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Chase Brothers #4
Making Chase
Previously published; newly refreshed by author.
The Chase boys. Ridiculously hot and notoriously single.
All of Petal, Georgia, is waiting for the last Chase brother to fall. At least, that’s how it feels to firefighter Matt Chase, who’s getting a little anxious himself. His brothers have all found love—why hasn’t he? But fate, in the form of a curvaceous hairdresser, is about to change that.
Salon owner Tate Murphy has come a long way from her trailer-park roots, taking care of her seven siblings along the way. Even though she’s put the past behind her, she knows someone like Matt Chase is way out of her league. But that doesn’t stop her from getting a good eyeful every chance she gets.
When a car accident throws them together, Tate gets more than an eyeful—she gets the whole package. Not that she’s complaining. But when small-town bias and her own insecurities get in the way of their relationship, Matt will have to prove he doesn’t care where she came from…only where she goes.
The Chase is on. One small town. Four hot brothers. And enough heat to burn up anyone who dares to get close.
The Chase boys. Ridiculously hot and notoriously single.
All of Petal, Georgia, is waiting for the last Chase brother to fall. At least, that’s how it feels to firefighter Matt Chase, who’s getting a little anxious himself. His brothers have all found love—why hasn’t he? But fate, in the form of a curvaceous hairdresser, is about to change that.
Salon owner Tate Murphy has come a long way from her trailer-park roots, taking care of her seven siblings along the way. Even though she’s put the past behind her, she knows someone like Matt Chase is way out of her league. But that doesn’t stop her from getting a good eyeful every chance she gets.
When a car accident throws them together, Tate gets more than an eyeful—she gets the whole package. Not that she’s complaining. But when small-town bias and her own insecurities get in the way of their relationship, Matt will have to prove he doesn’t care where she came from…only where she goes.
The Chase is on. One small town. Four hot brothers. And enough heat to burn up anyone who dares to get close.
288 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published June 6, 2007
190 people are currently reading
3727 people want to read
About the author
Lauren Dane
112 books4,996 followersLauren Dane has been writing stories since she was able to use a pencil, and before that she used to tell them to people. Of course, she still talks nonstop, and through wonderful fate and good fortune, she’s now able to share what she writes with others. It’s a wonderful life!
The basics: Lauren is a mom, a partner, a best friend and a daughter. Living in the rainy but beautiful Pacific Northwest, she spends her late evenings writing like a fiend when she finally wrestles all of her kids to bed.
The basics: Lauren is a mom, a partner, a best friend and a daughter. Living in the rainy but beautiful Pacific Northwest, she spends her late evenings writing like a fiend when she finally wrestles all of her kids to bed.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 409 reviews
March 28, 2017
Cute, story very well told and written up until it got to the "sexy" parts, they were too crude. Again, I'm not a prude but the author could have toned it down just a bit.
April 5, 2011
Ok. This one made me cry. That doesn't happen often, and I will remember it.
Matt is the last Chase brother to find love. Like his brothers before him, he has no trouble finding dates. He did have a serious relation ship a few years back with Liv, who is now married to his brother, Marc. He never loved her, and at time he never understood why.
Tate Murphy had a very rough childhood. Being the oldest of eight children of abusive alcoholic parents, she was forced to take care of her younger siblings. She missed a lot of school because she worked to make sure there was food for the young kids. She had to dumpster dive to find clothes. He father often beat her. When she graduated high school she paid her father off and took the rest of the kids with her to raise as her own. Now 15 years later, she owns a successful salon in Petal, Georgia. she looks forward every day to her 'visual donut', Matt Chase. He is a fireman, and the station is across the street from her salon. She loves to watch him, he is so beautiful. She knows he would never even notice her. She's from the wrong side of the tracks, so to speak. Plus she is very short, and is very curvy. Often called fat.
The way they meet is a neat story. he is taken with her almost immediately. He sets out to do the legendary Chase wooing on her. This is a very emotional book. You really get a good taste of what Tate has been through in her past as well as how she is treated by other townspeople currently. No one can believe a Chase would ever pick her, and think she must be only after his money. The cruelty by some people is awful. Matt has his work cut out for him with trying to convince her that he loves her, she should trust him, and that should be together.
I loved this entire series. The Chase family is so close. members from the prior books are always woven into the current story. And Polly, mama Chase? Who doesn't love that woman! Highly recommended to all romance fans. Steamy sex scenes are included. :)
4/4/11 - Second Read: EXCELLENT! I highly recommend this series!
Matt is the last Chase brother to find love. Like his brothers before him, he has no trouble finding dates. He did have a serious relation ship a few years back with Liv, who is now married to his brother, Marc. He never loved her, and at time he never understood why.
Tate Murphy had a very rough childhood. Being the oldest of eight children of abusive alcoholic parents, she was forced to take care of her younger siblings. She missed a lot of school because she worked to make sure there was food for the young kids. She had to dumpster dive to find clothes. He father often beat her. When she graduated high school she paid her father off and took the rest of the kids with her to raise as her own. Now 15 years later, she owns a successful salon in Petal, Georgia. she looks forward every day to her 'visual donut', Matt Chase. He is a fireman, and the station is across the street from her salon. She loves to watch him, he is so beautiful. She knows he would never even notice her. She's from the wrong side of the tracks, so to speak. Plus she is very short, and is very curvy. Often called fat.
The way they meet is a neat story. he is taken with her almost immediately. He sets out to do the legendary Chase wooing on her. This is a very emotional book. You really get a good taste of what Tate has been through in her past as well as how she is treated by other townspeople currently. No one can believe a Chase would ever pick her, and think she must be only after his money. The cruelty by some people is awful. Matt has his work cut out for him with trying to convince her that he loves her, she should trust him, and that should be together.
I loved this entire series. The Chase family is so close. members from the prior books are always woven into the current story. And Polly, mama Chase? Who doesn't love that woman! Highly recommended to all romance fans. Steamy sex scenes are included. :)
4/4/11 - Second Read: EXCELLENT! I highly recommend this series!
July 8, 2009
5 stars – Contemporary Romance
Although I’m depressed there are no more Chase brothers to dream about and drool over, this was a very satisfying conclusion to the wonderful, feel-good Chase Brothers series. I love all four brothers and would take any of them in a heartbeat, but I think Shane and Matt are my favorites. Making Chase is my second favorite book in the series, close behind Taking Chase.
Firefighter Matt is the handsomest Chase brother, and after watching his three brothers find happiness from settling down and marrying the right women is longing for a special woman of his own. But after dating every beautiful woman in the small town of Petal, Georgia and surrounding towns has about given up on ever finding her. Tate Murphy gazes dreamily at 'visual donut' Matt on a daily basis from her beauty salon across the street from the fire station where he works, but she’s convinced the town heartthrob is way out of her league. After being hit by a car brings firefighter Matt to her aide and she bakes him some mouthwatering cookies in appreciation, Tate suddenly finds herself the latest woman to be wooed and pursued by a hottie Chase. Matt sees Tate as everything he wants in a woman: she’s curvaceous, loving, earnest, hardworking, genuine, funny, feisty in bed, fiercely loyal and protective of her large family, and is great with kids. He falls hard and fast (like all the Chase brothers), commits wholeheartedly, and sets out to build a life with her.
Of course, they face all sorts of obstacles in their path to happily ever after, like her body issues, wrong side of the tracks, impoverished background, and abusive, neglectful parents, interfering, jealous, coldhearted, b*tchy town bimbos, and family struggles. Luckily, Matt’s a determined, patient, sweet hero to-die-for who loves strong and true, and Tate is a caring, courageous, firecracker heroine who stands up for her family and ultimately for herself too.
What sets the series apart from so many others in the contemporary romance genre is that things don’t end when the H/H declare “I love you”, but instead the stories demonstrate what real couples have to struggle through in order to build a solid relationship and life together: insecurities, self-esteem issues, emotional baggage, effects of abuse, gossip, meddling exes, blending of family, money problems, intimacy issues, and the general fear of what it truly means to take a risk and love someone, which is that it can be lost.
It’s a truly heartrending series about the power of love and family, and I’m sure going to miss the entire Chase clan: spitfire, protective momma Polly Chase, wise, loving daddy Edward Chase, the too-yummy-for-words Chase brothers, and the strong, feisty Chase wives.
This is a terrific ending to a fabulous series...I hated for it to end! 5 stars!
Although I’m depressed there are no more Chase brothers to dream about and drool over, this was a very satisfying conclusion to the wonderful, feel-good Chase Brothers series. I love all four brothers and would take any of them in a heartbeat, but I think Shane and Matt are my favorites. Making Chase is my second favorite book in the series, close behind Taking Chase.
Firefighter Matt is the handsomest Chase brother, and after watching his three brothers find happiness from settling down and marrying the right women is longing for a special woman of his own. But after dating every beautiful woman in the small town of Petal, Georgia and surrounding towns has about given up on ever finding her. Tate Murphy gazes dreamily at 'visual donut' Matt on a daily basis from her beauty salon across the street from the fire station where he works, but she’s convinced the town heartthrob is way out of her league. After being hit by a car brings firefighter Matt to her aide and she bakes him some mouthwatering cookies in appreciation, Tate suddenly finds herself the latest woman to be wooed and pursued by a hottie Chase. Matt sees Tate as everything he wants in a woman: she’s curvaceous, loving, earnest, hardworking, genuine, funny, feisty in bed, fiercely loyal and protective of her large family, and is great with kids. He falls hard and fast (like all the Chase brothers), commits wholeheartedly, and sets out to build a life with her.
Of course, they face all sorts of obstacles in their path to happily ever after, like her body issues, wrong side of the tracks, impoverished background, and abusive, neglectful parents, interfering, jealous, coldhearted, b*tchy town bimbos, and family struggles. Luckily, Matt’s a determined, patient, sweet hero to-die-for who loves strong and true, and Tate is a caring, courageous, firecracker heroine who stands up for her family and ultimately for herself too.
What sets the series apart from so many others in the contemporary romance genre is that things don’t end when the H/H declare “I love you”, but instead the stories demonstrate what real couples have to struggle through in order to build a solid relationship and life together: insecurities, self-esteem issues, emotional baggage, effects of abuse, gossip, meddling exes, blending of family, money problems, intimacy issues, and the general fear of what it truly means to take a risk and love someone, which is that it can be lost.
It’s a truly heartrending series about the power of love and family, and I’m sure going to miss the entire Chase clan: spitfire, protective momma Polly Chase, wise, loving daddy Edward Chase, the too-yummy-for-words Chase brothers, and the strong, feisty Chase wives.
This is a terrific ending to a fabulous series...I hated for it to end! 5 stars!
June 26, 2008
What a way to end this wonderful series! This may have been my favorite one yet--it just pushed all my emotional buttons! I don't know exactly what it was, but I found myself tearing up so much that I had to put the book down every so often just to get myself together. The hero and heroine, Matt Chase and Tate Murphy, just blew me away--I absolutely adored this couple!
Firefighter Matt is the last bachelor standing among the four sexy Chase brothers. His brothers have all managed to find THE ONE and are happily married men. Matt's getting tired of the pretty yet vacant women that he's been dating, and starts thinking long and hard about his future. He wants what his brothers have found, but where can he find it?
Enter Tate Murphy. Tate's long admired Matt, but he has never really noticed her. Even though she works right across the street from him at her own hair salon, their paths have never really crossed.
Matt is handsome, smart, from a well to do family; his family is respected and loved in the community. Things have come easy for Matt; he's never really had to work too hard to get what he wants. Tate is a pretty, tiny, full figured gal; respected and loved greatly by her seven brothers and sisters, hard working, yet from the 'wrong side of the tracks'. Her parents are an absolute nightmare--her mother is promiscuous and her father is a drunken, abusive low-life. Tate's social standing in the community is light years away from Matt's.
When their paths cross quite unexpectedly one day, Matt realizes he may have found just what he's been looking for.
Boy, did I love this one! Matt was a hero to die for! Sexy, handsome, compassionate, smart--what's not to love? Matt and Tate's love scenes were scorching hot! And Tate, so loving and giving. She practically raised her brothers and sisters, putting everyone ahead of herself, all while suffering verbal and physical abuse from a despicable father. If ever a girl deserved a HEA, it was Tate! I was so happy when Matt realized he was falling for her! And the way his family rallied around Tate was heartwarming--who wouldn't want his family for in-laws!
Matt and Tate's relationship was not without a few speedbumps, including Tate's feelings of inferiority about her figure. I loved that Matt adored her 'curves' and I loved his cute nickname for her. The relationship was almost done in by the town of Petal, Georgia. I don't know if this is a southern thing, or simply a small town thing, but I could not believe the number of butt-in-skis in this town! Apparently almost everyone in the town thought they could control who Matt Chase dated, and made their displeasure known when he started dating Tate. I wanted Matt to take out an ad in the newspaper and tell the petty people in the town to BUTT OUT! I loved seeing Tate's confidence in herself grow; it was a pleasure to see her finally realize that she deserved to do some taking in life instead of always being the one giving.
I'm sad to see this series end; unfortunately, there are no more Chase boys to marry off! I'm hoping that it can continue with the equally interesting Murphy family. Tate does have seven brothers and sisters...
Firefighter Matt is the last bachelor standing among the four sexy Chase brothers. His brothers have all managed to find THE ONE and are happily married men. Matt's getting tired of the pretty yet vacant women that he's been dating, and starts thinking long and hard about his future. He wants what his brothers have found, but where can he find it?
Enter Tate Murphy. Tate's long admired Matt, but he has never really noticed her. Even though she works right across the street from him at her own hair salon, their paths have never really crossed.
Matt is handsome, smart, from a well to do family; his family is respected and loved in the community. Things have come easy for Matt; he's never really had to work too hard to get what he wants. Tate is a pretty, tiny, full figured gal; respected and loved greatly by her seven brothers and sisters, hard working, yet from the 'wrong side of the tracks'. Her parents are an absolute nightmare--her mother is promiscuous and her father is a drunken, abusive low-life. Tate's social standing in the community is light years away from Matt's.
When their paths cross quite unexpectedly one day, Matt realizes he may have found just what he's been looking for.
Boy, did I love this one! Matt was a hero to die for! Sexy, handsome, compassionate, smart--what's not to love? Matt and Tate's love scenes were scorching hot! And Tate, so loving and giving. She practically raised her brothers and sisters, putting everyone ahead of herself, all while suffering verbal and physical abuse from a despicable father. If ever a girl deserved a HEA, it was Tate! I was so happy when Matt realized he was falling for her! And the way his family rallied around Tate was heartwarming--who wouldn't want his family for in-laws!
Matt and Tate's relationship was not without a few speedbumps, including Tate's feelings of inferiority about her figure. I loved that Matt adored her 'curves' and I loved his cute nickname for her. The relationship was almost done in by the town of Petal, Georgia. I don't know if this is a southern thing, or simply a small town thing, but I could not believe the number of butt-in-skis in this town! Apparently almost everyone in the town thought they could control who Matt Chase dated, and made their displeasure known when he started dating Tate. I wanted Matt to take out an ad in the newspaper and tell the petty people in the town to BUTT OUT! I loved seeing Tate's confidence in herself grow; it was a pleasure to see her finally realize that she deserved to do some taking in life instead of always being the one giving.
I'm sad to see this series end; unfortunately, there are no more Chase boys to marry off! I'm hoping that it can continue with the equally interesting Murphy family. Tate does have seven brothers and sisters...
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 12, 2012
Spoiler Free Review
4 STARS out of 5
Genre: Contemporary Romance
Finally finally finally, the last Chase brother is snatched up in Making Chase.
"Matthew Chase! You can't love me! I'm a fat little nobody from the wrong side of the road..." ~Tate
Tate Murphy is the second eldest of eight. She is a small business owner and has been more of a mother to her brothers and sisters than the woman who bored them in to this world. Her father is a drunk asshole and should only be referred to as such. Never in a million years did Tate think she would catch herself a Chase brother. And when she does, she can hardly believe it.
I truly loved reading about Matt and Tate.
Tate is 5'1 blonde and curvy. She is loving, very protective and family oriented which made her a perfect match for Matt. Though she often thought she was not in his league no matter how often he told and showed her otherwise. I was shocked and heartbroken at how she and her family was treated just because of where they were from. All the women that has captures the heart of a Chase brother has endured some bullshit from ex-lovers...But Tate got a double whammy when EVERYONE not just women let her know she was not good enough for Matt. However the Murphy family and the Chase's band together and held her up.
These two definitely brought the heat and scorched up the pages her weight may have been an issue for her but Matt had no problems with it.
Check it out
"Bend over the couch arm Tate." ~Matt
"Just what I thought. I've been so damn hard since I saw you sitting there in the sun on Shane's deck, your hair gleaming in the sunshine." ~Matt
Mmmm, mmmm, mmmm! I love it!
These two meet a lot of opposition but love holds them tightly together.
Fave new phrase
"Fuckadoodledoo" ~Tate
Tate had a swearing problem and admittedly fuck was her go to word.
Fave Scene
Scene setup: After getting in to a HUGE fight Matt returns home to find Tate whom he affectionately calls "Venus" cleaning....
'He unlocked the door and opened it slowly. When nothing took his head off he went inside and found her scrubbing the tile in the bathroom.
"Hey, Venus. Whatcha doing?"
"Scrubbing the tile around the toilet."
He leaned around. "Tate, is that my toothbrush?"
"Hmph"
Ouch. "Oookay. Well lucky there's a spare in the medicine cabinet then...."
Hahahahahahaha! She straight used his toothbrush to clean around the toilet! I love it!
Thoughts
I loved it! I really enjoyed this series and I totally recommend it to romance lovers!
My Ratings
Characters- Sweet and Lovable
Writing Style- Good
Plot/Storyline- Emotional, Honest Heartfelt
Steam Factor- Medium/Moderately Steamy
Overall- I liked it!! Check it out!!
Now go forth and read. Then come tell us about it on Goodreads!
For more reviews go to http://realitybites-letsgetlost.blogs...
4 STARS out of 5
Genre: Contemporary Romance
Finally finally finally, the last Chase brother is snatched up in Making Chase.
"Matthew Chase! You can't love me! I'm a fat little nobody from the wrong side of the road..." ~Tate
Tate Murphy is the second eldest of eight. She is a small business owner and has been more of a mother to her brothers and sisters than the woman who bored them in to this world. Her father is a drunk asshole and should only be referred to as such. Never in a million years did Tate think she would catch herself a Chase brother. And when she does, she can hardly believe it.
I truly loved reading about Matt and Tate.
Tate is 5'1 blonde and curvy. She is loving, very protective and family oriented which made her a perfect match for Matt. Though she often thought she was not in his league no matter how often he told and showed her otherwise. I was shocked and heartbroken at how she and her family was treated just because of where they were from. All the women that has captures the heart of a Chase brother has endured some bullshit from ex-lovers...But Tate got a double whammy when EVERYONE not just women let her know she was not good enough for Matt. However the Murphy family and the Chase's band together and held her up.
These two definitely brought the heat and scorched up the pages her weight may have been an issue for her but Matt had no problems with it.
Check it out
"Bend over the couch arm Tate." ~Matt
"Just what I thought. I've been so damn hard since I saw you sitting there in the sun on Shane's deck, your hair gleaming in the sunshine." ~Matt
Mmmm, mmmm, mmmm! I love it!
These two meet a lot of opposition but love holds them tightly together.
Fave new phrase
"Fuckadoodledoo" ~Tate
Tate had a swearing problem and admittedly fuck was her go to word.
Fave Scene
Scene setup: After getting in to a HUGE fight Matt returns home to find Tate whom he affectionately calls "Venus" cleaning....
'He unlocked the door and opened it slowly. When nothing took his head off he went inside and found her scrubbing the tile in the bathroom.
"Hey, Venus. Whatcha doing?"
"Scrubbing the tile around the toilet."
He leaned around. "Tate, is that my toothbrush?"
"Hmph"
Ouch. "Oookay. Well lucky there's a spare in the medicine cabinet then...."
Hahahahahahaha! She straight used his toothbrush to clean around the toilet! I love it!
Thoughts
I loved it! I really enjoyed this series and I totally recommend it to romance lovers!
My Ratings
Characters- Sweet and Lovable
Writing Style- Good
Plot/Storyline- Emotional, Honest Heartfelt
Steam Factor- Medium/Moderately Steamy
Overall- I liked it!! Check it out!!
Now go forth and read. Then come tell us about it on Goodreads!
For more reviews go to http://realitybites-letsgetlost.blogs...
November 11, 2008
I am having trouble deciding which Chase Brother I want for myself. Although I love them all, I have to say that Matt is my favorite. I love all of the books, but I think that Making Chase was my favorite one in the series.
Tate Murphy has had to work hard all of her life. She has a disfunctional family to say the least, and her siblings depend on her for just about everything. She had to grow up fast because of her horrible parents (I HATED THEM) and because she has grown up on the wrong side of the tracks, and is overweight has never been respected or admired much in the community. She works as a hair dresser and owns her own salon. Lucky for her, she is able to watch her crush Matt Chase come into work everyday. Although she dreams of being with a man like him, she knows it will never be.
When she is accidently hit by a car, Matt comes to her rescue. Admittedly he has never noticed Tate, so he is pleasantly surprised and smitten with her immediately. He sees not only her beauty inside, but is attracted to her physically as well.
Not quite knowing how to approach her, he is given the opportunity when she brings him homemade cookies as a thank you gift. This gives him the opportuntiy he needs to start getting to know her better and bring her into his life.
Matt is such a determined, patient hero. I loved him so much! He doesn't understand why most people in the town are hateful to Tate, and not wanting them to get together. Of course, the Chase family embrace his relationship with her, and Matt shows her a love she has never known before.
The only problem I had with the book is I hated Tate's parents. They are horrible people. Plus, some of the town members needed to be taken out back, behind the shed and tarred and feathered. I wish that Tate had been more assertive and proud of her body, but coming from where she did, I guess I understand it.
I loved this book. I hated for it to end.
Tate Murphy has had to work hard all of her life. She has a disfunctional family to say the least, and her siblings depend on her for just about everything. She had to grow up fast because of her horrible parents (I HATED THEM) and because she has grown up on the wrong side of the tracks, and is overweight has never been respected or admired much in the community. She works as a hair dresser and owns her own salon. Lucky for her, she is able to watch her crush Matt Chase come into work everyday. Although she dreams of being with a man like him, she knows it will never be.
When she is accidently hit by a car, Matt comes to her rescue. Admittedly he has never noticed Tate, so he is pleasantly surprised and smitten with her immediately. He sees not only her beauty inside, but is attracted to her physically as well.
Not quite knowing how to approach her, he is given the opportunity when she brings him homemade cookies as a thank you gift. This gives him the opportuntiy he needs to start getting to know her better and bring her into his life.
Matt is such a determined, patient hero. I loved him so much! He doesn't understand why most people in the town are hateful to Tate, and not wanting them to get together. Of course, the Chase family embrace his relationship with her, and Matt shows her a love she has never known before.
The only problem I had with the book is I hated Tate's parents. They are horrible people. Plus, some of the town members needed to be taken out back, behind the shed and tarred and feathered. I wish that Tate had been more assertive and proud of her body, but coming from where she did, I guess I understand it.
I loved this book. I hated for it to end.
July 27, 2018
New edition coming out soon! Review available at Under the Pages.
July 8, 2018
This book has previously been released but now the author has tweaked it so I’m guessing her fine tuning means perhaps slightly different in places without changing the overall story. Obviously check if you have this series before buying and if new to these stories then enjoy !
The Chase boys have all been caught except for firefighter Matt who is possibly the prettiest of all ! So imagine how it feels for him to actually be the one giving chase to a rather touchy Tate. Oh he’s slowly been creeping up on her but she has no idea that he’s about to get really serious and the girl from the wrong side of town is going to get a crash course in exactly what it means to be considered part of the Chase family.
I loved that Matt saw Tate exactly as she was and fair warning Matt doesn’t waste time ! He’s so over just catting around and more than ready to claim the hard working, family loving rock that Tate is. The only real trouble is that Tate is so used to looking after everyone else that she has a tough job showing her vulnerability and letting someone completely in. I guess in relationships communication really is the key.
The Chase family are adorable and I so want to be one ! Protective guys, intelligent women and a matriarch who just never quits. This book made me smile although rich guy and poor girl might make some roll their eyes it’s done with so much love that I found it impossible not to like. Yes it’s pure escapism with an almost fairytale feel to it but pantomime villain aside it was a worthy end to this series about a small town and one very loving family who live there. If you thought the Chase family were large just wait until they team up with Tates family !
This voluntary take is of a copy I requested from Netgalley and my thoughts and comments are honest and I believe fair
The Chase boys have all been caught except for firefighter Matt who is possibly the prettiest of all ! So imagine how it feels for him to actually be the one giving chase to a rather touchy Tate. Oh he’s slowly been creeping up on her but she has no idea that he’s about to get really serious and the girl from the wrong side of town is going to get a crash course in exactly what it means to be considered part of the Chase family.
I loved that Matt saw Tate exactly as she was and fair warning Matt doesn’t waste time ! He’s so over just catting around and more than ready to claim the hard working, family loving rock that Tate is. The only real trouble is that Tate is so used to looking after everyone else that she has a tough job showing her vulnerability and letting someone completely in. I guess in relationships communication really is the key.
The Chase family are adorable and I so want to be one ! Protective guys, intelligent women and a matriarch who just never quits. This book made me smile although rich guy and poor girl might make some roll their eyes it’s done with so much love that I found it impossible not to like. Yes it’s pure escapism with an almost fairytale feel to it but pantomime villain aside it was a worthy end to this series about a small town and one very loving family who live there. If you thought the Chase family were large just wait until they team up with Tates family !
This voluntary take is of a copy I requested from Netgalley and my thoughts and comments are honest and I believe fair
October 13, 2011
First Read 12/2009
If I could give this book, heck this whole series 10 stars I would. I loved everything about every one of the books in the Chase Bros series. I am sad, I am done reading and there are no more Chase boys to read about!
Matt is my favorite of the Chase boys because he could see what was on the inside of Tate. I love how he found her to be so sexy, and how he told her all the time. Despite what the people of Petal thought, she was beautiful and special to him and he never let her forget that.
I borrowed these books from a friend, but I can tell you right now I am going to get these books for myself. I know that as sure as I am sitting here, I am going to need to re-read these books again and again!!!!
Re-read 10/2011
Although I still like the book and feel it is worthy of 5 stars, Tate got on my nerves a little bit. She just couldn't seem to get over the fact that Matt would be head over heels for a "fat girl" she seemed to view herself as. Despite several attempts by Matt to assure her that he found her absolutely gorgeous and was in love with her. Matt was almost too good to be true. Not sure most men would have put up with her attitude as long as he did. Oh and her family was way to nosey. To the point that I wanted them to just fade away.
If I could give this book, heck this whole series 10 stars I would. I loved everything about every one of the books in the Chase Bros series. I am sad, I am done reading and there are no more Chase boys to read about!
Matt is my favorite of the Chase boys because he could see what was on the inside of Tate. I love how he found her to be so sexy, and how he told her all the time. Despite what the people of Petal thought, she was beautiful and special to him and he never let her forget that.
I borrowed these books from a friend, but I can tell you right now I am going to get these books for myself. I know that as sure as I am sitting here, I am going to need to re-read these books again and again!!!!
Re-read 10/2011
Although I still like the book and feel it is worthy of 5 stars, Tate got on my nerves a little bit. She just couldn't seem to get over the fact that Matt would be head over heels for a "fat girl" she seemed to view herself as. Despite several attempts by Matt to assure her that he found her absolutely gorgeous and was in love with her. Matt was almost too good to be true. Not sure most men would have put up with her attitude as long as he did. Oh and her family was way to nosey. To the point that I wanted them to just fade away.
December 7, 2015
I reallllllly liked this book.
The whole Murphy family was so unique and nice and I love how they fought to protect each other!
Even the Chase family, I loved the togetherness the brothers shared, Even their parents were so nice and loving and supportive!
I liked how he loved her for everything she was and didn't let her past get in the way
the story was amazing! I am going to re-read this book for sure!
~
Aug 1st, 2012
The whole Murphy family was so unique and nice and I love how they fought to protect each other!
Even the Chase family, I loved the togetherness the brothers shared, Even their parents were so nice and loving and supportive!
I liked how he loved her for everything she was and didn't let her past get in the way
the story was amazing! I am going to re-read this book for sure!
~
Aug 1st, 2012
May 6, 2009
This was a good conclusion to the Chase brothers series (I'm kind of hoping that she has some about the Murphy siblings, but I haven't looked yet).
Matt Chase is the most handsome of the Chase brothers - and the last one single. He's used to being underestimated because of his looks, and he despairs of ever finding true love like his brothers did. Tate Murphy is from the other side of the tracks, and between that and her figure - she's plus-sized - she doesn't think she has a chance in hell with Matt, though he is eye-candy. But when Matt first lays eyes on short, vuluptuous Tate, all bets are off. He crumbles into her hands, leaving Tate panicked about what a relationship between them would mean.
I love the Murphy family, and like I said above, I would love to see stories revolving around the unmarried siblings. Tate is very self-conscious about her weight because of her drunken father's emotional abuse, and because of the people in town, some of whom make it their life's goal to make the Murphys miserable because of the upbringing.
The thing I like most about LD's writing is it doesn't end when ILY's are exchanged - that's just the beginning, because no relationship is perfect, and everyone has their own baggage to get over, even if you do love someone. I can't wait to read more by this author. B
Matt Chase is the most handsome of the Chase brothers - and the last one single. He's used to being underestimated because of his looks, and he despairs of ever finding true love like his brothers did. Tate Murphy is from the other side of the tracks, and between that and her figure - she's plus-sized - she doesn't think she has a chance in hell with Matt, though he is eye-candy. But when Matt first lays eyes on short, vuluptuous Tate, all bets are off. He crumbles into her hands, leaving Tate panicked about what a relationship between them would mean.
I love the Murphy family, and like I said above, I would love to see stories revolving around the unmarried siblings. Tate is very self-conscious about her weight because of her drunken father's emotional abuse, and because of the people in town, some of whom make it their life's goal to make the Murphys miserable because of the upbringing.
The thing I like most about LD's writing is it doesn't end when ILY's are exchanged - that's just the beginning, because no relationship is perfect, and everyone has their own baggage to get over, even if you do love someone. I can't wait to read more by this author. B
October 29, 2016
well poop... 90% and i just can't take the bashing against Matt anymore.
Only Matt makes mistakes while Tate is ALWAYS forgiven for being a dumbass cause she's the 'victim'. This story was so predictable for this author that i just can't take it anymore.
i hate it when authors have their characters sermonize in words that are obviously not their own. Like her own little choir.
I don't even know why Matt fell in love with Tate. It seemed that he was completely oblivious to her existence for over 30 years even though they work across the street from each other. Then as soon as he is forced to meet her, he falls madly in love?? Why? It's not like she opens up to him. All we know is that she cooks like a dream, has a sexy curvy body and when she's not being a doormat for her parents, she's being the new generation Murphy family matriarch. Seriously?? Not feeling the chemistry at all 'cause of her split personality.
What a let down for the end of the series!
Only Matt makes mistakes while Tate is ALWAYS forgiven for being a dumbass cause she's the 'victim'. This story was so predictable for this author that i just can't take it anymore.
i hate it when authors have their characters sermonize in words that are obviously not their own. Like her own little choir.
I don't even know why Matt fell in love with Tate. It seemed that he was completely oblivious to her existence for over 30 years even though they work across the street from each other. Then as soon as he is forced to meet her, he falls madly in love?? Why? It's not like she opens up to him. All we know is that she cooks like a dream, has a sexy curvy body and when she's not being a doormat for her parents, she's being the new generation Murphy family matriarch. Seriously?? Not feeling the chemistry at all 'cause of her split personality.
What a let down for the end of the series!
April 20, 2011
While I'm not a fan of Lauren Dane as a rule, I have to admit this is a great read, and it made me cry, probably because a few of the issues hit too close to home.
Tate Murphy is a girl from the wrong side of the tracks, growing up in a seedy trailer park, mentally emotionally and physically abused by her father and emotionally abused by a mother who turned the other way while it went on because she was doped up herself. Tate had it rough growing up, essentially raising her younger siblings with the help of her older brother to the point she didn't take care of herself most times. She puts others before herself ALWAYS. Tate is also obviously not her father's child, being different in coloring, looks and size from all her siblings and that's why he abuses her, to punish the mother in some sick twisted way to make himself feel better. Tate's a "big girl", curvy and voluptuous on a small 5'1 frame. All combined she has issues with self esteem and feeling loved and wanted by anyone other than her siblings.
Matt Chase is the golden boy of the Chase family. Not only is his family from the "good" part of town, they have a little money and he's very easy on the eyes. He's a firefighter with the world at his feet, never really having to work for anything he wants. Women, friends and good times naturally just flow his way.
Two people couldn't be more different as it seems at first but when circumstances throw them together and they get a chance to know each other, they find they are more alike than anyone could imagine. Both are HUGELY family oriented, love to dance and....well lets just say they are extremely compatible in the bedroom. Matt is enamored of her because she has a head on her shoulders and is funny and nice to be around. He's tired of the airheads he's been dating and wants to join his brothers in wedded bliss with someone who challenges him on all fronts. He also finds her curves very appealing and it pisses him off when people, including Tate, call her fat. Tate has been in puppy love with Matt for literally her whole teenage and adult life. She knows they won't work out in the long run but decides to grab the bull by the horn and enjoy Matt's company for as long as it lasts before he moves on to his next supermodel girlfriend. Tate knows she is "hefty" and she's ok with it. Its not that she overeats but genetics are working against her.
This is a very emotional storyline with two character who each have some serious issues inside themselves to resolve. Matt feels like no one takes him seriously because of his looks and charm and Tate feels like no one sees the real her, just her past and her size. Add in that several jealous ex girlfriends make Tate's life a living hell by tormenting her with viciously cruel remarks and this seems to be a romance doomed before it ever gets started.
My major complaint with the story is that the author never really tells you how much Tate weighs. Its hard to judge why others call her "cow" and "fatty" when you have nothing to base it on. Is she a 5'1 size 20 or is she a 5'1 size 12? 200 pounds or 150 pounds? Matt loves her curves and Tate is okay with them, so its distracting never knowing what she really looks like, other than "a big girl".
I felt for Tate so much. People were intentionally cruel to her with no regard of who might hear or how it affected her. In one scene Matt wants to pick her up and carry her somewhere and they have an ugly argument about it, until Tate's brother jumps in and explains to Matt that Tate feels she is too heavy to be picked up and that Matt would humiliate her when he couldn't lift her. There's also a scene at a football game where Matt physically fights with another man defending her honor and Tate has a hard time handling that because she feels like Matt pitied her. Not being a size 2 myself, I could easily relate to Tate's skewed sense of self esteem and it breaks your heart to see her finally let go and cry.
There is romance in the story but I'd classify this more as a story about two "flawed" people finding happiness and each other in a world that too often overlooks them for their lack of perfection.
A-
Tate Murphy is a girl from the wrong side of the tracks, growing up in a seedy trailer park, mentally emotionally and physically abused by her father and emotionally abused by a mother who turned the other way while it went on because she was doped up herself. Tate had it rough growing up, essentially raising her younger siblings with the help of her older brother to the point she didn't take care of herself most times. She puts others before herself ALWAYS. Tate is also obviously not her father's child, being different in coloring, looks and size from all her siblings and that's why he abuses her, to punish the mother in some sick twisted way to make himself feel better. Tate's a "big girl", curvy and voluptuous on a small 5'1 frame. All combined she has issues with self esteem and feeling loved and wanted by anyone other than her siblings.
Matt Chase is the golden boy of the Chase family. Not only is his family from the "good" part of town, they have a little money and he's very easy on the eyes. He's a firefighter with the world at his feet, never really having to work for anything he wants. Women, friends and good times naturally just flow his way.
Two people couldn't be more different as it seems at first but when circumstances throw them together and they get a chance to know each other, they find they are more alike than anyone could imagine. Both are HUGELY family oriented, love to dance and....well lets just say they are extremely compatible in the bedroom. Matt is enamored of her because she has a head on her shoulders and is funny and nice to be around. He's tired of the airheads he's been dating and wants to join his brothers in wedded bliss with someone who challenges him on all fronts. He also finds her curves very appealing and it pisses him off when people, including Tate, call her fat. Tate has been in puppy love with Matt for literally her whole teenage and adult life. She knows they won't work out in the long run but decides to grab the bull by the horn and enjoy Matt's company for as long as it lasts before he moves on to his next supermodel girlfriend. Tate knows she is "hefty" and she's ok with it. Its not that she overeats but genetics are working against her.
This is a very emotional storyline with two character who each have some serious issues inside themselves to resolve. Matt feels like no one takes him seriously because of his looks and charm and Tate feels like no one sees the real her, just her past and her size. Add in that several jealous ex girlfriends make Tate's life a living hell by tormenting her with viciously cruel remarks and this seems to be a romance doomed before it ever gets started.
My major complaint with the story is that the author never really tells you how much Tate weighs. Its hard to judge why others call her "cow" and "fatty" when you have nothing to base it on. Is she a 5'1 size 20 or is she a 5'1 size 12? 200 pounds or 150 pounds? Matt loves her curves and Tate is okay with them, so its distracting never knowing what she really looks like, other than "a big girl".
I felt for Tate so much. People were intentionally cruel to her with no regard of who might hear or how it affected her. In one scene Matt wants to pick her up and carry her somewhere and they have an ugly argument about it, until Tate's brother jumps in and explains to Matt that Tate feels she is too heavy to be picked up and that Matt would humiliate her when he couldn't lift her. There's also a scene at a football game where Matt physically fights with another man defending her honor and Tate has a hard time handling that because she feels like Matt pitied her. Not being a size 2 myself, I could easily relate to Tate's skewed sense of self esteem and it breaks your heart to see her finally let go and cry.
There is romance in the story but I'd classify this more as a story about two "flawed" people finding happiness and each other in a world that too often overlooks them for their lack of perfection.
A-
September 6, 2012
4.25-4.5 Stars
“Um, I smell something burning already. Your panties perhaps?”
So I was in the mood for something light, something easy. I’ve been reading a lot of intense books of late and I just needed a break. I’m pretty sure this is my third or fourth Lauren Dane novel, and she never disappoints me. Yes, this is part of a series, but I didn’t care. It looked too good to pass up. I mean just looking at the cover would make me want to pick it up. This book was exactly what I was looking for.
Hell yes she’d been imagining him naked. Had done for years now. It was her daily pastime. She got bored? Picture Matt Chase nekkid and at her beck and call. Waiting for the dentist? Imagine Matt Chase having her be naked and at his beck and call. Oh so many variations on such a fine theme. Matt Chase naked. Yep.
Oh, Matt Chase. He is the youngest and last single Chase brothers. His family is very well off and is well liked and respected in the community. With his handsomeness, charm and firefighter physique, he does very well with the ladies, especially the beauties in the community. However, ever since his eldest three brothers have found their wives, Matt is now in that point in life where he wants to settle. He first meets Tate Murphy after saving her from a car accident.
Tate has always been admiring Matt. Her salon is just across the street from the firehouse and is often daydreaming about him. However, she knows he’s way out of her league. Tate is not your average girl. From the outside, she’s short and all curves. She is also from the wrong side of the tracks. She’s poor, her father was abuse, both physically and mentally, and her mother was pretty much non-existent growing up. Tate is the eldest of the Murphy clan and with the help of the second eldest, William, practically raised their other six brothers and sisters. Not only did she work her ass off to pay for hers and her siblings’ education, but also took the brunt of their father’s abuse. Family is everything to her. She has such an amazing heart. It broke my heart to read about what she has gone through to keep her love ones safe.
After the accident, Matt was curious about Tate. He found himself thinking about her when he wasn’t with her and making excuses to try and bump into her around town. He just found her charming and just liked being around her. He loved the fact that she’s close with her family and loved the fact that she can cook. Tate of course is dumbfounded by all his attention. Her wall is constantly up and it takes Matt a bit of time to break through. However, there are people in their community looking at their relationship with contempt and suspicion. Tate a gold digger? I think not, but trying to convince everyone that their relationship is real and solid proved to be a challenge.
Matt and Tate’s story was just so sweet. Since I did not read the previous three books, I had a difficult time at first getting to know everyone. All the characters from the previous stories are mentioned so be warned if you decide to give this a go as a stand alone. However, it did not deter me from reading this and I just really enjoyed it.
“Um, I smell something burning already. Your panties perhaps?”
So I was in the mood for something light, something easy. I’ve been reading a lot of intense books of late and I just needed a break. I’m pretty sure this is my third or fourth Lauren Dane novel, and she never disappoints me. Yes, this is part of a series, but I didn’t care. It looked too good to pass up. I mean just looking at the cover would make me want to pick it up. This book was exactly what I was looking for.
Hell yes she’d been imagining him naked. Had done for years now. It was her daily pastime. She got bored? Picture Matt Chase nekkid and at her beck and call. Waiting for the dentist? Imagine Matt Chase having her be naked and at his beck and call. Oh so many variations on such a fine theme. Matt Chase naked. Yep.
Oh, Matt Chase. He is the youngest and last single Chase brothers. His family is very well off and is well liked and respected in the community. With his handsomeness, charm and firefighter physique, he does very well with the ladies, especially the beauties in the community. However, ever since his eldest three brothers have found their wives, Matt is now in that point in life where he wants to settle. He first meets Tate Murphy after saving her from a car accident.
Tate has always been admiring Matt. Her salon is just across the street from the firehouse and is often daydreaming about him. However, she knows he’s way out of her league. Tate is not your average girl. From the outside, she’s short and all curves. She is also from the wrong side of the tracks. She’s poor, her father was abuse, both physically and mentally, and her mother was pretty much non-existent growing up. Tate is the eldest of the Murphy clan and with the help of the second eldest, William, practically raised their other six brothers and sisters. Not only did she work her ass off to pay for hers and her siblings’ education, but also took the brunt of their father’s abuse. Family is everything to her. She has such an amazing heart. It broke my heart to read about what she has gone through to keep her love ones safe.
After the accident, Matt was curious about Tate. He found himself thinking about her when he wasn’t with her and making excuses to try and bump into her around town. He just found her charming and just liked being around her. He loved the fact that she’s close with her family and loved the fact that she can cook. Tate of course is dumbfounded by all his attention. Her wall is constantly up and it takes Matt a bit of time to break through. However, there are people in their community looking at their relationship with contempt and suspicion. Tate a gold digger? I think not, but trying to convince everyone that their relationship is real and solid proved to be a challenge.
Matt and Tate’s story was just so sweet. Since I did not read the previous three books, I had a difficult time at first getting to know everyone. All the characters from the previous stories are mentioned so be warned if you decide to give this a go as a stand alone. However, it did not deter me from reading this and I just really enjoyed it.
September 12, 2012
Matt Chase is used to having an easy life, with his good looks and career as a firefighter the women flock to him like bees to honey, but lately he feels an emptiness he can't explain. With the other three Chase brothers married and having children, Matt is realizing it is becoming more glaring that the women he has been dating are hollow an do not see past his name and his looks. When he meets Tate Murphy after she has been hit by a car, he is stunned when she sends him cookies to thank him, he thinks he has died and gone to heaven, why not go introduce himself to his neighbor who had never given a second glance to before.
Tate knows she is completely opposite of the women that Matt has spent his time with, she is short and fluffy and from the wrong side of the tracks. Tate has worked hard to raise her siblings and provide for them a safe and loving lifestyle for them. When Matt finds ways to insert himself in her life, Tate's initial reaction is to try and push him away but Matt is in it for the long haul and despite Tate's insecurities he plans to help breakdown the barriers she has surrounded herself with.
This was my second favorite in the series, I was totally absorbed by Tate she is a fighter and an inspiration. The only ding would be the abrupt ending, I wanted more...
Tate knows she is completely opposite of the women that Matt has spent his time with, she is short and fluffy and from the wrong side of the tracks. Tate has worked hard to raise her siblings and provide for them a safe and loving lifestyle for them. When Matt finds ways to insert himself in her life, Tate's initial reaction is to try and push him away but Matt is in it for the long haul and despite Tate's insecurities he plans to help breakdown the barriers she has surrounded herself with.
This was my second favorite in the series, I was totally absorbed by Tate she is a fighter and an inspiration. The only ding would be the abrupt ending, I wanted more...
March 8, 2013
This was my favorite of the series.
I love a man who isn't afraid of a few curves. Maybe my own insecurities come through often but I enjoy reading a book that isn't all about how skinny or well-defined the leading lady is. BIG GIRLS NEED LOVE TOO
I loved the whole Chase family and the Murphys were an absolute blast to get in to. Overall this series was cute and I enjoyed them.
Yay for big girl love!
I love a man who isn't afraid of a few curves. Maybe my own insecurities come through often but I enjoy reading a book that isn't all about how skinny or well-defined the leading lady is. BIG GIRLS NEED LOVE TOO
I loved the whole Chase family and the Murphys were an absolute blast to get in to. Overall this series was cute and I enjoyed them.
Yay for big girl love!
February 3, 2023
dnf @ %22
nope I just can’t do insecure heroines I’m sorry. also the writing is 80% dialogue and the povs change mid paragraph.
nope I just can’t do insecure heroines I’m sorry. also the writing is 80% dialogue and the povs change mid paragraph.
August 1, 2018
2.5 stars. This book was not my cup of tea, unfortunately. This was my first read by Lauren Dane, after friends raving about her, and I was definitely disappointed.
This is Tate and Matt's book. Tate is a hairdresser/salon owner, raised in a trailer park by an abusive, alcoholic father and a mother who is gone stepping out on her father half the time. She has raised her younger brothers and sisters and made something of herself now. Matt is a fireman and the youngest and last single Chase brother. His wealthy family is the golden family of the town. The two work across the street from each other, but don't meet until Tate is hit by a car on the street and Matt comes to the rescue. They become friends and one day Matt realizes he actually is interested in her romantically. She is very skeptical, pushes him away a lot and has terrible self esteem, but they begin dating. They have so much pushback from the townspeople that they must overcome, but it all works out in the end.
My issues with this book were many. This book hinges on, harps on, bashes the readers over the head with two things: 1. Tate is "fat" or "heavyset". People talk about her weight or she talks about it on pretty much every page. Tate's poor self esteem was also harped on so much. There was way too much and it was overdramatic. 2. Tate is poor white trash from the trailer park and not good enough to date a Chase.
The townspeople were all against Tate and Matt being together, going up to them wherever they went to confront them about it. That continued to very end. What century was this? It was not at all believable, understandable or relatable that a whole town cared so much about two people dating simply because of a supposed class difference. It annoyed me so much. That was pretty much the focus of the whole book- the couple fighting against the mean townsfolk and it hurting Tate's feelings, contributing to her poor self esteem. It was very repetitive.
This book also has so much OW drama and it bothered me so much. Women Matt used to date come up to her wherever she goes to make fun of her and tell her she is too fat or poor to be dating Matt. He also used to date his SIL, before she married his brother. He even wonders in the first few pages of the book if he lost his "one" in her. I felt like Matt was just desperate to get married to anyone because his brothers were all married. And the SIL is around all the time during the rest of the book and Tate has to be around her. Of course, SIL is beautiful and thin, while Tate is "fat" with poor self esteem. Matt was also the SIL's best friend and he blows kisses at her whenever he sees her. What guy does that, anyway?
Also, I felt the writing was poor. The book felt long and drawn out. This book is written in 3rd person and we get both hero and heroine's thoughts, but it was sometimes in the same paragraph, which gave me whiplash. I didn't feel any chemistry, emotion or love between the couple. I felt like the general story had potential, but the execution ruined the book for me.
Overall, this was a miss for me. I guess this author just isn't for me.
*arc provided in exchange for a honest review*
This is Tate and Matt's book. Tate is a hairdresser/salon owner, raised in a trailer park by an abusive, alcoholic father and a mother who is gone stepping out on her father half the time. She has raised her younger brothers and sisters and made something of herself now. Matt is a fireman and the youngest and last single Chase brother. His wealthy family is the golden family of the town. The two work across the street from each other, but don't meet until Tate is hit by a car on the street and Matt comes to the rescue. They become friends and one day Matt realizes he actually is interested in her romantically. She is very skeptical, pushes him away a lot and has terrible self esteem, but they begin dating. They have so much pushback from the townspeople that they must overcome, but it all works out in the end.
My issues with this book were many. This book hinges on, harps on, bashes the readers over the head with two things: 1. Tate is "fat" or "heavyset". People talk about her weight or she talks about it on pretty much every page. Tate's poor self esteem was also harped on so much. There was way too much and it was overdramatic. 2. Tate is poor white trash from the trailer park and not good enough to date a Chase.
The townspeople were all against Tate and Matt being together, going up to them wherever they went to confront them about it. That continued to very end. What century was this? It was not at all believable, understandable or relatable that a whole town cared so much about two people dating simply because of a supposed class difference. It annoyed me so much. That was pretty much the focus of the whole book- the couple fighting against the mean townsfolk and it hurting Tate's feelings, contributing to her poor self esteem. It was very repetitive.
This book also has so much OW drama and it bothered me so much. Women Matt used to date come up to her wherever she goes to make fun of her and tell her she is too fat or poor to be dating Matt. He also used to date his SIL, before she married his brother. He even wonders in the first few pages of the book if he lost his "one" in her. I felt like Matt was just desperate to get married to anyone because his brothers were all married. And the SIL is around all the time during the rest of the book and Tate has to be around her. Of course, SIL is beautiful and thin, while Tate is "fat" with poor self esteem. Matt was also the SIL's best friend and he blows kisses at her whenever he sees her. What guy does that, anyway?
Also, I felt the writing was poor. The book felt long and drawn out. This book is written in 3rd person and we get both hero and heroine's thoughts, but it was sometimes in the same paragraph, which gave me whiplash. I didn't feel any chemistry, emotion or love between the couple. I felt like the general story had potential, but the execution ruined the book for me.
Overall, this was a miss for me. I guess this author just isn't for me.
*arc provided in exchange for a honest review*
August 28, 2013
I can't believe this series is over! I have loved every second and all four books are re-read definites for me.
What a wonderful end to the series.
Prettiest Chase brother Matt has had an easy life so far with everything he ever needed handed to him on a plate. He has never had to work hard for anything, not that he is lazy or complacent, but he is just one of those fortunate people who has been blessed in life.
Tate has struggled and worked hard for everything she has. She has been handed a bum deal in life but has made the very best of it to provide for her family.
Matt really pulled through, turning from local playboy into a good and decent man. I really enjoyed the transformation he undergoes after meeting the girl for him. Again, these boys really know how to woo...I swear they should teach that stuff in schools!
Tate is just amazing. She is strong, hard working and absolutely full of fight. Despite this, she isn't at all hard or jaded but is soft, emotional and very feminine. She is treated so appalingly by others that it's a wonder she could still manage to hold her head up high. What an inspiring woman! I loved her and her siblings, and I really enjoyed how she was bought into the Chase family fold.
What an absolutely beautiful ending to the series. As I said, I am grief stricken that this series is over because I have adored every moment that I spent in Petal with the abnormally attractive Chase family.
What a wonderful end to the series.
Prettiest Chase brother Matt has had an easy life so far with everything he ever needed handed to him on a plate. He has never had to work hard for anything, not that he is lazy or complacent, but he is just one of those fortunate people who has been blessed in life.
Tate has struggled and worked hard for everything she has. She has been handed a bum deal in life but has made the very best of it to provide for her family.
Matt really pulled through, turning from local playboy into a good and decent man. I really enjoyed the transformation he undergoes after meeting the girl for him. Again, these boys really know how to woo...I swear they should teach that stuff in schools!
Tate is just amazing. She is strong, hard working and absolutely full of fight. Despite this, she isn't at all hard or jaded but is soft, emotional and very feminine. She is treated so appalingly by others that it's a wonder she could still manage to hold her head up high. What an inspiring woman! I loved her and her siblings, and I really enjoyed how she was bought into the Chase family fold.
What an absolutely beautiful ending to the series. As I said, I am grief stricken that this series is over because I have adored every moment that I spent in Petal with the abnormally attractive Chase family.
August 21, 2009
This is a pretty simple read, probably best reserved for a day when you have nothing better to do. Some parts seemed just a bit unrealistic or contrived. I loved the story but the storytelling just seemed off. For example, since when is a firefighter considered too good for a beautician? I had a hard time getting past the fact that their worlds were considered to be so different. Even if she did come from a trailer and he came from the better part of the town, it's still a small town where everyone is probably relatively the same. Another problem I had with the story is how he went from not knowing she was alive to knowing she was the one (because she is different and unique, but apparently invisible) within a short amount of time despite the fact that they grew up in the same small town.
I thought that the dialogue in parts was hilarious. The sexual tension was pretty good too and I never get tired of reading about curvy girls who come to finally realize that not all men are shallow or think the same way.
I thought that the dialogue in parts was hilarious. The sexual tension was pretty good too and I never get tired of reading about curvy girls who come to finally realize that not all men are shallow or think the same way.
January 2, 2013
Okay where to begin, this book was an okay read for me I would say. When I first started it, it was cute and funny but after a while it got boring and repetitive. In my opinion it moved a little too fast with the falling in love and everything else, it just seemed like the author was trying to cram as much information as possible into every chapter. What really irked me the most were Tate's insecurities, I understood that she had a horrible childhood and it made her extremely wary but it just seemed like it was something new every chapter. Her putting herself down and calling herself "a fat nobody" and always comparing herself to pretty much every girl in the book and Matt always having to reassure her that she was beautiful and that he loved her, frankly it started to make me mad. When I start a book, I'm in till the end and that was probably the only reason why I finished it, needless to say I was glad when it was over and this will definitely not be one of those books that I re-read over and over again.
July 13, 2011
I Loved this Book!! Matt and Tate were freaking perfect for each other!!
I cant say enough about this series! i loved it so much that i could just start re reading it again and again!! I loved the way this one ended!
Best HEA, I am sad tho there is going to be no more tho!!
Too bad,But there are plenty of Tate's family who we could read about..LMAO
Lauren Dane is Fabulous for writing this awesome series!!
I cant say enough about this series! i loved it so much that i could just start re reading it again and again!! I loved the way this one ended!
Best HEA, I am sad tho there is going to be no more tho!!
Too bad,But there are plenty of Tate's family who we could read about..LMAO
Lauren Dane is Fabulous for writing this awesome series!!
January 31, 2011
Loved the Chase Brothers...sad to see the last story...wishing Tate's brothers and sister's will get stories since Polly has pulled them in, so we can continue to see the Chase boys and their loves =)
June 25, 2011
Not at all what I expected; a delightful and sweet character/relationship-driven romance (4 stars)
This is my first book by Lauren Dane and it was not at all what I had expected. Since a lot of her books are categorized as erotica, I wasn't really sure how story-driven this would be, but to my great surprise it was almost all focused on the hero and heroine's character and relationship development and read like a regular contemporary romance. Tate was a wonderful heroine - strong yet vulnerable and one of the wallflower-types that I love. Matt was such a sweet and absolutely delicious hero - this is one of those romances where the man is all too ready to admit his feelings and for them to be committed to one another, while the woman is the one who is having to be chased and is scared of getting involved.
Our Leading Couple
I loved both Tate Murphy and Matt Chase. I'm a huge lover of the wallflower/plain-jane romances and we definitely have that here. Tate has a lot of insecurities to overcome: her "wrong side of the tracks" background, having abusive and neglectful parents, growing up poor, and being short and curvy and not at all the drop-dead-gorgeous type that Matt normally dates. While her insecurities are a HUGE element of the story, Dane is able to stay clear from taking it to the point where you want to slap her upside the head. She does this by rounding out Tate's character and giving her plenty of other attributes. She has sass, she's sweet and unbelievably caring and generous, is able to laugh at herself, is smart and driven, and while she has a lot of internal things she's dealing with, in many ways she still has a very strong sense of self.
Matt is ADORABLE!! Oh lord. He was just so, so, SO cute and sweet with her. He's Mr. Laid Back and Good Looking who has always had everything come to him very easily. He's not arrogant, which I really liked. He's self-aware and he knows what he has going for him - and he has definitely played the field - but compared to a lot of the HRs I read he was definitely not like the rake/rogues we see in those. Matt is so tender and loving with Tate and tries so hard to be there for her and to be understanding that the entire thing becomes almost too sappy to read, HA. In all seriousness though, he really is a great hero and seems very well-matched to Tate.
Secondary Characters
It was a very enjoyable story because the characters were so great, including the secondary ones.. Both the Murphy and Chase family seem amazing and too good to be true. All of the characters stand on their own and after I got down the names and could remember who was who and which family they belonged to, I was able to just enjoy them. Some of the mean people in the town who were so (repeatedly) spiteful to Tate and the Murphy family took me aback and I felt like it was a little exaggerated. I know people like that exist, but to have it be so widespread and people acting like the entire town was just one big high school campus seemed a bit of a stretch to me. It fit in with the story and showed the characters to advantage - it's great to watch Tate stand up for herself and Matt defend her - but didn't seem wholly realistic.
Criticism
My complaints revolve solely around how the story was crafted. I almost felt like we had arrived at our HEA 1/3 of the way through the book and was kind of wondering where this was all going. Sure, they still had issues to work out because Tate was still dealing with her insecurities and they were still having to manage people's negative reactions to their relationship, but ... a whole book from that? I mean they say their ILYs I think even before the halfway point - and Matt even far earlier.
In a way, it was nice to read a romance where there wasn't some crazy FBI-CIA battling terrorist plot or a crazed serial killer or stalker on the loose. There were also no Big Misunderstandings or Things Left Unsaid - another huge plus. The book focuses on these two people's relationship and how they come together, learn to trust and love one another, and how their families merge.
However, because Tate and Matt don't know each other at the beginning of the book - they live in a relatively small town so of one another and/or one another's families, but aren't even really passing acquaintances - I feel like Dane could have really made this book amazing had she spent more time on the earlier stages of their relationship. I loved how it started and how we get to see Matt begin to realize he really likes this girl - as in like likes (he uses that phrase, so cute! ;-) - and Tate begin to see the real man behind (underneath?) her daily "visual donut." That first impromptu lunch on the park bench was so lovely to read and Matt's beginning awareness of his feelings as he watches Tate interact with his brothers and his nephew was just too cute (how many times have I used that word now in this review?!?!).
The chemistry between them is so well-written in those sections - you can sense those crush-related-tingles they're starting to get for one another - and as they interact more, you can start to see their defenses and masks crumble. That beginning part of the book was so enjoyable that I wish there had been more of that. Weeks are kind of passed over and had more time been spent on that period of their relationship as opposed to about 2/3 being spent on after they've gotten together (while still having to work through the aforementioned issues), I think it would have been a better read and made their relationship seem stronger and more intense for the reader.
Completely minor, but always an annoyance: what is up with almost all romance covers showing a couple that does not at all resemble the main characters?!?! One of the big issues here is that Tate is a short and full-figured woman (with white-blond hair, btw!) ... ummm, that arm looks pretty skinny to me.
Chase Brothers Series
This is the last book in the series but the only one I've read and I did not have any problem following, so can definitely be read as a stand-alone.
Book 1 - Giving Chase (Kyle and Maggie)
Book 2 - Taking Chase (Shane and Cassie)
Book 3 - Chased (Marc and Liv)
Book 4 - Making Chase (Matt and Tate)
Bottom Line
I'm very glad I decided to read this book and would definitely recommend it. It was not at all what I was expecting, but in many ways that ended up being a good thing. Am really looking forward to exploring Lauren Dane's backlist.
This is my first book by Lauren Dane and it was not at all what I had expected. Since a lot of her books are categorized as erotica, I wasn't really sure how story-driven this would be, but to my great surprise it was almost all focused on the hero and heroine's character and relationship development and read like a regular contemporary romance. Tate was a wonderful heroine - strong yet vulnerable and one of the wallflower-types that I love. Matt was such a sweet and absolutely delicious hero - this is one of those romances where the man is all too ready to admit his feelings and for them to be committed to one another, while the woman is the one who is having to be chased and is scared of getting involved.
Our Leading Couple
I loved both Tate Murphy and Matt Chase. I'm a huge lover of the wallflower/plain-jane romances and we definitely have that here. Tate has a lot of insecurities to overcome: her "wrong side of the tracks" background, having abusive and neglectful parents, growing up poor, and being short and curvy and not at all the drop-dead-gorgeous type that Matt normally dates. While her insecurities are a HUGE element of the story, Dane is able to stay clear from taking it to the point where you want to slap her upside the head. She does this by rounding out Tate's character and giving her plenty of other attributes. She has sass, she's sweet and unbelievably caring and generous, is able to laugh at herself, is smart and driven, and while she has a lot of internal things she's dealing with, in many ways she still has a very strong sense of self.
Matt is ADORABLE!! Oh lord. He was just so, so, SO cute and sweet with her. He's Mr. Laid Back and Good Looking who has always had everything come to him very easily. He's not arrogant, which I really liked. He's self-aware and he knows what he has going for him - and he has definitely played the field - but compared to a lot of the HRs I read he was definitely not like the rake/rogues we see in those. Matt is so tender and loving with Tate and tries so hard to be there for her and to be understanding that the entire thing becomes almost too sappy to read, HA. In all seriousness though, he really is a great hero and seems very well-matched to Tate.
Secondary Characters
It was a very enjoyable story because the characters were so great, including the secondary ones.. Both the Murphy and Chase family seem amazing and too good to be true. All of the characters stand on their own and after I got down the names and could remember who was who and which family they belonged to, I was able to just enjoy them. Some of the mean people in the town who were so (repeatedly) spiteful to Tate and the Murphy family took me aback and I felt like it was a little exaggerated. I know people like that exist, but to have it be so widespread and people acting like the entire town was just one big high school campus seemed a bit of a stretch to me. It fit in with the story and showed the characters to advantage - it's great to watch Tate stand up for herself and Matt defend her - but didn't seem wholly realistic.
Criticism
My complaints revolve solely around how the story was crafted. I almost felt like we had arrived at our HEA 1/3 of the way through the book and was kind of wondering where this was all going. Sure, they still had issues to work out because Tate was still dealing with her insecurities and they were still having to manage people's negative reactions to their relationship, but ... a whole book from that? I mean they say their ILYs I think even before the halfway point - and Matt even far earlier.
In a way, it was nice to read a romance where there wasn't some crazy FBI-CIA battling terrorist plot or a crazed serial killer or stalker on the loose. There were also no Big Misunderstandings or Things Left Unsaid - another huge plus. The book focuses on these two people's relationship and how they come together, learn to trust and love one another, and how their families merge.
However, because Tate and Matt don't know each other at the beginning of the book - they live in a relatively small town so of one another and/or one another's families, but aren't even really passing acquaintances - I feel like Dane could have really made this book amazing had she spent more time on the earlier stages of their relationship. I loved how it started and how we get to see Matt begin to realize he really likes this girl - as in like likes (he uses that phrase, so cute! ;-) - and Tate begin to see the real man behind (underneath?) her daily "visual donut." That first impromptu lunch on the park bench was so lovely to read and Matt's beginning awareness of his feelings as he watches Tate interact with his brothers and his nephew was just too cute (how many times have I used that word now in this review?!?!).
The chemistry between them is so well-written in those sections - you can sense those crush-related-tingles they're starting to get for one another - and as they interact more, you can start to see their defenses and masks crumble. That beginning part of the book was so enjoyable that I wish there had been more of that. Weeks are kind of passed over and had more time been spent on that period of their relationship as opposed to about 2/3 being spent on after they've gotten together (while still having to work through the aforementioned issues), I think it would have been a better read and made their relationship seem stronger and more intense for the reader.
Completely minor, but always an annoyance: what is up with almost all romance covers showing a couple that does not at all resemble the main characters?!?! One of the big issues here is that Tate is a short and full-figured woman (with white-blond hair, btw!) ... ummm, that arm looks pretty skinny to me.
Chase Brothers Series
This is the last book in the series but the only one I've read and I did not have any problem following, so can definitely be read as a stand-alone.
Book 1 - Giving Chase (Kyle and Maggie)
Book 2 - Taking Chase (Shane and Cassie)
Book 3 - Chased (Marc and Liv)
Book 4 - Making Chase (Matt and Tate)
Bottom Line
I'm very glad I decided to read this book and would definitely recommend it. It was not at all what I was expecting, but in many ways that ended up being a good thing. Am really looking forward to exploring Lauren Dane's backlist.
August 19, 2018
Book Info
Kindle Edition, 2nd edition, 288 pages
Expected publication: August 27th 2018 by Carina Press (first published June 6th 2007)
Original Title Making Chase (Chase Brothers, #4)
ASIN B07BRW3Q87
Edition Language English
Series Chase Brothers #4
Characters Matt Chase, Tate Murphy setting Petal, Georgia (United States)
Other Editions (12)
Source:Netgalley EARC
Buy book from
Amazon
B&N
Previously published; newly refreshed by author.
The Chase boys. Ridiculously hot and notoriously single.
All of Petal, Georgia, is waiting for the last Chase brother to fall. At least, that’s how it feels to firefighter Matt Chase, who’s getting a little anxious himself. His brothers have all found love—why hasn’t he? But fate, in the form of a curvaceous hairdresser, is about to change that.
Salon owner Tate Murphy has come a long way from her trailer-park roots, taking care of her seven siblings along the way. Even though she’s put the past behind her, she knows someone like Matt Chase is way out of her league. But that doesn’t stop her from getting a good eyeful every chance she gets.
When a car accident throws them together, Tate gets more than an eyeful—she gets the whole package. Not that she’s complaining. But when small-town bias and her own insecurities get in the way of their relationship, Matt will have to prove he doesn’t care where she came from…only where she goes.
The Chase is on. One small town. Four hot brothers. And enough heat to burn up anyone who dares to get close. Don’t miss the other books in the series: Taking Chase, Giving Chase and Chased.
This book is approximately 70,000 words
Edited by Angela James
4 brothers fall 1 by 1 with Matt Chase being the last holdout, that is until he meets Tate Murphy.
The rest of course is history in the making as the 2 find themselves slowly but surely getting to know each other through lunches together, dinner dates and other meetings that take place both alone and in the company of either Chase or Murphy family members.
For Matt and Tate both their respective families are the most important bond, but their explosive chemistry with each other is nothing to sneeze at either.
Like his brothers before him Matt Chase has never been without female companionship. The feminine sex has fallen to his good looks and charm for his entire life so finding a woman who challenges him never seemed to be in the cards.
Now however that has changed for Matt. Tate is everything he was looking for and more as she has not only a strong character but takes no bull from anyone, especially not Matt.
Having always been the caregiver in the Murphy family Tate finds it hard to let someone else take on that role on her behalf. Matt however persists in breaking down her barriers, both the ones she has had to erect to keep from succumbing to despair over poor treatment from certain Petal residents as well as her own less than stellar parents.
What one takes away from this book on both Matt and Tates behalf is at once simple and yet also complicated.
The old adage to never "judge a book by it's cover" point is strongly driven home.
Matt has always been judged for his good looks and laid back approach to life. Leading those around him to not only consider him just a pretty face and someone only interested in a good time rather than any long-term commitments.
Tate has the opposite problem as she is not conventionally pretty but instead she is short, overweight and enjoys bright colored clothing rather than more subdued attire like a "real lady" would wear.
After many stops, starts and stalls both Matt and Tate turn Petal Georgia on it's ear. As the last Chase picks the girl from the "wrong side of the tracks" and Tate shocks those who would separate them life in the small town becomes even more interesting.
Kindle Edition, 2nd edition, 288 pages
Expected publication: August 27th 2018 by Carina Press (first published June 6th 2007)
Original Title Making Chase (Chase Brothers, #4)
ASIN B07BRW3Q87
Edition Language English
Series Chase Brothers #4
Characters Matt Chase, Tate Murphy setting Petal, Georgia (United States)
Other Editions (12)
Source:Netgalley EARC
Buy book from
Amazon
B&N
BOOK BLURB
Previously published; newly refreshed by author.
The Chase boys. Ridiculously hot and notoriously single.
All of Petal, Georgia, is waiting for the last Chase brother to fall. At least, that’s how it feels to firefighter Matt Chase, who’s getting a little anxious himself. His brothers have all found love—why hasn’t he? But fate, in the form of a curvaceous hairdresser, is about to change that.
Salon owner Tate Murphy has come a long way from her trailer-park roots, taking care of her seven siblings along the way. Even though she’s put the past behind her, she knows someone like Matt Chase is way out of her league. But that doesn’t stop her from getting a good eyeful every chance she gets.
When a car accident throws them together, Tate gets more than an eyeful—she gets the whole package. Not that she’s complaining. But when small-town bias and her own insecurities get in the way of their relationship, Matt will have to prove he doesn’t care where she came from…only where she goes.
The Chase is on. One small town. Four hot brothers. And enough heat to burn up anyone who dares to get close. Don’t miss the other books in the series: Taking Chase, Giving Chase and Chased.
This book is approximately 70,000 words
Edited by Angela James
My Thoughts
4 brothers fall 1 by 1 with Matt Chase being the last holdout, that is until he meets Tate Murphy.
The rest of course is history in the making as the 2 find themselves slowly but surely getting to know each other through lunches together, dinner dates and other meetings that take place both alone and in the company of either Chase or Murphy family members.
For Matt and Tate both their respective families are the most important bond, but their explosive chemistry with each other is nothing to sneeze at either.
Like his brothers before him Matt Chase has never been without female companionship. The feminine sex has fallen to his good looks and charm for his entire life so finding a woman who challenges him never seemed to be in the cards.
Now however that has changed for Matt. Tate is everything he was looking for and more as she has not only a strong character but takes no bull from anyone, especially not Matt.
Having always been the caregiver in the Murphy family Tate finds it hard to let someone else take on that role on her behalf. Matt however persists in breaking down her barriers, both the ones she has had to erect to keep from succumbing to despair over poor treatment from certain Petal residents as well as her own less than stellar parents.
What one takes away from this book on both Matt and Tates behalf is at once simple and yet also complicated.
The old adage to never "judge a book by it's cover" point is strongly driven home.
Matt has always been judged for his good looks and laid back approach to life. Leading those around him to not only consider him just a pretty face and someone only interested in a good time rather than any long-term commitments.
Tate has the opposite problem as she is not conventionally pretty but instead she is short, overweight and enjoys bright colored clothing rather than more subdued attire like a "real lady" would wear.
After many stops, starts and stalls both Matt and Tate turn Petal Georgia on it's ear. As the last Chase picks the girl from the "wrong side of the tracks" and Tate shocks those who would separate them life in the small town becomes even more interesting.
[EArc from Netgalley]
November 2, 2019
Cute and perfect for my flight back home.
I actually liked the less-than-perfect-plump-heroine trope because she wasn't constantly shitting on herself. Still some moments of annoying self-hatred, otherwise mostly cute. The hero is a plus, super sweet from the start.
However, the story drags a bit through the middle half, I don't really care what food Tate made for the homecoming game party. Or the seating arrangements at thanksgiving - skip please!
I actually liked the less-than-perfect-plump-heroine trope because she wasn't constantly shitting on herself. Still some moments of annoying self-hatred, otherwise mostly cute. The hero is a plus, super sweet from the start.
However, the story drags a bit through the middle half, I don't really care what food Tate made for the homecoming game party. Or the seating arrangements at thanksgiving - skip please!
December 11, 2018
Mi libro favorito de la saga, Tate me ha gustado mucho
June 3, 2012
So...this is my first Lauren Dane book, "Making Chase". The premise of the book features Tate, a plus-sized heroine, the second oldest of eight children who had a rough, abusive life. She's the 'wrong-side-of-the-tracks' woman who has the town's 'pretty boy' who is the baby of one of the town's most prominent families falling for her. They are two thirty-something year old adults. Oh and in case you didn't know it's book #4 of the Chase series. Both the heroine and hero come from large, families. Tate, while having crap for parents, helped raise her brothers and sisters and loves them VERY much. And Matthew Chase loves his family...VERY MUCH.
And all of the characters express themselves very clearly, a little too much. And tell each other how they love...their family SO MUCH. I usually have complaints when an author doesn't have their characters let the reader know what they are feeling but readers don't have to worry about that in "Making Chase". It was a love fest in there (and not in a naughty way all...you dirty bird). The Chases and Murphy siblings are a definition of a true close knit family.
As to the actual love story of Tate and Matt...it took time for their love to blossom which is believable with Tate being an ongoing abuse victim. She had hang ups about with her body and self esteem. At times it felt like I was reading a YA story because how some of the bullying characters acted like Melanie and Ron, respectively they called Tate "fat" & a "cow"...they were a little juvenile. And Bill Murphy was horrible but he didn't feel as menacing but more pathetic. I didn't like some of the reactions the characters had to the bullies, Matt to Ron especially when he explained why Tate was not a gold digger because she paid the mortgage for the months he was living there. From my past experiences, here's a rule that's worked for me, don't give bullies this kind of ammo, dude.
There were a few times (okay just two where Tate brought a tear to my eye - SPOILERS: when she first pleaded to Matt she wasn't special and crying with Polly Chase, Matt's mom). I wanted to give up on the story a few times when the characters kept going on ad nauseam about their feelings and their family love, blah, blah, blah...then Tate would do something to suck me in. Then Matt would do something to Tate. ;) And suck me in. There's chock full of erotic moments between the two. Don't let the extensive proclamations of Chase and Murphy sibling love deter you from reading.
All in all, the story is pretty good. This story has a strong message to convey: family abuse and what victims can do to persevere and...the Murphy siblings, in-laws, nephew and nieces and Chases, in-laws, cousins, great grandparents, grandparents, aunts and uncles love each other...A WHOLE FREAKING LOT!
And all of the characters express themselves very clearly, a little too much. And tell each other how they love...their family SO MUCH. I usually have complaints when an author doesn't have their characters let the reader know what they are feeling but readers don't have to worry about that in "Making Chase". It was a love fest in there (and not in a naughty way all...you dirty bird). The Chases and Murphy siblings are a definition of a true close knit family.
As to the actual love story of Tate and Matt...it took time for their love to blossom which is believable with Tate being an ongoing abuse victim. She had hang ups about with her body and self esteem. At times it felt like I was reading a YA story because how some of the bullying characters acted like Melanie and Ron, respectively they called Tate "fat" & a "cow"...they were a little juvenile. And Bill Murphy was horrible but he didn't feel as menacing but more pathetic. I didn't like some of the reactions the characters had to the bullies, Matt to Ron especially when he explained why Tate was not a gold digger because she paid the mortgage for the months he was living there. From my past experiences, here's a rule that's worked for me, don't give bullies this kind of ammo, dude.
There were a few times (okay just two where Tate brought a tear to my eye - SPOILERS: when she first pleaded to Matt she wasn't special and crying with Polly Chase, Matt's mom). I wanted to give up on the story a few times when the characters kept going on ad nauseam about their feelings and their family love, blah, blah, blah...then Tate would do something to suck me in. Then Matt would do something to Tate. ;) And suck me in. There's chock full of erotic moments between the two. Don't let the extensive proclamations of Chase and Murphy sibling love deter you from reading.
All in all, the story is pretty good. This story has a strong message to convey: family abuse and what victims can do to persevere and...the Murphy siblings, in-laws, nephew and nieces and Chases, in-laws, cousins, great grandparents, grandparents, aunts and uncles love each other...A WHOLE FREAKING LOT!
July 31, 2011
With this last book I was surprised by it. I liked that Tate wasn't the "perfect" woman, that she was more normal, I did get tired of her self degradation. I know her family life was crap and she had issues, but it got old fast. I also thought that at the start Matt was a little patronizing. I found it interesting how many times he had to be told that people would be saying/thinking bad things about Tate due to her family. He just didn't get it, not even after experiencing it a couple of times.
With that being said, I did love the story. I loved how family seemed to be the theme with this book. We know the Chase's are close, but the Murphy family put them to shame when it came to family closeness and how they closed ranks on their own.
I was surprised by the couple of times when I found tears in my eyes. When we finally heard the whole story about Tate's I had tears rolling down my face. I think the way the story was told, round robin style with a different Murphy sibling taking up the next part when the one speaking got to emotional, made it seem more real and worse. You could tell that the siblings were both grateful that Tate did what she did and had their own shame in that they couldn't do more. The horror that came from the Chase's was so real, in their world things like that didn't happen. When Cassie went to talk to Tate and crawled into her bed I found the tears rolling again.
I loved how the Chase family engulfed the Murphy's. Yes there were more Murphy's, but Polly's personality was more than enough to bull doze them over and not give them a choice.
I also really liked how things weren't all shiny happy, there were problems. Matt and Tate both coming to the same issue from very different perspectives. I liked that Tate didn't cower and run and hide, she was right there to give it back to them, she took her hurt and dealt with it in private.
The ending to this one was perfect. It really made you smile and have hope for everyone.
With that being said, I did love the story. I loved how family seemed to be the theme with this book. We know the Chase's are close, but the Murphy family put them to shame when it came to family closeness and how they closed ranks on their own.
I was surprised by the couple of times when I found tears in my eyes. When we finally heard the whole story about Tate's I had tears rolling down my face. I think the way the story was told, round robin style with a different Murphy sibling taking up the next part when the one speaking got to emotional, made it seem more real and worse. You could tell that the siblings were both grateful that Tate did what she did and had their own shame in that they couldn't do more. The horror that came from the Chase's was so real, in their world things like that didn't happen. When Cassie went to talk to Tate and crawled into her bed I found the tears rolling again.
I loved how the Chase family engulfed the Murphy's. Yes there were more Murphy's, but Polly's personality was more than enough to bull doze them over and not give them a choice.
I also really liked how things weren't all shiny happy, there were problems. Matt and Tate both coming to the same issue from very different perspectives. I liked that Tate didn't cower and run and hide, she was right there to give it back to them, she took her hurt and dealt with it in private.
The ending to this one was perfect. It really made you smile and have hope for everyone.
May 20, 2012
(May) The final installment in the Chase Brothers series. I loved Tate most of the time - great heroine. I like how LD writes her books over a period of months or longer, so the love makes sense - it's not just meet/love/marriage in two weeks. That said, there seems to be a lot of telling instead of showing in her books - and her "villains" are really over the top - I mean, really - women in their 30's harrassing someone for being poor or fat - just didn't ring true (I thought for sure the mean-girl-ring-leader (name escapes me) would turn out to be Tate biological half sister, thus explaining why mean girl hated her so much). The family is also a bit too good to be true - the brothers all are so insightful as is the father, there is an incredible amount of introspection and sharing of feelings - do men really talk like that?! Some people consider these erotic, but to me they were just normal romances. One thing I didn't get, though - Tate was able to get away from home, come up with the money to pay off her dad to take the kids, start a business (that she shared profits of with two of her sisters), help pay for groceries, college, extras, bribes to dad, etc. - I didn't realize small town hair salons were that profitable! Overall, though, I enjoyed the series.
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