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My Fault
"I realized his eyes had lost that wary look. They were the bluest blue. Bluer than my favorite coffee mug. Bluer than the Solonaise County Public Pool when it’s actually been cleaned at the beginning of the summer before all those little kids in their floaties come and pee in it." Quirky Cleo Stanton has a she's falling for the guy she ran over with her car when she should not have been driving. A devout Christian and quietly mysterious, Grayson Fox is as cute as he is kind, begrudgingly putting up with Cleo and her motor mouth. But will he ever forgive her for crushing his leg? Can she break him out of his shell? And what hilarity will ensue when the flamboyant Cleo tries to draw him out?
- GenresChristian
166 pages, Paperback
Published May 26, 2018
28 people are currently reading
15 people want to read
About the author
R.J. Conte
17 books35 followersRJ Conte has kissed only one boy in her entire life - and she married him - inspiring her to write about sweet or powerful love stories ever since. She writes issue-driven fiction that explores human nature and the depths of the soul while pointing readers to their Creator.
She writes a blog on parenting, publishing, painting, and perorating at http://blonderj.wordpress.com/
She writes a blog on parenting, publishing, painting, and perorating at http://blonderj.wordpress.com/
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Displaying 1 - 13 of 13 reviews
January 28, 2019
Not my usual genre, but I downloaded it on a whim when I saw a couple of friends share enthusiastically about it being free—and I knew the author was a Realmie so of course it was going to be good. Was scrolling through my Kindle app a couple weeks later, looking for something quick to read to cheer myself up. I randomly opened this one just to see how it started and the next thing I knew I’d read through the whole thing. XD I reeeally don’t read straight-up modern romantic comedy books so I’m way not the right audience for it, and I rarely read totally random things, but despite that and a few things I wasn’t really a fan of, I enjoyed myself and laughed aloud a couple times. It’s cheesy and dorky and geeky and funny, a fluffy rom-com at first-glance, but had some depth and heart and deeper subjects later, which really touched my heart, all mixed together with the fun. I couldn’t stop reading and I was impressed it sucked me in so well despite it not being my usual reading fare. Plus Grayson and Chloe were cute. And fandom references. (It was especially fun since I kept reading Chloe in Abbey’s voice from NCIS. XD) Will have to check out more by this author. :)
June 16, 2018
This book is adorkable and hilarious!! I love Cleo, and sweet Grayson, and Conte does a beautiful job of weaving together laugh-out-loud humor and deep, heartfelt subjects such as depression. This is one of her best books yet!
August 25, 2018
Y’all should read this
Very fun, heartwarming, crazy awesome. Try it and see, you’ll love it. It’s not always easy to be both funny and profound at the same time, to be both truly honest and lighthearted at the same time. This author pulled it off quite well.
Very fun, heartwarming, crazy awesome. Try it and see, you’ll love it. It’s not always easy to be both funny and profound at the same time, to be both truly honest and lighthearted at the same time. This author pulled it off quite well.
June 30, 2018
If you like romance and need a little facelift—as in the corners of your mouth—consider reading this witty rom-com. But Beware! “My Fault” by RJ Conte is one of those books with the power to suck readers in. In that respect, it works as a weight lift too because this book is hard to put down!
Now, let's talk mechanics. The plot was so organic, so interwoven with the gradual character transformation, it didn't call attention to itself. In that respect, this story is almost all character—but in a good way! The interactions between Cleo and Grayson had me laughing out loud, smarting empathetic tears, and willing their success.
I thoroughly enjoyed Cleo's effusive chatter as a contrast to Grayson's reserve. His enigmatic reactions—wholly delightful throughout—remained mysteriously obscured by Cleo's first person narrative. Even though I had a good guess what was coming, the gradual disclosure of Grayson's private persona—and my connection to the characters—kept me riveted.
In my opinion, the closed perspective—not only preserving the hero's mystique—also heightened the romantic impact. Listen up, ladies… We're not inside the hero's head—never quite sure what he's thinking. Instead, we experience the heroine's growing bond with the hero the way it would unfold in real life… First with uncertainty and doubt, with hope and a little risk—then sweet reciprocation in a glorious first kiss. Just say no to the brawny bad-boy cliché—these still waters run deep! (Let me tell you what I'm saying here: I seriously, seriously loved Grayson. Seriously.)
But, if you take yourself too seriously, there's a good chance you won't appreciate this book. Cleo is one of those characters who sometimes says the wrong thing but most people love her anyway. At times her admissions are shockingly honest, probably not PC, and possibly a step closer to inappropriate than some people might prefer. She has a self-described sacrilegious persona, with an irreverent humor that's not meant to be taken seriously. Personally, I wasn't offended, but the more sensitive readers may wish to take care (and peruse the free preview to guide your decision). For my part, I might've preferred fewer instances of “What the fo?”… though I did appreciate the milder language.
A few more thoughts… While the hero and heroine are both self-proclaimed Christians, the narrative never felt preachy. Maybe because the characters were imperfect—their struggles real. Naturally, the car-accident premise lent itself well to a theme of forgiveness. Again, the author relays the message with a light touch—through the characters' inner and outer journeys rather than a mentor's speech.
Overall, I enjoyed Cleo's comical narration and quirky persona. Hilarious one-liners peppered her inner monologue and kept the mood light while her darker emotions—her struggle with depression—added heartfelt depth. As someone who knows the pain of the “baby crying” in the back of my head, I appreciated the author's gentle approach. The emotions, while touching, never overpowered or oppressed. I was grateful for that.
Bottom line: It's hilarious. It's a quick read. Highly recommended for all lovers of comedy and romance. (4.8/5 stars)
Now, let's talk mechanics. The plot was so organic, so interwoven with the gradual character transformation, it didn't call attention to itself. In that respect, this story is almost all character—but in a good way! The interactions between Cleo and Grayson had me laughing out loud, smarting empathetic tears, and willing their success.
I thoroughly enjoyed Cleo's effusive chatter as a contrast to Grayson's reserve. His enigmatic reactions—wholly delightful throughout—remained mysteriously obscured by Cleo's first person narrative. Even though I had a good guess what was coming, the gradual disclosure of Grayson's private persona—and my connection to the characters—kept me riveted.
In my opinion, the closed perspective—not only preserving the hero's mystique—also heightened the romantic impact. Listen up, ladies… We're not inside the hero's head—never quite sure what he's thinking. Instead, we experience the heroine's growing bond with the hero the way it would unfold in real life… First with uncertainty and doubt, with hope and a little risk—then sweet reciprocation in a glorious first kiss. Just say no to the brawny bad-boy cliché—these still waters run deep! (Let me tell you what I'm saying here: I seriously, seriously loved Grayson. Seriously.)
But, if you take yourself too seriously, there's a good chance you won't appreciate this book. Cleo is one of those characters who sometimes says the wrong thing but most people love her anyway. At times her admissions are shockingly honest, probably not PC, and possibly a step closer to inappropriate than some people might prefer. She has a self-described sacrilegious persona, with an irreverent humor that's not meant to be taken seriously. Personally, I wasn't offended, but the more sensitive readers may wish to take care (and peruse the free preview to guide your decision). For my part, I might've preferred fewer instances of “What the fo?”… though I did appreciate the milder language.
A few more thoughts… While the hero and heroine are both self-proclaimed Christians, the narrative never felt preachy. Maybe because the characters were imperfect—their struggles real. Naturally, the car-accident premise lent itself well to a theme of forgiveness. Again, the author relays the message with a light touch—through the characters' inner and outer journeys rather than a mentor's speech.
Overall, I enjoyed Cleo's comical narration and quirky persona. Hilarious one-liners peppered her inner monologue and kept the mood light while her darker emotions—her struggle with depression—added heartfelt depth. As someone who knows the pain of the “baby crying” in the back of my head, I appreciated the author's gentle approach. The emotions, while touching, never overpowered or oppressed. I was grateful for that.
Bottom line: It's hilarious. It's a quick read. Highly recommended for all lovers of comedy and romance. (4.8/5 stars)
July 17, 2019
I randomly happened across this short KU read from R. J. Conte and snapped it up because the synopsis sounded both interesting and humorous (and who doesn’t need a little lighthearted levity once in a while?). While there was some humor, this novella didn’t quite hit the mark for me.
First, there is Cleo’s proclivity for cursing in French. Disguising curses in a foreign language (or other devices) is still cursing and it abundant use in this book was both distracting and disappointing. Yet the bigger issue for me was that I felt like I was missing an important part of the story (specifically the beginning).
With Cleo’s tendency to blurt out what’s on her mind with no filter, there are definitely some laughs. And Conte uncovers some deeper issues in both character’s lives while expressing the forgiveness and grace given to God’s children.
In the acknowledgements, Conte mentions this was her first Christian fiction story, so I’m interested in finding out what comes next and watch the authors growth in the genre.
First, there is Cleo’s proclivity for cursing in French. Disguising curses in a foreign language (or other devices) is still cursing and it abundant use in this book was both distracting and disappointing. Yet the bigger issue for me was that I felt like I was missing an important part of the story (specifically the beginning).
With Cleo’s tendency to blurt out what’s on her mind with no filter, there are definitely some laughs. And Conte uncovers some deeper issues in both character’s lives while expressing the forgiveness and grace given to God’s children.
In the acknowledgements, Conte mentions this was her first Christian fiction story, so I’m interested in finding out what comes next and watch the authors growth in the genre.
July 5, 2018
☺☺☺☺☺
I loved this book. Cleo is a terrific character, both from her sense of fun and her faith and from her thought processes. Grayson is also a good character, with nice complexity, and while the plot isn't too involved the execution is really smooth. A fast paced and very enjoyable read.
I loved this book. Cleo is a terrific character, both from her sense of fun and her faith and from her thought processes. Grayson is also a good character, with nice complexity, and while the plot isn't too involved the execution is really smooth. A fast paced and very enjoyable read.
July 1, 2018
A sweet read with deeper meaning
Cleo and Grayson have secrets. Cleo confessed hers, and Grayson keeps his. An enjoyable quick read with spiritual depth that tackles tough topics.
Cleo and Grayson have secrets. Cleo confessed hers, and Grayson keeps his. An enjoyable quick read with spiritual depth that tackles tough topics.
November 18, 2018
This was the craziest, zany, off the wall book I have ever read. The ending had a twist that I never expected. 'Dealing with anyone with a brain like the heroine's would make my brain explode and I can't say that I enjoyed the story. I very nearly quit reading halfway but hated to waste the time had already invested.
January 28, 2019
Charming, with a surprise twist
I loved the voice of the main character and her unusual journey in this story. I didn’t see the surprise twist at the end coming (kudos for that) and deeply appreciated the thoughtful portrayal of depression and mental illness.
I loved the voice of the main character and her unusual journey in this story. I didn’t see the surprise twist at the end coming (kudos for that) and deeply appreciated the thoughtful portrayal of depression and mental illness.
June 14, 2018
Cute and silly romantic novella. It was unique and different which is always a big plus. I liked the two main characters and enjoyed reading their story.
November 22, 2018
My Fault by R. J. Conte is a fun geeky romantic comedy. This short novel has a lot to offer, including insight into depression, and how our actions effect others.
January 26, 2019
Very unique voice.
A fun and unique story. I really enjoyed the bit about depression- it was such a clever and accurate description. I also enjoyed the characterizations!
A fun and unique story. I really enjoyed the bit about depression- it was such a clever and accurate description. I also enjoyed the characterizations!
May 15, 2019
Loved it
Such a large plot twist! I think anyone who reads this book will love it! Really didn’t see the plot twist coming :)
Such a large plot twist! I think anyone who reads this book will love it! Really didn’t see the plot twist coming :)
Displaying 1 - 13 of 13 reviews