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Lovely
A sexy college romance about a cocky guy who seemingly has everything until a girl shows up and spins his world on its axis. The problem? She's not interested...
Ashton Taylor lived a charmed life. Everything came easy to him.
Except Cara Hayward.
So what happened when a guy who everything came easy to, met a girl who didn't come easy? Could he fight past her shield and all the broken pieces? Would the girl he discovered deep down be able to see past his perfect exterior?
His dilemma? She's not interested...
And he's in for the fight of his life.
** A new adult college romance with strong language and mature sexual content/situations and only recommended for readers 18 years of age and older**
Ashton Taylor lived a charmed life. Everything came easy to him.
Except Cara Hayward.
So what happened when a guy who everything came easy to, met a girl who didn't come easy? Could he fight past her shield and all the broken pieces? Would the girl he discovered deep down be able to see past his perfect exterior?
His dilemma? She's not interested...
And he's in for the fight of his life.
** A new adult college romance with strong language and mature sexual content/situations and only recommended for readers 18 years of age and older**
First published September 24, 2013
84 people are currently reading
1915 people want to read
About the author
Beth Michele
14 books952 followersBeth Michele is a USA Today & New York Times bestselling author of M/F and M/M Contemporary Romance who writes sweet, funny, and sexy (sometimes dirty) stories with heart...and snark. She can often be spotted hiding out with her laptop or kindle somewhere quiet, preferably on a bench overlooking the ocean. Swedish Fish and Twizzlers are her jam, and she makes a mean hot chocolate every day of the year.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 160 reviews
September 20, 2013
4 Lovely Stars!!
Firstly I'd like to say how refreshing it is to read a story from a guys POV!!
Ashton Taylor is such a sweetheart!!
He literally is the whole package, very handsome, smart, woman love him, guys typically want to be him...
What they don't know is what Ash had to give up and that he is just making the best of what he has now. He doesn't do relationships- casual sex is what he does...
Until he meets her...
The Lovely Cara
The shy girl behind the big glasses
The girl who wants to be invisible to the world.
Only now Ash is mesmerized by this Beauty..
He wants to be visible to her..
Only inside of the lonely girl are secrets leading to the sadness...
But even the handsome Ash has problems of his own.
He is sooo much more than what's on the outside and the things he does is astonishing!
No one is perfect, everyone is a little broken but it is that special someone, if you allow them in... that can make it all okay...
A very BIG thank you to Beth for providing me with an ARC for an honest review
October 24, 2013
What a great little story. It has everything I enjoy in a story. It was funny, romantic, steamy, with a little bit of angst mixed in. From the beginning I fell in love with all the characters. I felt that Ash and Cara were great together and I felt the secondary characters meshed well with them. None of the relationships felt forced, they felt very natural.
Please don't read this spoiler if you plan on reading this book in the future as it is a BIG spoiler!
This book is told from a male POV, a standalone with a HEA- that I completely recommend ♥
April 3, 2016
5 AMAZING STARS!!!!! I ABSOLUTELY LOVE IT!!!!
When Beth offered up a copy of Lovely to me to read and review I was excited. I read Love, Love and fell in love with Ben and I knew that without a doubt I would fall in love with Ashton’s story.
One thing I know for sure with Beth is that she pours her heart and soul into her stories and that of her characters. She knows how to write a story, she knows how to get it to all flow together nicely and in the end you are left with a piece of her characters in your heart forever.
This story has it all, heartbreak, angst, humor, steam, and the best characters. You will laugh, cry, you will get angry, but in the end I truly believe Ashton and Cara will hold a special place within your heart too.
"I was afraid, but I'm not anymore. I was unsure, but I'm more sure than ever. My world was dark, “her eyes meet mine, "but you've filled it with light. I was hiding from the world, but I don't want to hide from you."
Cara has had a rough childhood, with a father who was always away on business she was left with her drunken mother who did nothing but verbally degrade her every chance she could get. This caused Cara to hide behind big dorky glasses and close herself off to everyone. When Ash saw this he knew she was different and in a good way and he knew that he had to find out more about her.
“I am a devoted son, responsible brother, trusted friend, excellent student, and a good fuck. I’ve been told I’m talented. And I suppose things come easy to me. My life seems perfect.”
Ash is a player; he excels in all sports, and even with the chics. But there is one thing he does not have and that is everything going for him like everyone thinks. Ash is very lonely; he has been through a lot. After his father dies Ash devotes his time to helping his mom and taking care of his family. He is there for everyone, but he has no one there for him. Ash broke my heart honestly. Here is a young guy who has lost his dad ( who was also his hero) and he has had to step up and be the “man” of the house, but he has no one he can turn to himself to help him. Until he sees Cara in the library. Cara changes the way Ash has been with girls.
“I’ve felt like nothing for so long, Ash…You make me feel like I’m something…like I matter.”
Ash starts to pursue Cara daily to go on a date with him Cara finally decides to go. From here they build a great friendship which in turn turns to love. I love how Beth brought these two characters to life. Their relationship was a built up one. They learned about each other and then fell in love.
“You’re the only one I’ve wanted, Cara, since the moment I first saw you… It’s your eyes that invaded my dreams, your body that fulfills my fantasies, your beautiful spirit that’s taken over my heart. It’s you, Cara.”
This is a must read for everyone who loves a great story, that builds from the beginning into an amazing relationship with a HEA. Yes you will need tissues, yes you will get angry, your heart will break for these two throughout this book but in the end I truly think you will be happy for them.
"Don't ever look down. Someone so beautiful should always be looking up."
As always Beth thank you for another amazing story, thank you for bringing Ashton and Cara into my world and my heart. They will forever be remembered by me.
We have a RELEASE DATE WOO HOOO !!!!!
When Beth offered up a copy of Lovely to me to read and review I was excited. I read Love, Love and fell in love with Ben and I knew that without a doubt I would fall in love with Ashton’s story.
One thing I know for sure with Beth is that she pours her heart and soul into her stories and that of her characters. She knows how to write a story, she knows how to get it to all flow together nicely and in the end you are left with a piece of her characters in your heart forever.
This story has it all, heartbreak, angst, humor, steam, and the best characters. You will laugh, cry, you will get angry, but in the end I truly believe Ashton and Cara will hold a special place within your heart too.
"I was afraid, but I'm not anymore. I was unsure, but I'm more sure than ever. My world was dark, “her eyes meet mine, "but you've filled it with light. I was hiding from the world, but I don't want to hide from you."
Cara has had a rough childhood, with a father who was always away on business she was left with her drunken mother who did nothing but verbally degrade her every chance she could get. This caused Cara to hide behind big dorky glasses and close herself off to everyone. When Ash saw this he knew she was different and in a good way and he knew that he had to find out more about her.
“I am a devoted son, responsible brother, trusted friend, excellent student, and a good fuck. I’ve been told I’m talented. And I suppose things come easy to me. My life seems perfect.”
Ash is a player; he excels in all sports, and even with the chics. But there is one thing he does not have and that is everything going for him like everyone thinks. Ash is very lonely; he has been through a lot. After his father dies Ash devotes his time to helping his mom and taking care of his family. He is there for everyone, but he has no one there for him. Ash broke my heart honestly. Here is a young guy who has lost his dad ( who was also his hero) and he has had to step up and be the “man” of the house, but he has no one he can turn to himself to help him. Until he sees Cara in the library. Cara changes the way Ash has been with girls.
“I’ve felt like nothing for so long, Ash…You make me feel like I’m something…like I matter.”
Ash starts to pursue Cara daily to go on a date with him Cara finally decides to go. From here they build a great friendship which in turn turns to love. I love how Beth brought these two characters to life. Their relationship was a built up one. They learned about each other and then fell in love.
“You’re the only one I’ve wanted, Cara, since the moment I first saw you… It’s your eyes that invaded my dreams, your body that fulfills my fantasies, your beautiful spirit that’s taken over my heart. It’s you, Cara.”
This is a must read for everyone who loves a great story, that builds from the beginning into an amazing relationship with a HEA. Yes you will need tissues, yes you will get angry, your heart will break for these two throughout this book but in the end I truly think you will be happy for them.
"Don't ever look down. Someone so beautiful should always be looking up."
As always Beth thank you for another amazing story, thank you for bringing Ashton and Cara into my world and my heart. They will forever be remembered by me.
We have a RELEASE DATE WOO HOOO !!!!!
September 23, 2013
When Beth Michele told me I was lucky enough to receive an ARC of her novel Lovely, I was over the moon. And I am so pleased to say, Lovely DID NOT disappoint.
There is one thing about Beth’s writing, and that is, she puts her heart and soul into her work. The characters, the story, the mood- everything, it grips on tight and doesn’t let go.
Lovely will remain with me for a long, long time, and by far, is one of my favourite reads for 2013.
This story touched me in a way that had me sobbing like a baby in certain parts, and swooning over the incredibly hot Ash *swoon* (new book boyfriend alert!!)
I loved Lovely!!
5+++++ freakin’ Ash lovin’ fabulous stars!!!
Well done Beth, you rocked this!!!
There is one thing about Beth’s writing, and that is, she puts her heart and soul into her work. The characters, the story, the mood- everything, it grips on tight and doesn’t let go.
Lovely will remain with me for a long, long time, and by far, is one of my favourite reads for 2013.
This story touched me in a way that had me sobbing like a baby in certain parts, and swooning over the incredibly hot Ash *swoon* (new book boyfriend alert!!)
I loved Lovely!!
5+++++ freakin’ Ash lovin’ fabulous stars!!!
Well done Beth, you rocked this!!!
June 23, 2018
Is it okay if I rate my own book? I'm in love with Ashton...enough said.
October 3, 2013
Reviewed with my blog girl Sarah!
Nikki: Wow! How lovely is ‘Lovely’?!!
I think i’m in love, yes I know i’m in love, with Ashton (and his abs!!). This is such a sweet, heartbreaking story. Full of ‘feels’ and beautiful moments. It touches on all your squishy parts with loveable characters, both primary and secondary. What did you think Sarah? Am I gonna have to share another one of my book boyfriends with you?!
Sarah: Maybe, he was pretty great. I really did think that he was a great guy, although the first couple pages had me thinking otherwise. I was glad that he was able to put that all behind him when something special came along!! I was impressed with everything that he was able to take on at such a young age. How did you feel about him taking on everything he did, without complaining?
Nikki: He did such an amazing job at being the man of the house. It was a lot of weight to carry on young shoulders and he had to think and act like a man while he was still a boy. His love and protection of his family was beautiful but my heart broke a little for the fact that he lost some of his youth. The sleeping around in the beginning was his way of rebelling against the pressure and responsibility of taking care of his family. I usually struggle with a male lead that is a bit of a manwhore! But not this time. I understood his need to let loose and not once was he dishonest with the girls he spent time with, they knew the score and quite honestly they were using him too. I hurt for the way he was so detached about it, like he used up all his love on his family and there was no room for anyone else, until Cara…
I think, having the story from Ash’s POV helped understand the workings of his mind and made him totally loveable to know his reasoning and understanding of everything that goes on. How did the guy POV work out for you?
Sarah: I prefer the male POV usually, and this was no exception. I love getting into the guys mind. It is such a mystery for me! I understand how girls think so if the male POV is available that is what I’ll choose! I think that Ash could have come off as much more cold and unlikeable without his POV in this particular book.
As soon as I met Shelby, I knew she was going to be trouble. The scene with the quarterback really sealed her troublemaker status for me. Even though she had a fairly small part in the book I felt like she was really a driving force. What did you think about her?
Nikki: Slapper! That is the only real word I could come up with for her! She is just trash and trouble through and through. I agree that her presence had a huge part in showing how Ash was feeling and how he is different from the ‘couldn’t care less’ attitude that he portrayed in the beginning. It also highlighted the differences between her and Cara. She is so meek and gentile, but also clever and funny. She showed a sweet side of her when she was drunk and let her guard down. I love how we saw her open up and blossom like a flower waiting for the rain. Ash is her spring rain and she just shone through once they had found trust in each other and made that connection. How did you feel about Cara? was she a likeable leading lady for you?
Sarah: She felt relatable. Even though there were some deeper issues going on with her insecurities, she was real. A lot of the stuff that she was dealing with was stuff that lots of girls/women deal with. Most of the time it seemed like Ash was the truly strong one in the relationship but she really stepped up when he needed her. Even though the book wasn’t from her POV it was told in a way that you knew exactly what was going on with her for the most part, I really liked that.
I felt drawn into Lovely from the moment I opened it. Beth Michele is definitely an accomplished heartstring player. My emotions ran the gamut. Did you have one particular scene that drew out more emotions than the others?
Nikki:There was one scene that nearly broke the Ice queen actually, and it’s not the one you’re thinking of. Ash and his brother stayed up playing computer games and fell asleep on the couch. It was just so touching. Can you give away yours without spoilers?!
Sarah: I loved that one too. I can’t really say anything about what happens in my favorite scene without spoilers so I’m just going to tell you the chapter. Well, I guess it’s not really a chapter, per say, it’s the epilogue, I definitely didn’t see that coming. I was happy and sad and everything in between. I was completely surprised by it! Of course tears were shed throughout the entire novel where I was concerned, as I wear my heart on my sleeve!
The supporting characters in this book were just as amazing as the leads, did you have a favorite? I loved Jason, maybe more than Ashton. He was just so wonderful to Ash, and such a voice of reason throughout the book. He was also there for Ashton and his family when they really needed him. I’m glad that he was included in the book.
Nikki: Oh yes, I loved Jason, in fact i’ve asked for a Jason book! He seems like a cool guy with a story to tell and I think you’re right, he could be almost as lovely as Ashton! . He is an amazing friend, totally loyal and made a great secondary character. Ok, lets talk favorite quotes, you know the rules, 2 only!...Here’s mine-
‘I don’t remember feeling like this about a girl. But then again, she’s not just a girl. She’s simply the most beautiful girl i’ve ever known. She’s not any girl. She’s the girl.’
‘Everyone has something different inside of them to share with the world, you just have to dig deep and find it’
Sarah: Again, I had so many favorites, that it was hard to pick just two!! The first one spoke to me, so much, that I have to include it even though it’s pretty dark.
‘Who knows what’s hidden inside? What’s trapped beneath the surface of a smile. Scratching and clawing to escape I scream but no one hears. There is desperation. Yet there is no escape. There is only suffocation.’
‘He found me. And I couldn’t be happier. Because he changed my life in that moment’
Nikki: Perfect! The whole book was full of beautiful moments and phrases that stay with you long after you have finished reading. Beth Michele has again managed to create loveable characters, a believable story and even added some steam in there too! A definite 5 stars from me!
Sarah: I really liked Lovely. It was… Lovely. It was a well told story that I would feel comfortable wholeheartedly recommending to anyone looking for a good, emotional read. 4.5 stars from me!
Nikki: Wow! How lovely is ‘Lovely’?!!
I think i’m in love, yes I know i’m in love, with Ashton (and his abs!!). This is such a sweet, heartbreaking story. Full of ‘feels’ and beautiful moments. It touches on all your squishy parts with loveable characters, both primary and secondary. What did you think Sarah? Am I gonna have to share another one of my book boyfriends with you?!
Sarah: Maybe, he was pretty great. I really did think that he was a great guy, although the first couple pages had me thinking otherwise. I was glad that he was able to put that all behind him when something special came along!! I was impressed with everything that he was able to take on at such a young age. How did you feel about him taking on everything he did, without complaining?
Nikki: He did such an amazing job at being the man of the house. It was a lot of weight to carry on young shoulders and he had to think and act like a man while he was still a boy. His love and protection of his family was beautiful but my heart broke a little for the fact that he lost some of his youth. The sleeping around in the beginning was his way of rebelling against the pressure and responsibility of taking care of his family. I usually struggle with a male lead that is a bit of a manwhore! But not this time. I understood his need to let loose and not once was he dishonest with the girls he spent time with, they knew the score and quite honestly they were using him too. I hurt for the way he was so detached about it, like he used up all his love on his family and there was no room for anyone else, until Cara…
I think, having the story from Ash’s POV helped understand the workings of his mind and made him totally loveable to know his reasoning and understanding of everything that goes on. How did the guy POV work out for you?
Sarah: I prefer the male POV usually, and this was no exception. I love getting into the guys mind. It is such a mystery for me! I understand how girls think so if the male POV is available that is what I’ll choose! I think that Ash could have come off as much more cold and unlikeable without his POV in this particular book.
As soon as I met Shelby, I knew she was going to be trouble. The scene with the quarterback really sealed her troublemaker status for me. Even though she had a fairly small part in the book I felt like she was really a driving force. What did you think about her?
Nikki: Slapper! That is the only real word I could come up with for her! She is just trash and trouble through and through. I agree that her presence had a huge part in showing how Ash was feeling and how he is different from the ‘couldn’t care less’ attitude that he portrayed in the beginning. It also highlighted the differences between her and Cara. She is so meek and gentile, but also clever and funny. She showed a sweet side of her when she was drunk and let her guard down. I love how we saw her open up and blossom like a flower waiting for the rain. Ash is her spring rain and she just shone through once they had found trust in each other and made that connection. How did you feel about Cara? was she a likeable leading lady for you?
Sarah: She felt relatable. Even though there were some deeper issues going on with her insecurities, she was real. A lot of the stuff that she was dealing with was stuff that lots of girls/women deal with. Most of the time it seemed like Ash was the truly strong one in the relationship but she really stepped up when he needed her. Even though the book wasn’t from her POV it was told in a way that you knew exactly what was going on with her for the most part, I really liked that.
I felt drawn into Lovely from the moment I opened it. Beth Michele is definitely an accomplished heartstring player. My emotions ran the gamut. Did you have one particular scene that drew out more emotions than the others?
Nikki:There was one scene that nearly broke the Ice queen actually, and it’s not the one you’re thinking of. Ash and his brother stayed up playing computer games and fell asleep on the couch. It was just so touching. Can you give away yours without spoilers?!
Sarah: I loved that one too. I can’t really say anything about what happens in my favorite scene without spoilers so I’m just going to tell you the chapter. Well, I guess it’s not really a chapter, per say, it’s the epilogue, I definitely didn’t see that coming. I was happy and sad and everything in between. I was completely surprised by it! Of course tears were shed throughout the entire novel where I was concerned, as I wear my heart on my sleeve!
The supporting characters in this book were just as amazing as the leads, did you have a favorite? I loved Jason, maybe more than Ashton. He was just so wonderful to Ash, and such a voice of reason throughout the book. He was also there for Ashton and his family when they really needed him. I’m glad that he was included in the book.
Nikki: Oh yes, I loved Jason, in fact i’ve asked for a Jason book! He seems like a cool guy with a story to tell and I think you’re right, he could be almost as lovely as Ashton! . He is an amazing friend, totally loyal and made a great secondary character. Ok, lets talk favorite quotes, you know the rules, 2 only!...Here’s mine-
‘I don’t remember feeling like this about a girl. But then again, she’s not just a girl. She’s simply the most beautiful girl i’ve ever known. She’s not any girl. She’s the girl.’
‘Everyone has something different inside of them to share with the world, you just have to dig deep and find it’
Sarah: Again, I had so many favorites, that it was hard to pick just two!! The first one spoke to me, so much, that I have to include it even though it’s pretty dark.
‘Who knows what’s hidden inside? What’s trapped beneath the surface of a smile. Scratching and clawing to escape I scream but no one hears. There is desperation. Yet there is no escape. There is only suffocation.’
‘He found me. And I couldn’t be happier. Because he changed my life in that moment’
Nikki: Perfect! The whole book was full of beautiful moments and phrases that stay with you long after you have finished reading. Beth Michele has again managed to create loveable characters, a believable story and even added some steam in there too! A definite 5 stars from me!
Sarah: I really liked Lovely. It was… Lovely. It was a well told story that I would feel comfortable wholeheartedly recommending to anyone looking for a good, emotional read. 4.5 stars from me!
October 8, 2013
Gosh, I don't know what to say about this book...
I guess I liked it, I wouldn't have finished it if I didn't, I just wished it was better, I expected so much because it was all from the hero's (Ash) POV.
The story was really good and unique and I loved all the characters but it was incredibly cheesy, my eyes hurt from rolling them so much...
By the time I reached 50% of the book, I was dying for it to just end, I hated the ending, the writing style was just so....normal, like I wasn't highlighting anything in that book, Ash and Cara made me wanna throw up, they probably said "I love you" to each other a bazillion times.
When writing from a male's POV, it's either a hit or a miss, unfortunately I found this to be a miss, there are a lot of stuff I didn't understand why Ash did them, I thought he was a bit...feminine.
Overall, it was good, I just wish it was better, maybe if it was written from Cara's POV and in past tense it would've worked for me...
I guess I liked it, I wouldn't have finished it if I didn't, I just wished it was better, I expected so much because it was all from the hero's (Ash) POV.
The story was really good and unique and I loved all the characters but it was incredibly cheesy, my eyes hurt from rolling them so much...
By the time I reached 50% of the book, I was dying for it to just end, I hated the ending, the writing style was just so....normal, like I wasn't highlighting anything in that book, Ash and Cara made me wanna throw up, they probably said "I love you" to each other a bazillion times.
When writing from a male's POV, it's either a hit or a miss, unfortunately I found this to be a miss, there are a lot of stuff I didn't understand why Ash did them, I thought he was a bit...feminine.
Overall, it was good, I just wish it was better, maybe if it was written from Cara's POV and in past tense it would've worked for me...
September 30, 2013
5 Oh-my-god-I-endured-every-emotion-reading-this-book stars!!!
Wow..wow...wow.....Loved this story! Loved that it was written purely from his POV. Loved how Ash (yummy, sweet, delectable Ash) grew throughout the book, found himself and let himself live and feel again and allowed love in after feeling the tremendous loss of his father - his best friend and hero. I adored how he was the self imposed protector of his mother and his two younger siblings Delilah and Colt. But mostly I loved how he found his soulmate in Cara - the beautiful, shy, reserved and emotionally damaged girl who didn't fall at his feet or his charm like every other woman. He had to fight for her friendship, build her trust and eventually win her love...and what a joy it was for me, the reader to experience their amazing journey along with them!
This book had me laughing out loud, swooning at the romantic poetry, clutching my heart and yelling out 'No! Hell no! Please don't let this happen!!", to sobbing quietly while my heart broke along with theirs...
What a wonderful gift for a writer to be able to evoke all those emotions from the reader in one story...hats off to you Ms.Beth Michele...you've just recruited yourself another diehard fan!
I loved it - I really did....sweet, lovely, heart wrenching and heart warming this book had it all for me. I adored all the characters - from the hero Ash and the heroine Cara - to the secondary characters which helped make this into the beautiful tale that it was...Ash's mum, Delilah, Colt and Jason...
Do yourself a favour and pick up this incredibly gorgeous story which is accurately titled 'Lovely'... ❤️
Wow..wow...wow.....Loved this story! Loved that it was written purely from his POV. Loved how Ash (yummy, sweet, delectable Ash) grew throughout the book, found himself and let himself live and feel again and allowed love in after feeling the tremendous loss of his father - his best friend and hero. I adored how he was the self imposed protector of his mother and his two younger siblings Delilah and Colt. But mostly I loved how he found his soulmate in Cara - the beautiful, shy, reserved and emotionally damaged girl who didn't fall at his feet or his charm like every other woman. He had to fight for her friendship, build her trust and eventually win her love...and what a joy it was for me, the reader to experience their amazing journey along with them!
This book had me laughing out loud, swooning at the romantic poetry, clutching my heart and yelling out 'No! Hell no! Please don't let this happen!!", to sobbing quietly while my heart broke along with theirs...
What a wonderful gift for a writer to be able to evoke all those emotions from the reader in one story...hats off to you Ms.Beth Michele...you've just recruited yourself another diehard fan!
I loved it - I really did....sweet, lovely, heart wrenching and heart warming this book had it all for me. I adored all the characters - from the hero Ash and the heroine Cara - to the secondary characters which helped make this into the beautiful tale that it was...Ash's mum, Delilah, Colt and Jason...
Do yourself a favour and pick up this incredibly gorgeous story which is accurately titled 'Lovely'... ❤️
October 8, 2013
4.5 Stars
"a devoted son, responsible brother, trusted friend, excellent student, and a good fuck."
Ashton is all of those things but what he fails to mention is that he is also lonely, and vulnerable and just downright sad. Hiding behind his cocky attitude and his flavor of the month is a man who is trying to find himself after the death of his father while still living up to his responsibilities to his family.
Cara is the girl that no one sees. The quiet book worm (a girl after my own heart) hiding behind huge glasses. She never expects for someone like Ash to even notice her, let alone want her.
"She's not any girl. She's the girl."
When Ash meets Cara he is instantly taken with her but Cara is reserved and hesitant. Trying to protect her own heart she resists Ashton's advances, but with a guy as persistent as Ash it is hard to resist for long. Lovely is the story of Cara and Ash, a story of family, friendship, love and loss that will have you crying, laughing and most importantly smiling.
I loved both Ash and Cara. I loved the build up of their relationship, a connection that I could feel. I loved Ashton's playfulness and his down right determination to get the girl made me smile. I loved seeing the transition in Cara from shy and reserved to confiednt and supportive. I loved how honest and real Ash was; he was a real guy complete with a few dick moves that made me want to punch him.
Author Beth Michele knows just how to create characters that pull you into the story. From the cocky and sexy book boyfriend with just the right amount of vulnerablility to make you fall in love, to the beautiful, smart and supportive heroine. You are truly able to get a sense of who they are through Beth's words.
The poetry that Cara wrote was just beautiful, hell even Ash's poem about pizza was classy. And while it was refreshing to have the book told solely from the male point of view I would have liked just a bit more from Cara. We get to see her through Ashton's eyes but I really wanted to hear directly from her, her inner dialogue and what she was thinking at certain points in the book. But don't let that deter you, Lovely was a true romance and one that I would highly recommend and that you will remember long after reading.
"a devoted son, responsible brother, trusted friend, excellent student, and a good fuck."
Ashton is all of those things but what he fails to mention is that he is also lonely, and vulnerable and just downright sad. Hiding behind his cocky attitude and his flavor of the month is a man who is trying to find himself after the death of his father while still living up to his responsibilities to his family.
Cara is the girl that no one sees. The quiet book worm (a girl after my own heart) hiding behind huge glasses. She never expects for someone like Ash to even notice her, let alone want her.
"She's not any girl. She's the girl."
When Ash meets Cara he is instantly taken with her but Cara is reserved and hesitant. Trying to protect her own heart she resists Ashton's advances, but with a guy as persistent as Ash it is hard to resist for long. Lovely is the story of Cara and Ash, a story of family, friendship, love and loss that will have you crying, laughing and most importantly smiling.
I loved both Ash and Cara. I loved the build up of their relationship, a connection that I could feel. I loved Ashton's playfulness and his down right determination to get the girl made me smile. I loved seeing the transition in Cara from shy and reserved to confiednt and supportive. I loved how honest and real Ash was; he was a real guy complete with a few dick moves that made me want to punch him.
Author Beth Michele knows just how to create characters that pull you into the story. From the cocky and sexy book boyfriend with just the right amount of vulnerablility to make you fall in love, to the beautiful, smart and supportive heroine. You are truly able to get a sense of who they are through Beth's words.
The poetry that Cara wrote was just beautiful, hell even Ash's poem about pizza was classy. And while it was refreshing to have the book told solely from the male point of view I would have liked just a bit more from Cara. We get to see her through Ashton's eyes but I really wanted to hear directly from her, her inner dialogue and what she was thinking at certain points in the book. But don't let that deter you, Lovely was a true romance and one that I would highly recommend and that you will remember long after reading.
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October 3, 2013DNF at 15%... Not because it's badly written. I think this could be really good. It was only written in male POV and I'm a sucker for it. I think Ash could be swoon-worthy and all. But you know why I stopped? Well, I got turned off big time. The way he hooked up with another girl was written in detail! I know he just met the heroine. He's already attracted to her but they're not even friends yet. So, I could still accept him hooking up with others. But an almost 6-page description of how he f**cked another girl was a big NO NO for me!
I did push through after that. I didn't want to be so harsh. But it's not working for me anymore. I just couldn't forget how he devoured and f**cked the other girl four times into oblivion. If this was erotica, I may have accepted it. But no, this was a new adult contemporary romance.
I would not rate it just to be fair. I'll put it on my DNF shelf. I still want to be wrong about my decision though. I still want this to rate high and people to like it. And maybe then, I'd get back to it.
I did push through after that. I didn't want to be so harsh. But it's not working for me anymore. I just couldn't forget how he devoured and f**cked the other girl four times into oblivion. If this was erotica, I may have accepted it. But no, this was a new adult contemporary romance.
I would not rate it just to be fair. I'll put it on my DNF shelf. I still want to be wrong about my decision though. I still want this to rate high and people to like it. And maybe then, I'd get back to it.
October 14, 2013
I'm not sure I can sum up this book in a review. I had heard amazing things about LOVELY and believe me it didn't disappoint. I ugly cried... hard and to the point where I told Beth that I hated her and had to put the book down and do housework. Simply put - this book is worth every ounce off energy it takes to read. Beth captures every emotional issue possible and does so flawlessly. If I could give it more stars, I would.
October 24, 2013
5 lovely stars!!!!!!!
This book was beautifully written! It flowed so well and had a little bit of everything I like! The book contained steam, angst, wit, charm, heartbreak, and great characters!
Can't say anything bad about this book!!! Highly recommend!
This book was beautifully written! It flowed so well and had a little bit of everything I like! The book contained steam, angst, wit, charm, heartbreak, and great characters!
Can't say anything bad about this book!!! Highly recommend!
September 24, 2013
ARC kindly provided by the author in exchange for a fair and honest review. Release date: September 26th. Stand alone. No cliffhanger. Spoiler-free review. 4.5 – 5.0 stars!
Ash Taylor is a player…on and off the field. He excels in whatever he does…baseball, football, school and being a chick magnet. He looks like he has everything going for him. In reality, Mr. Perfect doesn’t feel so perfect…and he is actually lonely…but never really alone. Ash becomes the man of the house after his dad died of cancer. He forgoes a prestigious baseball scholarship to remain close to home to be with his mother, sister and brother. While attending a local university he meets Cara, a beautiful student and librarian. Cara appears very reserved, studious and seemly sweet (not Ash’s usual type). Ash asks Cara out almost a dozen times until she finally agrees to go out with him. Cara believes that no man (especially someone as perfect as Ash) will want to be with her if her secret is uncovered. Can this unlikely pair trust enough to let love in? Will their emotional obstacles be too much to deal with? Are things as lovely as they seem?
Beth Michele did a fantastic job developing Ash’s character. I loved getting into his head and heart as his cocky exterior cracked open to show such a beautiful soul. I also liked Cara and wished there was more back story after learning her secret. Lovely wasn’t overly dramatic or trying too hard to be steamy. I have to say that I had to bust out the tissues a few times. This story seemed so real. Beth Michele’s writing style sucked in from page one. I can’t wait to see what she is working on next. Whatever it is I will beg for an ARC or happily download. This book was refreshing (especially after I just read something dark) and just Lovely.
This review appears on www.kindlecrack.net, www.facebook.com/Kindlecrack, Goodreads, Amazon and Twitter.
Can't wait to read this!
Ash Taylor is a player…on and off the field. He excels in whatever he does…baseball, football, school and being a chick magnet. He looks like he has everything going for him. In reality, Mr. Perfect doesn’t feel so perfect…and he is actually lonely…but never really alone. Ash becomes the man of the house after his dad died of cancer. He forgoes a prestigious baseball scholarship to remain close to home to be with his mother, sister and brother. While attending a local university he meets Cara, a beautiful student and librarian. Cara appears very reserved, studious and seemly sweet (not Ash’s usual type). Ash asks Cara out almost a dozen times until she finally agrees to go out with him. Cara believes that no man (especially someone as perfect as Ash) will want to be with her if her secret is uncovered. Can this unlikely pair trust enough to let love in? Will their emotional obstacles be too much to deal with? Are things as lovely as they seem?
Beth Michele did a fantastic job developing Ash’s character. I loved getting into his head and heart as his cocky exterior cracked open to show such a beautiful soul. I also liked Cara and wished there was more back story after learning her secret. Lovely wasn’t overly dramatic or trying too hard to be steamy. I have to say that I had to bust out the tissues a few times. This story seemed so real. Beth Michele’s writing style sucked in from page one. I can’t wait to see what she is working on next. Whatever it is I will beg for an ARC or happily download. This book was refreshing (especially after I just read something dark) and just Lovely.
This review appears on www.kindlecrack.net, www.facebook.com/Kindlecrack, Goodreads, Amazon and Twitter.
Can't wait to read this!
October 2, 2013
Just. Couldn't. Finish.
Do guys really think/talk like that? With their penises only? Really?
Do guys really think/talk like that? With their penises only? Really?
October 14, 2013
ARC received by author for honest review.
Lovely was just that...Lovely! Such a refreshing story told in the guys point of view which I really liked. This is the type of story that could be made into a movie. I adored all of the characters.
Ash (Ashton) Taylor is an excellent athlete, loving brother and responsible son. He's the type of son that all moms wish for. After his father passed away from cancer, Ash took on the man of the house role. He gave up his baseball scholarship and decided to stay home and attend the local college. Ash is the oldest of his sibling; Colt and Deliliah. They all attend the local college and are living at home. I loved that these siblings decided to stick together for each other and their mom after their dad's death. I really enjoyed the family's interactions and just the true love that they shared for one another. But Ash feels lost and knows there is something missing from his life.
Then Ash meets Cara. Cara is a book worm who works in the library. She's cute and quirky but hides behind her glasses. She also likes to lose herself in fictional characters (don't we all!). Ash sees something special in Cara, even though she tries her best to not be recognized. Ash does all he can to get her attention. Cara has some trust issues and does not allow anyone to get to close to her. This includes Ash. But Ash is very persistent and eventually Cara allows Ash into her heart. These two are very cute together. He shows her that she's beautiful which in turn gives her confidence. Cara shows Ash that he can lean on and depend on her, which is foreign to him since he's always been the person to take care of everyone else.
This story is so much more than about Ash and Cara's love story. It's also about family. Ash is the type of guy you would want to bring home to your mother. He's caring and a true family man, but ladies, he also sings and is such a romantic. I found some of the most memorable and funny parts were the interactions with Ash, his mom and siblings. Cute story and enjoyable.
Lovely was just that...Lovely! Such a refreshing story told in the guys point of view which I really liked. This is the type of story that could be made into a movie. I adored all of the characters.
Ash (Ashton) Taylor is an excellent athlete, loving brother and responsible son. He's the type of son that all moms wish for. After his father passed away from cancer, Ash took on the man of the house role. He gave up his baseball scholarship and decided to stay home and attend the local college. Ash is the oldest of his sibling; Colt and Deliliah. They all attend the local college and are living at home. I loved that these siblings decided to stick together for each other and their mom after their dad's death. I really enjoyed the family's interactions and just the true love that they shared for one another. But Ash feels lost and knows there is something missing from his life.
Then Ash meets Cara. Cara is a book worm who works in the library. She's cute and quirky but hides behind her glasses. She also likes to lose herself in fictional characters (don't we all!). Ash sees something special in Cara, even though she tries her best to not be recognized. Ash does all he can to get her attention. Cara has some trust issues and does not allow anyone to get to close to her. This includes Ash. But Ash is very persistent and eventually Cara allows Ash into her heart. These two are very cute together. He shows her that she's beautiful which in turn gives her confidence. Cara shows Ash that he can lean on and depend on her, which is foreign to him since he's always been the person to take care of everyone else.
This story is so much more than about Ash and Cara's love story. It's also about family. Ash is the type of guy you would want to bring home to your mother. He's caring and a true family man, but ladies, he also sings and is such a romantic. I found some of the most memorable and funny parts were the interactions with Ash, his mom and siblings. Cute story and enjoyable.
September 28, 2013
Every so often you find a book out of no where that blows you away. That's what this book did to me. I loved every minute of it. You think Ash is a bit of an asshole and he turned all around and became one of my favorite "book boyfriends".
February 25, 2014
3.5 for this one. "Lovely" is probably the best word to describe it really. It was a sweet, easy read. Nothing too taxing, not too much angst. Something you can curl up on the sofa on a rainy day and get lost in.
September 27, 2018
This was super-sticky-make-my-tooth-ache-sweet and I totally loved it.
There was certainly some cheese, and I definitely got choked up from some super sad stuff, and I adored Ash's family.
I'll call this a win.
There was certainly some cheese, and I definitely got choked up from some super sad stuff, and I adored Ash's family.
I'll call this a win.
October 2, 2013
This was such a beautiful story. Beth Michele’s second novel delivers ever feeling possible, Beth is an amazingly talented author that has become a fast favorite of mine. I can’t wait to read more of her work, her stories are beautiful, with so much compassion, love, and happiness. I am a huge fan.
“You’re the only one I’ve wanted, Cara, since the moment I first saw you… It’s your eyes that invaded my dreams, your body that fulfills my fantasies, your beautiful spirit that’s taken over my heart. It’s you, Cara.”
In Lovely, we have the two main characters, Ashton “Ash” Taylor and Cara Hayward. Two very different people in their early twenties that for a beautiful relationship while dealing with a dark past and a scary future.
“I am a devoted son, responsible brother, trusted friend, excellent student, and a good fuck. I’ve been told I’m talented. And I suppose things come easy to me. My life seems perfect.”
That was Ash. He is such a beautiful person. I have never read about a guy who was so devoted to his family. After losing his father “his hero” he lost a piece of himself. He is a strong man and son on the outside, always being there for those who need him but who is there for him? Who shoulder can he lean on when he’s the one always lending a shoulder. No one see’s him for him, they see the tough exterior but there is something missing.
“I’ve felt like nothing for so long, Ash…You make me feel like I’m something…like I matter.”
When Cara was first introduced, I instantly feel in love with this girl. She hides behind these huge glasses, shielding herself from the world. Ash saw the same thing. He saw a beautiful girl with a big heart behind those glasses. With beautiful soft brown curls, beautiful brown eyes, he instantly knew she was different. Not different in a strange way like most saw her, but different in a way where he had to know her.
“Everyone has something different inside of them to share with the world, you just have to dig deep and find it.”
These two characters are so different but so very much meant for one another. They are brought together mainly from poetry. The words that Cara says to Ash wakes something up in him. Makes him feel like he is filling a whole that he didn’t realize was empty. Their connection was something you can FEEL growing by the second. You want nothing more than the two of them to be together and be happy. But, life isn’t always so easy and when life throws so very familiar and horrible situations at you, you need someone that is there to catch you when you fall. Cara is the one that can catch Ash and their story just gets more and more beautiful.
I wasn’t going to quote a poem from the story but I have to, this poem was so strong and deep that to me, it is something too important not to add in the review.
“Who knows what’s hidden inside?
What’s trapped beneath the surface of a smile
Scratching and clawing to escape
I scream and no one hears
There is desperation
Yet there is no escape
There is only suffocation”
This poem really got to me. You can tell Cara has been through some dark past times. She has reasons for hiding, reasons to not trust, reason to be different. Ash knows this, he can sense it, and he wants to be the one to bring Cara back to the light like she has for him. This poem to me is also was the point that Ash knew, Cara is it.
Not only are the main characters so amazing in this but the secondary characters are as well. Ash has a beautiful family. His mother is such a sweet and caring person. After losing the love of her life, she is still the mother everyone wishes for. She is always there for her children and I admire her. Ash’s siblings are also great. His relationship with the two of them seems to strange considering most siblings are at each other’s throats but these three seem to have gotten so much closer after losing their father. His sister is sweet. She loves her brothers with everything she has. Colt, the youngest of the three is such a strong character and a big part in this book. He is dealt a pretty crappy hand and managers to still make the ones he love smile.
I felt every emotion while reading this. I laughed, I got teary eyes and I most definitely swooned. Ash is such an amazing person. Going from having a flavor of the month to only Cara was so beautiful.
“When I look down, I noticed I’m not the only one excited about my date with Cara. Down boy, down.”
How Beth manages to get such funny lines in this story shows how talented she is. Ash is just perfect. I loved this story so much. It was as the title says Lovely. The story is a stand-alone and will leave you feeling all swoony and happy. Everything about this book was great and I again cannot wait to read more from Beth Michele. She is truly a talented author and has a beautiful mind.
If you haven’t yet, you should also read her other book, Love Love. Another beautiful story.
CASTING:
October 5, 2013
Lovely by Beth Michele was such a truly beautiful story. It's the story of two people who have more in common then they ever realize. Both are in need of something each one can offer. I fell in love with Ash and Cara. They were so wonderfully in tune with each other. I enjoyed being taken with one of my firsts love of Poetry. This book spoke to my soul and it told me that love can heal anything as long as you give it your all.
In the beginning of Lovely we meet Ash everything in his life has been pretty perfect until his father dies. Then everything changes. He can no longer be care free and follow his dreams. He needs to be there for his family. One thing that means everything to him is his mother, sister, and brother. He is just going through the motions. Then one day sitting in the library he sees her. Cara Hayward is not the typical girl. She is so much more. Cara hides behind her big glasses. She is hiding from her past. Ash isn't someone she thought would ever even notice her. No one sees her and that is exactly the way she wants it. As he breaks down her walls she becomes enamored with him. He cares for her and is willing to do anything to show her how sincere he can be. Will all their combined heartache forge a future? Or will it be that be the very thing that tears them apart?
This is one emotional story. Tissues are a guaranteed staple while reading. This book will make you feel. I mean really feel. If you are a lover of poetry like me it may even mean more to you. The way that Ash and Cara connected with poetry was amazing. Absolutely my favorite part of the book. There were so many great moments between Ash and Cara. They had a unique passion and when they were together it was off the charts. Ash definitely finds himself with the help from Cara. They never knew how happy they could be until they found one another. All the bad didn't matter anymore. There was so much good when they were together that all the other stuff disappeared.
Beth Michele has wrote something really good. I thought the male pov was right on. Exactly what I wanted to see from Ash. He was honest with himself and I liked that about him. It was really fun being in his head. Cara on the other hand wasn't at all what I expected. She was a totally different person when she took of her glasses. The walls she built crumbled and she was a women that any man would want to be with. I loved her tenacity, wisdom, and generosity.
My only complaint is that this book is a stand alone. I want more from Ash and Cara. I want to see all the poetry that they can create together with being so happy, and in love. I just want to see them. This book will make you laugh, cry, and be so very excited about. A definite must read from me.
In the beginning of Lovely we meet Ash everything in his life has been pretty perfect until his father dies. Then everything changes. He can no longer be care free and follow his dreams. He needs to be there for his family. One thing that means everything to him is his mother, sister, and brother. He is just going through the motions. Then one day sitting in the library he sees her. Cara Hayward is not the typical girl. She is so much more. Cara hides behind her big glasses. She is hiding from her past. Ash isn't someone she thought would ever even notice her. No one sees her and that is exactly the way she wants it. As he breaks down her walls she becomes enamored with him. He cares for her and is willing to do anything to show her how sincere he can be. Will all their combined heartache forge a future? Or will it be that be the very thing that tears them apart?
This is one emotional story. Tissues are a guaranteed staple while reading. This book will make you feel. I mean really feel. If you are a lover of poetry like me it may even mean more to you. The way that Ash and Cara connected with poetry was amazing. Absolutely my favorite part of the book. There were so many great moments between Ash and Cara. They had a unique passion and when they were together it was off the charts. Ash definitely finds himself with the help from Cara. They never knew how happy they could be until they found one another. All the bad didn't matter anymore. There was so much good when they were together that all the other stuff disappeared.
Beth Michele has wrote something really good. I thought the male pov was right on. Exactly what I wanted to see from Ash. He was honest with himself and I liked that about him. It was really fun being in his head. Cara on the other hand wasn't at all what I expected. She was a totally different person when she took of her glasses. The walls she built crumbled and she was a women that any man would want to be with. I loved her tenacity, wisdom, and generosity.
My only complaint is that this book is a stand alone. I want more from Ash and Cara. I want to see all the poetry that they can create together with being so happy, and in love. I just want to see them. This book will make you laugh, cry, and be so very excited about. A definite must read from me.
October 2, 2013
Ashton Taylor seems to have a pretty good life when you first meet him. He's a devoted son, protective big brother, and a heart stoppingly beautiful man-whore. After watching his mother mourn his father, he vows to never open himself up to that kind of heartbreak. Instead of girlfriends has "flavors of the month" who, like him, are only interested in one thing. He's going through the motions of life, but is hollow inside.
This all changes when he meets Cara Hayward in the library on campus. She's a very beautiful but introverted girl who hides behind oversized glasses. She's not the usual type of girl Ash goes for at all, but he sees something in her that hooks him and he can't stay away. Also unlike the girls that pretty much take off their clothes for him before they even say hello, Ash has to really work to get her attention.
He does come off as a cocky bastard when it comes to girls, but when you see Ash's obvious devotion to his family and the adorable ways he pursues Cara, I dare you not to fall in love. Both Ash and Cara are damaged in their own ways, and the love that grows between them begins to heal them both. Cara is wise beyond her years while still fragile and vulnerable. She also has a little edge to her under the surface and I would have loved to hear her thoughts at times, especially when Ash was trying to woo her.
The chemistry between Ash and Cara is explosive, and the sex scenes are both beautiful and off the charts hot. Not many female authors can truly write a believable male POV, but I think Beth Michele nailed it. His inner thoughts as he's falling hard for Cara are totally believable of a typical horny guy of his age. I was a big fan of Beth's style of writing from her first book. She sucks you in right from the beginning, and I couldn't put the book down once I picked it up.
Lovely is a beautiful story about how finding the person that you're meant to love is always worth the risk
This all changes when he meets Cara Hayward in the library on campus. She's a very beautiful but introverted girl who hides behind oversized glasses. She's not the usual type of girl Ash goes for at all, but he sees something in her that hooks him and he can't stay away. Also unlike the girls that pretty much take off their clothes for him before they even say hello, Ash has to really work to get her attention.
He does come off as a cocky bastard when it comes to girls, but when you see Ash's obvious devotion to his family and the adorable ways he pursues Cara, I dare you not to fall in love. Both Ash and Cara are damaged in their own ways, and the love that grows between them begins to heal them both. Cara is wise beyond her years while still fragile and vulnerable. She also has a little edge to her under the surface and I would have loved to hear her thoughts at times, especially when Ash was trying to woo her.
The chemistry between Ash and Cara is explosive, and the sex scenes are both beautiful and off the charts hot. Not many female authors can truly write a believable male POV, but I think Beth Michele nailed it. His inner thoughts as he's falling hard for Cara are totally believable of a typical horny guy of his age. I was a big fan of Beth's style of writing from her first book. She sucks you in right from the beginning, and I couldn't put the book down once I picked it up.
Lovely is a beautiful story about how finding the person that you're meant to love is always worth the risk
October 9, 2013
This review can also be found here: brittanyandbiancablabbooks.blogspot.com/
I was provided an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Lovely is the perfect title for this story because everything was just that! The writing, the characters, all were Lovely. This was my first read from Beth Michele and I am definitely moving her to the buy any book she writes shelf!
Ashton Taylor has been the rock for his mom, brother and sister since his dad’s untimely death. He is quite the womanizer, now allowing emotions or feelings to get in the way. He has an emptiness about him, but fills this void with women. Lots of them. That is until he meets Cara. She is your average girl, not the kind that Ash goes for. However, from the moment he sees her in the library his life is changed forever.
I loved that this book was from a guy’s POV! It was a funny, sweet, and swoony read. But yes, it had it’s steamy moments. However they were very tasteful. Cara is much of a loner in school. She keeps people at an arms distance and we later learn why. Ash breaks down the walls Cara put up. However, as quickly as she puts it down, one act causes her to put it up again.
I absolutely loved this story. I connected with each character in which made me feel fully invested in the story. The author has a great style of writing where the story flowed nicely. I was hooked from the beginning and had a hard time putting it down. You are going to fall for Ashton Taylor. There is so major swooning in this book! He is not your typical womanizer. The side that Cara brings out in Ash is just breathtaking. I found myself tearing up throughout the book.
Overall, I recommend this book to anyone that is looking for a story about true love, family, and hope. The epilogue killed me! I was a mess! Through heartbreak and tears, love always remains. This book symbolizes that.
I was provided an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Lovely is the perfect title for this story because everything was just that! The writing, the characters, all were Lovely. This was my first read from Beth Michele and I am definitely moving her to the buy any book she writes shelf!
Ashton Taylor has been the rock for his mom, brother and sister since his dad’s untimely death. He is quite the womanizer, now allowing emotions or feelings to get in the way. He has an emptiness about him, but fills this void with women. Lots of them. That is until he meets Cara. She is your average girl, not the kind that Ash goes for. However, from the moment he sees her in the library his life is changed forever.
I loved that this book was from a guy’s POV! It was a funny, sweet, and swoony read. But yes, it had it’s steamy moments. However they were very tasteful. Cara is much of a loner in school. She keeps people at an arms distance and we later learn why. Ash breaks down the walls Cara put up. However, as quickly as she puts it down, one act causes her to put it up again.
I absolutely loved this story. I connected with each character in which made me feel fully invested in the story. The author has a great style of writing where the story flowed nicely. I was hooked from the beginning and had a hard time putting it down. You are going to fall for Ashton Taylor. There is so major swooning in this book! He is not your typical womanizer. The side that Cara brings out in Ash is just breathtaking. I found myself tearing up throughout the book.
Overall, I recommend this book to anyone that is looking for a story about true love, family, and hope. The epilogue killed me! I was a mess! Through heartbreak and tears, love always remains. This book symbolizes that.
September 29, 2013
This book may be called lovely but it was so much more!
Ashton, after the death of his father, protects his family and he pretends that everything is alright, having fun with many girls when in truth he is lonely. Until he meets Cara. Cara is a shy girl, a little bit of nerd, a lover of poetry but with a strong personality. She had a difficult life but under the geek glasses there is a lovely girl. They become friends and soon love is born.
Ashton is a great man, sweet, funny and everything you hope for a man to be. Cara on the other hand has overcome many traumas but she is a kind girl, creative and when she lets herself open to Ashton we see a feisty character.
What can we say about their relationship?It is amazing!They are so cute together. The sparkles fly between them. There are many sweet scenes and hot scenes but what stole my heart is that they supported each other so much.
Ashton has a great family and we get a story there too and I should warn you that you must prepare for heartbreak and tears.
Overall, this is a fantastic bittersweet story that will capture your heart. I cannot wait to read Beth's next story.
Ashton, after the death of his father, protects his family and he pretends that everything is alright, having fun with many girls when in truth he is lonely. Until he meets Cara. Cara is a shy girl, a little bit of nerd, a lover of poetry but with a strong personality. She had a difficult life but under the geek glasses there is a lovely girl. They become friends and soon love is born.
Ashton is a great man, sweet, funny and everything you hope for a man to be. Cara on the other hand has overcome many traumas but she is a kind girl, creative and when she lets herself open to Ashton we see a feisty character.
What can we say about their relationship?It is amazing!They are so cute together. The sparkles fly between them. There are many sweet scenes and hot scenes but what stole my heart is that they supported each other so much.
Ashton has a great family and we get a story there too and I should warn you that you must prepare for heartbreak and tears.
Overall, this is a fantastic bittersweet story that will capture your heart. I cannot wait to read Beth's next story.
October 1, 2016
I really liked Beth Michele's first book, Love Love. This one started out very well also, but it evolved into a mushy I love you fest that got pretty old. He was the oldest son in a family with a widowed mother and two other college age kids. He had given up a full baseball scholarship to stay at home and help his family deal with the death of his father.
She was a librarian at the school who seemed closed off and sad but intrigued the guy so much that he made a very concerted effort to woo her and change his man whoring ways. They finally connected, started the "I love you's", had another tragedy to deal with along the way and then one of his old skanks pulled a stunt, the librarian fell for it and left him.
She left him after everything he'd done for her!!! I would have left her in the dust. But he "loved" her and pursued and wooed her until the HEA. The epilogue contained a fairly large shocker that probably should have been dealt with in the book and left some of the "I love you's" on the cutting room floor. But I'm just a reader, not a writer.
She was a librarian at the school who seemed closed off and sad but intrigued the guy so much that he made a very concerted effort to woo her and change his man whoring ways. They finally connected, started the "I love you's", had another tragedy to deal with along the way and then one of his old skanks pulled a stunt, the librarian fell for it and left him.
She left him after everything he'd done for her!!! I would have left her in the dust. But he "loved" her and pursued and wooed her until the HEA. The epilogue contained a fairly large shocker that probably should have been dealt with in the book and left some of the "I love you's" on the cutting room floor. But I'm just a reader, not a writer.
October 2, 2013
**ARC received from author in exchange for an honest review**
I cried BIG UGLY TEARS reading Lovely by Beth Michele. I don’t cry at books, I’ve never cried at books I may tear up but I never cry. I sobbed with this book. So be warned and have the tissues handy, you’re going to need them!
I don’t do emotional books, I don’t do books that make you cry but Beth Michele is now the exception to that rule.
The story is told in Ash’s POV entirely and I wouldn’t mind reading the story again from Cara’s POV too (hint, hint).
Ash is the college jock who has it all and Cara is the library geek who just wants to hide. They couldn’t be more mismatched if they tried. However, Ash sees something in Cara the he can’t let go and he pursues her relentlessly.
The book didn’t holds lots of suspense or angst although it had its moments and those moments usually ended up with me crying.
This is the first book I’ve read from Beth and I haven’t been disappointed. To date Beth is the only author to pull the kind of emotions she has out of me with her words.
I cried BIG UGLY TEARS reading Lovely by Beth Michele. I don’t cry at books, I’ve never cried at books I may tear up but I never cry. I sobbed with this book. So be warned and have the tissues handy, you’re going to need them!
I don’t do emotional books, I don’t do books that make you cry but Beth Michele is now the exception to that rule.
The story is told in Ash’s POV entirely and I wouldn’t mind reading the story again from Cara’s POV too (hint, hint).
Ash is the college jock who has it all and Cara is the library geek who just wants to hide. They couldn’t be more mismatched if they tried. However, Ash sees something in Cara the he can’t let go and he pursues her relentlessly.
The book didn’t holds lots of suspense or angst although it had its moments and those moments usually ended up with me crying.
This is the first book I’ve read from Beth and I haven’t been disappointed. To date Beth is the only author to pull the kind of emotions she has out of me with her words.
September 26, 2013
Ash was forced to grow up fast after the unexpected death of his father. Not only did he lose his dad, but he also lost his girlfriend, a year of school, and his baseball scholarship in order to be there for his family. But he never looked at it as a sacrifice. It was simply what he needed to do, so he did it. That's the kind of person Ash is. But he also closed a piece of himself off with each loss.
Until fate brings him face to face with Cara Hayward.
Cara intrigues Ash with her beautiful eyes, her lack of interest, and her love of poetry. As he works to break down Cara's barriers, he finds his own crumbling in return.
Lovely is a bittersweet romance about loss, love, and learning to live. It left me crying and smiling at the same time.
"I know what it's like to be inside your heart, now I want to know what it's like to be inside of you."
Until fate brings him face to face with Cara Hayward.
Cara intrigues Ash with her beautiful eyes, her lack of interest, and her love of poetry. As he works to break down Cara's barriers, he finds his own crumbling in return.
Lovely is a bittersweet romance about loss, love, and learning to live. It left me crying and smiling at the same time.
"I know what it's like to be inside your heart, now I want to know what it's like to be inside of you."
October 8, 2013
I must say that LOVELY was a lovely read. Its one of those swoonful love stories that I love to get lost in. Ashton is funny and smart and even though he knows he is handsome, he is not conceded. I loved the story with his family and I love his pursuit of Cara.
There story is not flaw free, but its not an angsty read and most of the story, I was smiling and could not wait to turn the page to see what was next. You feel the emotions of the characters and I found myself wanting to be one of their friends. I wanted to be a part of the story, to help them through the good, the stupid and the bad. Which to me makes for a great story. I give LOVELY - 4.5 amazing stars!
There story is not flaw free, but its not an angsty read and most of the story, I was smiling and could not wait to turn the page to see what was next. You feel the emotions of the characters and I found myself wanting to be one of their friends. I wanted to be a part of the story, to help them through the good, the stupid and the bad. Which to me makes for a great story. I give LOVELY - 4.5 amazing stars!
September 27, 2013
What a LOVELY story about Cara, a broken girl who learns to trust again, and a boy, Ash,who finally starts to feel and live again since his father's passing. They find and heal each other. Even as they go through more tragedy and heartache, their love never fails, just gets stronger.
I love the writing, such a great read, couldn't put it down!
And Ash, oh Ash who wouldn't fall in love with him!
I love the writing, such a great read, couldn't put it down!
And Ash, oh Ash who wouldn't fall in love with him!
September 28, 2013
Gees, someone needs to slap a warning label on this book. I think I cried through 50% of it. holy moly! It was beautiful though
October 6, 2013
I received an ARC in exchange for honest review*
After his dad died from cancer Aston Taylor life took a different turn, he breaks up with his girlfriend, drop out of school, gave up his baseball scholarship, to become the man of the house, so that could be there for his Mum, and his younger brother and sister. Ash has never regretted his the choice that he made for his family, they need him more, but for a long he has the sense that something is missing, but he doesn’t know what that it is.
“Being strong for everyone else is draining. Sometimes I wish someone could be strong from me” ~ Ash
Cara Hayward is so not Ash’s usual type, but even he can’t deny that there is something about this girl, something that pulls him to her, and perhaps Cara the shy girl with the large oversized glasses who works in the library is the something that he is missing.
“There is something about that girl….and those eyes. It sounds fucking ridiculous, I know, but I can’t get her out of my mind.” ~ Ash
Ash he was a sweetheart, good looking does well at everything he puts his hand to, and really loves his family. Cara was such a sweetheart, she’s a book nerd, has a love for poetry, secrets from her past means that her walls up, she is closed off and finds it hard to trust people. After hearing Cara's story, my heart went out to her.
Cara didn’t fall for his charms straight away something that Ash is definitely not use to.
“This is the hardest I’ve ever had to work to get a girl to spend time with me. Usually, they just fall at my feet. She’s both frustrating and intriguing. If I’m honest, it's more of the latter” ~ Ash
I really liked how Ash and Cara’s relationship developed how Ash gets Cara to trust him, and let him in. How Cara gets Ash to open up, and was the support Ash needed when things were happing that he sadly couldn’t control.
"I was afraid, but I'm not anymore. I was unsure, but I'm more sure than ever. My world was dark, " her eyes meet mine, "but you've filled it with light. I was hiding from the world, but I don't want to hide from you." ~ Cara
“I’ve never felt this close to another person in my entire life, Cara. You own me … mind, body and soul”. ~ Ash
I like the storyline about family, love, loss and trust, it wasn’t too high on the drama, well I say that, but the last 8% had me a little anxious. I laugh, smiled and cry all at the same time. I liked that it was Ash’s POV and that you got into his head, one minute I was laughing out loud at the things he was saying, “When I look down I notice I’m not the only one excited about my date with Cara. Down boy, down” ~ Ash
The next I was smiling about how sweet and romantic he could be, and then he says something that had me reaching for my tissues. I do think some of Cara’s POV would have been nice as there were times when I really wanted to know what she was thinking and feeling. I’m a sucker for dual POV in stories.
Great secondary characters that I really like, and warmed to such as Ash’s mum, Colt Delilah, and Jason. But you know me there is always one character that I want to punch, and in this one it was Shelby did not like her from the start, knew she would be trouble.
Overall a great well-written read that I would recommend. This was a sweet and touching story by Beth Michele. I will warn you have tissues close by when you read the epilogue; you are going to need them.
After his dad died from cancer Aston Taylor life took a different turn, he breaks up with his girlfriend, drop out of school, gave up his baseball scholarship, to become the man of the house, so that could be there for his Mum, and his younger brother and sister. Ash has never regretted his the choice that he made for his family, they need him more, but for a long he has the sense that something is missing, but he doesn’t know what that it is.
“Being strong for everyone else is draining. Sometimes I wish someone could be strong from me” ~ Ash
Cara Hayward is so not Ash’s usual type, but even he can’t deny that there is something about this girl, something that pulls him to her, and perhaps Cara the shy girl with the large oversized glasses who works in the library is the something that he is missing.
“There is something about that girl….and those eyes. It sounds fucking ridiculous, I know, but I can’t get her out of my mind.” ~ Ash
Ash he was a sweetheart, good looking does well at everything he puts his hand to, and really loves his family. Cara was such a sweetheart, she’s a book nerd, has a love for poetry, secrets from her past means that her walls up, she is closed off and finds it hard to trust people. After hearing Cara's story, my heart went out to her.
Cara didn’t fall for his charms straight away something that Ash is definitely not use to.
“This is the hardest I’ve ever had to work to get a girl to spend time with me. Usually, they just fall at my feet. She’s both frustrating and intriguing. If I’m honest, it's more of the latter” ~ Ash
I really liked how Ash and Cara’s relationship developed how Ash gets Cara to trust him, and let him in. How Cara gets Ash to open up, and was the support Ash needed when things were happing that he sadly couldn’t control.
"I was afraid, but I'm not anymore. I was unsure, but I'm more sure than ever. My world was dark, " her eyes meet mine, "but you've filled it with light. I was hiding from the world, but I don't want to hide from you." ~ Cara
“I’ve never felt this close to another person in my entire life, Cara. You own me … mind, body and soul”. ~ Ash
I like the storyline about family, love, loss and trust, it wasn’t too high on the drama, well I say that, but the last 8% had me a little anxious. I laugh, smiled and cry all at the same time. I liked that it was Ash’s POV and that you got into his head, one minute I was laughing out loud at the things he was saying, “When I look down I notice I’m not the only one excited about my date with Cara. Down boy, down” ~ Ash
The next I was smiling about how sweet and romantic he could be, and then he says something that had me reaching for my tissues. I do think some of Cara’s POV would have been nice as there were times when I really wanted to know what she was thinking and feeling. I’m a sucker for dual POV in stories.
Great secondary characters that I really like, and warmed to such as Ash’s mum, Colt Delilah, and Jason. But you know me there is always one character that I want to punch, and in this one it was Shelby did not like her from the start, knew she would be trouble.
Overall a great well-written read that I would recommend. This was a sweet and touching story by Beth Michele. I will warn you have tissues close by when you read the epilogue; you are going to need them.
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