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Simple Man #2
Maybe Don't Wanna
Peter Parker Penn.
Unlike the superhero his mother named him after, Parker is no good guy.
In fact, if there’s a picture in the dictionary under anti-hero, it’s his.
Parker’s spent his life trying to get back on the right side of the tracks, but each step he takes forward, he takes two more steps back.
To save one, he hurts others. To make this good, he turns that bad.
For appearances’ sake, he plays the part. He does what people expect him to do—mostly. And at the end of each day, he goes back to his lonely apartment and wishes he was a different person. One who could fix the things he’s broken.
Then Kayla Nash forces her way into his life, and the world as he knows it is irrevocably changed.
Everything he thinks he has right is wrong. And everything he thinks is wrong is oh, so right.
One thing leads to another, and suddenly he’s growing a conscience, and trying to prove to her that he’s as bad as everybody says he is.
Yet she won’t listen.
She’s convinced that she can save him.
Little does she know, Parker isn’t worth saving, and never will be.
Unlike the superhero his mother named him after, Parker is no good guy.
In fact, if there’s a picture in the dictionary under anti-hero, it’s his.
Parker’s spent his life trying to get back on the right side of the tracks, but each step he takes forward, he takes two more steps back.
To save one, he hurts others. To make this good, he turns that bad.
For appearances’ sake, he plays the part. He does what people expect him to do—mostly. And at the end of each day, he goes back to his lonely apartment and wishes he was a different person. One who could fix the things he’s broken.
Then Kayla Nash forces her way into his life, and the world as he knows it is irrevocably changed.
Everything he thinks he has right is wrong. And everything he thinks is wrong is oh, so right.
One thing leads to another, and suddenly he’s growing a conscience, and trying to prove to her that he’s as bad as everybody says he is.
Yet she won’t listen.
She’s convinced that she can save him.
Little does she know, Parker isn’t worth saving, and never will be.
289 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 4, 2018
378 people are currently reading
1324 people want to read
About the author
Lani Lynn Vale
169 books7,286 followersLani Lynn Vale is married to the love of her life that she met in high school. She fell in love with him because he was wearing baseball pants. Ten years later they have three perfectly crazy children and a cat named Demon who likes to wake her up at ungodly times in the night. They live in the greatest state in the world, Texas. She writes contemporary and romantic suspense, and has a love for all things romance. You can find Lani in front of her computer writing away in her fictional characters world...that is until her husband and kids demand sustenance in the form of food and drink.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 243 reviews
May 4, 2020
Once again, Lani Lynn Vale gave me another swoon-worthy hero to love. She's got a real knack for creating such perfect book boyfriends and Peter Parker Penn was definitely one to add to the list.
Parker really knew how to beat himself up. He was truly a good guy, but some stuff in his past and some of his past behavior left a huge mark on him. He did things that he regretted, some almost instantly, and he's had a hard time forgiving himself. On top of all that, he was no stranger to tragedy. This man lost so much. There was no way that this suffering wouldn't effect and alter his makeup. Enlisting in the military straightened his life out and made a real man out of him.
His woman-to-be was Kayla and while she was likeable enough, I wasn't her biggest fan. I think it's because I don't like people who act opposite to their nature. You know, those who think and feel one way, but do the other. There were instances when she treated Parker not so nicely and it made me not like her. Then again, that's just because of how much I absolutely loved his character. This author really knows how to push my buttons, test my boundaries, and lead me to the conclusions and opinions that I'm meant to have. And I always enjoy the journey!
There were so many elements of this story to love and too many scenes to name that I highlighted for review. I adored every time these two characters interacted through their shared wall. I appreciated Kayla's relationship with her bestie, Janie, and their ridiculous interactions. Janie's from book 1 of this series and she made me learn to love Kayla. And Rafe! I loved getting to see this dude again.
This story starts with a bang and the hits keep on coming. It's painful, heart-wrenching, and devastating, but the hope that bloomed within and amidst these characters bled through each page. They never gave up and I respected the heck out of their fight.
Release: 05.14.2018 | Contemporary Romance w/ Suspense | Dual POV - 1st person | Heat: 3.5 | Standalone - Simple Man #2
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Parker really knew how to beat himself up. He was truly a good guy, but some stuff in his past and some of his past behavior left a huge mark on him. He did things that he regretted, some almost instantly, and he's had a hard time forgiving himself. On top of all that, he was no stranger to tragedy. This man lost so much. There was no way that this suffering wouldn't effect and alter his makeup. Enlisting in the military straightened his life out and made a real man out of him.
His woman-to-be was Kayla and while she was likeable enough, I wasn't her biggest fan. I think it's because I don't like people who act opposite to their nature. You know, those who think and feel one way, but do the other. There were instances when she treated Parker not so nicely and it made me not like her. Then again, that's just because of how much I absolutely loved his character. This author really knows how to push my buttons, test my boundaries, and lead me to the conclusions and opinions that I'm meant to have. And I always enjoy the journey!
There were so many elements of this story to love and too many scenes to name that I highlighted for review. I adored every time these two characters interacted through their shared wall. I appreciated Kayla's relationship with her bestie, Janie, and their ridiculous interactions. Janie's from book 1 of this series and she made me learn to love Kayla. And Rafe! I loved getting to see this dude again.
This story starts with a bang and the hits keep on coming. It's painful, heart-wrenching, and devastating, but the hope that bloomed within and amidst these characters bled through each page. They never gave up and I respected the heck out of their fight.
Release: 05.14.2018 | Contemporary Romance w/ Suspense | Dual POV - 1st person | Heat: 3.5 | Standalone - Simple Man #2
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May 4, 2018
5 ‘Simply PERFECT’ Stars
Only one word can describe this book: PERFECTION!
Perfect storyline!
Perfect Hero: Perfect Peter Parker Penn (see, it even fits his name, lol)!
Perfect Heroine: Kayla was the best!
Perfect hilarious, ROFL moments! Seriously, Kayla and Janie were AWESOME!
Perfect steamy moments: Parker and Kayla’s chemistry was insane!
Most of all, PERFECT emotions and heart touching moments! Yes, Lani Lynn Vale had me once again crying and even sobbing for FOUR freaking times. Sure, one of those was the result of LMAO so hard, but the other three?! She really manages to touch even the coldest of hearts with this beautiful and emotional moments! How could it not? Kayla is Dougie’s orphan baby girl, after all. I soaked up those moments - impossible not to, being LLV fan from the very first series, and where we meet our h, and her background - and memories and every single one of them, I lived right along with her and Parker, that had plenty of his own.
And to top the already perfect story, the PERFECT Epilogue, that left me with a smile on my face and a happy and fuzzy feeling in my heart. It was all just that, PERFECTION!
I wanted her more than I wanted my next breath, and I was going to have her.
It was inevitable now, and as I dropped my mouth to hers, I realized two things.
One, I should get saint status for holding out as long as I had.
Two, I’d never be the same.
Goddamn. I wasn’t just in love with her. I was in love.
Love like nothing I’d ever felt before.
Because this felt deeper. Stronger. More visceral.
Love was just a four-letter word. It didn’t seem like it was adequate enough for what I felt for her. Shouldn’t it be a longer word with more umph to it?
ARC kindly provided by the author via Inkslinger PR for an honest review
Only one word can describe this book: PERFECTION!
Perfect storyline!
Perfect Hero: Perfect Peter Parker Penn (see, it even fits his name, lol)!
Perfect Heroine: Kayla was the best!
Perfect hilarious, ROFL moments! Seriously, Kayla and Janie were AWESOME!
Perfect steamy moments: Parker and Kayla’s chemistry was insane!
Most of all, PERFECT emotions and heart touching moments! Yes, Lani Lynn Vale had me once again crying and even sobbing for FOUR freaking times. Sure, one of those was the result of LMAO so hard, but the other three?! She really manages to touch even the coldest of hearts with this beautiful and emotional moments! How could it not? Kayla is Dougie’s orphan baby girl, after all. I soaked up those moments - impossible not to, being LLV fan from the very first series, and where we meet our h, and her background - and memories and every single one of them, I lived right along with her and Parker, that had plenty of his own.
And to top the already perfect story, the PERFECT Epilogue, that left me with a smile on my face and a happy and fuzzy feeling in my heart. It was all just that, PERFECTION!
I wanted her more than I wanted my next breath, and I was going to have her.
It was inevitable now, and as I dropped my mouth to hers, I realized two things.
One, I should get saint status for holding out as long as I had.
Two, I’d never be the same.
Goddamn. I wasn’t just in love with her. I was in love.
Love like nothing I’d ever felt before.
Because this felt deeper. Stronger. More visceral.
Love was just a four-letter word. It didn’t seem like it was adequate enough for what I felt for her. Shouldn’t it be a longer word with more umph to it?
ARC kindly provided by the author via Inkslinger PR for an honest review
wont-read
May 3, 2018Based on my calculations (by the preview on the back of book 1) the hero in this book is 44, 45? And the heroine is almost or the same age as the heroine from book 1 meaning she's in her earlies 20s.
Book 4 will have another older hero by 20 years.
Yippee this series are about older men with young women.
I don't mind older heroes but not to the point where they seem they're like the fathers or grandparents of the heroines.
So moving on.
Now this is just my calculations.
Book 4 will have another older hero by 20 years.
Yippee this series are about older men with young women.
I don't mind older heroes but not to the point where they seem they're like the fathers or grandparents of the heroines.
So moving on.
Now this is just my calculations.
August 13, 2019
Kayla and Peter Parker Penn's book.
May/ December romance.
Like a lot of this author's series,I am reading which books appeal to me and jumping different series as the books catch my eye.Not every book is a winner,but there are some that just simply resonates with me.This is such a book.
These 2 characters lock eyes on each other at a baseball game and the attraction starts building.
The hero has a dark tragic past,but went to the Coast Guard to try and straighten his life out,he then joined the FBI,but after some incidences,was put on leave.The local MC guys(Dixie Wardens) have a beef with him as he was the one responsible for slicing another member's neck(Loki).All-around, he is not liked very much.
The heroine is a orphan whose dad died in Afghanistan, and she went to live with her bff's( Jaine) family.She is still trying to find her footing in life.Her latest attempt is a 2 week internship with the police dept with a Detective (Loki)who is one of her surrogate family members and a member of the local MC( the Dixie Wardens).While interning, she gets to see the gruesome handiwork of a serial killer who chops up his victims in bits and pieces and this has a profound effect on her that results in horrific nightmares.
There a several characters who I have "seen" in other series and it was good to catch up on their lives.
Some interesting revelations are revealed and a serial killer is on the loose.
This couple was great together and there was a part towards the end when the heroine's surrogate father read a letter by her deceased father that had me with ugly tears.
LLV really knows her way around a story that kept my interest. Add in some comedic elements,smoking hot sex scenes,a damaged hero with a very unsavory past,and a likable heroine all culminated in a great read.This reader was one happy camper at book's end.
I am loving these big,beared,possessive biker/military/police/fireman/mc heros that this author writes about .
LLV is fast becoming a new favorite author.
May/ December romance.
Like a lot of this author's series,I am reading which books appeal to me and jumping different series as the books catch my eye.Not every book is a winner,but there are some that just simply resonates with me.This is such a book.
These 2 characters lock eyes on each other at a baseball game and the attraction starts building.
The hero has a dark tragic past,but went to the Coast Guard to try and straighten his life out,he then joined the FBI,but after some incidences,was put on leave.The local MC guys(Dixie Wardens) have a beef with him as he was the one responsible for slicing another member's neck(Loki).All-around, he is not liked very much.
The heroine is a orphan whose dad died in Afghanistan, and she went to live with her bff's( Jaine) family.She is still trying to find her footing in life.Her latest attempt is a 2 week internship with the police dept with a Detective (Loki)who is one of her surrogate family members and a member of the local MC( the Dixie Wardens).While interning, she gets to see the gruesome handiwork of a serial killer who chops up his victims in bits and pieces and this has a profound effect on her that results in horrific nightmares.
There a several characters who I have "seen" in other series and it was good to catch up on their lives.
Some interesting revelations are revealed and a serial killer is on the loose.
This couple was great together and there was a part towards the end when the heroine's surrogate father read a letter by her deceased father that had me with ugly tears.
LLV really knows her way around a story that kept my interest. Add in some comedic elements,smoking hot sex scenes,a damaged hero with a very unsavory past,and a likable heroine all culminated in a great read.This reader was one happy camper at book's end.
I am loving these big,beared,possessive biker/military/police/fireman/mc heros that this author writes about .
LLV is fast becoming a new favorite author.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 22, 2022
Let's start off by saying that I just love this author's books as each and every-time I read something of hers she just wows me.
Right from the beginning of this story, Kayla and Janie had me laughing up a storm and out loud more than once, and I continued just that to the very end of the story. I loved the story from the beginning to the very end and everything in between.
What I loved most about this story was the amazing cast of character's that it had. I also loved Kayla's and Janie's friendship, as these two together were just a hoot as they made you laugh and cry and the bond and love between them was just heart-warming. OMG! And there
childhood pack that Janie and Kayla made when they were children were to be still to be honored between them even in adulthood, so says Janie. An example of that was Kayla had two years to have a child so that their children could be best friends just like them.
One of the funniest moments for me in this story was when Kayla, totally straight-faced and serious, looked at Janie and spoke, "So does that mean your husband is going to be the sperm donor?"
(referring to their pack promises)
Just a priceless moment and oh so funny!
I also have to say that the bewilderment on Rafe face when said question was asked is priceless as well, not really realizing all that was going on around him and his shocked expressions followed by giggles. You have to know Jake's character beforehand to realized just hope, priceless this moment really was.
(lol and grins)
I always pick a favorite character and mine this time around is going to be Kayla OMG! Kayla's character made me laugh the entire story, and I just loved her from the onset of the story. I found her to be funny, witty and had a sense of humor, love-able and she also had and an amazing personality and highly protective of those she loved.
I loved the story itself and although it made me laugh quite a bit, the story itself was filled with tons of heart-wrenching moments. Both character's Kayla and Parker lost almost all their loved ones, and dealing with their losses took a toll on both of these characters.Parker's heartache was more pronounced as his choices in life lead to him being parted from some of those family members. I loved that Parker changed his life for the better and made a difference the best way he could. I loved how he was with Kayla, as it was the first time in a really long time did he started to feel again and opened up to one he learned to trust to speak about his regrets and past. Loved that he felt happiness, not darkness. I loved how he opened up to Kayla and showed her just who he believed himself to be, the good and the bad.
I loved how the romance developed between Kayla and Parker, and how a beautiful friendship between them turned into so much more. Kayla and Parker were perfect for one another and just what the other needed, age difference be damned.
The bottom-line is, "I loved the super sweet love story and how the author created the perfect ending to an amazing story that had me bawling my eyes out."
I love when you can connect with the characters you read about, and I did just that, as I loved Kayla and Parker right from the onset of the story. Overall, the whole book had a cast of amazing characters that made us laugh and well as cry, creating the perfect mix.
A recommend read to all!
5 stars from us
August 25, 2019
3.5 stars
May 4, 2018
Whoa! Whoa! Whoa! Lani Lynn Vale had me horrified, sobbing, laughing out loud, fanning myself, melting and sobbing uncontrollably in Maybe Don't Wanna.
When I started this book I didn't know if I would be able to continue, it's that dang heartbreaking, but I couldn't give up on it because I've been intrigued by Parker and I've loved Kayla since she was a little girl. There is a big physical age difference between Parker and Kayla, but emotionally I felt they were well matched because due to incidents that occurred when Parker was a young adult he shut himself down emotionally and didn't let himself develop feelings for anyone. Until Kayla, Kayla is adorable, funny, sassy and vulnerable. She lost her dad at such a young age and has had great male protectors and role models, but she's never had a man who was just hers.
When Parker met Kayla he was instantly attracted to her but refused to believe he was good enough for her, the attraction between the two of them was undeniable and he realized he would do what it took to be the man Kayla needed.
I loved the interactions between Kayla and Janie, good gawd those two had me hysterically laughing. Seeing previous characters from Lani's books was a delightful bonus. And RAFE, OMG poor Rafe, he just never knew what shenanigans the two were going to get into.
I do suggest reading Kinda Don't Care, Rafe and Janie's story, first that way you can get the full Kayla/Janie effect.
Maybe Don't Wanna is an emotionally satisfying, sweet and sexy romance, one that I will read again and again!
dnf
May 13, 2020DNF At 38 minutes
Can Janie not be a part of this book, please? I couldn't stand the hospital scene at the beginning of this novel. If Kayla doesn't want to be there that's her prerogative, period. The pact that they made when they were younger was also a joke. Why would you obligate one to have a child if the other got knocked-up? Their friendship is my worst nightmare and a strong pass from me.
Parker actually started to sound like a decent guy but after the Janie thing, I just couldn't stand any more of this book. His backstory is tragic and he's punishing myself for something that wasn't even his fault.
This author's novels for me are usually a complete hit or miss for me and it looks like this is the latter. I've been having a run of DNF's lately. Hopefully, this will pass soon!
Can Janie not be a part of this book, please? I couldn't stand the hospital scene at the beginning of this novel. If Kayla doesn't want to be there that's her prerogative, period. The pact that they made when they were younger was also a joke. Why would you obligate one to have a child if the other got knocked-up? Their friendship is my worst nightmare and a strong pass from me.
Parker actually started to sound like a decent guy but after the Janie thing, I just couldn't stand any more of this book. His backstory is tragic and he's punishing myself for something that wasn't even his fault.
This author's novels for me are usually a complete hit or miss for me and it looks like this is the latter. I've been having a run of DNF's lately. Hopefully, this will pass soon!
May 3, 2018
Here's the thing with books by Lani Lynn Vale - i constantly find myself at a crossroad when i pick up one of her books. Why? Because each time, i have to debate whether or not i want to sleep a full 8 hours or if i can live off the measly 2, maybe 3 hours i'll get if i read the entire book in one sitting (which happens more often than not).
That was my biggest dilemma when i started Maybe Don't Wanna. I mean, i've read the previous book in this new series, Kinda Dn't Care which was Rafe and Janie's story, so i had an idea already of the type of person that Kayla was - yet it just didn't give her justice. This woman is crazy! In a totally good way. She's hilarious. Loyal. Fierce. And has this uncontrollable need to poke holes! I mean, who does that?! *bursts out laughing uncontrollably*
The chemistry that exists between Kayla and Peter Parker is undeniable - it's hot. It's intense. And it's really captivating. From the very beginning i was rooting for these two because they just make one another better. They complete each other in ways that i doubt they knew would have been possible.
While the underlying back story (of a serial killer) wasn't as pronounced as i would have seen in previous books from this author, i liked how we got to know more about these two, how a service dog who went through the worst kind of torture was able to come to trust another human being and want to protect her. But most of all, i did enjoy how Lani Lynn Vale went beyond just the original story and gave readers a glimpse of years later and what happens to this couple.
I really did enjoy this book - so far i haven't really found a book that i didn't like or enjoy written by Lani Lynn Vale, and one thing truly is certain - i can't wait for her next book!
*ARC provided by Author in exchange for an honest review. Reviewed by Kathleen, The Small Girl from A small girl, her man and her books
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August 14, 2019
The writing style just wasn't me.
May 5, 2018
Please stop with these guys robbing the cradle 🙁
First I’ll say what I didn’t like. 1) I dislike stories where authors write about characters that were babies in prior books. It’s weird to me. 2) Janie was in this book too much at the beginning, and she’s irritating as hell (which is part of why her book was a DNF with me). 3) It’s gross when there is a huge age gap in the characters. No one should be hooking up with someone their parent’s age.
Now for the good stuff: the storyline was great. If I pretended they were at least less than ten years apart and “forgot” she was an orphaned baby in a prior book, the characters were funny and engaging. I feel Ms. Vale is an amazing author, and I wish she would outgrow this “daddy” phase, where she has the heroine lusting after someone her father’s age. Sadly, it’s turning me away from her books.
First I’ll say what I didn’t like. 1) I dislike stories where authors write about characters that were babies in prior books. It’s weird to me. 2) Janie was in this book too much at the beginning, and she’s irritating as hell (which is part of why her book was a DNF with me). 3) It’s gross when there is a huge age gap in the characters. No one should be hooking up with someone their parent’s age.
Now for the good stuff: the storyline was great. If I pretended they were at least less than ten years apart and “forgot” she was an orphaned baby in a prior book, the characters were funny and engaging. I feel Ms. Vale is an amazing author, and I wish she would outgrow this “daddy” phase, where she has the heroine lusting after someone her father’s age. Sadly, it’s turning me away from her books.
May 5, 2018
Book 2 in this series that is a spin off of the Free Bird Series. Kayla is Jamie (Book1 ) best friend raised at the Free compound she young & Free spirited with baggage. Peter Parker maybe named after a super hero but has lots of old bagged from the past. But he maybe finding himself in Kayla as they find there way. A book full of heart, hot alphas & yes some suspense. A great follow up from book 1 - please read in order to enjoy this series fully.
June 2, 2018
3.5 stars
Oy. This book.
Ok, so I love Lani Lynn Vale's books. There is only a VERY small handful of books by her that I didn't love, or even really like. But this series isn't off to a great start for me. And I'm not quite sure why that is.
The beginning of this book really grated on me. I liked meeting Parker and Kayla. I liked seeing where they came from, where they currently were and what led them to each other. Those parts I liked....but unfortunately, there was way to much Janie in this book, especially the beginning, for me. I found her to be to much. She tried to take over the book and story and impose herself on this book and it irritated me. I have already read her book. I didn't want more of her. I barely got through her book because of her antics. I realize that Kayla and Janie are best friends and have been their whole lives. I realize that they've had plans for their lives that include each other...that's fine. But I didn't need Janie to be there so much. I wanted Kayla and Parker's story.
I don't usually have a problem with age differences in books, and for majority of this book, the age difference didn't bother me. However, there was one scene in particular that Kayla really acted her age with her overly exuberant reaction. But other than that, I loved Kayla and Parker together. I loved watching their friendship form, and watch how Kayla and [DOG] developed an understanding and friendship between them as well.
I have to say that I was a little disappointed in the suspense part of the story. There was a lot of talk about the serial killer and how scared Kayla was and how traumatized she was by what she saw...but nothing came of it. And honestly, that disappointed me. I kept expecting the killer to target Parker of Kayla and to show up and cause some havoc at some point, but it ended up being pure coincidence that they stumbled across him. And then the other bit of drama came literally out of nowhere. And to make it all worse, both events happened between 91-96% in the book.
Oy. This book.
Ok, so I love Lani Lynn Vale's books. There is only a VERY small handful of books by her that I didn't love, or even really like. But this series isn't off to a great start for me. And I'm not quite sure why that is.
The beginning of this book really grated on me. I liked meeting Parker and Kayla. I liked seeing where they came from, where they currently were and what led them to each other. Those parts I liked....but unfortunately, there was way to much Janie in this book, especially the beginning, for me. I found her to be to much. She tried to take over the book and story and impose herself on this book and it irritated me. I have already read her book. I didn't want more of her. I barely got through her book because of her antics. I realize that Kayla and Janie are best friends and have been their whole lives. I realize that they've had plans for their lives that include each other...that's fine. But I didn't need Janie to be there so much. I wanted Kayla and Parker's story.
I don't usually have a problem with age differences in books, and for majority of this book, the age difference didn't bother me. However, there was one scene in particular that Kayla really acted her age with her overly exuberant reaction. But other than that, I loved Kayla and Parker together. I loved watching their friendship form, and watch how Kayla and [DOG] developed an understanding and friendship between them as well.
I have to say that I was a little disappointed in the suspense part of the story. There was a lot of talk about the serial killer and how scared Kayla was and how traumatized she was by what she saw...but nothing came of it. And honestly, that disappointed me. I kept expecting the killer to target Parker of Kayla and to show up and cause some havoc at some point, but it ended up being pure coincidence that they stumbled across him. And then the other bit of drama came literally out of nowhere. And to make it all worse, both events happened between 91-96% in the book.
May 12, 2018
Oh, my. I had to lock my heart in the bathroom (only because there isn't any closet that can be locked) to prevent Peter Parker Penn from stealing it right from the first sentence... I knew he wouldn't be willing to take more than one girlfriend at a time. So I had to protect myself, you know.
Kayla and Parker's relationship was the crossroad of innocence and sexiness. I adored how they interacted with each other, how they help each other to overcome their issues. It also loved the fact that although it didn't take much for them to sleep together, they actually hadn't had sex until I was going crazy over "when and how the hell would that happen" between them.
This story was pretty much peaceful, action-wise, in comparison with other books and that didn't hurt it at all. In fact, it helped us to peep into their souls and minds more easily.
I dare to take a guess that Maybe Don't Wanna will always belong among my Lani Lynn Vale's favorite books and probably my favorites in general.
P.S.: I'm so happy I misunderstood the thing about stalker... So, so happy!
Kayla and Parker's relationship was the crossroad of innocence and sexiness. I adored how they interacted with each other, how they help each other to overcome their issues. It also loved the fact that although it didn't take much for them to sleep together, they actually hadn't had sex until I was going crazy over "when and how the hell would that happen" between them.
This story was pretty much peaceful, action-wise, in comparison with other books and that didn't hurt it at all. In fact, it helped us to peep into their souls and minds more easily.
I dare to take a guess that Maybe Don't Wanna will always belong among my Lani Lynn Vale's favorite books and probably my favorites in general.
Somebody called me pretty today. Actually, they called me 'pretty fucking awful,' but I'm only focusing on the positive.
—Text from Kayla to Parker
P.S.: I'm so happy I misunderstood the thing about stalker... So, so happy!
May 4, 2018
Peter Parker Penn has to be one of the most self-loathing heroes I’ve been introduced to in a long time. He epitomizes the idea that people are their own worst enemies and critics. Peter constantly tortures himself over his past misdeeds, even though he knows that the actions he took were wrong and it’s clear that he feels remorse over making bad decisions that affected others in negative ways.
I have to admit that it was overwhelmingly frustrating to hear Peter’s self-recriminations, but there’s no denying that his internal monologue and his outward statements truly depict the man Peter thinks he is, and because Lani Lynn Vale writes his character and illustrates how he deals with his past, readers understand that the only person who can change Peter’s mind about himself is Peter, and that won’t happen until he forgives himself and finds a way to allow some light into a place filled with darkness.
But if anyone can get through to Peter, it’s Kayla…she’s so full of light and happiness that it resonates off of her, and because she has taken it upon herself to ‘save’ Peter from himself and help him see the good inside of himself, she’s going to use every bit of humor and quirkiness she has.
I absolutely loved Kayla…not only because it’s impossible not to smile and laugh at her craziness, especially when her best friend enters the mix, but because she’s so full of life and goodness. It’s a lost cause for Peter not to give into his feelings for Kayla because she’s just that irresistible. She’s fierce in her mission to prove that there is good inside of Peter, and that quality in her allows her to fight through so pretty nasty situations.
Now, this wouldn’t be a Lani Lynn Vale book if there wasn’t a bit of chaos thrown into the mix, which means that the action and suspense that infiltrates the storyline is meant to serve as a reminder of just how precious life and love is and that people’s perseverance to keep fighting when the fight seems hopeless determines not only the outcome but the true nature of a man.
4.5 Poison Apples (The Fairest of All Book Reviews)
I have to admit that it was overwhelmingly frustrating to hear Peter’s self-recriminations, but there’s no denying that his internal monologue and his outward statements truly depict the man Peter thinks he is, and because Lani Lynn Vale writes his character and illustrates how he deals with his past, readers understand that the only person who can change Peter’s mind about himself is Peter, and that won’t happen until he forgives himself and finds a way to allow some light into a place filled with darkness.
But if anyone can get through to Peter, it’s Kayla…she’s so full of light and happiness that it resonates off of her, and because she has taken it upon herself to ‘save’ Peter from himself and help him see the good inside of himself, she’s going to use every bit of humor and quirkiness she has.
I absolutely loved Kayla…not only because it’s impossible not to smile and laugh at her craziness, especially when her best friend enters the mix, but because she’s so full of life and goodness. It’s a lost cause for Peter not to give into his feelings for Kayla because she’s just that irresistible. She’s fierce in her mission to prove that there is good inside of Peter, and that quality in her allows her to fight through so pretty nasty situations.
Now, this wouldn’t be a Lani Lynn Vale book if there wasn’t a bit of chaos thrown into the mix, which means that the action and suspense that infiltrates the storyline is meant to serve as a reminder of just how precious life and love is and that people’s perseverance to keep fighting when the fight seems hopeless determines not only the outcome but the true nature of a man.
4.5 Poison Apples (The Fairest of All Book Reviews)
May 4, 2018
Another five star read by the talent that is Lani Lynn Vale , Loved this book like all of this authors books she has her readers feel everything that the characters are going through so be prepared to be on a roller coaster of emotions that you don't want to get off of . Maybe Don't wanna can be read as a standalone even though it is next gen from the freebirds series so it focuses on the kids now grown up falling in love but I HIGHLY suggest / recommend that you at least read Boomtown , keys to my cuffs , kinda don't care , then this one or you can read every magical thing this author has written which again I HIGHLY suggest / recommend you wont regret binge reading them . This starts with a heart brake and my emotions were all over the place through this one it had me in tears , happy , angry , and in need of a fan because the heat coming from my kindle was sizzling . The characters were equally lovable I wanted the couple to find true happiness and that is what they found with one another . We also get to see past and future characters that I can't wait to read about my heart will be full with what is to come . Your should definitely get this book as soon as possible while getting your one click fingers ready to get more of this authors work so get your kindles charged or light bulbs fresh is you are reading a paperback because you wont want to put any of Lani Lynn Vales books down .
copy provided for honest review
****************************************
hero=10 heroine=10 secondary characters=10 Chemistry=10 steam=10
romance=10 humor=8 darkness level=4 action=4 mystery=4
enjoyment=10 angst=3 story line=10 Story ending=10
character development=10 pacing=10
cover=10 stars= 5
would I recommend this book= yes
would I re read this book= yes
would I read future books by this author= yes
copy provided for honest review
****************************************
hero=10 heroine=10 secondary characters=10 Chemistry=10 steam=10
romance=10 humor=8 darkness level=4 action=4 mystery=4
enjoyment=10 angst=3 story line=10 Story ending=10
character development=10 pacing=10
cover=10 stars= 5
would I recommend this book= yes
would I re read this book= yes
would I read future books by this author= yes
January 24, 2020
There was a large part of the book that had me laughing so hard, then there were moments that I cried from sadness. This one of the best books so far. Now, still a few flubs here and there with consistency and editing, but not terribly bad. I loved this one.
I also liked that, finally, one of the guys with all their background and skills, didn't get caught unawares and get put in danger along with the woman in his life. That was getting a bit old.
The reason it didn't get a full 5 stars is because of Kayla. I know she lost her only parent early on in her life, and then her grandmother. But she had this huge group of people who were friends of her father who took her in and made her one of their own. Why she felt so lonely and disassociated was beyond me. I wish I'd had a group of people who cared about me like she had growing up. It was a little ungrateful, if you ask me.
I also liked that, finally, one of the guys with all their background and skills, didn't get caught unawares and get put in danger along with the woman in his life. That was getting a bit old.
The reason it didn't get a full 5 stars is because of Kayla. I know she lost her only parent early on in her life, and then her grandmother. But she had this huge group of people who were friends of her father who took her in and made her one of their own. Why she felt so lonely and disassociated was beyond me. I wish I'd had a group of people who cared about me like she had growing up. It was a little ungrateful, if you ask me.
February 14, 2019
I really did not care for this book. As with most books I read by this author, I found it really....I don’t even know the word for them I just know I more often than not don’t like them.
I think the heroine was supposed to come off as quirky and funny and cute but I found her annoying and immature. She acted like a fifteen year old. I also think her friendship with Janie was supposed to be funny, but I also didn’t find that funny just annoying.
Also the h and H didn’t meet until like 15% and I almost quit because it was just getting irritating.
I think the heroine was supposed to come off as quirky and funny and cute but I found her annoying and immature. She acted like a fifteen year old. I also think her friendship with Janie was supposed to be funny, but I also didn’t find that funny just annoying.
Also the h and H didn’t meet until like 15% and I almost quit because it was just getting irritating.
April 25, 2018
I'm just going to put it out there that Kayla is my spirit animal. Yup....the obsession with holes....the constant questions....the banter with the best friend....she checks every box for me. I love my heroines smart, strong and sassy. That's Kayla.
Parker is not a good guy. Well, he is now but he didn't start out that way. In his younger years he was a punk ass street thug that did some bad bad things. When he had the chance to get out he did but then the consequences of that decision cost him everything and Parker has been haunted since.
I'm not going to lie. The beginning of this book was incredibly hard to read. I was hyperventilating....drowning in tears. I made myself read it and feel it for a reason. You see....Lani Lynn Vale writes about real life. Yes, she writes fiction but all her books/storylines have relevance in the now. That's why I love her books. She tackles issues most people don't want to deal with.
All in all I enjoyed this book. The shenanigans, the banter between Kayla and Janie is epic and the journey Kayla and Parker take together is touching. To finally figure out you're worthy of love is a beautiful thing and Parker is very deserving. ❤️
Reviewed by: Heather S.
Parker is not a good guy. Well, he is now but he didn't start out that way. In his younger years he was a punk ass street thug that did some bad bad things. When he had the chance to get out he did but then the consequences of that decision cost him everything and Parker has been haunted since.
I'm not going to lie. The beginning of this book was incredibly hard to read. I was hyperventilating....drowning in tears. I made myself read it and feel it for a reason. You see....Lani Lynn Vale writes about real life. Yes, she writes fiction but all her books/storylines have relevance in the now. That's why I love her books. She tackles issues most people don't want to deal with.
All in all I enjoyed this book. The shenanigans, the banter between Kayla and Janie is epic and the journey Kayla and Parker take together is touching. To finally figure out you're worthy of love is a beautiful thing and Parker is very deserving. ❤️
Reviewed by: Heather S.
May 5, 2018
Emotional punch….
I know that any title I pick up by this author will be an emotional, sexy read. There will be family, good and bad. There will be friends, usually the “got your back”, drop everything, like family kind of friends. Suspense, danger, complicated storylines. No wonder I love them so much! Peter and Kayla’s story ended up being one of my favourites, which says a lot since I have many….
“He was tall, broad-shouldered and looked like he ate little girls like me for breakfast.”
From the opening pages, my heart was pummeled and punched. Peter’s feelings of grief and regret, of responsibility, had him on a path of redemption he didn’t need to earn. He took one day at a time, keeping to himself for the most part, living a life he quietly endured… When Kayla became a fixture in his life, with her irresistible charm and non-stop chatter, his obsession with her posterior grew into so much more…. He may not feel like he deserved her, but at some point he either put up or…..
“…I was bad. Bad news. Bad attitude. Bad for her. Bad at relationships. Bad, bad, bad.”
Kayla, on the other hand, was more open about her struggles with the loss of her blood family, with her search for a career, a purpose that would fulfill her without causing her nightmares… Peter gave her space when she needed it but support in the big and small ways that made him perfect for her. Now if only she could convince him of that!
“I’m here because I want to be here,” she informed me. “And I’m not going anywhere.”
Heart smooshed:
“You’re all I have.”
“I’m all you’ll ever need.”
If Peter and Kayla weren’t enough, and they definitely were, the icing on the cake was Kayla and Janie’s relationship. They had me (almost) peeing with laughter, even as they made me sniffly at times. Their strong bond meant neither battled anything alone while at the same time always keeping it real. Let’s just say I won’t look at a Roomba the same way again…
If you are looking for emotional, sizzly romance than look no further!
**4.5 Peter Parker Penn Stars**
April 29, 2018
Review by: Jennifer
(5 stars)
I don't care what anyone says, this is a spin off and you really should start at Boomtown and work your way through the other series' until getting to these. The character's are all featured starting at Lani's very first book, and for you to get the feels that this book gives, its just better to be caught up with everything first. So those that complain about this series, if you haven't read the previous books, that is your own fault.
Kayla.... I can't even begin to figure out where to start with this story. Kayla captured our hearts right along side Janie, in Boomtown, and then again in Texas Tornado's epilogue. She has been loved by all of the men of Free as if she was their own, but Kayla feels unsettled, out of place (this hurts my heart), she is still trying to find her place in life. Parker has literally lost everyone but one person that he has loved, he has been living his life by trying to make up for things he had done in the past. With Kayla he feels that its just right, even though he shouldn't. Between their age gap and the person that he is, he knows that there is someone out there that is better for her. But as far as Kayla is concerned, Parker is the one place that she finally feels settled, as if he is that piece to make her whole. But with a serial killer and everything else stacked against them, will they be able to make a relationship work between them?
This was.... amazing, there are no other words that can be said. Sobbing, and I'm talking ugly cry, one minute and laughing the next. Lani can spin a story that has you hanging on the edge of your seat and you will gladly hang there as long as it takes to get more. Yeah, there are some plot holes and a few issues, thats normal for her books, but TBH the story pulls you in and has you watching this movie in your head and you just don't give a damn. Danger, sexy times, heartbreak, sexy times, violence, laughter, did I mention amazing sexy times (like AMAZING). 5 stars isn't enough for this, but it's all I can give.
(5 stars)
I don't care what anyone says, this is a spin off and you really should start at Boomtown and work your way through the other series' until getting to these. The character's are all featured starting at Lani's very first book, and for you to get the feels that this book gives, its just better to be caught up with everything first. So those that complain about this series, if you haven't read the previous books, that is your own fault.
Kayla.... I can't even begin to figure out where to start with this story. Kayla captured our hearts right along side Janie, in Boomtown, and then again in Texas Tornado's epilogue. She has been loved by all of the men of Free as if she was their own, but Kayla feels unsettled, out of place (this hurts my heart), she is still trying to find her place in life. Parker has literally lost everyone but one person that he has loved, he has been living his life by trying to make up for things he had done in the past. With Kayla he feels that its just right, even though he shouldn't. Between their age gap and the person that he is, he knows that there is someone out there that is better for her. But as far as Kayla is concerned, Parker is the one place that she finally feels settled, as if he is that piece to make her whole. But with a serial killer and everything else stacked against them, will they be able to make a relationship work between them?
This was.... amazing, there are no other words that can be said. Sobbing, and I'm talking ugly cry, one minute and laughing the next. Lani can spin a story that has you hanging on the edge of your seat and you will gladly hang there as long as it takes to get more. Yeah, there are some plot holes and a few issues, thats normal for her books, but TBH the story pulls you in and has you watching this movie in your head and you just don't give a damn. Danger, sexy times, heartbreak, sexy times, violence, laughter, did I mention amazing sexy times (like AMAZING). 5 stars isn't enough for this, but it's all I can give.
May 5, 2018
5 SMOOCHES!
Lani Lynn Vale’s books just make me happy. With the way all of her series crossover and intertwine, each time I pick up a new book, it’s is like a once-a-month visit with some old friends. The Simple Man Series is a next generation series in that the characters are the children of the heroes and heroines in Vale’s first series, Freebirds, or the Free Kids as Vale refer to them.
I love broken heroes—something about them just calls to me, and Lani served up a truly broken man in Peter Parker Penn. He’s convinced himself that he’s beyond redemption so he just simply doesn’t reach for it anymore. Kayla is a bit broken and a little lost herself. Not quite sure what she wants to do with her life, she floats from job-to-job looking for something—anything—that fits. The daughter of a soldier killed in action, she was practically raised on the Free compound by her father’s best friends, and though they welcomed her with open arms and treated her as one of their own, deep down she still felt like a fifth wheel—like she didn’t quite fit there either.
Vale has really ramped up the suspense plots in this series, and this part of the storyline was action-packed and edge-of-your-seat exciting. Lani’s wild sense of humor was everywhere in this book, and the antics of a filter-less Kayla and her very pregnant best friend, Janie, kept a smile on my face and laughter on my lips. Parker and Kayla were the star of this show, though, and their chemistry was absolutely sizzling.
Maybe Don’t Wanna was everything I hope for when I crack open one of Vale’s books. Full of humor, heart and heat with a dash of suspenseful drama, this story kept me entertained and engaged the whole way through. Five smooches from me for Maybe Don’t Wanna by Lani Lynn Vale!
~ Danielle Palumbo
Lani Lynn Vale’s books just make me happy. With the way all of her series crossover and intertwine, each time I pick up a new book, it’s is like a once-a-month visit with some old friends. The Simple Man Series is a next generation series in that the characters are the children of the heroes and heroines in Vale’s first series, Freebirds, or the Free Kids as Vale refer to them.
I love broken heroes—something about them just calls to me, and Lani served up a truly broken man in Peter Parker Penn. He’s convinced himself that he’s beyond redemption so he just simply doesn’t reach for it anymore. Kayla is a bit broken and a little lost herself. Not quite sure what she wants to do with her life, she floats from job-to-job looking for something—anything—that fits. The daughter of a soldier killed in action, she was practically raised on the Free compound by her father’s best friends, and though they welcomed her with open arms and treated her as one of their own, deep down she still felt like a fifth wheel—like she didn’t quite fit there either.
Vale has really ramped up the suspense plots in this series, and this part of the storyline was action-packed and edge-of-your-seat exciting. Lani’s wild sense of humor was everywhere in this book, and the antics of a filter-less Kayla and her very pregnant best friend, Janie, kept a smile on my face and laughter on my lips. Parker and Kayla were the star of this show, though, and their chemistry was absolutely sizzling.
Maybe Don’t Wanna was everything I hope for when I crack open one of Vale’s books. Full of humor, heart and heat with a dash of suspenseful drama, this story kept me entertained and engaged the whole way through. Five smooches from me for Maybe Don’t Wanna by Lani Lynn Vale!
~ Danielle Palumbo
May 4, 2018
"I was bad. Bad news. Bad attitude. Bad for her. Bad at relationships. Bad, bad, bad."
First things first - yes there is an age difference. A pretty significant difference. However with the way LLV writes all of her characters you don't really even think about the difference unless it's brought up in the book. Do not let this dictate whether you try the book. It is an amazing story of two equally broken people trying to find their happiness. And the perfect level of steam to go along with it!
Peter Parker Penn has more than enough reason to be angry at the world. Everything he has been through has made him the man he is. He has grew up in the gang life and then went to the military to avoid jail. Losing everything he knows and loves and being powerless to stop it. Out of the military and searching for his "thing", he's working for the Hail brothers doing repo jobs. He's existing at this point, not living.
Kayla has not had the fairy tale childhood either. After her dad died, she was "adopted" by her dad's friends, James and Cheyenne. Their daughter, Janie, is Kayla's best friend and "sister". Kayla has watched her best friend find love and the happily ever after that every little girl dreams of.
Combine a stubborn alpha man with a smart stubborn woman. Add in a serial killer systematically terrorizing the south, and a whole lot LLV heat; you have an amazing story that I would recommend to anyone.
First things first - yes there is an age difference. A pretty significant difference. However with the way LLV writes all of her characters you don't really even think about the difference unless it's brought up in the book. Do not let this dictate whether you try the book. It is an amazing story of two equally broken people trying to find their happiness. And the perfect level of steam to go along with it!
Peter Parker Penn has more than enough reason to be angry at the world. Everything he has been through has made him the man he is. He has grew up in the gang life and then went to the military to avoid jail. Losing everything he knows and loves and being powerless to stop it. Out of the military and searching for his "thing", he's working for the Hail brothers doing repo jobs. He's existing at this point, not living.
Kayla has not had the fairy tale childhood either. After her dad died, she was "adopted" by her dad's friends, James and Cheyenne. Their daughter, Janie, is Kayla's best friend and "sister". Kayla has watched her best friend find love and the happily ever after that every little girl dreams of.
Combine a stubborn alpha man with a smart stubborn woman. Add in a serial killer systematically terrorizing the south, and a whole lot LLV heat; you have an amazing story that I would recommend to anyone.
April 13, 2019
I'm so glad I went back to give Parker & Kayla's story a second chance because it was pretty darn good! It was filled with laughs, steam, sass, sadness & a little danger here & there.
I will never fully forgive Parker for what he did to Loki all those years ago (I just can't, so don't waste your breath trying to convince me) but everything else about him, I really liked. The way he cared for Gunner & Jett (Oh, gods, Jett. That was horrible.), the way he worked with Carmen, the way he cherished Kayla & refused to push her away... Whether he liked it or not, he had the protector role down pat & I found that to be quite awesome.
Kayla wasn't as annoying as I thought she'd be, thank gods. (I blame Janie for that preconception because Janie drove me batty in her book.) I loved her friendship with Janie in this story & just how close they were. Their pacts & the delivery scene were golden! Also, Kayla's experiences with Lipsense & her roomba were hilarious.
Probably the weakest part of the story for me was the danger element aka the whole serial killer thing. The discovery of where he was located came completely out of the blue & was wrapped up entirely too easily.
The epilogue was beautiful. I totally teared up when James read the letter from Kayla's dad out loud. Talk about heartbreaking & heartwarming at the same time. And that 28 years later part... So. Stinkin'. Sweet.
Looking forward to my next Lani Lynn Vale read! :)
I will never fully forgive Parker for what he did to Loki all those years ago (I just can't, so don't waste your breath trying to convince me) but everything else about him, I really liked. The way he cared for Gunner & Jett (Oh, gods, Jett. That was horrible.), the way he worked with Carmen, the way he cherished Kayla & refused to push her away... Whether he liked it or not, he had the protector role down pat & I found that to be quite awesome.
Kayla wasn't as annoying as I thought she'd be, thank gods. (I blame Janie for that preconception because Janie drove me batty in her book.) I loved her friendship with Janie in this story & just how close they were. Their pacts & the delivery scene were golden! Also, Kayla's experiences with Lipsense & her roomba were hilarious.
Probably the weakest part of the story for me was the danger element aka the whole serial killer thing. The discovery of where he was located came completely out of the blue & was wrapped up entirely too easily.
The epilogue was beautiful. I totally teared up when James read the letter from Kayla's dad out loud. Talk about heartbreaking & heartwarming at the same time. And that 28 years later part... So. Stinkin'. Sweet.
Looking forward to my next Lani Lynn Vale read! :)
April 22, 2018
I am loving the Simple Man series! Getting to see the kids from Freebirds all grown up and falling in love with the same level of hilarity, suspense, and sweetness that Lani is the master of is indescribably awesome. Kayla and Parker’s story is another double dose of epic. Both characters we know and love (and maaaaybe question a bit) from previous books there was definitely more fangirl squealing from me when I read the blurb. There story has me feeling all kinds of things. I ugly cried (thanks for that Lani) I literally lol’ed, I melted at the sweet heat, and I was on the edge of my seat with the suspense surrounding them.
Kayla grew up to be a woman her father would have been proud of. I loved seeing memories of Dougie throughout her book and seeing how despite how young she was when she lost her father there is so much of him in her. The tight bond she has with Janie took me back to the days of Ember and Cheyenne. They were sisters as much as they were best friends and had me rolling in laughter more than once.
The attraction between Kayla and Parker is immediate, but Parker’s tragic past has him keeping peoples a distance. Parker’s past is absolutely heartbreaking. Finally seeing the full scope of all he has been through broke my heart. Truly a good man despite what he thinks the irresistible pull between Kayla and him soon leads to a romance full of heart and delicious heat. I loved every page!
Kayla grew up to be a woman her father would have been proud of. I loved seeing memories of Dougie throughout her book and seeing how despite how young she was when she lost her father there is so much of him in her. The tight bond she has with Janie took me back to the days of Ember and Cheyenne. They were sisters as much as they were best friends and had me rolling in laughter more than once.
The attraction between Kayla and Parker is immediate, but Parker’s tragic past has him keeping peoples a distance. Parker’s past is absolutely heartbreaking. Finally seeing the full scope of all he has been through broke my heart. Truly a good man despite what he thinks the irresistible pull between Kayla and him soon leads to a romance full of heart and delicious heat. I loved every page!
April 25, 2018
I'm just going to put it out there that Kayla is my spirit animal. Yup....the obsession with holes....the constant questions....the banter with the best friend....she checks every box for me. I love my heroines smart, strong and sassy. That's Kayla.
Parker is not a good guy. Well, he is now but he didn't start out that way. In his younger years he was a punk ass street thug that did some bad bad things. When he had the chance to get out he did but then the consequences of that decision cost him everything and Parker has been haunted since.
I'm not going to lie. The beginning of this book was incredibly hard to read. I was hyperventilating....drowning in tears. I made myself read it and feel it for a reason. You see....Lani Lynn Vale writes about real life. Yes, she writes fiction but all her books/storylines have relevance in the now. That's why I love her books. She tackles issues most people don't want to deal with.
All in all I enjoyed this book. The shenanigans, the banter between Kayla and Janie is epic and the journey Kayla and Parker take together is touching. To finally figure out you're worthy of love is a beautiful thing and Parker is very deserving. ❤️
Parker is not a good guy. Well, he is now but he didn't start out that way. In his younger years he was a punk ass street thug that did some bad bad things. When he had the chance to get out he did but then the consequences of that decision cost him everything and Parker has been haunted since.
I'm not going to lie. The beginning of this book was incredibly hard to read. I was hyperventilating....drowning in tears. I made myself read it and feel it for a reason. You see....Lani Lynn Vale writes about real life. Yes, she writes fiction but all her books/storylines have relevance in the now. That's why I love her books. She tackles issues most people don't want to deal with.
All in all I enjoyed this book. The shenanigans, the banter between Kayla and Janie is epic and the journey Kayla and Parker take together is touching. To finally figure out you're worthy of love is a beautiful thing and Parker is very deserving. ❤️
May 7, 2018
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of the book.
She got me again! At this point, Lani Lynn Vale's books are like crack to me - I know I should probably resist, but I just can't not read them. Her characters and situations never cease to amaze me with their intense histories and issues. In Maybe Don't Wanna, we get an ex-gang member, turned SEAL, turned man with a particular set of skills, turned tow-truck operator and an orphan virgin in her early twenties, struggling with finding a career, and suffering with PTSD after witnessing the aftermath of a serial killer. AND a service dog with PTSD. So needless to say, it was a wild ride and I was on board for every moment of it (except for maybe the first sex scene because it didn't seem entirely reasonable for a virgin but then again, I sort of felt the same in book 1 so at least we've established a certain level of expectation at this point). So... I have mixed feelings? I can't say that I was over the moon about the book, but I was totally absorbed in it while I was reading and I can't wait to read the next book in the series as well as catch up on every book prior to this one because they all seem to be connected in a deliciously convoluted way. 3.5 out of 5 wine glasses.
She got me again! At this point, Lani Lynn Vale's books are like crack to me - I know I should probably resist, but I just can't not read them. Her characters and situations never cease to amaze me with their intense histories and issues. In Maybe Don't Wanna, we get an ex-gang member, turned SEAL, turned man with a particular set of skills, turned tow-truck operator and an orphan virgin in her early twenties, struggling with finding a career, and suffering with PTSD after witnessing the aftermath of a serial killer. AND a service dog with PTSD. So needless to say, it was a wild ride and I was on board for every moment of it (except for maybe the first sex scene because it didn't seem entirely reasonable for a virgin but then again, I sort of felt the same in book 1 so at least we've established a certain level of expectation at this point). So... I have mixed feelings? I can't say that I was over the moon about the book, but I was totally absorbed in it while I was reading and I can't wait to read the next book in the series as well as catch up on every book prior to this one because they all seem to be connected in a deliciously convoluted way. 3.5 out of 5 wine glasses.
April 2, 2022
French & English reviews
- une romance amusante (les petites phrases en début de chapitre sont hilarantes) ? OUI
- une romance chaud bouillante ? OUI
- des personnages attachants ? OUI
- une héroïne hilarante (et un peu dingue ><) et attachante ? OUI
- un héros avec un passé sombre (MAIS TELLEMENT SOMBRE !!! Dès les premières pages du livre, j'avais envie de pleurer ><) mais tellement attachant ? OUI
- un couple avec un grand écart d'âge ? OUI
- une histoire de serial killer ? OUI
Bref, une romance que j'ai dévoré bien trop vite =) Et j'ai hâte de voir ce qu'il en est des personnages secondaires =D
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
- a fun romance (the small sentences at the beginning of the chapter are hilarious) ? YES
- a steamy romance ? YES
- endearing characters ? YES
- a hilarious (and a bit crazy ><) and endearing heroine ? YES
- a hero with a dark past (SO SO DARK !!! From the first pages of the book, I wanted to cry ><) but so endearing ? YES
- a couple with a large age gap ? YES
- a serial killer story ? YES
In short, a romance that I devoured far too quickly =) And I can't wait to see what happens to the secondary characters =D
- une romance amusante (les petites phrases en début de chapitre sont hilarantes) ? OUI
- une romance chaud bouillante ? OUI
- des personnages attachants ? OUI
- une héroïne hilarante (et un peu dingue ><) et attachante ? OUI
- un héros avec un passé sombre (MAIS TELLEMENT SOMBRE !!! Dès les premières pages du livre, j'avais envie de pleurer ><) mais tellement attachant ? OUI
- un couple avec un grand écart d'âge ? OUI
- une histoire de serial killer ? OUI
Bref, une romance que j'ai dévoré bien trop vite =) Et j'ai hâte de voir ce qu'il en est des personnages secondaires =D
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
- a fun romance (the small sentences at the beginning of the chapter are hilarious) ? YES
- a steamy romance ? YES
- endearing characters ? YES
- a hilarious (and a bit crazy ><) and endearing heroine ? YES
- a hero with a dark past (SO SO DARK !!! From the first pages of the book, I wanted to cry ><) but so endearing ? YES
- a couple with a large age gap ? YES
- a serial killer story ? YES
In short, a romance that I devoured far too quickly =) And I can't wait to see what happens to the secondary characters =D
May 5, 2018
Triple P
***ARC provided in exchange for an honest review***
I don't know how this woman does it but time and time again she draws you in and holds you hostage with the stories she weaves from a brilliant mind like hers. This story will touch you while making you cry with what both of these lost souls have been through. Peter Parker Penn has had a life where everyone he loved has died and he believes that its all his fault. With only one remaining member he tries his best to become a better man than what he was, but he stills feels lost. Kayla has dealt with death also and has been floating in life never seeming to feel as if she found her footing but one look or touch of Parker and she feels settled. These two are struggling until finally realizing that together they are stronger than anything. I love the glimpses of other characters from previous books and Janie & Kayla relationship is #friendgoals. Great book Lani once again keep em coming!!!
***ARC provided in exchange for an honest review***
I don't know how this woman does it but time and time again she draws you in and holds you hostage with the stories she weaves from a brilliant mind like hers. This story will touch you while making you cry with what both of these lost souls have been through. Peter Parker Penn has had a life where everyone he loved has died and he believes that its all his fault. With only one remaining member he tries his best to become a better man than what he was, but he stills feels lost. Kayla has dealt with death also and has been floating in life never seeming to feel as if she found her footing but one look or touch of Parker and she feels settled. These two are struggling until finally realizing that together they are stronger than anything. I love the glimpses of other characters from previous books and Janie & Kayla relationship is #friendgoals. Great book Lani once again keep em coming!!!
January 28, 2019
Peter Parker Penn doesn't believe he deserves a break, his past mistakes have made him a loner. Even though his reasons were to protect those he loved, they still haunt him to this day. Then he meets Kayla Nash, she talks about everything and nothing, she is a breath of fresh air and he would give anything to have her but knows he should not.
Kayla sees something in Peter that reminds her of herself. He is alone, she is alone. When a moment between them builds to something more can Peter puts his past aside to build a future?
This one was bittersweet. A lot of sadness in this one but when Peter and Kayla are together they are bright spots to the story. I thought that there would be more Janie in this one which I missed. Good story and it was interesting how both characters have ties to other books.
Kayla sees something in Peter that reminds her of herself. He is alone, she is alone. When a moment between them builds to something more can Peter puts his past aside to build a future?
This one was bittersweet. A lot of sadness in this one but when Peter and Kayla are together they are bright spots to the story. I thought that there would be more Janie in this one which I missed. Good story and it was interesting how both characters have ties to other books.
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