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Pepper Jones #3
Pepped Up & Ready
Senior year is finally here, and with it comes a surge in my competitive spirit. I’m determined to defend my national cross-country title. Although Jace is busy with the demands of college football, he’s still cheering me on and supporting my goals. With him by my side and my drive focused like never before, I’m ready to take on the world. But am I taking my renewed enthusiasm for training too far?
As Jace and I focus on our athletic ambitions, we discover that his social status has followed him to college, despite attempts to keep a low profile. With my boyfriend as the campus idol, I fear that I might just be a target to those who find Jace threatening.
Tests and trials lay before us, not just on the trails and field. Are we strong enough to withstand the pressures of everyone wanting something from us? It won’t be easy fighting for my title and my boyfriend, at the same time, but nothing easy is worth winning… or keeping.
As Jace and I focus on our athletic ambitions, we discover that his social status has followed him to college, despite attempts to keep a low profile. With my boyfriend as the campus idol, I fear that I might just be a target to those who find Jace threatening.
Tests and trials lay before us, not just on the trails and field. Are we strong enough to withstand the pressures of everyone wanting something from us? It won’t be easy fighting for my title and my boyfriend, at the same time, but nothing easy is worth winning… or keeping.
Unknown Binding
First published May 28, 2015
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477 people want to read
About the author
Ali Dean
47 books1,024 followersAli is a USA Today Bestselling author of sports romance. She has always loved to read, especially when there's a happily ever after, but found that there weren't enough books out there featuring girl athletes. So, she decided to work on that. Like the heroines in her books, Ali is an athlete, with running and skiing her favorite sports these days. Ali hails from Vermont and now lives in her own happily-ever-after in Colorado with her husband, two sets of twins, and golden retriever Pancake. When she's not pursuing an outdoor adventure, Ali's less healthy passions include ice cream, coffee, and beer.
Get to know Ali Dean by following her on any of her social media and author links below.
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Get to know Ali Dean by following her on any of her social media and author links below.
www.alideanfiction.com
www.facebook.com/alideanfiction
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www.instagram.com/alideanfiction
www.bookbub.com/profile/ali-dean
www.pinterest.com/alidean750
Sign up for Ali's newsletter and receive free short stories as a welcome gift! https://www.subscribepage.com/alidean...
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 106 reviews
June 16, 2016
This dragged for me in areas, and I felt quite bored a few times, but it was an okay read overall.
January 8, 2017
I understand everybody has ups and downs in a relationship. What I don't get is why Pepper and Jace constantly have to have outside influences determine the course of their relationship. In this book, it's a crazy female who stalked and physically assaulted Pepper. I get that he's popular, charismatic and gorgeous, but it's a little bit over-the-top and redundant. He's not Prince Harry, for goodness sake!
The drug-dealing side plot does not add any substance to the story. It just seems it's being rehashed with Wes in this book. I feel Wes is hung up on Pepper, but it's never directly talked about by anyone. I don't understand why this plot point is being dragged out. I also think the author is trying to incorporate too many things in this series. Drug dealing, Pepper's quest to get a scholarship, Wes' moodiness, Jace's college career, the peripheral characters stories. I really love Zoe and Bunny. I would love to have a grand parent /parent raise me in such a loving home.
If the books were over 400 pages, I could see her effectively adding the subplots, but the books are not that long and they seem to wrap up too hastily at the end without a satisfying conclusion.
Again, Pepper is not someone I like and have deep empathy for. She seems naive, emotional and doesn't think twice about the drug dealing. I would have been more upset if my friend or boyfriend were drug dealing and bringing that element around me.
I love the running aspects of this story along with the fact that everybody moves on each year, which is true to life.
I want to love this book series, but I don't. I think Jace's POV would help. I'm not sure if I'm going to pay for books 4 and 5.
Again, the first book Is $0.99, second and third books are free on Kindle Unlimited. Books four and five will cost you money.
Happy reading!
The drug-dealing side plot does not add any substance to the story. It just seems it's being rehashed with Wes in this book. I feel Wes is hung up on Pepper, but it's never directly talked about by anyone. I don't understand why this plot point is being dragged out. I also think the author is trying to incorporate too many things in this series. Drug dealing, Pepper's quest to get a scholarship, Wes' moodiness, Jace's college career, the peripheral characters stories. I really love Zoe and Bunny. I would love to have a grand parent /parent raise me in such a loving home.
If the books were over 400 pages, I could see her effectively adding the subplots, but the books are not that long and they seem to wrap up too hastily at the end without a satisfying conclusion.
Again, Pepper is not someone I like and have deep empathy for. She seems naive, emotional and doesn't think twice about the drug dealing. I would have been more upset if my friend or boyfriend were drug dealing and bringing that element around me.
I love the running aspects of this story along with the fact that everybody moves on each year, which is true to life.
I want to love this book series, but I don't. I think Jace's POV would help. I'm not sure if I'm going to pay for books 4 and 5.
Again, the first book Is $0.99, second and third books are free on Kindle Unlimited. Books four and five will cost you money.
Happy reading!
December 23, 2018
”Love is a powerful thing, but self-preservation is as well. It’s not always easy getting what you want, and sometimes it means taking risks. Sometimes it takes patience. And sometimes, I think, as I kiss Jace for the hundredth time that night, it all pays off. Sometimes we get exactly what we want.”
Man... this one was absolutely incredible! I was tense the whole time the whole time always expecting the worst.
The development kept me on edge the whole time. It was an amazing read. The series is incredible and I’m loving it more and more.
Also, I love Zoe. She’s great!
Off to Pep Talks! 😍
September 14, 2019
Audiobook Review:
Pepped Up and Ready (Pepoer Jones, Book 3) continues to keep my arrest. Everything isn't always sweetness and light, coming of age angst continues to be a thorn in side. The writing style is arresting, character's are full-fledged, and no inconsistency in the narrative.
Narator Stacey Glemboski continues to impress with her performance. Her rendition imbue's all the right ingredients to create a jubilant listen.
🎧 Audiobook Obsession 🎧
Pepped Up and Ready (Pepoer Jones, Book 3) continues to keep my arrest. Everything isn't always sweetness and light, coming of age angst continues to be a thorn in side. The writing style is arresting, character's are full-fledged, and no inconsistency in the narrative.
Narator Stacey Glemboski continues to impress with her performance. Her rendition imbue's all the right ingredients to create a jubilant listen.
🎧 Audiobook Obsession 🎧
September 19, 2015
Full review and more at
http://bookplusheart.weebly.com/conte...
Ali Dean did it again! The Pepper Jones series is just getting better. Pepper and Jace are put to the test and it is a scary one at that. If you like sports YA fiction, this is the series you will not be able to put down. As a reader, from the eyes of Pepper, you are not sure who is a friend or a frenemy. You must read Pepped Up and All Pepped Up before reading this book. Cannot wait for the next part in the series.
I received an ARC of Pepped up and Ready. The following has spoilers.
http://bookplusheart.weebly.com/conte...
Ali Dean did it again! The Pepper Jones series is just getting better. Pepper and Jace are put to the test and it is a scary one at that. If you like sports YA fiction, this is the series you will not be able to put down. As a reader, from the eyes of Pepper, you are not sure who is a friend or a frenemy. You must read Pepped Up and All Pepped Up before reading this book. Cannot wait for the next part in the series.
I received an ARC of Pepped up and Ready. The following has spoilers.
August 19, 2015
This review was originally posted on [Between My Lines]
When I started this book, my heart sunk a bit as Pepper was doing all kinds of crazy training. I knew why she went down this route and I could even understand it a little but I was just waiting for the inevitable crash and burn. As much as my heart hurt watching Pepper do this to herself though I also loved the angle this story took as it felt so realistic. Athletes do push themselves and their competitive edge can blind sight them and I felt this was so well captured here.
Pepper and Jace are also put though the mill relationship wise in this one. They have all kinds of pressure to deal with and there is a little bit of crazy drama-rama going on which I wasn’t a huge fan of.
But despite that I still enjoyed this one a lot. It still remains heavily focused on the running theme and that keeps me reading happily.
When I started this book, my heart sunk a bit as Pepper was doing all kinds of crazy training. I knew why she went down this route and I could even understand it a little but I was just waiting for the inevitable crash and burn. As much as my heart hurt watching Pepper do this to herself though I also loved the angle this story took as it felt so realistic. Athletes do push themselves and their competitive edge can blind sight them and I felt this was so well captured here.
Pepper and Jace are also put though the mill relationship wise in this one. They have all kinds of pressure to deal with and there is a little bit of crazy drama-rama going on which I wasn’t a huge fan of.
But despite that I still enjoyed this one a lot. It still remains heavily focused on the running theme and that keeps me reading happily.
May 16, 2015
This series gets better and better! I fell in love with Jace and Pepper two books ago and I still adore their sweet childhood friendship turned romance stories.
In book 3, we get to see Jace and Pepper's relationship challenged. They face many obstacles as Jace goes to college and Pepper trains for another track season. Pepper really matures as a character in this book. I think Ali has done a great job of developing the characters and showing how they grow from high schoolers to adults.
Pepper is just as relatable in this book as she is in previous ones. I love her relationship with her grandma Bunny and her friends. There is really so much to love about these books and I can't wait for the fourth book!
*I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
In book 3, we get to see Jace and Pepper's relationship challenged. They face many obstacles as Jace goes to college and Pepper trains for another track season. Pepper really matures as a character in this book. I think Ali has done a great job of developing the characters and showing how they grow from high schoolers to adults.
Pepper is just as relatable in this book as she is in previous ones. I love her relationship with her grandma Bunny and her friends. There is really so much to love about these books and I can't wait for the fourth book!
*I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
May 28, 2015
I never never thought that Ali Dean could write a third book that could live up to the first two in the pepper jones series, I was proved wrong. Pepped up and ready brings back all they characters we love. For anyone who loves Zoe or Wes, you will be eager to finish this book. Jace and Pepper continue to grow in their relationship, as we learn more about Their athletics and goals for the future. The couple still struggles with all the jealous girls, one almost as bad as Madison. I stayed up all night to finish this, as I did with the other Pepper Jones books. Will Jace and Peppers relationship be able to withstand all the people that are rooting against them?
* I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review
* I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review
June 23, 2015
The third book in the Pepper Jones series is AMAZING! Ali hit it out of the park with this one. In the 3rd book, Pepper has to deal with relationship problems, racing problems, and a mysterious stalker, but the most important thing is she rediscovers herself in the racing world. But will Pepper get through all these obstacles and still have time to spend with her HOTTIE college boyfriend,Jace?
Love this book! Ali keep up the GREAT work!! :)
Love this book! Ali keep up the GREAT work!! :)
December 5, 2018
Terrific third book in a compelling YA/NA sports romance series
This YA/NA romance is the third book in a six-book series about Pepper Jones and Jace Wilder, whom we have previously encountered in book 1, PEPPED UP, and book 2, ALL PEPPED UP. None of the books in this series are stand-alone, and it is recommended that they be read in order. Note that this review will be a spoiler for books 1 and 2 if you have not read them yet.
It is Pepper's senior year in high school in Brockton, a small, mountain city near Denver, Colorado, which has an altitude of 6000 feet. It is Jace's freshman year at the University of Colorado in Denver, and he is living in a dormitory dedicated to scholarship athletes. At the start of the book, their romantic relationship is going strong. Jace has moved beyond his wild, "bad boy" days of heavy drinking, drug use and promiscuity in high school and has become downright straight-laced within his committed relationship with Pepper. Pepper herself was never much for drinking, has never taken drugs and, in spite of her romantically intense relationship with Jace, and staying overnight with him in his dorm room multiple times every week, she is still a virgin at the start of the book. Jace is determined to not push her into any intimacy that she herself does not feel fully ready to engage in.
Pepper stopped drinking any alcohol at all at the beginning of the summer after her junior year, and has drastically ramped up her training all through the summer months and into the fall. She is determined to keep improving her athletic skills in order to reach her full potential as a runner. Her main goal is to duplicate in her final year in high school the National Champion win she achieved near the end of her junior year. However, Pepper has not confided in her coach that she is going against his advice. If she were to admit to him that she has doubled her training efforts, he would have warned her that she is massively going overboard and risking injury. For a while, it seems as if Pepper is right in believing that her coach is too conservative. She feels incredibly strong and powerful due to all her extra training, and she wins a race with the best time she's ever achieved. But when pain starts in her shins and gradually gets worse, until it becomes too agonizing to ignore, she realizes her coach was right, and she has put her entire running future at risk.
On top of Pepper's emotional roller coaster with her self-created running injury, she finds herself the focus of spitefully jealous, beautiful young women at the university. They are bitterly envious of her relationship with Jace, the gorgeous, star quarterback of the university football team, to the point that Pepper begins to feel threatened. She's already had one beautiful vixen trying to break up her and Jace last year (in book 2). Is this going to be a perpetual issue in her relationship with him? If so, Pepper begins to wonder if she is emotionally strong enough to be Jace's girlfriend.
This third book in the series is as excellent as the first two. As with the previous books, I found this story so riveting, I could not stand to put it down after I started it, and I read it straight through in one day. I greatly enjoy YA/NA sports romances where the heroine is an elite athlete, especially when the author keeps a strong balance between the romance and the heroine's struggles with her sport. Once again, as in the first two books of this series, talented author, Ali Dean, has brilliantly managed this challenging artistic accomplishment. She is exceptionally skilled at writing fascinating scenes featuring Pepper's training and competitions as a champion runner, and she is extremely effective at writing romance as well.
Pepper continues to be a very sympathetic heroine, both as an athlete and in her relationships. She is a compassionate and loyal friend and a loving granddaughter to Bunny Jones, her affectionate, supportive and quirky, seventy-something, paternal grandmother, who has raised her since her parents died when Pepper was very young.
Jace continues to be a very appealing hero as well. In this book, he is affectionate and protective of Pepper, and none of the romantic conflict in their relationship is due to flaws within his character, but rather due to the actions of other antagonists.
In this book, after over a year of being together, Pepper and Jace finally consummate their relationship fully but, as in the previous books, there is no graphic sexual activity. The sexual chemistry between this attractive couple remains very strong, however. Which is always a vital feature of any well written romance novel.
This book is best suited for adults and older teens because of a realistic portrayal of underage drinking and drunkenness and underage sex (though none of it is graphic). There is some relatively minor occurrence of off-color language.
I rate this book as follows:
Heroine: 5 stars
Romantic Hero: 5 stars
Subcharacters: 5 stars
Setting: 5 stars
Girl-Power Sports Plot: 5 stars
Writing: 5 stars
Overall: 5 stars
This YA/NA romance is the third book in a six-book series about Pepper Jones and Jace Wilder, whom we have previously encountered in book 1, PEPPED UP, and book 2, ALL PEPPED UP. None of the books in this series are stand-alone, and it is recommended that they be read in order. Note that this review will be a spoiler for books 1 and 2 if you have not read them yet.
It is Pepper's senior year in high school in Brockton, a small, mountain city near Denver, Colorado, which has an altitude of 6000 feet. It is Jace's freshman year at the University of Colorado in Denver, and he is living in a dormitory dedicated to scholarship athletes. At the start of the book, their romantic relationship is going strong. Jace has moved beyond his wild, "bad boy" days of heavy drinking, drug use and promiscuity in high school and has become downright straight-laced within his committed relationship with Pepper. Pepper herself was never much for drinking, has never taken drugs and, in spite of her romantically intense relationship with Jace, and staying overnight with him in his dorm room multiple times every week, she is still a virgin at the start of the book. Jace is determined to not push her into any intimacy that she herself does not feel fully ready to engage in.
Pepper stopped drinking any alcohol at all at the beginning of the summer after her junior year, and has drastically ramped up her training all through the summer months and into the fall. She is determined to keep improving her athletic skills in order to reach her full potential as a runner. Her main goal is to duplicate in her final year in high school the National Champion win she achieved near the end of her junior year. However, Pepper has not confided in her coach that she is going against his advice. If she were to admit to him that she has doubled her training efforts, he would have warned her that she is massively going overboard and risking injury. For a while, it seems as if Pepper is right in believing that her coach is too conservative. She feels incredibly strong and powerful due to all her extra training, and she wins a race with the best time she's ever achieved. But when pain starts in her shins and gradually gets worse, until it becomes too agonizing to ignore, she realizes her coach was right, and she has put her entire running future at risk.
On top of Pepper's emotional roller coaster with her self-created running injury, she finds herself the focus of spitefully jealous, beautiful young women at the university. They are bitterly envious of her relationship with Jace, the gorgeous, star quarterback of the university football team, to the point that Pepper begins to feel threatened. She's already had one beautiful vixen trying to break up her and Jace last year (in book 2). Is this going to be a perpetual issue in her relationship with him? If so, Pepper begins to wonder if she is emotionally strong enough to be Jace's girlfriend.
This third book in the series is as excellent as the first two. As with the previous books, I found this story so riveting, I could not stand to put it down after I started it, and I read it straight through in one day. I greatly enjoy YA/NA sports romances where the heroine is an elite athlete, especially when the author keeps a strong balance between the romance and the heroine's struggles with her sport. Once again, as in the first two books of this series, talented author, Ali Dean, has brilliantly managed this challenging artistic accomplishment. She is exceptionally skilled at writing fascinating scenes featuring Pepper's training and competitions as a champion runner, and she is extremely effective at writing romance as well.
Pepper continues to be a very sympathetic heroine, both as an athlete and in her relationships. She is a compassionate and loyal friend and a loving granddaughter to Bunny Jones, her affectionate, supportive and quirky, seventy-something, paternal grandmother, who has raised her since her parents died when Pepper was very young.
Jace continues to be a very appealing hero as well. In this book, he is affectionate and protective of Pepper, and none of the romantic conflict in their relationship is due to flaws within his character, but rather due to the actions of other antagonists.
In this book, after over a year of being together, Pepper and Jace finally consummate their relationship fully but, as in the previous books, there is no graphic sexual activity. The sexual chemistry between this attractive couple remains very strong, however. Which is always a vital feature of any well written romance novel.
This book is best suited for adults and older teens because of a realistic portrayal of underage drinking and drunkenness and underage sex (though none of it is graphic). There is some relatively minor occurrence of off-color language.
I rate this book as follows:
Heroine: 5 stars
Romantic Hero: 5 stars
Subcharacters: 5 stars
Setting: 5 stars
Girl-Power Sports Plot: 5 stars
Writing: 5 stars
Overall: 5 stars
September 28, 2024
It would be better if we got Jace's pov too so we could understand his character better. I just can't seem to like him and his character feels very bland. Granted the series is about Pepper and I did like her in the first 2 books but now she just seems so naive and impulsive. And the OW drama with Jace is starting to get ridiculous because he's so young and so many girls lusting over him and attacking Pepper for being his gf everytime isn't making sense to ne.
March 18, 2022
College definitely changes things for these two in this book. Subplots got a little confusing but there’s something about this couple that keeps me reading.
June 22, 2019
This wasn't a bad read. It was your typical YA read. In this Pepper is being targeted. It's taking a toll on her and Jace's relationship. He is now in college and can't always be there for her. However, in the end they get it all figured out.
July 21, 2020
Pepper's stuck in high school while her boyfriend heads off to college, but lucky for them, campus is just down the road. However, all the pressures of being a senior, a sports star, and Jace's girlfriend are taking their toll, and before she knows it, Pepper's facing injuries and more jealous girls who seem far too interested in her boyfriend.
But... A common problem with a series that focuses on just one couple throughout is that there needs to be fresh drama in each new telling. In the first book of this series, the basic drama was that Pepper loved Jace but (at least for a while) couldn't have him. In the second book, the drama was brought on by mean girls jealous of Pepper's rather solid relationship with Jace. Typical high school stuff. But in this book,
The Verdict: Okay, so you know I'm not thrilled about the whole stalker thing. Some might call that a spoiler, but I'm just going to call it a giant cliche warning. Moving on…
Pepper's matured a bit since the beginning of the first book, and now in her last year of high school, she's dealing with Jace being off at college. There's pressure from so many things — pressure to get into a college, pressure to decide which college, pressure to medal in cross country, pressure to somehow hang on to Jace who's now the big man on a new campus filled with older, more experienced girls. It's standard stuff for that age, but that doesn't make it any easier to navigate. It also nearly ruins her when it comes to sports.
Pepper's been pushing herself for far too long, determined to live up to all the hype of her previous wins and land herself a good spot at the same college that Jace is attending. While any relationship split between high school and college has its challenges, they've got one big thing in their favor — Jace is only a few minutes' drive away. He now lives on campus, but he's so close that Pepper can see him every day if needed, so they don't face the same long-distance mess that many their age face. And Jace, for his part, is incredibly devoted to Pepper.
Pepper, however, has really screwed herself up. A little pain in her shins has progressively gotten worse, to the point that she's removed from running altogether and has to go through plenty of healing in order to get back on the trail again. It couldn't happen at a worse time, either, since it's right in the middle of visits to colleges looking to recruit her. And as if that isn't bad enough, it seems someone is out to get her.
The relationship between these two remains solid while heading into a bit more mature territory. Yes, they eventually end up in bed together, and while the scenes aren't terribly graphic (at least compared to a lot I read), I think it takes this into older teen reading territory. Fortunately, the story doesn't become all about sex and happily ever after; it's actually just a pretty accurate look into the heart of a girl leaving high school behind, and I like that even though we've hit the third book, the characters haven't completely changed.
The first two books in this series are fantastic, and this third one is pretty good as well, despite the out-of-place stalker bit. I'm not sure yet if I'll be grabbing the fourth book when it comes out, simply because I don't want the story to go even more overboard with another romance novel cliche — like a pregnancy scare or something. But we'll see. This far in, I might just think it's worth a shot.
September 22, 2019
I received this book for an honest review from the author. Thank you, Ali Dean.
I read the first book and the second book of this series. You can read my review of the first book here and the second book here.
Pepped up and ready is the third book in series Pepper Jones by Ali Dean. In this book, Pepper and Jace are together and they are ready for another challenge because Jace is at college and things are changing. Pepper is scared for their relationship because they can’t see each other every day.
Both of them are busy with school and they are focused on their athletic career and they have things to prove and goals to touch.
Because Pepper wants to defend her national cross country title and wants to be in the same college as Jace, she made the mistake to push herself much harder than necessary and she was removed from running. Jace supported and loved her through this challenge.
The relationship between Jace and Pepper is beautiful but in this book, their love was put to the test and they realized that they are strong together and they love each other too much to give up on each other. They didn’t let the actions of other people to affect their relationship.
I really liked this book and can’t wait to read the next book in this series.
I read the first book and the second book of this series. You can read my review of the first book here and the second book here.
Pepped up and ready is the third book in series Pepper Jones by Ali Dean. In this book, Pepper and Jace are together and they are ready for another challenge because Jace is at college and things are changing. Pepper is scared for their relationship because they can’t see each other every day.
Both of them are busy with school and they are focused on their athletic career and they have things to prove and goals to touch.
Because Pepper wants to defend her national cross country title and wants to be in the same college as Jace, she made the mistake to push herself much harder than necessary and she was removed from running. Jace supported and loved her through this challenge.
The relationship between Jace and Pepper is beautiful but in this book, their love was put to the test and they realized that they are strong together and they love each other too much to give up on each other. They didn’t let the actions of other people to affect their relationship.
I really liked this book and can’t wait to read the next book in this series.
August 21, 2015
CUMULATIVE RATING (Books 1-3): 4 STARS
**Books 1-3 of this series were sent to me in exchange for my honest review**
The Pepper Jones series follows the life of a young track athlete named Pepper Jones and her life as a teenage girl trying to navigate her time through high school, her struggle with her feelings for her best friend, and her potential athletic career. This series is a ton of high school and teenaged drama that, quite frankly, isn't my cup of tea -- BUT I found myself seeing the charm from witnessing the growth and development of Pepper as a young woman.
I really enjoyed that the series was one continuous story. The small gaps of time between each book didn't bear any huge significance on the story other than demonstrating that the main characters of Pepper and Jace (her best friend/crush) were progressing through time and growing up. It allowed for believable character development and decent plot progression.
The various points of drama throughout the book, from the reappearance of Jace's mother to Pepper struggling with her feelings for Jace to dealing with classmates and/or so-called friends' betrayals, really were the carrying points of the series. There were times when Pepper's character seemed a bit stagnant and, to be honest, quite annoying. She's definitely a quiet, unstable strong, but she a strong girl nonetheless, even though, I think that Jace plays a big role in bringing that out of her.
Pepper's character was a bit of a three steps forward, two steps back experience for me. And she was incredibly naive. None of these things are bad -- they just annoyed me, personally. Ali Dean did a great job in keeping me interested in the story, even though I was annoyed about 40% of the time. But I always say that if an author can't piss me off, then something's not being done correctly. I really like being able to feel all kinds of emotions while reading -- and I can confidently say that this series brought a lot out of me. Especially as I got deeper into the series.
If I had to rank the books, I say that book 2 (All Pepped Up) is my favorite and book 3 and book 1 follow close behind. Book 2, in my opinion, took me on a really journey of learning more about Jace and why he was the way that he was. But it also allowed me to see a side of Pepper that didn't annoy me. She began to experience a few things that really made her grow as a character.
Overall, I had a good time with these three books. And I think there's another one after book 3, so... I must get my hands on it!
**Books 1-3 of this series were sent to me in exchange for my honest review**
The Pepper Jones series follows the life of a young track athlete named Pepper Jones and her life as a teenage girl trying to navigate her time through high school, her struggle with her feelings for her best friend, and her potential athletic career. This series is a ton of high school and teenaged drama that, quite frankly, isn't my cup of tea -- BUT I found myself seeing the charm from witnessing the growth and development of Pepper as a young woman.
I really enjoyed that the series was one continuous story. The small gaps of time between each book didn't bear any huge significance on the story other than demonstrating that the main characters of Pepper and Jace (her best friend/crush) were progressing through time and growing up. It allowed for believable character development and decent plot progression.
The various points of drama throughout the book, from the reappearance of Jace's mother to Pepper struggling with her feelings for Jace to dealing with classmates and/or so-called friends' betrayals, really were the carrying points of the series. There were times when Pepper's character seemed a bit stagnant and, to be honest, quite annoying. She's definitely a quiet, unstable strong, but she a strong girl nonetheless, even though, I think that Jace plays a big role in bringing that out of her.
Pepper's character was a bit of a three steps forward, two steps back experience for me. And she was incredibly naive. None of these things are bad -- they just annoyed me, personally. Ali Dean did a great job in keeping me interested in the story, even though I was annoyed about 40% of the time. But I always say that if an author can't piss me off, then something's not being done correctly. I really like being able to feel all kinds of emotions while reading -- and I can confidently say that this series brought a lot out of me. Especially as I got deeper into the series.
If I had to rank the books, I say that book 2 (All Pepped Up) is my favorite and book 3 and book 1 follow close behind. Book 2, in my opinion, took me on a really journey of learning more about Jace and why he was the way that he was. But it also allowed me to see a side of Pepper that didn't annoy me. She began to experience a few things that really made her grow as a character.
Overall, I had a good time with these three books. And I think there's another one after book 3, so... I must get my hands on it!
June 7, 2015
So Disappointing!!!
I had such high hopes because I did enjoy the first two, but this one just fell flat for me. Firstly, it was most about just Pepper, not Pepper & Jace. Pepper training too hard, Pepper being injured, someone is after Pepper, etc....Second, the part about someone being after Pepper just seemed so forced & really far fetched! And that Pepper lets that keep her away from Jace and consider possibly not being with him anymore because of it. Again, far fetched, and just dumb! I didn't enjoy the story line at all, and there were just not enough warm and fuzzies between Pepper & Jace to keep it interesting. It needed to include more Jace. Maybe a dual pov? Bottom line, there was too much subplot for me. I wanted to read about Jace & Pepper, what I got was Pepper' s running life... Pepper worries about running injuries, Pepper training for running, Pepper rehabbing for her running injuries......this is a romance right, not Runners Weekly?
Not a recommend for me.
I had such high hopes because I did enjoy the first two, but this one just fell flat for me. Firstly, it was most about just Pepper, not Pepper & Jace. Pepper training too hard, Pepper being injured, someone is after Pepper, etc....Second, the part about someone being after Pepper just seemed so forced & really far fetched! And that Pepper lets that keep her away from Jace and consider possibly not being with him anymore because of it. Again, far fetched, and just dumb! I didn't enjoy the story line at all, and there were just not enough warm and fuzzies between Pepper & Jace to keep it interesting. It needed to include more Jace. Maybe a dual pov? Bottom line, there was too much subplot for me. I wanted to read about Jace & Pepper, what I got was Pepper' s running life... Pepper worries about running injuries, Pepper training for running, Pepper rehabbing for her running injuries......this is a romance right, not Runners Weekly?
Not a recommend for me.
March 20, 2016
I was so happy when I found out there was another Pepper Jones book and I was not disappointed. In this book Pepper is struggle with a lot of different issues - physical and mental. She has to work quite hard to maintain that level of determination that I love in her and endears her to me so much. There are also growing pains as she adjusts to many changes and challenges: Will she be able to live up to standard of being national champion? Will she and Jace be able to maintain their relationship with her in high school and him at college? Will she be strong enough to be his girlfriend with the "fame" that surrounds him as the UC quarterback? Will she be able to earn an athletic scholarship and to where? There really is a lot going on in the girl's life and Dean gives us a little mystery just to keep us on our toes. The best part, though? The end, when Ali Dean said there would be another book this summer. I loved catching up with Pep and Jace and cannot wait!
May 29, 2015
Loved this book! The series just keeps getting better and better with each book. I could not put the book down and already cannot wait for the next in the series. So much fun to read.
May 30, 2015
As usual, amazing!!
I can't get enough of this series! I love reading them. Great writing and story telling!! I can't wait for the next book!
I can't get enough of this series! I love reading them. Great writing and story telling!! I can't wait for the next book!
August 12, 2015
Pepper for the win! Good series so far. Well developed main characters. Love the dynamics between Pepper, Jace, and Wes. And Gran needs her story told, feel like that would be a winner.
February 29, 2016
3.5 Stars
August 29, 2016
While the book was interesting and I still like reading about Pepper and Jace, I felt there was a lot of crazy in this book. I still want to continue the series though.
September 7, 2019
Loving Every Word of this Amazing Series🎧 Fantastic Audible Listen🎧
Pepped Up and Ready
Pepper Jones, Book 3
By: Ali Dean
Narrated by: Stacey Glemboski
This is a fantastic story and audible listen🎧I have been devouring and loving every book in this series. Ali Dean continues her momentum on delivering storylines that are interesting and completely engrossing. In this third book, Pepper is a senior in HS and Jace is a freshman in college. He lives off campus only minutes away from Pepper so they see each other often and their relationship is as strong as ever. Jace’s popularity continues to flourish which causes more trouble for Pepper. In addition to that Pepper faces other challenges, she worked herself to hard and finds herself paying the price. Will she get in to her dream college and stay close to Jace and Bunny or did she jeopardize her chance? The big plus is the mean girls are gone so there is less H.S drama but the drama is not over for Pepper and Jace, this time it comes from the college scene. I loved how responsible and focused Jace was in this book, he seems to have matured and is doing well in school, his game and with Pepper. Pepper also comes into her own too, rising above injury and doing what she set out to do, win. Ali Dean, thanks again for these awesome books and series.
I listened to the Audible edition, narrated by the fabulous Stacey Glemboski who continues to bring these characters and their story to life. She is a talented voice performer and an entertaining storyteller. Thank you for another awesome listen🎧
Thank you 🎧@AudiobookObsession #AudiobookObsession #AudiobookObsessionReviewer🎧
Pepped Up and Ready
Pepper Jones, Book 3
By: Ali Dean
Narrated by: Stacey Glemboski
This is a fantastic story and audible listen🎧I have been devouring and loving every book in this series. Ali Dean continues her momentum on delivering storylines that are interesting and completely engrossing. In this third book, Pepper is a senior in HS and Jace is a freshman in college. He lives off campus only minutes away from Pepper so they see each other often and their relationship is as strong as ever. Jace’s popularity continues to flourish which causes more trouble for Pepper. In addition to that Pepper faces other challenges, she worked herself to hard and finds herself paying the price. Will she get in to her dream college and stay close to Jace and Bunny or did she jeopardize her chance? The big plus is the mean girls are gone so there is less H.S drama but the drama is not over for Pepper and Jace, this time it comes from the college scene. I loved how responsible and focused Jace was in this book, he seems to have matured and is doing well in school, his game and with Pepper. Pepper also comes into her own too, rising above injury and doing what she set out to do, win. Ali Dean, thanks again for these awesome books and series.
I listened to the Audible edition, narrated by the fabulous Stacey Glemboski who continues to bring these characters and their story to life. She is a talented voice performer and an entertaining storyteller. Thank you for another awesome listen🎧
Thank you 🎧@AudiobookObsession #AudiobookObsession #AudiobookObsessionReviewer🎧
January 26, 2019
I really wanted to like this one. I devoured the first book within hours, I loved it! The 2nd one was good as well! This one was... tough to get through. This book felt so repetitive and like I was reading part of the 2nd book all over again with a more outrageous over the top plot with just extra characters added. Also this book was mainly focused on Pepper and her running and I feel like her and Jace avoided one another more than they were with each other. Also I don’t see why Jace & Wes are so amazing that everyone is so obsessed with them and are in shock when they hang out with Pepper... I mean she’s only dating Jace, how weird for them to be hanging out 🙄
I feel like Pepper and Jace are both over the top characters who need a lot of editing.
Other Reasons I didn’t like this book:
1. Jace & Wes are half brothers.. we know this from book 2 and because it was mentioned only... oh I don’t know 21 times in this book alone (accurate # per kindle X-Ray)
2. First Wolfe tried to take her to a pool house to do “something” and now she has a stalker? And all just because she’s dating Jace.
3. The phrase “He is Jace Wilder” is only used in every other chapter, describing Jaces popularity level.
4. How many times do we have to be reminded that Wes & Jace were once drug dealers but no longer are?
5. Why do random people always seem to have some random agenda concerning Pepper , JUST to get to Jace.
I feel like Pepper and Jace are both over the top characters who need a lot of editing.
Other Reasons I didn’t like this book:
1. Jace & Wes are half brothers.. we know this from book 2 and because it was mentioned only... oh I don’t know 21 times in this book alone (accurate # per kindle X-Ray)
2. First Wolfe tried to take her to a pool house to do “something” and now she has a stalker? And all just because she’s dating Jace.
3. The phrase “He is Jace Wilder” is only used in every other chapter, describing Jaces popularity level.
4. How many times do we have to be reminded that Wes & Jace were once drug dealers but no longer are?
5. Why do random people always seem to have some random agenda concerning Pepper , JUST to get to Jace.
June 17, 2019
*** I voluntarily reviewed this after receiving a free copy.***
Well I didn't think that this series could have gotten any better, but I was wrong!! Geez, Ali Dean knows how to write a story. Pepper Jones' story is one to tell. I mean she is one tough chick. The emotional rollercoaster seams to ease up a bit because she now knows what to expect when dating Jace Wilder, but sometimes knowing isn't enough. With her still in high school finishing up her senior year and Jace being a freshman in college is tough for them. At times I felt that she hasn't seen that she is all he needs to get through his days. She fights an internal battle about just being his girlfriend and seeing all the looks he gets from other girls pining for him. I just need her to finally realize that he only has eyes for her. Then she is training to stay fit to go back to Nationals that she is not wanting to admit the pain that she is putting herself in. My heart was breaking because as you read what she does to stay focus and try to let her relationship with Jace continue almost gets derailed I about lost it. There is so much heart in this story it was captivating and riveting I just could not put it down. I had to finish the book just to know the outcome. This series is a definite must read to find out what happens with Pepper Jones.
Well I didn't think that this series could have gotten any better, but I was wrong!! Geez, Ali Dean knows how to write a story. Pepper Jones' story is one to tell. I mean she is one tough chick. The emotional rollercoaster seams to ease up a bit because she now knows what to expect when dating Jace Wilder, but sometimes knowing isn't enough. With her still in high school finishing up her senior year and Jace being a freshman in college is tough for them. At times I felt that she hasn't seen that she is all he needs to get through his days. She fights an internal battle about just being his girlfriend and seeing all the looks he gets from other girls pining for him. I just need her to finally realize that he only has eyes for her. Then she is training to stay fit to go back to Nationals that she is not wanting to admit the pain that she is putting herself in. My heart was breaking because as you read what she does to stay focus and try to let her relationship with Jace continue almost gets derailed I about lost it. There is so much heart in this story it was captivating and riveting I just could not put it down. I had to finish the book just to know the outcome. This series is a definite must read to find out what happens with Pepper Jones.
February 15, 2019
review for books 3 to 5
So part of me wishes this was a trilogy instead of 6 books!
I still love Pepper and Jace- even when he turns mean
And i did love book 5 because of the last 20% was a page turner
So part of me wishes this was a trilogy instead of 6 books!
I still love Pepper and Jace- even when he turns mean
And i did love book 5 because of the last 20% was a page turner
September 9, 2019
Pepper Jones is a senior now, Jace is a freshman in college and busy with all his college demands that come along with being a freshman and being on the football team..
Pepper knows college will put distance between her and Jace, not just physically but in some ways emotionally too. She knows they will have to find ways to make it work, and they do. There are people trying to force them apart by any means neccesary, but they are built to last, or are they?
When things start happening to Pepper she isn't sure if it's because of her running career or is it somebody who is using her to get back at Jace. Jace is the quarterback and being a freshman that's a huge deal. Is somebody threatened by that? Is that what all this is about or is it something to do with Pepper herself. Somebody threatened by her running career?
When Pepper gets too emotional she runs, she runs until she feels clearheaded again. Is that healthy? Is she jeopardizing her whole career?
This book was so good, I love Pepper and Jace! They are truly two halves of a whole. They just compliment and complete each other and I love their interactions. I love their love for one another. It's so pure.
Pepper knows college will put distance between her and Jace, not just physically but in some ways emotionally too. She knows they will have to find ways to make it work, and they do. There are people trying to force them apart by any means neccesary, but they are built to last, or are they?
When things start happening to Pepper she isn't sure if it's because of her running career or is it somebody who is using her to get back at Jace. Jace is the quarterback and being a freshman that's a huge deal. Is somebody threatened by that? Is that what all this is about or is it something to do with Pepper herself. Somebody threatened by her running career?
When Pepper gets too emotional she runs, she runs until she feels clearheaded again. Is that healthy? Is she jeopardizing her whole career?
This book was so good, I love Pepper and Jace! They are truly two halves of a whole. They just compliment and complete each other and I love their interactions. I love their love for one another. It's so pure.
March 20, 2020
Another good but slow read. Jace and Pepper's story continues in this one so I recommend reading this series in order. In this book, Jace starts college and Pep feels a little insecure about his popularity among his peers. Being with Jace have challenges of its own. There are a lot of jealous females and males looking to destroy their relationship. Pepper is using running as her outlet and as she pushes herself harder than ever, that brings challenges of its own. Wes is trying to figure out what's best for him regarding his future. I'm really enjoying his character with Zoey. Annie has come a long way and seems to be on the right track but I'm wondering how long that will last with her track record. After all, she has a way of disappearing. This story is full of drama and it keeps things interesting to say the least but the flow of the story is killing it for me. Gran is hilarious and I absolutely her. Just like the previous books, this is a good read but it will be a one time read for me. Will I read the next book? Yes. Would I recommend it? I'd say give it a try and see if it works for you. It's not bad it's just slow.
July 3, 2019
Pepper is addictive! I love her story. Maybe because she is not the expected winner. I know, she is a spectacular athlete, and is dating the star quarterback for their local college, but she doesn't fit with those Barbie types. This part of the story lets us know just that. There is so much going on. Pepper's senior year and getting ready for the Nationals, Jace's football season, their continuing relationship, those that follow Jace and getting to know Wes a little better. It's late teen drama at it's best, with some real meat to the story. Ali Dean is a wonderful writer, including real life scenarios and actions we can all shake our heads and relate to. I can't wait to see where freshman year in college takes Pepper next!
Stacey Glemboski continues her narration. I first found her with her Sundaes for Breakfast series narration and I love her style. She is able to infuse life into the story and make us feel a part of it. Perfect for new adult, she has a youthful sound, but can turn and be Gran in an instant. A great talent for a great book!
Stacey Glemboski continues her narration. I first found her with her Sundaes for Breakfast series narration and I love her style. She is able to infuse life into the story and make us feel a part of it. Perfect for new adult, she has a youthful sound, but can turn and be Gran in an instant. A great talent for a great book!
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