my 11th book! Reading her books is like coming home, I look forward to them. They are wholesome with a splurge of spice.
If you are looking to read a romance novel that will emotionally satisfy you, then Hard Crush is for you.
Oh Hank!!! He is the eponym of the PERFECT HAWT NERD and you will want to hug Abby and tell her that everything will be ok. And Helen is just the bonus! She is the neighbor/mother figure/best friend that you wish you had.
Hard Crush and Mira Lyn Kelly’s Books is like Sriracha, it is sweet and spicy!
If you are looking to read a romance novel that will emotionally satisfy you, then Hard Crush is for you.
Oh Hank!!! He is the eponym of the PERFECT HAWT NERD and you will want to hug Abby and tell her that everything will be ok. And Helen is just the bonus! She is the neighbor/mother figure/best friend that you wish you had.
Hard Crush and Mira Lyn Kelly’s Books is like Sriracha, it is sweet and spicy!
May 26, 2018
Oh this was so boring! Skimmed through most of it.
- H and h were high school sweethearts.
- H got into MIT, h broke things off because she ‘didn’t want to be the one waiting for him to come back’
- 10 years on, H is a nerdy, hot billionaire and h is a high school teacher.
- H goes back to his high school (to see what they did with his donation) and hears the h giggling at something and stops in his tracks!
- H is super confident and the h suddenly becomes this giggling, clumsy, ditz of a teacher.
- H asks h out to dinner, she says no, but they make out and have sex.
- H decides to become a teacher to get in the h’s goodbooks.
- H and h get together.
- A project H was working on is now up and running. H has to move to Florida.
- h freaks out, because she ‘doesn’t want to be the one waiting’
- H leaves
- push and pull
- h comes to her senses, goes to Florida
- epilogue: they’re pregnant
This would’ve been a dnf, but really I spent hard earned money on this crap, so I wanted to see it through. Save your money and time.
- H and h were high school sweethearts.
- H got into MIT, h broke things off because she ‘didn’t want to be the one waiting for him to come back’
- 10 years on, H is a nerdy, hot billionaire and h is a high school teacher.
- H goes back to his high school (to see what they did with his donation) and hears the h giggling at something and stops in his tracks!
- H is super confident and the h suddenly becomes this giggling, clumsy, ditz of a teacher.
- H asks h out to dinner, she says no, but they make out and have sex.
- H decides to become a teacher to get in the h’s goodbooks.
- H and h get together.
- A project H was working on is now up and running. H has to move to Florida.
- h freaks out, because she ‘doesn’t want to be the one waiting’
- H leaves
- push and pull
- h comes to her senses, goes to Florida
- epilogue: they’re pregnant
This would’ve been a dnf, but really I spent hard earned money on this crap, so I wanted to see it through. Save your money and time.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
not-happening
May 24, 2018
October 3, 2020
"...there are some things worth fighting for. You are worth fighting for. We're worth fighting for."
Abby is someone with a very sad past and a lot of emotional baggage, so much she's unable to trust a man who'd do anything for her. Because she has trusted before and has been let down so many times by someone who should have been there to protect her.
Hank... Hank is the hot, silly, passionate, mind-blowing nerd guy who is not willing to let her go, even after 10 years have gone by. He's driven, focused on his job, while also being so adoring and so loving you will melt. Seriously.
And their story together, going through what was in the past, what it is right now and what could be in the future will bring a smile to your face and tears to your eyes.
Second chance stories are not really my favorite, but this is some flawless writing. It's steamy and sexy, but there's a real connection there that can only come from two people who know each other well. The emotions in this book are through the roof, in the best possible way.
If you're not in love with Mira Lyn Kelly's writing yet, this will certainly do it for you. I know I already am.
Abby is someone with a very sad past and a lot of emotional baggage, so much she's unable to trust a man who'd do anything for her. Because she has trusted before and has been let down so many times by someone who should have been there to protect her.
Hank... Hank is the hot, silly, passionate, mind-blowing nerd guy who is not willing to let her go, even after 10 years have gone by. He's driven, focused on his job, while also being so adoring and so loving you will melt. Seriously.
And their story together, going through what was in the past, what it is right now and what could be in the future will bring a smile to your face and tears to your eyes.
Second chance stories are not really my favorite, but this is some flawless writing. It's steamy and sexy, but there's a real connection there that can only come from two people who know each other well. The emotions in this book are through the roof, in the best possible way.
If you're not in love with Mira Lyn Kelly's writing yet, this will certainly do it for you. I know I already am.
March 5, 2018
Oh my goodness! This was the first book I have ever read by Mira Lyn Kelly, but I can guarantee you it will not be the last. Hard Crush blew me away! From start to finish, this book was emotional, poignant, and so erotic I am surprised by Kindle didn't spontaneously combust (because I know my panties sure did)! It's been ten years since our heroine, Abby, walked away from the love of her life so that all of his dreams could come true. I freaking ADORED Abby! I can't explain in enough words how highly I thought of her having given up her shot at happily-ever-after with her soul mate so the world could share in his brilliance. Abby is kind, sweet, and determined to live her life on her owns terms and most of all, she craves the family she never had as a child. She is so inspiring and amazing in her own right and she has the perfect blend of sense of humor mixed with compassion and understanding. As for Hank, he is just as perfect as Abby but with a special brand of sexiness only he can pull off. He knows how he has always felt about Abby and once he sees her again after a 10 year absence, he knows that she was the one thing in his life that made him feel complete. Hank is so hot, every single time he opened his mouth, I about fainted. I adore a nerdy but alpha man and Hank fits this description to a "T". I love how he pursued Abby, not like a wrecking ball demolishing a building, but with a subtle grace that eventually swept her off her feet. The path to happily-ever-after was not easy. Nope, it was honestly gut-wrenching but every second I read, was a cherished second. The chemistry was like nothing I have ever imagined but the sheer emotion between Abby and Hank was what really put this book over the top. Let's not forget the sex scenes. They were decadent and erotic. Make sure you keep water and a fan nearby, because that's about the only thing that will cool you down. Overall, from start to finish, this book was sublime with no flaws, very little angst, wonderful secondary characters and a love that was so beautiful, everything else pales in comparison. My advice is to run, walk, skip, fly....whatever your mode of transportation, use it and buy this book. I for one will be getting my copy in print because it's one of the best I have ever read and has earned it's spot in my library right along with my other favorites. I can hardly wait to see what Ms. Kelly has in store for us next but I know I will definitely be looking for previous books written by her. 5 stars (but I'm giving it an extra 5 because it's my blog and I can)!
March 9, 2021
This was an average read, nothing really stood out in the storyline but it was written well. I had a hard time getting into it but I really think that was on me since there is stuff going on right at the beginning.
Hank is a likable character. He’s sexy and sweet. I will say it seemed a bit odd to me that over the 10 years that these two were apart he never tried to contact her. I mean if he has always loved her and never understood fully why things were called off wouldn’t you think he would have tried at some point to find out what really happened verses waiting until the 10 year high school reunion? I don’t know, maybe that is just me.
Abby is also likable. Maybe I was puzzled by her decision back at the end of high school but that is easily excused (as far as I am concerned) since she made the decision at such a young age. She had a very tough childhood and her insecurities are completely understandable.
I loved Abby’s neighbor and friend Helen, she is a great character!
Hank is a likable character. He’s sexy and sweet. I will say it seemed a bit odd to me that over the 10 years that these two were apart he never tried to contact her. I mean if he has always loved her and never understood fully why things were called off wouldn’t you think he would have tried at some point to find out what really happened verses waiting until the 10 year high school reunion? I don’t know, maybe that is just me.
Abby is also likable. Maybe I was puzzled by her decision back at the end of high school but that is easily excused (as far as I am concerned) since she made the decision at such a young age. She had a very tough childhood and her insecurities are completely understandable.
I loved Abby’s neighbor and friend Helen, she is a great character!
February 12, 2018
Hank and Abby are a couple who needed that second chance. Their past was heart-breaking, and their reunion was beautiful and hopeful. I loved these two and their story!
Want to read
October 15, 2020💝FREE on Amazon today (5/25/2018)!💝
Blurb:
This isn’t our second chance.
It’s one kiss with the girl who got away.
A better goodbye than we had ten years ago.
That’s what I keep telling myself. But her fingers are in my hair, her breath hot against my lips. My hands… everywhere.
The rational part of my brain knows we should stop.
I’m not staying and she won’t leave.
But then the rational part of my brain hasn’t exactly been in control since I set eyes on Abby again. One look, and suddenly it’s the guy below my belt dirty talking in my ear.
I like what he’s saying.
We’re adults now. A few more minutes of breathless and please won’t hurt anyone.
Thing is, I’m pretty sure this is the same voice from high school promising just the tip…
Blurb:
This isn’t our second chance.
It’s one kiss with the girl who got away.
A better goodbye than we had ten years ago.
That’s what I keep telling myself. But her fingers are in my hair, her breath hot against my lips. My hands… everywhere.
The rational part of my brain knows we should stop.
I’m not staying and she won’t leave.
But then the rational part of my brain hasn’t exactly been in control since I set eyes on Abby again. One look, and suddenly it’s the guy below my belt dirty talking in my ear.
I like what he’s saying.
We’re adults now. A few more minutes of breathless and please won’t hurt anyone.
Thing is, I’m pretty sure this is the same voice from high school promising just the tip…
June 16, 2021
3.5 stars! I liked it but it was frustrating that our female heroine was always so scared he would bolt just because her background was an orphan and nobody wanted her.
February 4, 2018
OH. EM. GEE. I looooooove second chance romances almost as much as I love Mira Lyn Kelly, so HARD CRUSH is a match made in heaven.
Hank Wagner and Abby Mitchel were high school sweethearts, but different life paths separated them a decade ago. A tech genius, Hank’s path took him across the country for an education at MIT, followed by a high-rising, fast-moving career in the media spotlight. Abby, on the other hand, followed her dreams and became a teacher, choosing to stay close to home, and teaching where they attended high school.
Ten years later, Hank and Abby find themselves face-to-face for the first time since ending their relationship. A little older, a little wiser, aaaaaaand still wildly attracted to one another. But he’s still a tech god who travels all over the world, while she’s still a high school English teacher content living where they grew up. New decade. Same problems. *sigh*
Hank sets out on a mission to prove to Abby that they *can* have it all. But Abby’s heard it before, and she’s lived it before. He pushes, she pulls away. Until one day...
The connection between Hank and Abby is palpable, and their interactions are fun, flirty, and realistic. Hank is extremely swoony, and you can’t help but cheer Abby on as he makes it his mission to win her back. Their story will make you laugh and swoon in equal measure, and when it’s all said and done, you’ll want to hug Mira for bringing Hank and Abby into your life.
Hank Wagner and Abby Mitchel were high school sweethearts, but different life paths separated them a decade ago. A tech genius, Hank’s path took him across the country for an education at MIT, followed by a high-rising, fast-moving career in the media spotlight. Abby, on the other hand, followed her dreams and became a teacher, choosing to stay close to home, and teaching where they attended high school.
Ten years later, Hank and Abby find themselves face-to-face for the first time since ending their relationship. A little older, a little wiser, aaaaaaand still wildly attracted to one another. But he’s still a tech god who travels all over the world, while she’s still a high school English teacher content living where they grew up. New decade. Same problems. *sigh*
Hank sets out on a mission to prove to Abby that they *can* have it all. But Abby’s heard it before, and she’s lived it before. He pushes, she pulls away. Until one day...
The connection between Hank and Abby is palpable, and their interactions are fun, flirty, and realistic. Hank is extremely swoony, and you can’t help but cheer Abby on as he makes it his mission to win her back. Their story will make you laugh and swoon in equal measure, and when it’s all said and done, you’ll want to hug Mira for bringing Hank and Abby into your life.
March 1, 2018
This story was one of those that started off okay and then steadily built into something that was hard to put down.
Hank was one of those super smart tech billionaire guys. This is one of my favorite kind of book boyfriends because they're usually really sweet and loyal to the person they love. They usually have big hearts and want to help more than just their own bottom line. Hank was a perfect example of all this. He was so head over heels for Abby it was painful for me to not see him get what he so desperately wanted.
This book had a lot of ups and downs. A lot of wondering if they could finally make it work. And in the end all of that made for a really good story. The ending was perfect and everything that came before made that final chapter worth it.
March 13, 2018
3.5 stars
Second chance romances are my favorite trope and Mira Lyn Kelly is a new-to-me author. Everything about this book appeals to me. I love stories about nerdy heroes. Hank Wagner is a brilliant tech entrepreneur. He is a shining star and destined for greatness. Abby Mitchel is his high school sweetheart, but has no desire to follow Hank into the stratosphere. She breaks it off so that he can soar. She also does not want to be the one who has to wait and be disappointed when he will eventually leave her behind.
This is a sweet story with clear and straightforward writing. I appreciate that there is not a lot of angst because I think it may have overwhelmed the narrative. Abby is self-sacrificing, letting Hank go so that he could change the world. She also fears that Hank would eventually abandon her and leave her behind because she is content in their hometown. When they meet again during their high school reunion, there romance is rekindled. There interactions are flirty and charming and truthfully, I could have used more of it. I thought the story is begging for more of this dialogue.
Nerdy heroes are my jam, but I find myself wishing that authors would write them just a little less alpha. I would love to see more beta heroes in general and I think these types of stories provide the perfect opportunity. Don't get me wrong, Hank is appealing, but it would be okay if he is a little less powerful and authoritative.
Second chance romances are my favorite trope and Mira Lyn Kelly is a new-to-me author. Everything about this book appeals to me. I love stories about nerdy heroes. Hank Wagner is a brilliant tech entrepreneur. He is a shining star and destined for greatness. Abby Mitchel is his high school sweetheart, but has no desire to follow Hank into the stratosphere. She breaks it off so that he can soar. She also does not want to be the one who has to wait and be disappointed when he will eventually leave her behind.
This is a sweet story with clear and straightforward writing. I appreciate that there is not a lot of angst because I think it may have overwhelmed the narrative. Abby is self-sacrificing, letting Hank go so that he could change the world. She also fears that Hank would eventually abandon her and leave her behind because she is content in their hometown. When they meet again during their high school reunion, there romance is rekindled. There interactions are flirty and charming and truthfully, I could have used more of it. I thought the story is begging for more of this dialogue.
Nerdy heroes are my jam, but I find myself wishing that authors would write them just a little less alpha. I would love to see more beta heroes in general and I think these types of stories provide the perfect opportunity. Don't get me wrong, Hank is appealing, but it would be okay if he is a little less powerful and authoritative.
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May 22, 2025hat mich leider überhaupt nicht mitgerissen.. 🙈
March 2, 2018
Hank and Abby, ❤️. After ten long years these two cross path again. He was her first everything until he walked away. Abby was the girl that got away. They previously dated for four years but by the time they were seniors in high school they both wanted different things after graduation.
Their lives were changed tremendously and they were completely different. Hank was now a millionaire tech god that was considered one of the hottest eligible bachelor in the country while Abby stayed behind in their small town and became a high school teacher.
When they run into each other again Hank realizes that he wants Abby in his life again but she doesn’t. She still has feelings for him she just can’t get used to his all new popularity. Hank doesn’t care and goes above and beyond to try and get her back. The things he did made me smile; some worked and some were questionable, lol. Abby was impressed but still was a little hesitant.
Abby tried pushing him away because she had things that she was trying to resolve. Hank didn’t want to but did what he needed to try and get her back. My heart broke for Abby with the things she suffered. She finally came to her senses and went after what she wanted and Hank was there waiting.
The epilogue I enjoyed and I can’t wait to read more on these two.
Their lives were changed tremendously and they were completely different. Hank was now a millionaire tech god that was considered one of the hottest eligible bachelor in the country while Abby stayed behind in their small town and became a high school teacher.
When they run into each other again Hank realizes that he wants Abby in his life again but she doesn’t. She still has feelings for him she just can’t get used to his all new popularity. Hank doesn’t care and goes above and beyond to try and get her back. The things he did made me smile; some worked and some were questionable, lol. Abby was impressed but still was a little hesitant.
Abby tried pushing him away because she had things that she was trying to resolve. Hank didn’t want to but did what he needed to try and get her back. My heart broke for Abby with the things she suffered. She finally came to her senses and went after what she wanted and Hank was there waiting.
The epilogue I enjoyed and I can’t wait to read more on these two.
August 31, 2020
I’m not a big romance reader, so I’m probably not the intended audience. I didn’t expect it to be good, but I was hoping for some light entertainment. Instead, I got a one-track-mind plot with no interesting developments, a lot of clichés, nothing original, and two characters I didn’t like. Hank is an obsessive, paranoid creep who doesn’t understand the word “no” in a personal context. Abby is a wishy-washy self-pitying character who complains when things are bad and complains when things are good. The epilogue is a joke, tying things up with a few more “because this is a fantasy, EVERYTHING is perfect now, even stuff we never referenced wanting before”. Every stereotype is hit upon at some point. Background characters are irrelevant and underlined. Abby’s mother returns, but too late for there to be any interesting or meaningful plot around what could have been the only “interesting” development in the novel. Even for a light romance, this is not a great effort. I only give it the second star because it generally accomplishes what it wants to, is appropriately short, and pretends to have character backstory, which is most than it could have done, if it hadn’t wanted to.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 27, 2021
getting past the name of the hero, hank (cringe), this was cute second chance romance
i appreciated that the author didn’t make the heroine wait for him or stay celibate bc the heroine really did think that she was never gonna see him ever again
with that said, the push & pull kinda got over done & by the time they finally got back together i wasn’t as invested anymore 🙃
i appreciated that the author didn’t make the heroine wait for him or stay celibate bc the heroine really did think that she was never gonna see him ever again
with that said, the push & pull kinda got over done & by the time they finally got back together i wasn’t as invested anymore 🙃
June 16, 2018
3,5 💖💖💖🌟🌟🌟s!!!!
February 28, 2018
This review was copied from my romance novel review blog: romanticallyinclinedreviews.blogspot.com. You can follow us on Instagram: @romantically_inclined, or Facebook: /romanticallyinclinedreviews.
Do you ever think about your high school exes and wonder what your life might be like if you were still with them? I’m thinking I’d be a lot worse off than I am now, but some of you might have had some better boyfriends than me. Still, that’s the appeal of second chance romances, no? A chance to do it over. Hard Crush by Mira Lyn Kelly is light-hearted, positively adorable, and full of some cute romance that will make you wish you had a high school romance like Abby and Hank.
Reading Hard Crush was like taking a nice long bath after a hard day of work. You just sort of sink into it and lose track of time, only snapping out of it when you’re a big prune and the water’s cold (or in my case, when the baby you’re watching wakes up). It was a nice change of pace from the romantic suspense and erotica I’ve been reading lately—those novels can get so freaking stressful. There was plenty of drama between indecisive Abby and lovesick Hank, but it wasn’t the sort that’ll make you sweat and grind your teeth. Just your typical relationship conflict between two people who go back and forth more times than a ping pong ball in the Olympic matches.
Abby was a very likeable character. She was pleasantly naïve, cute as a button, and god-awful with technology, but she was also so incredibly frustrating. For instance, it is positively beyond me to imagine a world where a gorgeous, billionaire hunk is desperate to make me his and I say no. My imagination just isn’t that good. I mentally screamed at her time and time again to give up her dreams of small-town life and follow Hank wherever he wanted to go, but she wasn’t having it. Eventually the author leads us to a greater understanding of Abby’s past and then I felt guilty about yelling at her so much.
Hank is a dream. He’s sexy, he’s smart, he looks amazing in thick-rimmed glasses, and he’s desperately in love with his high school sweetheart. Can you hear me drooling from here? Sigh. I have an absolute weak spot for men in glasses, but my husband has perfect 20/20 (he likes to brag a lot since I have shit eyesight). It’s fun to read about standoffish men with commitment issues, sure, but it’s an absolute delight to mix it up once in a while and read about a man who loves his woman so much he’s willing to do whatever it takes to make her his… again. Makes your belly ache and your heart clench, especially since Hank is just so freaking sweet.
Hard Crush is good for those readers who don’t want to sweat from anxiety during their romance reads but still want that tiny bite of excitement that comes from conflict. Witty banter, cute kisses, and a warm loving feeling are the main things you’ll get from this book.
Do you ever think about your high school exes and wonder what your life might be like if you were still with them? I’m thinking I’d be a lot worse off than I am now, but some of you might have had some better boyfriends than me. Still, that’s the appeal of second chance romances, no? A chance to do it over. Hard Crush by Mira Lyn Kelly is light-hearted, positively adorable, and full of some cute romance that will make you wish you had a high school romance like Abby and Hank.
Reading Hard Crush was like taking a nice long bath after a hard day of work. You just sort of sink into it and lose track of time, only snapping out of it when you’re a big prune and the water’s cold (or in my case, when the baby you’re watching wakes up). It was a nice change of pace from the romantic suspense and erotica I’ve been reading lately—those novels can get so freaking stressful. There was plenty of drama between indecisive Abby and lovesick Hank, but it wasn’t the sort that’ll make you sweat and grind your teeth. Just your typical relationship conflict between two people who go back and forth more times than a ping pong ball in the Olympic matches.
Abby was a very likeable character. She was pleasantly naïve, cute as a button, and god-awful with technology, but she was also so incredibly frustrating. For instance, it is positively beyond me to imagine a world where a gorgeous, billionaire hunk is desperate to make me his and I say no. My imagination just isn’t that good. I mentally screamed at her time and time again to give up her dreams of small-town life and follow Hank wherever he wanted to go, but she wasn’t having it. Eventually the author leads us to a greater understanding of Abby’s past and then I felt guilty about yelling at her so much.
Hank is a dream. He’s sexy, he’s smart, he looks amazing in thick-rimmed glasses, and he’s desperately in love with his high school sweetheart. Can you hear me drooling from here? Sigh. I have an absolute weak spot for men in glasses, but my husband has perfect 20/20 (he likes to brag a lot since I have shit eyesight). It’s fun to read about standoffish men with commitment issues, sure, but it’s an absolute delight to mix it up once in a while and read about a man who loves his woman so much he’s willing to do whatever it takes to make her his… again. Makes your belly ache and your heart clench, especially since Hank is just so freaking sweet.
Hard Crush is good for those readers who don’t want to sweat from anxiety during their romance reads but still want that tiny bite of excitement that comes from conflict. Witty banter, cute kisses, and a warm loving feeling are the main things you’ll get from this book.
May 1, 2020
* 4.5 Hearts
Hard Crush is the first book in the Back to You series by Mira Lyn Kelly. I have been reading Mira’s Slayers Hockey series and loving it so decided to go into her backlog while I know some characters are in both. First up is Hank & Abby!
Hank and Abby were high school sweethearts. They dated for all four years. They made plans. Plans that would turn their all consuming relationship into a long-distance one. Abby knew Hank’s mind would change the world with his technology so she walked away. They made a deal and now ten years later...he was breaking it. He shows up in an expected place and she didn’t know what to do about it. The pull was still there but nothing had changed. They weren’t kids anymore but she was in their hometown as a high school teacher while he traveled the world as a tech billionaire. They are in two different worlds but it seems he is determined to show her that they are meant to be together. Can she risk her heart again?
Awe! I do love a second chance romance. So innocent in the beginning and steamy in the end. Reuniting and learning about each other while still feeling familiar. Hank and Abby have a fun way about them. They have a flirty banter and lingering feelings. It’s an emotional ride for sure. Oh! And we meet Greg Baxter, pro-hockey player who shows up in Mira’s hockey series but first he gets his own story and I will be reading it tomorrow!
P.S. Hank’s glasses...swoon.
Quotes:
Why is he here? “Uhh… Ms. Mitchel, are you having a stroke? Your mouth is hanging open.” Someone else mutters that it isn’t a stroke if I don’t start to drool.
“You’re ruining my escape,” I say as he closes the distance between us.
“Yeah, sorry about that.”
“Put some clothes on.”
I take a long draw from the beer and look down some forty floors to Times Square, wondering if Abby has ever seen New York. “Yep. Done,” he answers too quickly.
“Bullshit. I don’t hear any rustling. You’re just lying there.”
“Naked. While I listen to your voice.” I can hear the grin on his face as he goes on. “How about you tell me what you’re wearing and I’ll tell you where my hand is.” 🏒~ Greg. 😂
Hard Crush is the first book in the Back to You series by Mira Lyn Kelly. I have been reading Mira’s Slayers Hockey series and loving it so decided to go into her backlog while I know some characters are in both. First up is Hank & Abby!
Hank and Abby were high school sweethearts. They dated for all four years. They made plans. Plans that would turn their all consuming relationship into a long-distance one. Abby knew Hank’s mind would change the world with his technology so she walked away. They made a deal and now ten years later...he was breaking it. He shows up in an expected place and she didn’t know what to do about it. The pull was still there but nothing had changed. They weren’t kids anymore but she was in their hometown as a high school teacher while he traveled the world as a tech billionaire. They are in two different worlds but it seems he is determined to show her that they are meant to be together. Can she risk her heart again?
Awe! I do love a second chance romance. So innocent in the beginning and steamy in the end. Reuniting and learning about each other while still feeling familiar. Hank and Abby have a fun way about them. They have a flirty banter and lingering feelings. It’s an emotional ride for sure. Oh! And we meet Greg Baxter, pro-hockey player who shows up in Mira’s hockey series but first he gets his own story and I will be reading it tomorrow!
P.S. Hank’s glasses...swoon.
Quotes:
Why is he here? “Uhh… Ms. Mitchel, are you having a stroke? Your mouth is hanging open.” Someone else mutters that it isn’t a stroke if I don’t start to drool.
“You’re ruining my escape,” I say as he closes the distance between us.
“Yeah, sorry about that.”
“Put some clothes on.”
I take a long draw from the beer and look down some forty floors to Times Square, wondering if Abby has ever seen New York. “Yep. Done,” he answers too quickly.
“Bullshit. I don’t hear any rustling. You’re just lying there.”
“Naked. While I listen to your voice.” I can hear the grin on his face as he goes on. “How about you tell me what you’re wearing and I’ll tell you where my hand is.” 🏒~ Greg. 😂
March 5, 2018
***ARC Provided by the Author and Give Me Books***
4.5 Stars
The blurb for this title appealed to me, and as Mira Kelly was a new author for me, I decided to take a chance on this title. I am glad I did. There's something so great about finding a new author and loving the first book that you read by that author...especially for me, as I am picky. Really picky.
Abby and Hank were together in high school. Abby was always destined to stay in their home town, and Hank was always destined to leave. Until he comes back. And, won't go away. Until he does...and then he comes back.
Sometimes, it is nice to read a title in which both the hero and heroine love one another and it is known and part of the story. This was the case with this title, you know how they each feel pretty quickly. The problem is that, for Hank, the idea that he travels is not a deal breaker for the relationship. It is for Abby. And, Hank's life requires a lot of travel.
I enjoyed their time together, I enjoyed the characters, and I had a great time watching both of them struggle to figure out how to make the relationship they both wanted, actually work.
I enjoyed this title, and I recommend it.
4.5 Stars
The blurb for this title appealed to me, and as Mira Kelly was a new author for me, I decided to take a chance on this title. I am glad I did. There's something so great about finding a new author and loving the first book that you read by that author...especially for me, as I am picky. Really picky.
Abby and Hank were together in high school. Abby was always destined to stay in their home town, and Hank was always destined to leave. Until he comes back. And, won't go away. Until he does...and then he comes back.
Sometimes, it is nice to read a title in which both the hero and heroine love one another and it is known and part of the story. This was the case with this title, you know how they each feel pretty quickly. The problem is that, for Hank, the idea that he travels is not a deal breaker for the relationship. It is for Abby. And, Hank's life requires a lot of travel.
I enjoyed their time together, I enjoyed the characters, and I had a great time watching both of them struggle to figure out how to make the relationship they both wanted, actually work.
I enjoyed this title, and I recommend it.
September 1, 2021
"Billionaire Crush" klang genau nach meinem Beuteschema und ich war sehr gespannt auf die Geschichte von Abby und Hank, die in der Highschool ein Paar waren und sich nun nach 10 Jahren wiedersehen.
Ich bin sehr gut in die Geschichte reingekommen und habe mich auch sehr schnell gut unterhalten gefühlt. Hank und Abby waren sympatsche Charaktere. Abby ist Lehrerin und sehr bodenständig, während Hank inzwischen CEO seiner eigenen Firma ist und ständig in der Weltgeschichte unterwegs ist. Dabei bleibt aber auch er sympathisch und ist nicht der unnahbare und distanzierte Mann, den man ansonsten oft in dieser Art von Büchern hat.
Die beiden haben sich wunderbar ergänzt und die Chemie zwischen den beiden war klasse. Man merkte die Funken und die Anziehung zwischen den beiden. Ich mochte auch den Humor und die Sprüche zwischen den beiden.
"Billionare Crush" ist eine sehr unterhaltsame Liebesgeschichten, die auch ein paar heiße Momente im Angebot hat und mit sympathischen Charakten überzeugt.
Ich bin sehr gut in die Geschichte reingekommen und habe mich auch sehr schnell gut unterhalten gefühlt. Hank und Abby waren sympatsche Charaktere. Abby ist Lehrerin und sehr bodenständig, während Hank inzwischen CEO seiner eigenen Firma ist und ständig in der Weltgeschichte unterwegs ist. Dabei bleibt aber auch er sympathisch und ist nicht der unnahbare und distanzierte Mann, den man ansonsten oft in dieser Art von Büchern hat.
Die beiden haben sich wunderbar ergänzt und die Chemie zwischen den beiden war klasse. Man merkte die Funken und die Anziehung zwischen den beiden. Ich mochte auch den Humor und die Sprüche zwischen den beiden.
"Billionare Crush" ist eine sehr unterhaltsame Liebesgeschichten, die auch ein paar heiße Momente im Angebot hat und mit sympathischen Charakten überzeugt.
March 6, 2018
This book is a sweet read and although I felt a little lost in the beginning trying to keep up. However, once it kicked it…it really kicked in. I always love second chance romance books, especially the nerdy HOT guys. The story was well written and done from dual POV’s, I love reading both sides, so you can get into both characters heads.
I enjoyed getting to know these characters in Hard Crush. Hank was so sweet; I don’t know how Abby could let him go. Abby and Hank were high school sweethearts, they both had the same dreams until another opportunity came up which has Hank leaving. After going to their high school ten year reunion they wanted to be together...well, Hank did. Abby did too, but she didn’t want to get hurt by Hank leaving her in this town again.
Hard Crush is read as a standalone. This is my first read by Mira Lyn Kelly and won’t be my last.
I enjoyed getting to know these characters in Hard Crush. Hank was so sweet; I don’t know how Abby could let him go. Abby and Hank were high school sweethearts, they both had the same dreams until another opportunity came up which has Hank leaving. After going to their high school ten year reunion they wanted to be together...well, Hank did. Abby did too, but she didn’t want to get hurt by Hank leaving her in this town again.
Hard Crush is read as a standalone. This is my first read by Mira Lyn Kelly and won’t be my last.
March 8, 2018
2.5 stars
I read it so fast I don’t even know if I like it
“Dude, don’t even try,” Eric, one of the Neisen boys, pipes in from the back row. “Ms. Mitchel’s phones are not long for this world. I saw her drop this one out her car window last week.”
Dang it. I’d been hoping no one saw that.
Hank runs a hand over his mouth, covering a laugh that’s deep and gruff and has the long-dormant butterflies in my belly giving a few tentative bats of their wings. He turns to Eric.
“That’s nothing. I once saw her drop a phone out a second-story window.”
I read it so fast I don’t even know if I like it
“Dude, don’t even try,” Eric, one of the Neisen boys, pipes in from the back row. “Ms. Mitchel’s phones are not long for this world. I saw her drop this one out her car window last week.”
Dang it. I’d been hoping no one saw that.
Hank runs a hand over his mouth, covering a laugh that’s deep and gruff and has the long-dormant butterflies in my belly giving a few tentative bats of their wings. He turns to Eric.
“That’s nothing. I once saw her drop a phone out a second-story window.”
August 1, 2023
2 ⭐️⭐️
The story is actually good. I would give it 3-4 stars but the writing was terrible for me. It just didn’t flow at all. There were several times I couldn’t figure out what was going on and the transition from one chapter to another usually didn’t flow well either. Like I said, the story was decent enough but the execution just didn’t work for me.
The story is actually good. I would give it 3-4 stars but the writing was terrible for me. It just didn’t flow at all. There were several times I couldn’t figure out what was going on and the transition from one chapter to another usually didn’t flow well either. Like I said, the story was decent enough but the execution just didn’t work for me.
January 15, 2024
3.5 rounded up
A steamy heartfelt, second chance, dual POV romance by a new to me author that was also great on audio. I'm a sucker for a good redemption story and this one was delightful with great three dimensional characters and hot hookups. Good on audio too and perfect for fans of authors like Christina Lauren or Meghan Quinn.
A steamy heartfelt, second chance, dual POV romance by a new to me author that was also great on audio. I'm a sucker for a good redemption story and this one was delightful with great three dimensional characters and hot hookups. Good on audio too and perfect for fans of authors like Christina Lauren or Meghan Quinn.
March 6, 2018
I’ve heard a lot of great things about Mira’s stories and after reading the awesome description of this I knew I had to read it! What a joy this was, my smile shined bright through this whole story! Sweet, fun and entertaining all the way! I’m extremely happy I’ve read Abby and Hank’s second chance romance and looking forward to reading Mira’s past and many future stories to come!
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