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Pleasant Grove #1
Taking Chances
When you've been in love with one person most of your life.
How do you survive the obstacles life keeps throwing at you?
You know your meant to be, but with a past like theirs that has made them who they are. How do you make them see you belong together. Do you take a chance or let them go.
Eli King is my soul mate but he's also my brothers best friend. He's a player and his childhood was damage he never thinks he's good enough.
I want us to Take a Chance at love. Will he see what I see or push me away forever?
How do you survive the obstacles life keeps throwing at you?
You know your meant to be, but with a past like theirs that has made them who they are. How do you make them see you belong together. Do you take a chance or let them go.
Eli King is my soul mate but he's also my brothers best friend. He's a player and his childhood was damage he never thinks he's good enough.
I want us to Take a Chance at love. Will he see what I see or push me away forever?
284 pages, Kindle Edition
Published April 22, 2018
21 people are currently reading
163 people want to read
About the author
Tara Lee
31 books295 followersTara Lee is an Australian author who writes spicy romance, and men to swoon over. She comes from Hobart, Tasmania where she lives with her husband and two children.
When she's not a stay at home mum wrangling her two small children or fighting the voices in her head to be quiet she's getting up before the sun rises as a qualified baker.
Tara is a Pisces who survives on energy drinks, chocolate frappes and busting moves at Jazzicise for some me time.
When she's not a stay at home mum wrangling her two small children or fighting the voices in her head to be quiet she's getting up before the sun rises as a qualified baker.
Tara is a Pisces who survives on energy drinks, chocolate frappes and busting moves at Jazzicise for some me time.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 52 reviews
May 26, 2018
*3.5 - 4 Stars*
ARC kindly received in exchange for an honest review.
Taking Chances is a great start to this series for Tara Lee and her debut novel. Whilst you can tell that this was written by a first time author, the storyline and all the ideas are there and play out as such. All the key elements are there.
In terms of the characters, to be honest I didn't particularly like either one of them all that much, but it was still a story that I was curious to finish out and see where it would lead. Eli is a huge dick to Charlotte and she kind of just rolls with it and lets him get away with the way he treats her. Once things turn around, he's much more of a sweetheart, albeit a little demanding to me at times.
Jensen, Charlotte’s brother, and some of the other secondary characters are definitely intriguing and I look forward to reading more about them. I believe we can also expect some of them to get their own books.
While this book had its twists and turns, its a fairly straightforward and easy read. I was not necessarily expecting the plot twist/angsty bit to be exactly what it was, as I was trying to work out whether or not the author was trying to throw us off with part of the storyline, and whether or not something big would come from it.
The plot moves quite fast in this, but overall its a great base for the storyline, and all authors have to start somewhere. I think this is a great start for Tara, and I look forward to seeing what else she brings to the table!
Review also on my blog - Taking Chances - Tara Lee
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ARC kindly received in exchange for an honest review.
Taking Chances is a great start to this series for Tara Lee and her debut novel. Whilst you can tell that this was written by a first time author, the storyline and all the ideas are there and play out as such. All the key elements are there.
In terms of the characters, to be honest I didn't particularly like either one of them all that much, but it was still a story that I was curious to finish out and see where it would lead. Eli is a huge dick to Charlotte and she kind of just rolls with it and lets him get away with the way he treats her. Once things turn around, he's much more of a sweetheart, albeit a little demanding to me at times.
Jensen, Charlotte’s brother, and some of the other secondary characters are definitely intriguing and I look forward to reading more about them. I believe we can also expect some of them to get their own books.
While this book had its twists and turns, its a fairly straightforward and easy read. I was not necessarily expecting the plot twist/angsty bit to be exactly what it was, as I was trying to work out whether or not the author was trying to throw us off with part of the storyline, and whether or not something big would come from it.
The plot moves quite fast in this, but overall its a great base for the storyline, and all authors have to start somewhere. I think this is a great start for Tara, and I look forward to seeing what else she brings to the table!
Review also on my blog - Taking Chances - Tara Lee
Follow me on:
June 16, 2018
Taking Chances is the first book in the Pleasant Grove series and a debut for Tara Lee.
I really enjoyed the story, the love the main characters shared, the chemisty between them that was off the charts.
Now not so patiently waiting for the next book!
Anyone looking to discover a new author- you won't regret taking a chance on this read!
May 22, 2018
"She is like a rare f*cking diamond that sparkled; elegant and graceful. One you look at from afar but never get close to."
Taking Chances is a debut novel by author Tara Lee. The plot kept my interest and the pages of my kindle turning. The Pleasant Grove series is off to a good start. I'm already interested in so many characters and curious about their stories and books. I like how the author introduced many characters but still kept it focused on Eli and Charli. Taking Chances had many troupes I enjoy reading, brothers best friend, forbidden romance, childhood romance, and a haunted alpha. It was a slow burn that turned sizzling hot. The chemistry between the characters was completely smoking. I've never seen such insustainable characters. Eli and Charli was completely consumed with each other. After a rocky start with many hurdles and years lost. This couple was determined to make up for lost time.
"You make me crazy, insane crazy, I want to kiss you every second of the day and hold you in my arms. My heart neats so fast when you are around, it's as if I can't even control my own body when you're near me.
Charli is one od those innocent characters to can't help but like. She was young, naive, and in love. Eli had always held a special place in her heart. A few times I did however want to shake her character for being so blind and insecure. Charli grew on me over the book when she found her strength when she needed it the most.
"I grab Charli's face and kiss her like she is all I need. Charli is all I need, every inch of her is all I'd ever need. All I ever wanted."
Eli'a character was the definition of a gentlemen. He was possessive, passionate, and charming. He was haunted by his dark childhood past. His was one of them alphas you couldn't help but be drawn to. So many times at the beginning you wanted to hate him for not taking a chance. By then end he had completely stolen your heart. Eli had me swooning so many times. I loved his dirty mouth. I definitely enjoyed Eli King!
*4 STARS*
This was such a pleasent read. I look forward to reading more books in the Pleasant Grove series. *I voluntarily read a advanced copy!*
Taking Chances is a debut novel by author Tara Lee. The plot kept my interest and the pages of my kindle turning. The Pleasant Grove series is off to a good start. I'm already interested in so many characters and curious about their stories and books. I like how the author introduced many characters but still kept it focused on Eli and Charli. Taking Chances had many troupes I enjoy reading, brothers best friend, forbidden romance, childhood romance, and a haunted alpha. It was a slow burn that turned sizzling hot. The chemistry between the characters was completely smoking. I've never seen such insustainable characters. Eli and Charli was completely consumed with each other. After a rocky start with many hurdles and years lost. This couple was determined to make up for lost time.
"You make me crazy, insane crazy, I want to kiss you every second of the day and hold you in my arms. My heart neats so fast when you are around, it's as if I can't even control my own body when you're near me.
Charli is one od those innocent characters to can't help but like. She was young, naive, and in love. Eli had always held a special place in her heart. A few times I did however want to shake her character for being so blind and insecure. Charli grew on me over the book when she found her strength when she needed it the most.
"I grab Charli's face and kiss her like she is all I need. Charli is all I need, every inch of her is all I'd ever need. All I ever wanted."
Eli'a character was the definition of a gentlemen. He was possessive, passionate, and charming. He was haunted by his dark childhood past. His was one of them alphas you couldn't help but be drawn to. So many times at the beginning you wanted to hate him for not taking a chance. By then end he had completely stolen your heart. Eli had me swooning so many times. I loved his dirty mouth. I definitely enjoyed Eli King!
*4 STARS*
This was such a pleasent read. I look forward to reading more books in the Pleasant Grove series. *I voluntarily read a advanced copy!*
April 27, 2019
I loved the ride that was Eli and Charli's relationship, it had me hooked from the very beginning. The progression of the intense connection they shared through the years was great and kept me reading. I would have liked there to be a little more back story about Eli's upbringing. I found this very intriguing but only just touched on in the prologue and small amounts throughout the book. I feel like it would have explained his behaviour a bit more. Eli is hot and just kept getting hotter and hotter as the years went on. Your classic bad boy player and I love a good playboy. Charlie was your average sweetheart with a little sass. Once they got together it was electric! Girl knows how to write a steamy sex scene! And don't get me wrong I love a lot of sex in a book but it started to feel a bit repetitive. I found myself wanting more story line and romance rather than sex but in saying that the scenes were very hot. The ending was a great little twist and brought the story back. Definitely left me wanting more and I can't wait to read the next installment of Eli and Charli. There was also good introduction of other characters that will have their own books in the Pleasant Grove series which I cant wait to read.
April 22, 2018
Taking chances is the first book by Tara Lee. I was given the book for an honest review.
Eli and Maddi have known each other since they were little kids. Eli past as a child has prevented him from loving anyone until Maddi comes along much older and more mature. Eli fights against his feelings for Maddi but she never gives up on him. Finally as fate will have it they find their way to each other.
Taking chances is filled with drama, love and really steamy loves scenes.
Anyone looking for a new author should give Tara Lee a chance. Taking chances deserves the 5 star rating it gets from any reader.
Well done Tara Lee on an excellent story. Keep it up you are going to be famous.
Eli and Maddi have known each other since they were little kids. Eli past as a child has prevented him from loving anyone until Maddi comes along much older and more mature. Eli fights against his feelings for Maddi but she never gives up on him. Finally as fate will have it they find their way to each other.
Taking chances is filled with drama, love and really steamy loves scenes.
Anyone looking for a new author should give Tara Lee a chance. Taking chances deserves the 5 star rating it gets from any reader.
Well done Tara Lee on an excellent story. Keep it up you are going to be famous.
May 22, 2018
The cover of this book really drew me. And the blurb certainly caught my attention. I really enjoyed getting to know these characters and feeling their love. The chemistry between them was scorching. I did find myself wanting to throttle the main characters, Eli especially, at times. The author did very well with her debut book. I have no doubt that as she becomes more seasoned, her words will become even more polished and the emotions she will elicit from her readers will be even more extreme.
July 22, 2019
Great book. The storyline is fantastic but the spelling,grammar and the use of past and present tense needs work. It started to get frustrating. With that being said this book grabbed me enough to continue with the next book in the series. I am also aware that Tara is a new author and this is her first book. These issues should improve as she continues her writing journey.
April 23, 2018
love love love....
May 22, 2018
Great job on your debut! It held my interest and I wanted to know what was going to happen. Can't wait for the next one.
April 18, 2018
I fell in love with the characters and what they went though to be together. it's an amazing story especially for a debut novel! I cant wait to read the next books !!
May 18, 2018
What a great engaging read that I didn't want to end. Can't wait for more books in this series!
May 10, 2018
Taking Chances is Tara Lee's first book. This is a book that you definitely DO NOT want to miss!! It is a hot and Steamy book that you'll not want to put down.
Eli and Maddie have known each other since childhood, while growing up Eli had some demons that he had to face yet Maddie decided to believe in him and eventually they get there happily ever after 😉
Amazing book to an amazing series to come!!
Eli and Maddie have known each other since childhood, while growing up Eli had some demons that he had to face yet Maddie decided to believe in him and eventually they get there happily ever after 😉
Amazing book to an amazing series to come!!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
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May 18, 2018Wow what a debut novel! I loved the story of Eli and Charlotte! I loved all its twists and turns! I can’t wait for the next book!
May 10, 2018
what a debut novel, loved the story and all its twists and turns im looking forward to the next book
May 21, 2018
Tara is a first timer....and omg has she set the bar super high!
Eli and Charli have known each other for years and have always been each others safe place!
Eli has to fight every bone in his body not act on the love he has for Charli, but being the sassy woman that she has grown to be, she does not make it easy!
I cannot wait for the next Tara Lee Book!
Eli and Charli have known each other for years and have always been each others safe place!
Eli has to fight every bone in his body not act on the love he has for Charli, but being the sassy woman that she has grown to be, she does not make it easy!
I cannot wait for the next Tara Lee Book!
May 25, 2018
This is an exceptionally well-written debut novel, and I’m not just saying that because I had the honor of helping Tara edit it. I’m usually critical of romance novels when reading a new author, but the storyline sucked me right in. I love Eli and Charli, and can’t wait to see what else Tara does with her Pleasant Grove series.
May 23, 2018
This book left me wondering about what happens next in Eli and Charli’s relationship and I cannot wait to read the next book in the Pleasant Grove series.
I find it difficult to believe that this is only the first book that Tara has written as the character development and detailed romance is fantastic and I found it hard to put the book down. A fantastic storyline, likeable characters and well written. If you are new to the erotic fiction genre (like I was) then this book is a great place to start and will definitely leave you wanting more!
I find it difficult to believe that this is only the first book that Tara has written as the character development and detailed romance is fantastic and I found it hard to put the book down. A fantastic storyline, likeable characters and well written. If you are new to the erotic fiction genre (like I was) then this book is a great place to start and will definitely leave you wanting more!
November 29, 2018
I really enjoyed reading this book and how the love between the main characters grow from the beginning till the end❤❤❤❤
May 1, 2018
This is your typical alpha male and school girl crush. I LOVED IT. Eli and Maddison’s lobe story will have you all over the map with feeling and intense emotions. It’s impossible not to fall in line with them. Great first time book for Tara ❤️💜💙 cannot wait for their next instalment
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 24, 2018
What a great debut for Tara Lee. I have always loved the books where the couple has known each other forever and that underlying current of how each feel about the other. Charli was always having to watch Eli pick up girls and having her heart broken, but once Eli quit resisting Charli, things get HOT!! This book will make you get mad, then sigh. You will want to slap characters and in the next moment want to hug them. I loved reading this book and it kept me glued until the last page and I can’t wait to see what happens next. Great job Tara!!!
May 25, 2018
A debut for Author Tara Lee and a great start to what I can see being a great series!
I really enjoyed the story line and the characters and their development.
Charli and Eli have known each other since they were young and she was always forbidden. But after living a life of one night stands and holding your heart to one true love, Eli can’t resist any longer and he has to have the girl he doesn’t deserve.
Charli is gorgeous and innocent but she has been in love with Eli for years aswell.
Always getting her heart broken again and again when he picks up a different girl in front of her all the time.
She finally convinces him to take a chance on their love and they enter a whirlwind relationship.
He knows she is his forever, but when a disgruntled ex flame comes into the picture can they get their HEA ??
One little thing and don’t get me wrong I love lots of sex in a book, but I think it started becoming too much and it started dragging my attention away from the actual story line.
I’m excited to see what happens to Eli, charli and their group of friends. I really like this bunch and their closeness 😁😁
I really enjoyed the story line and the characters and their development.
Charli and Eli have known each other since they were young and she was always forbidden. But after living a life of one night stands and holding your heart to one true love, Eli can’t resist any longer and he has to have the girl he doesn’t deserve.
Charli is gorgeous and innocent but she has been in love with Eli for years aswell.
Always getting her heart broken again and again when he picks up a different girl in front of her all the time.
She finally convinces him to take a chance on their love and they enter a whirlwind relationship.
He knows she is his forever, but when a disgruntled ex flame comes into the picture can they get their HEA ??
One little thing and don’t get me wrong I love lots of sex in a book, but I think it started becoming too much and it started dragging my attention away from the actual story line.
I’m excited to see what happens to Eli, charli and their group of friends. I really like this bunch and their closeness 😁😁
May 22, 2018
This is the first book in the series but also Tara's debut novel! A good first book and I can't wait to read more about Eli & Charli :).
I was given an early copy in exchange for an honest review.
I was given an early copy in exchange for an honest review.
November 29, 2018
I loved Eli and Charli and really can’t wait to follow more from them. I can’t believe this is a debut novel it feels as though the author has been writing at least several books. If this is what she has to offer us on book one I’m excited for the future books. Well done for getting me hooked
May 20, 2018
Taking Chances is Tara Lee's first book and I can't wait to read more of charli and eli's journey, the Love and lust throughout was amazing, I didnt want to put it down. ❤
August 9, 2018
This is one hot and sexy story of a boy wanting his best friends sister.
Charlie is a gorgeous naive girl, holding a not so secret crush for Eli. Eli is carrying the baggage from his past. The characters back story are well set up. I would have liked them to develop further, however I guess that’s what the other books in the series are for.
A great holiday read.
Charlie is a gorgeous naive girl, holding a not so secret crush for Eli. Eli is carrying the baggage from his past. The characters back story are well set up. I would have liked them to develop further, however I guess that’s what the other books in the series are for.
A great holiday read.
May 25, 2018
This is the first book in the series and first time book for Tara Lee. Taking Chances is jam packed with drama, romance, love and lots and lots of raunch!! Congratulations Tara on your first book!!
May 1, 2018
This was a good read for a brand new author. I just couldn’t really connect with the main characters. I though Eli was a jerk for most of the book. I get that he didn’t think he deserved Maddie because of his past but I didn’t like the back and forth he kept doing with her. One minute I want you, I need to protect you and in the next, he pushes her away and tells her that he’s not good for her but he watches her all the time and flirts with her. Talk about mixed messages... Maddie at least knew what she wanted and she wanted Eli but she was a doormat at the beginning and put up with way too much from him.
October 20, 2018
Taking Chances is a great start to this series and for her debut novel. I can not wait to read more from this new author.
Eli and Charli was completely consumed with each other. After a rocky start with many hurdles and years lost. This couple was determined to make up for lost time.
I like how the author introduced many characters but still kept it focused on Eli and Charli. Jensen, Charlotte’s brother, and some of the other secondary characters are definitely intriguing and I look forward to reading more about them. I believe we can also expect some of them to get their own books.
Anyone looking to discover a new author- you won't regret taking a chance on this read!
Eli and Charli was completely consumed with each other. After a rocky start with many hurdles and years lost. This couple was determined to make up for lost time.
I like how the author introduced many characters but still kept it focused on Eli and Charli. Jensen, Charlotte’s brother, and some of the other secondary characters are definitely intriguing and I look forward to reading more about them. I believe we can also expect some of them to get their own books.
Anyone looking to discover a new author- you won't regret taking a chance on this read!
September 7, 2019
Tara Lee’s cover and name is what made me want to read this novel. The cover is beautiful and the name got my attention.
Taking chances had an intriguing story line. There’s childhood abuse, forbidden love, gun shots fired, crazy exes, and a lot of sex!
If you enjoy stories where everything seems to get in the way but the couple always get through it all (only just). And a whole heap of naughty-ness, then this book is for you!
I believe love is always about taking a chance so I’m very excited to see what Tara Lee brings out next!
(ARC Generously provided by author)
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 24, 2018
Charli and Eli = SEXY and STEAMY!! I really enjoyed Taking Chances. Charli and Eli have known each other practically their whole lives. Charli is Jensen's younger sister, Eli's best friend. I assumed I knew how their story was going to go. That being said, Tara writes their story with enough drama that had me guessing. There is a sweetness to Eli that I loved. Charli came in to her own as the story unfolded. Tara also involved several other strong characters and I look forward to more books coming with them.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 52 reviews