Beach B!tch

Beach Squad #2

by Marika Ray

Awkward female athlete meets hottie lifeguard.


Dean


This girl should have a warning comes with baggage. But hell, we all have baggage and mine is saying I need to save Brinley. She pushes me away at every opportunity and then drops the most ridiculous jokes that catch me off guard. She’s so much more than a beautiful face. I want to show her how a real man treats the woman he loves. If she lets me...


Brinley


I had a nightmare of a childhood surviving the abuse of my father. Through it all I’ve had one become a professional beach volleyball player. My life plan was going so well until I met Dean, a gorgeous lifeguard determined to save me from myself. And don’t get me started on the crazy Beach Squad that tries to befriend me and pull me out of my shell.


When everything I thought I knew about my past changes, can I find lasting love with Dean while still achieving my pro career?





* This novel does contain some brief flashback scenes of childhood abuse (physical, mental, emotional), and explicit sexual content.

Genres: Contemporary, Romance

252 pages, ebook

First published March 9, 2018

About the author

Marika is a USA Today bestselling author writing steamy RomComs to make your heart explode and bring a smile to your face. She lives by the beach and posts a delightful number of hot lifeguard pictures.

Drop your email to be notified when each book releases: http://bit.ly/MarikaRayNews

Be sure to add my new releases to your TBR Today!

Hellman Brothers Series

Sisters From Hell Series

Reviews

[Jennifer Pierson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Beach B!tch was a story that I cannot even try to type up a description for, because one, I couldn't do it justice, and two, I don't want to give anything away for readers, as I truly believe everyone should go in blind. I'm already a fan of the Beach Squad Series, but Marika Ray has totally raised her own talented bar with her second story in this series. The realism of the abuse topic was off the charts to the point that I forgot it was a story, and wanted to report it in real life. But the best part of it was the fact that she didn't sugar coat it, and then showed how Brinley had to pick herself up after her terrible childhood. Added in was Dean, a very lovable hero, who wanted to just help her. AND, the entertaining cast of secondaries only added even more depth. This story had all of my feels going, and I found my eyes leaky more than once, as it was a very emotional journey, not to mention that I completely LOVE stories about the underdog coming into their own. And that's all I've got without spoiler douchery getting in the way, so just go get this story that I HIGHLY HIGHLY HIGHLY RECOMMEND TO ALL!

[Nerdy Dirty & Flirty · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was my second book by this new author (her second book published) and I found that I enjoyed it. There was a bit of a coming of age feel to it for me as Brinley, the leading lady, ventured out of her comfort zone and had new experiences. Her childhood was a rough one and while she allowed it to motivate her to achieve her goals, she also denied herself certain experiences because of it.

I also found that I really liked Dean, the leading man. Marika Ray seems to really know how to write kind, caring yet dominant and assertive men. They seem to know what they want at first sight and go after it, but they're so loyal and patient with the things their women are going through that it's hard not to like them.

This book still had that new author feel, but had a good plot and flowed well. I am a huge fan of tight groups of friends who are super supportive of each and this had that in spades.
I also liked revisiting with the couple from the last story.

I definitely plan to check out the next book and she what's in store for the Beach Squad.

[KarenJo Custodio · Rating 4 out of 5]

4 ★ – Charming, Sweet and Wonderfully Entertaining

This book is a great addition to the Beach Squad series! It’s wonderfully entertaining, satisfyingly swoony, and positively heartwarming.

I really enjoyed getting to know Brinley and Dean, but I have to admit, I had a little bit of difficulty getting into the story compared to the first book in the series. Not that the plot wasn’t engaging or fun, it was and the story development was well-paced. I just felt that some of the conversations seemed a bit forced. I thought they were a kind of choppy, disconnected, and just not as smooth or natural as Sweet Dreams. That being said, I still had a fun time reading this book. I loved seeing the beach squad again and catching up with Esa and Ivan and Bailey. While the story dealt with some serious issues, there were plenty of sweet moments, delicious flirting, heartwarming friendships, swoony romances, and awesome twists and turns. The ending was fantastic and amazingly well done. I definitely cried a bit so that made me like this series even more and rounded up my review rating to 4.

Brinley was an easy character to like – she’s socially awkward, athletic, intelligent, determined and adorably shy. Because of her horrible past, Brinley’s also extremely guarded, slow to trust, and afraid of falling in love too fast. Enter the devastatingly handsome lifeguard, Dean, who’s very sweet, really caring, incredibly patient and charmingly persistent. Brinley’s heart never stood a chance! As much as she fought her feelings, Brinley couldn’t help but let her guard down and gradually learn to trust the man who’s willing to wait for her, love her unconditionally and keep her safe no matter what it takes. Dean was definitely the badass hero she needed to help her realize she’s worthy, beautiful and lovable!

Like with Esa and Ivan in the first book, there was an instant attraction between Brinley and Dean that was absolutely delightful! Their chemistry was swoony and adorable, so I enjoyed all their moments together. There was spice, sweetness, and steam! They’re just so great and fit for each other and I completely could not get enough of Dean! He’s the epitome of the perfect book boyfriend and just a really amazing guy. I loved his relationship with his brother and mother and thought they were all just lovely.

Beach B!tch is definitely a fun kickass beach read! It’s sweet, funny, sexy and delightfully heartwarming. Can’t wait to continue the series with Barefoot Chaos and catch up with the Beach Squad again.

I received an advanced reader copy of this book from the Enticing Journey Book Promotions in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

To read more of my reviews, visit Sincerely Karen Jo

[Michelle Austin · Rating 5 out of 5]

http://i869.photobucket.com/albums/ab...



Beach B!tch was a great 5 star read.

I’m not sure where to start with this review. I am emotionally spent and blown away by this book.
There are some scenes that may be triggers for some. This is my second read from Marika Ray and am continuing to be pulled in. I had several ugly cry moments as well.

Brinley has a past that she is trying to put behind her by throwing herself into beach volleyball. When Dean a very hot lifeguard sees Brinley he is pulled in by her and wants more with her.
And of course Brinley couldn’t stop thinking about Dean as well, there was something about him that kept pulling her in.

Dean has always been taking care of people since he was younger, and he wants to be there for Brinley. He also needs Brinley in his life.

When Brinley’s past comes back to haunt her will Dean be able to help her? Will Brinley open her heart up to Dean?

I really liked Brinley and Dean’s story. I was pulled right in and didn’t want to stop until I was done. The secondary characters were great. Dean is now my new crush in this series, he was such a sweet and caring guy and was so perfect for Brinley. If your looking for a great series with great characters than 1-click and get started now. You will get pulled right in.


I voluntarily reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book. Reviewed by MAustin from Alpha Book Club

[Kaye · Rating 5 out of 5]

ONE KICK ASS READ!!!
Ok. I'm totally in awe. I can tell everyone how great this read is. I can tell you about how realistic and believable. I can tell you that Marika's gift for being able to give us such incredible detailed descriptions that the scenes appear to be alive. I can even tell you how touched I am that I got to read this story before it was released. There's quite a bit I could tell you, but I'm going to tell you just how fantastic I think this story is. It has it all. The rollercoaster of emotions as well as dealing in day to day drama. I'm not even going to lie and say I didn't cry. Because yeah, I cried. Marika has brought an everyday occurrence, turned it inside out. Took it apart. Then showed us how to pick ourselves up after something horrible happens. She didn't try to down play the abuse, the struggles or the awkward girl. She just told it how she saw it. Her talents are exceptional and far reaching. You don't have to take my word for it. Grab you a copy and find out for yourself. Then send me a message and let me know just how great you thought it was. Phenomenal job Marika.

[Kristen Lewendon · Rating 5 out of 5]

I can see why these girls are all friends; there seems to be some significant parallels in their lives. Similar to how Esa was terrorized by her ex, Brinley has a demon in her past that’s determined to see her fail at everything she desires. She’s going to have to face that demon down and heal the wounds he’s inflicted on her spirit, soul, and psyche. And like Esa’s hottie lifeguard, Dean’s pretty darned close to perfect. He’s sweet, kind, generous, and protective. He can be gentlemanly when it’s called for and he has a butt-kicking family in his and Brinley’s corner. Dean’s the kind of hero that book boyfriend fantasies are made of. Now to get our hands on Bailey’s story…
I received a complimentary advanced copy of this book.

[Angela · Rating 4 out of 5]

I want a purple Beach Babes T-shirt! The group is expanding exponentially, and who better to find herself at the epicenter than Brinley, the socially awkward self defense instructor with the unhappy past and a heart ready for love. Between original Babes Esa and Bailey, and hot lifeguard Dean, Brin finds her world expanding in many wonderful ways. Throw in some intense volleyball competition and a couple visitors from Brin’s past, and you have a quick, interesting, and satisfying beach read with a lot of heart and a great HEA. I received a copy in return for my honest review.

[A.BookNerd.Bookseller&Bibliophile.Blog · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is the second book in a series. I loved this book. Brinley has to be one of my favorite female characters I've ever read. Dean was a really great guy for her to meet and fall in love with. I also really loved the fact that Esa, and her bestie, Bailey, really welcomed Brinley into their circle. I also really liked how Dean never lost sight of what he and Brinley have together, no matter how many obstacles she threw in their path. This has been my favorite book in the series so far.

Reviewed by: Clare M.

[Fran Zoch, LSoR · Rating 5 out of 5]

Just wow this was such an amazing read. It has a woman overcoming her past and achieving her dream .


Brinley had a childhood everyone fears but has not let that lead her life and who she will become. She has always wanted to be a pro volleyball player and this is it.

But one lifeguard and a beach squad want in on it .


Dean is a lifeguard and loves his job and friends but when he sees Brinley he knows he needs her in his life, he knows she has a past but he wants her present and future.

This is such a good read the love and the

Emotions in it kept me reading and not wanting to stop.

[BP34 · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is the second and final book in the Beach Squad Series and it is not necessary to read the first book to keep up. She was abused by her father as a child and still has flashbacks. To cover up the pain she puts all her energy into being a beach volleyball star. When Dean, a gorgeous lifeguard comes into her life she struggles with juggling her career and her relationship. Lots of drama and reflection. I read a reader copy and voluntarily chose to write a review.

[Heather Vandine · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a great read. Brinley is abused by her father and still has flashbacks. She works hard to try to forget. All she's ever wanted was to be a professional volleyball player. She meets Dean, a lifeguard, and her life changes. This is a really sweet book. I recommend this book.

[Ren · Rating 4 out of 5]

I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book.

[Lisa Hemming · Rating 5 out of 5]

Brinley spent her childhood ridiculed and ignored by her abusive, alcoholic father, who constantly told her she was worthless and never showed her any love. She spent many nights cuddled up in her bed with her eyes squeezed tight, dreaming of a beautiful life filled with happiness. Fortunately for her she had caring teachers and coaches who helped her get a college scholarship so she could continue playing Volleyball, with a goal to someday play professionally. She has girlfriends that she has fun with but she has never told them of her abusive past because she doesn’t feel comfortable talking about it.

Brinley loves going to the beach after Volleyball practice, becauses the rolling waves relax her and she loves to dig her toes in the hot sand. One afternoon as her eyes swept up and down the beach, she noticed one of the lifeguards staring at her, and she couldn’t look away. He was gorgeous and looked sexy in his tight, red swim trunks. She felt an immediate attraction to him, and she couldn’t stop thinking about touching his sexy body.

Dean saw Brinley too, and he was immediately captivated by her beauty. She seemed relaxed and carefree, but also sad and lonely. He had spent his entire life taking care of his mom and brother when his father left them, and he sensed that Brinley needed someone to take care of her and make her smile again. Dean had noticed Brinley at the beach before, so he was confident that their paths would cross again, because he needed her as much as she needed him.

How will Brinley feel when she meets Dean and will she be receptive of his feelings for her?

Can Dean convince Brinley that she can trust him and that his feelings for her are genuine? Will Dean be able to keep Brinley safe from her father when he reappears in her life?

“Beach B!tch” is the second book in The Beach Squad Series by Marika Ray, and I absolutely loved this beautiful and sweet love story. Brinley overcame many obstacles in her life and she deserved much happiness and she found this with Dean. I will definitely read the first book in the series, “Sweet Dreams” and I am looking forward to more romantic and heartwarming stories from this exciting new author.

[Paulette · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book was not at all what I was expecting. It was so much better. Beach B!tch was my first book that I read by this author. I guess I was expecting an amped up, sexed up, version of the old beach blanket movies. This is what happens when we come to anything with preconceived ideas. Fortunately for me, I was pleasantly surprised. Don’t expect all sunshine, surf, sand and sex. Oh there is definitely enough of that in this book. However, it is completely pertinent to the story, not overused or thrown in for gratuitous pleasure. It’s actually portrayed in a beautiful way. The author also took on some very relevant and serious issues facing todays society. She told them in a realistic manner and made them believable. I don’t do spoilers that’s what blurbs are for and I respect the authors time and works too much, so you have to read the book to find out what issues I’m referring to.

What I really enjoyed about this story is that the characters were able to show their flaws and how they came to acquire them. Instead of letting it completely ruin their lives for the most part they were able to turn them in to strengths. We get to see how peoples actions can influence someone else’s life for good or bad. In this story we get both. Life can change in an instant. It goes back to the old say. “ Life is what happens while you’re busy making other plans.” This story certainly follows that line of thought.

It’s not all serious. There’s plenty of smiles, playfulness, romance, angst and character building. You may even shed a tear. If I learned anything from this book (and I learned a few things) the first thing I learned is never judge or preconceive a book by it’s cover. There’s so much more underneath or in this case inside the book. The read is fast paced. I read it in one sitting. I really enjoyed this book. Kudos to the author!

[Emily Pennington · Rating 5 out of 5]

Heading home from school, Brinley dragged her feet, stooped her shoulders, and kept her eyes downcast – every movement telegraphing that she desperately did not want to return home. There was no one to protect her there. Her dad had crawled into a bottle of whiskey when her mom died, and he had never come out. Fear, hunger, violence and rage were the only things he offered her.

Now Brinley and her partner were on the beach playing volleyball, close to qualifying for pro status in the IVP, the most elite beach volleyball league in the U.S.! They won the game, moving a step closer to their goal. Turning down an offer to join her friends for a night out, Brinley instead went down to the beach for a cooling swim before she went home. As she slipped shorts on after her swim, she saw a lifeguard in the distance, seeming to stare at her. He was gorgeous, but she had things to do and drove home. But Dean had been noticing Brinley too, and felt drawn to her. A nurturing, supportive person, he had taken care of his mom, and in some way felt that this girl on the beach needed him in her life. With her abused past, can Brinley trust a man to do the right thing for her? And will she be able to face a frightening reunion heading her way without Dean beside her?

I thought this book was well written and the subject matter handled well by the author. My heart goes out to anyone, and most especially a child, who has lived in fear, hunger, and pain caused by someone who is supposed to love them. This book has the reader cheering for Brinley to reach her dreams and find the happiness she deserves. Make sure you check this one out. It’s very worthwhile.

[Susan Homan · Rating 5 out of 5]

Don't miss this one!

I had never read something by this author before, so I had no idea what to expect. WOW is all I can say. I was drawn in from the very beginning. The characters are well developed and in normal life settings. There are so many sides to every person, and this book explores those. It shows you that one part of you or situation that you have been in do not define you, even though we often times feel as if they do. Brinley had an alcoholic for a Dad, who belittled her and told her she was nothing her whole life on top of abusing her. Brinley kept herself from friends because she could not bring them home, and did not know how to be a friend or have a friend. Luckily she had people who were able to break down those barriers. This book was one I did not want to put down. I know this is book two in the series, but I was able to read it and understand it so it can be read as a stand alone. I do want to go back and read the first book, and I honestly am very much looking forward to reading the next one. I am now a huge fan of this author. She made everything so realistic and you felt as if you were going through all of the emotions, and events with Brinley and Dean. I received an advanced reading copy, and am doing this review because I wanted to and because this book was amazing. I hope many others find it and enjoy it as much as I did! Congratulations Marika on a very well written book!

[Laura Williams · Rating 4 out of 5]

Brinley an aspiring pro volleyball player had a tough upbringing. Plagued with the loss of her mother at a young age and having a father not being able to cope and turning to alcohol. But is all as it seems?

Dean A hot young life Guard with trust issues stemming from his dad walking out on the family after a devastating blow to his family where his brother was in a car accident.

After seeing each other at the beach there was instant attraction on both sides. Brinley is scared of her instant feelings.

Through a stroke of luck he is friendly with her volleyball friends boyfriend
but Brin feels the need to take it slow.

Things develop when Brinley takes a fall in a very important match and Dean ends up being her trainer for rehab. Things change when she gets a visit from her dad. She then finds trust through her friends and Dean.

Can they get over their pasts to find true love or does fear get in the way.

I throughly enjoyed this book. I was new to the author and was highly impressed. Although this was the second in the series. It can also be a standalone book. However I am looking forward to reading more in the series.
4.5 stars.

[Tammi · Rating 4 out of 5]

Brinley is one tough girl but her low self esteem wouldn't let her see what a fantastic person she was. Her childhood was horrible and left her alone. No friends, no family just evil, hateful father.
Along comes the "Beach Squad" showing her true friendship and how to have fun.
Then we have Dean our shy, loner girl gets a hot bodyguard of her own.
I absolutely loved this story, watching Brinley come out of her shell. Learning her self worth and accepting the love and support of all her friends.
The twist toward the end had me ecstatic!! It gave Brinley something I didn't think was possible, something I thought she had lost forever.
So glad to see this is a series with more to come. I really like this group of friends.

[Elizabeth Mularski · Rating 4 out of 5]

A copy of this book was provided to me with no requirement for a review. I voluntarily read this book and my comments here are my honest opinions. I am voluntarily reviewing this book I received and ARC for. This is a great second book in a series of standalones. This story jumps off the pages, shakes you alive and keeps you turning the pages. My emotions from reading this book had me all over the place. The descriptions of the scenes and the characters were complete and let you feel as if you were there on the sidelines watching everything unfold. A definite recommendation to read this book from me.

[Carol · Rating 5 out of 5]

Oddball couple fall in love!
Brin has had a tough upbringing by abusive Father. She has grown a hard outer shell to protect herself as a coping mechanism.
She meets Dean and refuses to let down her guard. She is a super focused beach volleyball player and almost let the love of her life get away.
Until the Beach Squad and the amazing Dean help crack her shell and she risks loving others and letting them see her, bad joke and all. (By way love that.)

Can’t wait to next book in series. Love some new Beach Squad members (won’t spoil whom, but I think you will as well). Definitely want Stefan to have his day and love.

[Wendy Livingstone · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the second book in this amazing series, and is Brinley and Dean’s story. Brinley had an abusive childhood, both mentally and physically, but she has kept all her feelings bottles up inside. Dean is a lifeguard and personal trainer, who is drawn to Brinley while she is playing amateur volleyball, and there is an instant attraction between them. Can Dean convince Brinley to trust him? No spoilers; this is a definite must read, you will not be disappointed! This is a well written and powerful story, which this author does an amazing job with such a sensitive subject. I look forward to reading more in this series, and I highly recommend this authors’ work for all.

[Reckless Readers · Rating 3 out of 5]

I struggled to become attached to this book like I did the first one in the series, it wasn't Marikas fault as the book was well written. I'd rate this book 3.5/5 stars. This book has emotion with the abuse with Brinley faced as a child and the flashbacks to her childhood she experiences. When she meets Dean she needs to learn how to trust and to know he will keep her safe. I enjoyed seeing the squad again, I look forward to the next book in the series.

***Reviewed by Codie***

[Amanda · Rating 4 out of 5]

I was asked by the author for an honest review.

This is the 2nd book in the Beach Squad series and, while it can be read as a stand alone, I think you would enjoy it more if you've already read the first book. There are a lot overlapping characters and some references to events.

I like Marika Ray's writing style, which I would describe as fun and casual. I laughed at her note from the author at the end of the book. I'm looking forward to reading more by Marika Ray.

[Sherry · Rating 5 out of 5]

#beachsquadrocks

Brinley and Dean have a silent stare down on the first day they come in contact with each other, and then it’s on! Brinley puts her best effort forward to reach her dreams after a horrific childhood. She meets the man of her dreams disguised as sexy lifeguard Dean. He lifts her up and shows her how she deserves to be loved. I love how he cherishes her and makes her feel like she’s the most important person to him. Excellent read!

[Sherry Westendorf · Rating 5 out of 5]

She is an amateur beach volleyball player.who has a very bad past with her father's abuse. He has a rough past also. He wants to help her. She is wary of any male. This is a very emotional, exciting, suspenseful and so much more. I highly recommend it. I was given a review copy and voluntarily review it.

[Lisa Hahn · Rating 5 out of 5]

Set, spike love

Dean and Brinley story has all the feels. She has to work through her emotions. She was abused mentally, physical and emotional as a child by her father. Dean sees her at the beach playing volleyball. As she struggles with life and loneliness, Dean is right by her side.

[Ife Davis · Rating 5 out of 5]

I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book.
The author has written a book that shows that the past can be defined differently based on how its overcome.
Brinley and Dean's story is romantic but has the strong influence of helping others to heal.

[Scarolet Ellis · Rating 5 out of 5]

I absolutly loved this book and am looking forward to reading more from Marika Ray.

A copy of this book was provided to me with no requirement for a review. I voluntarily read this book and my comments here are my honest opinions. I am voluntarily reviewing this book I received and ARC for.

[Kim Gauger · Rating 5 out of 5]

Love love loved

Omg I love this series and this book made it even better! Loved everything about it from the heart healing to everything else that went along with the story! A must read especially with all the hot lifeguards

[Tiffany Levin · Rating 5 out of 5]

Such a sting female character

I loved seeing the growth in the main character. I also loved how the main male character didn’t push and let her find her own way. Can’t wait for the next book!!