Too Damn Nice

by Kathryn Freeman

In this “hidden gem” from the author of Do Opposites Attract? , a supermodel takes the fashion world by storm, but just may fall for the boy next door ( Long and Short Reviews ).
 
Lizzie Donavue went from being the sister of his best friend to the girl Nick Templeton most wants to kiss. On her birthday, he finally summons up the courage to make his move. But it looks like Nick’s missed his chance when he discovers that Lizzie has been offered a modeling contract, which will take her away to the glamorous fashion scenes of New York and Los Angeles.
 
Nick is forced to watch from the sidelines as the gawky teenager he knew is transformed into Elizabeth Donavue: top model and ultimate English rose pin-up, forever caught in a whirlwind of celebrity parties with the next up-and-coming Hollywood bad boy by her side.
 
But then Lizzie’s star-studded life comes crashing down around her, and a guy like Nick could be just what she needs. Will she take a chance on him? Or is he just too damn nice?
 
“ Too Damn Nice explores love, loss, grief and being able to forgive yourself. It’s a brilliant book and I really enjoyed it. Nick is my new book crush. I’ll take nice over bad boy any day!” — Brook Cottage Books
 
“A book filled with love, laughter, tears and misunderstandings . . . It just goes to prove that Kathryn Freeman doesn’t write superficial chicklit, it’s as deep and thought-provoking as you want to be.” — The Book Magnet

Genres: Romance, Contemporary, Ebooks

305 pages, Kindle Edition

First published July 30, 2017

About the author

I was born in Wallingford, England and have spent most of my life living in a village outside Windsor. A former pharmacist, former pharmaceutical industry employee I’m now a self-employed medical writer who also loves to write romance. Some days a racing heart is a medical condition, others it’s the reaction to a hunky hero…

I’ve two teenage boys and a husband who asks every Valentine’s Day whether he has to bother buying a card again this year (yes, he does) so the romance in my life is all in my head. Then again, my husband’s unstinting support of my career change goes to prove that love isn't always about hearts and flowers - and heroes can come in many disguises

Reviews

[Kirsty ❤️ · Rating 4 out of 5]

Model Lizzie's world is first rocked by the death of her parents and then a sex scandal threatens to ruin her career. In steps her Nick to help heal her broken heart and find justice from the scandal but is he just too nice? 

I did enjoy this but I wasn't so keen on the characters as I have been with others. Nothing wrong with the story, it flows well; is fast and easy to read. There's a good mix of sadness and humour but I think the characters may have been a bit too well...nice. 

There's a lot of will they/won't they and missed opportunities to tell each other how much they love each other and it all ends just perfectly

Another enjoyable read from Choc Lit. Thank you to them and netgalley for the ARC.

[Rachel Gilbey · Rating 5 out of 5]

Completely wasn't expecting Too Damn Nice to have me at the edge of my emotions for a significant amount of the book. For some reason the writing really got under my skin and affected me a lot, and I was astounded by how much depth there was in this book, than perhaps I was expecting from the blurb.

For I thought I was getting a book about a super model, who turns to an old friend in a time of need, while predominately getting lots of the glitz and glamour of the worlds of New York and Los Angeles. And while there are elements of that in the book, there is so much more than meets the eye too, which is what made me love it even more.

I will say that Nick has to be one of the nicest male leads I have read for a long while. In fact I agree with the title, he was just "Too Damn Nice" for most of the book, to the extent that I would have loved him as a friend, but anything more perhaps not. Well at least until one certain scene which is when I suddenly wish I could have swapped places with Lizzie!

Wow Lizzie's life though is a mess, and rather long prologue gave a good indication to her background with Nick, as well as a tragic happening 2 years before this book gets going. It's from the first chapters that we realise just why Lizzie is a bit of a wreck, and I don't blame her in the slightest, and it was interesting to see how she dealt with everything that was thrown at her in the story.

Too Damn Nice just drew me into the book and set me on an emotional journey of ups and downs. I felt everything going on just so intensely and really wasn't completely sure how the book would turn out. I am now convinced that with every book Kathryn Freeman writes, that is is improving massively, and coming out with even better stories each time.

Thank you so much to Netgalley and Choc Lit for this copy of the book which I have reviewed honestly and voluntarily.

[Charanya · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5 stars! I wanted to give it less, but the leading man in this book was unyielding and unselfish and incredibly patient making me want to give it an additional star

The world of modelling is not a career I could relate to and sadly I couldn't relate to the heroine, her story was deliberately sad and manipulative to the reader who were led to feel bad for her and believe that she was bereaved and broken. I couldn't see how many set of unspoken misunderstandings they had to have before they both spoke out their love. The only redeeming quality was they both always loved one another from the start. Good and a fast read but uncertain if the story will linger after you have finished reading it

[Claire Wilson · Rating 4 out of 5]

Too damn nice by Kathryn Freeman is as comforting as a log fire on a winter day. It's equally funny, sad and very, very enjoyable. This is my second Kathryn Freeman novel and I'll certainly be looking out for more. Thoroughly recommend for those who love a good romance, or for those that just love a good read

[Karen Mace · Rating 5 out of 5]

Always love reading books from Kathryn Freeman and this book has been another fabulous read!

For some reason I was expecting something a little lighter - don't ask me why! - but the story of Lizzy isn't all light and fluffy! On the surface of it all she has led a charmed life as she became a model aged 18, living the high life in the USA.

But scratch away at that lifestyle, and all seems a little darker. She is haunted by the loss of her family that left her pulling away from those in her past, and blames herself too for her brother living in a nursing home unable to do anything after the car crash that took the life of her parents. So all she has from the past is Nick. He was her brothers' best friend - she always had a little crush on him but never knew the feeling was mutual!

Now they are back in each others' lives as her celebrity lifestyle takes a dark turn and she finds herself in need of safety, kindness and normality. And Nick can offer that. But will the time they spend together be good for them both or bring back too many sad memories?

I loved the character of Nick! He is perfect!! Where can I find one of those blokes in real life?!! He is much happier living a quiet life, which is the complete opposite to Lizzy who enjoys the partying lifestyle America offered her. When she spends time back in the UK, it was touching to see how Nick had been looking out for her all those years, even if she didn't initially feel the same way!

It must be tough to separate the person you knew from childhood, from one that is in the media spotlight, so it does show up the pitfalls of celebrity and gave another insight into that life not being all it is cracked up to be! I really enjoyed their will they/won't they relationship too. You can understand why it isn't plain sailing, especially as they have such different personalities.

Another cracking read from Kathryn Freeman, and one to be devoured from start to finish. Go get your copy now!!

[Susan Roebuck · Rating 5 out of 5]

Who’s just too damned nice? Lovely Nick Templeton is. He’s the boy next door, the one who picked up the pieces when Lizzie and her brother Robert went off the rails. He’s the one who comforts Lizzie when Robert has a terrible car accident.

Now he has to sit and watch from afar while beautiful Lizzie heads off to Los Angeles to take up a career as a model, a career that zooms her to stardom. Has she forgotten Nick? It seems not and is pleased to see him when he journeys over to check on her and poor Robert. But Lizzie now lives in a glamorous world populated by film and music stars. Nick just can’t compete.

Ms Freeman has the wonderful knack of transporting her readers, in this case, into the Los Angeles glamour scene. Her characters are just so likeable I’d like them to be my friends! A very soothing read that made me want to read it in one go.

[Joanna Lambert · Rating 5 out of 5]

Nick Templeton has been waiting for the right moment to ask Lizzie Donavue for a date. Standing on the edge of the dance floor at her 18th birthday he feels he might be doubly lucky tonight – a dance and a date. Until her father announces she has secured a modelling contract and is off to New York.
For Nick, when it comes to Lizzie he seems to have one role in life: a friend and support in times of trouble. He’s there to comfort her when the unthinkable happens and she loses her family in a tragic accident which sees her brother Robert (Nick’s best friend) hospitalised. And now she’s in trouble again with unsavoury photos of her circulating in the press. Without hesitation, Nick flies to LA to bring her back to the UK to stay with him.
Poor Nick, although he has a current girlfriend (Sally) he’s never been able to get rid of the long term crush he’s had on Lizzie. So how will he cope now that she’s staying with him in his barn conversion?
I’m a great fan of Kathryn’s and have enjoyed everything I’ve read of hers so far. This is no exception. The story is told from both Nick and Lizzie’s point of view and it’s great to see how things develop between them. Nick is such a lovely guy and although not the usual Choc Lit hero he more than deserves the accolade. I absolutely loved him!

Many thanks to Choc Lit for an ARC of Too Damn Nice, a very worthy five star read!

[Sparkles · Rating 3 out of 5]

„Verdammt, er war so vernarrt in sie, dass er ihr überallhin folgen würde, egal, wohin sie ihn führte. Eine dreißig Meter hohe Klippe hinunter? Kein Problem. Über einen krokodilverseuchten Fluss? Gern. Selbst auf eine verfluchte Tanzfläche.“ (Nick in Forever you)

Worum geht’s?
Die 18-Jährige Lizzie hat große Träume: Pünktlich zur Volljährigkeit erhält sie bei einer amerikanischen Topagentur einen Modelvertrag. Dafür muss sie ihre Familie und auch ihre heimliche Liebe Nick zurücklassen, der in ihr sowieso immer nur die kleine Schwester seines besten Freundes sehen würde. Doch als acht Jahre später Lizzies Welt öffentlich zerbricht, steht Nick vor ihrer Tür und fängt sie auf, indem er versucht, ihre Karriere und ihre Welt wieder zusammenzusetzen. Schon bald muss Lizzie feststellen, dass ihr Herz immer noch verrücktspielt, wenn er da ist. Doch er kümmert sich nur so liebevoll um sie, weil sie wie eine kleine Schwester für ihn ist, oder?

Schreibstil / Gestaltung
Das Cover von Forever You ist sehr ansprechend und modern gestaltet. Verwirrend finde ich allerdings, dass Lizzie als Blondine beschrieben wird, die Frau auf dem Cover aber für mich eine Hellbrünette ist. Dennoch finde ich das Cover sehr schön.

Das Buch umfasst einen etwas längeren Prolog und im Anschluss 30 Kapitel. Die Erzählweise der Geschichte ist aus Sicht eines Dritten, der teilweise mit Fokus auf Lizzie oder teilweise mit Fokus auf Nic erzählt. In einem Kapitel wechselt dieser Fokus auch regelmäßig ohne direkten Hinweis, also es gibt nicht zB eine Überschrift „Nick“. Man merkt dennoch direkt, welcher Charakter gerade „erzählt“. Das Buch ist aus dem Englischen übersetzt. An einigen Stelle finde ich, dass man dies auch merkt. Neben den regelmäßigen „verdammt“-Flüchen von Nick klingeln vereinzelte Übersetzungen etwas komisch, dies stört den Lesefluss aber nicht. Das Buch ist im Großen und Ganzen zwar verständlich und leicht (auch über eine längere Zeit) zu lesen, allerdings empfinde ich die Erzählweise als sehr hölzern und nüchtern. Stellenweise klingt es wie eine schlichte Nacherzählung für einen Deutschaufsatz und trotz der teilweise traurigen Szenen konnte ich meist nicht wirklich mitfühlen.

Mein Fazit
Zu Forever you habe ich hauptsächlich aufgrund des Klappentexts gegriffen. Modelleben, ein Skandal, eine lange Liebesgeschichte – das sind doch eigentlich Garanten für eine Story, die mir gefallen. Doch leider kam alles anders, als ich gehofft habe.

Nach einem relativ langen Epilog, der die Vorgeschichte von Lizzie und Nick vor 8 Jahren beleuchtet und im Anschluss bereits mit einer familiären Tragödie aufwartet, hatte man als Leser bereist einen guten Grundeindruck, in welche Richtung es laufen wird. Ich war überrascht, weil die familiäre Tragödie für mich schon Potenzial gehabt hätte, das große Drama zu sein, aber sobald die Hauptstory beginnt, erfährt der Leser, was das wirkliche Drama ist. Hier möchte ich als Hinweis eine kleine Triggerwarnung setzen: für sehr sensible Leser könnte das, was Lizzie geschehen ist, wirklich unangenehm sein. Zwar wird das Geschehen nur sehr oberflächlich behandelt, dennoch hatte ich mit so einer Storyline nicht gerechnet. Als sie dann aber kam, war ich sehr gefesselt und gespannt, wie es sich entwickeln würde. Nur so viel: Meine frisch gewonnene Hoffnung auf eine spannende Story wurde je zunichte gemacht. Denn nachdem Nick wie Phoenix aus der Asche auftauchte, direkt mit dem umfassenden Rettungsplan für Lizzie (und ihre Karriere) beginnt, verlassen beide LA und gehen vorübergehend nach England.

Und ab da plätschert die Geschichte leider so vor sich hin: Vereinzelt hin und wieder wird das Thema LA aufgegriffen, nur um dann nach 2-3 Seiten wieder vom Tisch zu sein. Dafür wird dann aber die Geschichte um die familiäre Tragödie wieder aufgegriffen, aber auch nach ein paar Seiten wieder begraben. Dann kommt doch wieder LA, dann springt es ein paar Tage, dann geht es wieder um die familiäre Tragödie und so weiter und so fort. Das einzige, was beständig durch die ganze Story bleibt: Die beiden führen einen riesigen Eiertanz auf, wo doch ab Seite 1 klar ist, wie die Gefühlswelt aussieht.

Leider ist es dann auch so, dass jede Szene mit einigermaßen Potenzial zeitnah im Keim erstickt wird: Eigentlich sollte meiner Meinung nach die Katastrophe der Hauptaufhänger der Story sein. Am Ende ist es aber so, dass diese Storyline einfach mit fünf Seiten und einem „vier Wochen später“ Zeitsprung endet. Das ist sehr enttäuschend und frustriert mich als Leser, denn während man zwischendurch immer wieder #MeToo-ähnliche Elemente einbaut, so ist die Beendigung der Situation fast schon unkreativ und unwürdig, weil einfach abgebügelt. Gleiches gilt für immer wieder eingeflochtene Storylines, die sich komplett im Sande verlaufen und am Ende gar nicht notwendig wären und die Story nicht vorantreiben. Es wirkt so, als hätte die Autorin sich anfangs eine To-Do-Liste geschrieben mit Punkten, die sie gerne im Plot hätte, und arbeitet diese systematisch ab. Ist ein Punkt dann in der Story aufgetaucht, springt die Zeit gern mal ein paar Tage oder Wochen vorwärts und der nächste Punkt kommt. Dies hat mich vor allem gegen Ende doch sehr gestört, als im Bezug auf die familiäre Tragödie eine weitere Tragödie dazu kommt, die wirklich herzzerreißend wäre, hätte man ihr Raum gelassen. Hat man aber nicht. Zwischen dem entscheidenden Anruf und dem Ende dieses Erzählstrangs liegen gefühlt 20 Seiten und dann sind wir auch schon wieder ein paar Wochen später in Lizzies Modewelt.

Ein weiteres Problem, was bei mir hinzukam: Ich wurde weder mit Lizzie noch mit Nick warm. Besonders Lizzie fand ich leider von Anfang an ziemlich unsympathisch, naiv und anstrengend. Bei Nick war es nicht ganz so schlimm, aber auch er nervte mich mehr als mich zu freuen. Beide Charaktere handeln in keiner Hinsicht altersangemessen, immerhin soll Lizzie Mitte 20 und Nick Anfang 30 sein. Tatsächlich wirkt Lizzie wie 18, handelt ohne Kopf und Verstand, während Nick zwar erwachsener wirkt, aber auch hier eher Richtung Anfang 20 einzuordnen wäre.

Was ich mich aber vor allem während des ganzen Buches fragen musste: Haben diese beiden Leute nie gelernt, mit Menschen zu reden? Ich spoilere nichts, wenn ich sage, dass man ab Seite 1 von den gegenseitigen Gefühlen weiß. Jeder weiß es. Nur die beiden nicht. Und ab hier wird es anstrengend: Denn beide werden im Verlauf der Geschichte bestimmt 50x in eine Situation kommen, wo ihnen ihre Gefühle bewusst werden, sie aber statt mit dem anderen zu reden lieber ihre eigenen Schlüsse ziehen und sich einreden, da ist nichts und da könne nichts sein. Während das anfangs noch ganz amüsant ist, nervt es schon bald, da neben mehreren Winken mit dem Zaunpfahl irgendwann Winke mit dem Zaun und Richtung Ende dann vermehrt Winke mit der kompletten chinesischen Mauer kommen und man lese und staune: Selbst dann passiert nichts.

Was kann man also alles in allem zu Forever you sagen? Hier erhält man eine Geschichte, die viel Potenzial mitbringt, es aber leider nur stellenweise nutzt. Die Geschichte ist langatmig, sämtliche Spannung wird meist direkt im Keim erstickt und emotional berührte mich die Story leider gerade einmal so viel wie die wöchentlichen Einkaufsprospekte. Dies mag vordergründig am Unverständnis über die fehlenden Kommunikations- und Verstehensfähigkeiten der Protagonisten liegen, vielleicht aber auch an einer zu hohen Erwartung nach dem Beginn und dem Skandal, der dann kaum noch eine Rolle spielt. Forever you ist eine durchschnittliche Liebesgeschichte ohne Tiefgang, ohne wirklichen Spannungsbogen und vielen „Im Ernst?“-Momenten, also ein Buch, was man ganz gut zwischendurch lesen kann, wenn man keine großen Erwartungen hat. Für mehr reicht es leider nicht.

[Diese Rezension basiert auf einem Rezensionsexemplar, das mir freundlicherweise von Netgalley und vom Verlag zur Verfügung gestellt wurde. Meine Meinung wurde hierdurch nicht beeinflusst.]

[J.B (Debbie) · Rating 4 out of 5]

Too Damn Nice is one of those books that completely caught me off guard. I knew it was a contemporary romance but hadn't quite banked on how emotional the book was. I think the cover lead me into a false sense of security because Too Damn Nice is a book with some quite serious subject matters in it and it certainly made me sit up and take notice. Here's why I loved it!

Lizzie Donavue is a beautiful English rose and with just the perfect look to be snapped up, at only 18 years old by an American modelling agency. Nick Templeton, her brothers friend is madly in love with her. He's a little older but on her 18th birthday Nick reckons now is the time to tell her how he feels about her. However, the bombshell that she is going to America soon puts a stop to his plans. He's even further surprised when Lizzie has an unusual request from him. One which to Lizzie's annoyance, he turns down.

Fast forward a few years later and the glitzy and glam world that Lizzie has built around herself is no defence for the heartache that life throws at her. And, through the two most awful events in her life, Nick comes back into her life to help. When a boyfriend betrays Lizzie in the worst possible way imaginable Nick takes Lizzie back to England to try to seek justice and rebuild her life and career. However, his feelings for her are stronger than ever and it seems that Lizzie may have feelings for Nick. But, pride and fear of having their hearts broken prevent the pair from doing what their hearts really want. Head and heart at constant war.

Nick and Lizzie are one of those couples that make you want to scream! They are so obviously perfect for one another that at times I was frustrated by them and wanted them to get together. It was like a romantic tug of war at times with Nicky pulling one way and Lizzie pulling the other. Nick is too damn nice for his own good but he's exactly what Lizzie needs after a string of affairs with celebrity bad boys. Lizzie at heart is still that young girl who has had her heart badly bruised by an all consuming grief and now a creep of a boyfriend. She's hurting and reacting to that hurt rather than the feelings in her heart. Yet, Nick can relate to a few things Lizzie's feeling too but at times she's too caught up in her own despair. Too Damn Nice explores love, loss, grief and being able to forgive yourself. It's a brilliant book and I really enjoyed it. Nick is my new book crush. I'll take nice over bad boy any day!

[Alison · Rating 1 out of 5]

Sadly the title is also descriptive of my feelings about this book. DNF at 43%.

Nick Templeton was Lizzie Donavue's older brother's best friend. On the night of her 18th birthday she propositions him, unfortunately Nick was trying to pluck up the courage to ask her for a date. He rejects her, feeling that she has no feelings for him at all whereas, of course, she feels she has been firmly friend-zoned. Lizzie goes off to New York and becomes a famous model, then terrible stories are published about her and Nick rushes in to the rescue and takes her back to England.

There's a ridiculous amount of angst with these two - frankly I'd be worried about being related to either of them, the rellies don't fare well - but more problematic is that the book is so slow, frankly nothing has happened (bar the initial incident that gave rise to the stories) and the two of them are so wet they can't believe the other could have any romantic feelings for them. He's too staid and boring, an English accountant, for an international model. She's too superficial and stupid for such a grounded intellectual like him. Blah, blah, blah. When I was doing everything to avoid reading this book I knew I had to DNF.

I received a free copy of this book from the publisher via NetGalley in return for an honest review.

[Kaisha (The Writing Garnet) · Rating 5 out of 5]

All reviews can be found on my blog at https://thewritinggarnet.wordpress.com

There is nothing more satisfying than starting a new book and finding out that you’re able to curl up on the sofa with it in sweet bliss after the first few pages. When I started reading Kathryn Freeman’s ‘Too Damn Nice’, I had had the day from hell. Majorly stressed. Majorly exhausted, and all I wanted to do was hide. So what did I do instead of hiding? I read ‘Too Damn Nice’. A few chapters in, I began to feel a lot calmer and a lot less stressed. How on Earth can a book be such an antidote?

Lizzie Donavue and Nick Templeton go way back. Having been her brothers best friend for many, many years; Nick has been able to watch Lizzie grow up over the years (without being stalkerish) and his heart seems to like what he sees. Unfortunately, life isn’t as plain sailing as ‘boy meets girl – fall in love – live happily ever after’. Of course we would be lying if we said we didn’t want it to happen that way! Instead, life took Lizzie to the USA whilst Nick stayed in the UK. Two hearts breaking. Except…Lizzie hasn’t the foggiest that Nick is head over heels in love with her. Whoopsie.

Let me just get this out the way first – I have to admit that at the beginning of the book, my first thought was ‘here comes the predictable love storyline’. HOWEVER, that thought soon disappeared as quickly as it entered my head as Lizzie Donavue is in no way a modern day ‘Juliet’, and Nick isn’t really feeling the modern day ‘Romeo’. With two ballsy main characters and a a storyline with more twists than a game of Twister, it didn’t take long at all for ‘predictable love storyline’ to fly out of my head and never return. Don’t get me wrong, romance features quite heavily in ‘Too Damn Nice’, yet it wasn’t the predictable sort. Look just trust me on this, go and nab the book yourself and you’ll see what I mean!

Even though romance IS featured a lot in this novel, Kathryn Freeman has also managed to incorporate some rather emotional and serious topics into the overall storyline, thus making me go from ‘awwwwwwww!!!’ to ‘what the chocolate cupcake?!’ to ‘oh no -sniffs-‘. I’m not even exaggerating either. If you think that Kathryn Freeman’s latest novel is just ‘too damn nice’, then you will be pleasantly surprised by the ‘too damn brilliant’ storyline your eyes will devour. Promptly.

I felt as though I was on a constant rollercoaster of emotions and turbulent circumstances! One minute the storyline was going through the motions at a leisurely pace, watching the flowers bloom and the romance soar, and then the next minute the pace had fast forward to the fastest speed on a Sky+ box and everything was all happening at once! Was I complaining? Was I heck! It was brilliant!!!! So much to sink my teeth into, yet not TOO much to make my already stressed brain have a power cut.

The characters were three dimensional, each slotting into the storyline perfectly. The serious topic which the author wrote into the book is incredibly eye-opening and it should not be taken lightly. Put it this way, it might make you re-think certain things…
As for the emotional value of the novel; it wasn’t too mushy, but it was heartbreaking and I felt that the author did it justice. Considering the mood I was in beforehand, I was glad that the emotional circumstances didn’t take-over the entire storyline as such, it was more of a beautiful and welcomed addition to an already cosy read.

So, I began ‘Too Damn Nice’ in an absolutely horrific mood, and I ended ‘Too Damn Nice’ feeling as though I had just been given THE biggest hug, a bar of chocolate and was told ‘everything will be okay’. Seriously. I couldn’t have asked for a better book to read at that moment in time. Granted I would have also loved the bar of chocolate whilst I was reading it, but I can’t be too greedy…eh ChocLituk ;).

‘Too Damn Nice’ is such a huggable, loveable, beautifully written and highly addictive read, one I will be recommending for a very long time to come. I hadn’t read Kathryn Freeman’s novels before, but I am so pleased to have found an author who’s next novel is making me excited already….and I have absolutely no idea what it’s about or when it’s coming out.

Thanks Brookcottagebooks and Netgalley.

[Gaele · Rating 4 out of 5]

Traveling between the US and the UK, the story starts with a then 18 year old Lizzie and her discovery by a modeling agency in the US. Her birthday is when she makes the announcement, much to the dismay of her brother’s friend Nick, who has held onto a crush for Lizzie for years, and now believes he’s got the chance to speak up. But, Lizzie’s plans throw a spanner into that plan, and he’s relegated to the ‘always a friend’ zone (or so he thinks) for Lizzie. Fast forward several years and Lizzie is aain looking to the stability and security that her friend Nick can provide, after some horrific moments she turns to him for comfort.

Always present and wanting to comfort, shelter and protect Lizzie, Nick jumps once more into the breach to be all that he can for Lizzie: surely their time away has moved his feelings into perspective. But, he didn’t figure on those feelings still being strong, and getting stronger every day. It also doesn’t hurt that he sees that Lizzie just may be seeing him as more than the old, faithful and reliable friend. But, dare he take that chance to move their relationship forward at the risk of losing it all? And can Lizzie actually trust in herself and put her own heartbreaks and fears aside to try a relationship that could end a friendship that has become her lifeline and constant?

Freeman takes what was expected to be a light and rather fluffy story and imbues depth, playing with emotions and serious setbacks to get the characters to see just what is possible, if one can forgive themselves for hasty decisions and take a chance. Nick is constantly the ‘good guy’, perhaps not the exciting, heart-pounding man who leaves you with questions every moment, but as Lizzie is coming to discover – those edgy guys just may be highly overrated. A wonderful read that will engage and entertain, leaving you with more happy feelings when the last page is turned.

I received an eArc copy of the title from the publisher via NetGalley for purpose of honest review. I was not compensated for this review: all conclusions are my own responsibility.

Review first appeared at I am, Indeed

[Isobel · Rating 5 out of 5]

This story has all the trappings of modern sucess, and indeed shows some of the worst aspects of the always connected world. In the best tradition of storytelling the conflict comes from within the characters.
The heroine (Lizzie) is an ordinary young woman who has had great sucess as a model, and alongside this, great tradegy. Lizzie blames herself and her ambition for the tradegy and the ensuing guilt affects how she sees herself and how she reacts to others. The media storm which affects her is the last straw. If anyone needs one of Kathryn's knights in shining armour Lizzie does. Enjoy what happens when he arrives! I did.
Two things you should know about this review- I have been a fan of Kathryn Freeman since I read " Too charming" several years ago and Choc lit asked me if I would like to read this in return for an honest review.

[Nessa · Rating 4 out of 5]

I listened to this on audio book.

New author for me, I was after a light easy book to listen to and so decided to give this one a go. It was highly entertaining from start to finish. Thoroughly enjoyed getting to know the characters, there was lots happening from happy moments, to sad/emotional moments as well as funny laugh out loud scenes and some naught sex scenes too.

I'm certainly glad I gave this author a try and will be up to reading/listening to more of her books in the future.

[Lie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Leuk boek over gemiste kansen die uiteindelijk goed komen.

[Joan]

DNF at 4%

Having read the interminably rambling - and somewhat incongruous - prologue and then checked a couple of reviews I have realised this is not going to be light, frothy chick lit, despite the cover. The writing is slow and ponderous and I am not continuing

[Angel Hatfield · Rating 5 out of 5]

Lizzie’s parents had died and her brother Robert had been in the car and now laid in a coma it was still the early days but the doctors weren’t very hopeful that Robert would ever lead a normal life again. Lizzie’s parents had been coming to see her. Nick was at the funeral and at Lizzie’s side. Lizzie flinched but Nick kept his arm around her to offer the comfort he knew she needed. . Nick had lost his own parents when he was young through a faulty gas fire in the master bedroom during his first school summer holiday. Lizzie’s parents were like a second set of parents to Nick. When the cop had asked Lizzie if there was anyone they could call her mind went right to Nick and of course he had come to her. Even though there was the memory of his rejection between them. Then Lizzie decided to go back to the states shortly after the funeral Nick told her it was too soon but she went anyway to leave Nick to tie things up for her. Nick drove Lizzie to the airport. Lizzie couldn’t think or function. Her mind was numb. Lizzie begins to live a different kind of life and soon it is spinning out of control as Lizzie was consumed with depression on losing her parents Two years ago Lizzie left NYC where her parents had died and moved to LA. Charles had been Lizzie’s trainer and ends up her boyfriend but creates a sexual scandal with pictures released of Lizzie and him and a third man. Lizzie remembered having a couple of drinks with Charles then another man appeared a friend of Charles, Lizzie had drank only two glasses of wine but she started to feel funny. Charles got her a room in the hotel and Lizzie doesn’t remember anything else. Nick has tried to move on with his life and has a girlfriend named Sally. But Nick had never gotten over Lizzie when she wouldn’t answer her phone or texts Nick flew out to be with Lizzie. Lizzie hears someone at her door and it is Nick. Nick brings Lizzie back to the UK with him and she is also staying with him. What is going to happen with Lizzie staying with Nick?
I really loved this story and felt it was well written. I loved the plot and pace. I wish Lizzie and Nick had told each other how they felt about each other before Lizzie ever went to the states. Instead of Lizzie asking Nick to help her get rid of her virginity and him rejecting her. But I so loved how Nick was always there for Lizzie. Even if she tried to turn him away and he was the one she always thought of to turn to. Even when Nick had tried to go on with his life he ran to Lizzie’s side when she was in trouble and took her home. I was so happy when Nick showed up at Lizzie’s apartment even though she hadn’t contacted him or let him contact her. This was just a great read, a great romance and I loved it. I loved the character sand ins and outs of this story and I highly recommend.

[Michelle Ryles · Rating 5 out of 5]

I do love Kathryn Freeman's books, they are so easy to read with characters that you can both identify with and care about. Nobody can ever be sure of what someone else is thinking and Kathryn Freeman has absolutely nailed the insecurities and misunderstandings that surround fledgling relationships in her new novel, Too Damn Nice.

Nick Templeton has been in love with Lizzie Donavue for as long as he can remember, but she is the sister of his best friend, Robert, and Nick is like a member of the Donavue family himself. Nick has kept his feelings well buried but, on the day of her 18th birthday, Nick plans to tell Lizzie how he feels about her. He is beaten to the punch by an announcement that Lizzie has secured a modelling contract and she is going to New York to make all her dreams come true.

Lizzie becomes a successful model and it looks like all her dreams have indeed come true but then her world comes crashing down. Nick is on the first flight over to pick up the pieces but they are both so afraid of letting their feelings show and ruining their long-standing friendship. As the pair struggle with their attraction to each other, Nick feels like he is taking advantage of Lizzie in her weakened state, and Lizzie thinks that Nick doesn't look at her as anything other than Robert's little sister. Both of them are trying to guess what the other is thinking and naturally, they are both ultimately assuming the wrong thing.

Despite her high flying modelling career, Lizzie is quite insecure and doesn't think she is worthy of anyone as 'nice' as Nick. Nick doesn't think he is good enough for someone as stunning as Lizzie to even look twice at. It is clear that they are both meant for each other and, although I wanted to bang their heads together and tell them to get on with it, they need to work that out for themselves and be honest about their feelings. It was sobering to see that someone as beautiful as Lizzie struggled with the same insecurities as every other girl. It's so hard to open your heart and tell someone your feelings: the fear of your heart being broken always seems to win but the reward is limitless if the other person feels the same way.

Too Damn Nice is a book filled with love, laughter, tears and misunderstandings. It reminds us that, although we may look different on the outside, we are ultimately all the same underneath. I love books that make me think about things like this - it just goes to prove that Kathryn Freeman doesn't write superficial chicklit, it's as deep and thought-provoking as you want it to be. I'll leave you with one final thought: although it sounds like such a bland word, there's nothing wrong with being 'nice', because when you consider the opposite is 'nasty', I know which one I'd rather be.

I chose to read an ARC and this is my honest and unbiased opinion.

[Books like Soulmate Silvana Hespeling · Rating 5 out of 5]

„Forever You – Auf einmal ist es Liebe“ von Kathryn Freeman
Verfasser der Rezension: Silvana
Preis TB: € nicht verfügbar
Preis eBook: € 6,99
Seitenanzahl: 352 Seiten lt. Verlagsangabe
ISBN: 978-3-7325-6184-1
Erschienen am: 01.01.2019 im beHeartbeat by Bastei Lübbe
=====================

Klappentext:

Sie sind beste Freunde … eigentlich.

Als Nick 23 Jahre alt ist, weiß er schon, dass Lizzie, die Schwester seines besten Freundes, die Liebe seines Lebens ist. An ihrem 18. Geburtstag nimmt er all seinen Mut zusammen, um den ersten Schritt zu wagen. Aber Nick kommt zu spät, denn Lizzie ist bei einer Modelagentur unter Vertrag genommen worden. Sie wird direkt am nächsten Tag nach New York ziehen.

Acht Jahre später: Lizzie ist ein erfolgreiches Topmodel, das von einer Celebrity-Party zur nächsten eilt – immer mit einem anderen Hollywood Bad Boy an der Seite. Doch dann bricht ihre Welt plötzlich zusammen. Nick ist sofort für sie da und schützt sie vor der Außenwelt. Fühlt sie doch mehr für ihn?

=====================

Achtung Spoilergefahr!!!

=====================

Mein Fazit:

Vorweg möchte ich sagen, dass es sich bei jeder Rezension um meine persönliche Meinung handelt. Das Cover gefällt mir ganz gut. Der Klappentext und Titel haben mich neugierig gemacht. Für mich war es das erste Buch dieser Autorin. Der Schreibstil ist flüssig und auch das Gefühl kommt keinesfalls zu kurz. Ich habe mehr als einmal Tränen in den Augen gehabt, was nicht zuletzt an der Handlung gelegen hat. Was mich zu Beginn etwas verwirrt hat, waren die Zeitsprünge. Das passte für mich irgendwie nicht zusammen. Vielleicht hab ich es aber auch einfach nur nicht kapiert :-). Was ich persönlich nicht so gerne mag, ist, wenn in der dritten Person/Erzählerperspektive geschrieben wird. Das ist aber nur mein persönlicher Geschmack. Nick und Lizzie kennen sich schon von Kindesbeinen an. Schon damals war Nick in sie verliebt. An ihrem 18. Geburtstag ist er fest entschlossen ihr seine Gefühle zu gestehen, auch wenn er die Freundschaft zu Robert dafür aufs Spiel setzt. Doch es gibt da etwas, dass Nick nicht weiß. Lizzie ist ein erfolgreiches Model, doch von einem auf den anderen Tag bricht ihre heile Welt in sich zusammen. Ausgerechnet Nick steht ihr zur Seite. Viel mehr möchte ich dazu gar nicht sagen, da ich sonst zu viel Handlung vorwegnehmen würde. Ein Buch mit viel Gefühl, aber auch einigen Überraschungen, das mich von Anfang bis Ende in seinen Bann gezogen hat. Von mir gibt es eine klare Leseempfehlung. Ich hoffe auf weitere Bücher aus der Feder dieser Autorin.

5 von 5 🍀 🍀 🍀 🍀 🍀

[Karin Pfanner · Rating 3 out of 5]

Lizzie ist am Ziel ihrer Träume: Sie ist ein erfolgreiches Topmodel. Als jedoch ein Unfall ihr privates Umfeld erschüttert, gerät sie in eine Abwärtsspirale in der sie sich immer die falschen Männer aussucht.

Meine Meinung:
Lizzie ist eine einsame Seele. Sie war verletzlich und wurde dann von ihrem „Freund“ noch unter Drogen gesetzt und beim Sex zu dritt gefilmt. Dann versucht er sie zu erpressen. Dies lässt sie aber nicht zu und das Video gehen an die Presse.
Nick, der Freund aus einer anderer Zeit, steht ihr in dem Kampf um ihren Ruf zur Seite.
Die Charaktere waren manchmal etwas verwirrend, denn Lizzie ist in einer Spirale aus Selbstvorwürfen, Schuldgefühlen und Selbstgeißelung gefangen. Warum kommt im Laufe der Geschichte an die Oberfläche.
Und Nick? Der ist seit langer Zeit in Lizzie verliebt und hat dafür eine halbgare Affäre.
Wirklich sympathisch war er mir nur auf Bezug im Umgang mit Lizzie.

Mein Fazit:
Mich hat die Geschichte nicht mitgerissen und überzeugt. Denn ich empfand gerade Lizzie mit ihren 26 Jahren oft zu unreif und ständig hilfsbedürftig. Sicherlich hat sie schwere Schicksalsschläge hinter sich und das kann einen aus der Bahn werfen. Aber nach einiger Zeit sollte man sich fragen, was man vom Leben will und wo man hin will. Auch hat sie doch sicherlich gute Freunde, oder? Dies habe ich in dem Buch nicht wahrgenommen. Ihre Reaktion mit abtauchen konnte ich insoweit nachvollziehen, dass sie unter Drogen missbraucht wurde. Dies kann man nicht so einfach verarbeiten.
Aber der Rest? Ich hatte immer das Gefühl, dass die Entwicklung der Charaktere auf der Stelle traten. Denn für Nick drehte sich alles um Lizzie. Aber er konnte sich acht Jahre lang nicht lösen? Hört sich romantisch an, war aber in der Umsetzung nicht wirklich so.
Beide haben sich mit wichtigen Themen oft erst in der allerletzten Minute beschäftigt und dann ging es Knall auf Fall.
Das Buch war nett für zwischendurch. Von der Autorin Kathryn Freeman werde ich aber wieder was lesen, denn nur weil mich persönlich die Geschichte nicht mitgerissen hat, der Schreibstil war locker, leicht und gut verständlich zu lesen. Deshalb würde ich mich nicht abschrecken lassen.
Kann aber auch sein, dass ich die falsche Leserin der Geschichte war!

Vielen Dank an den Verlag und an netgalley.de für das Leseexemplar! Das hat aber meine Meinung in keinster Weise beeinflusst.

[Ayanea · Rating 2 out of 5]

*Langweilig ist noch gar kein Ausdruck*


(0)




Ach was hatte ich mich eigentlich auf diese Geschichte gefreut! Nachdem ich das Cover sah, den Klappentext gelesen und auch die Leseprobe konsumiert hatte, war ich sogleich angefixt auf den Fortgang der Story. Demnach habe ich mich voller Freude in das Buch gestürzt um alsbald fest stellen zu müssen, das es so verdammt langweilig ist! Wie kann man eine Idee mit so viel Potential so dermaßen in den Sand setzen?

Ich glaube das Hauptproblem der gesamten Story lag darin, das man quasi ab Seite 1 und schon im Epilog (der ewig lang ist) schon weiß das sich eigentlich beide lieben! Dieses jedoch nicht einfach mal kommunizieren! Mit jeder weiteren Seite wurde ich also gefühlt aggressiver, weil die zwei einfach nicht erwachsen wurden. Dabei war Nick von beiden eigentlich noch der Bodenständigere Typ. Er steht gefestigt im Leben, hat einen Job, ein tolles Haus, eine Freundin mit Bennefit- aber eigentlich liebt er seit Menschen gedenken nur Lizzie. Gefühlstechnisch ist Nick daher ein ziemliches Wrack- irgendwie wollte das alles so nicht recht zusammen passen.

Lizzie dagegen ist eine wandelnde Katastrophe. Ihr ist etwas schlimmes widerfahren- damit meine ich nicht nur die Familientragödie! Sie ist eigentlich ein gefragtes Model kann mit allem aber kaum umgehen. Am liebsten würde Sie alle Entscheidungen abgeben- obgleich sie auch auf ihre Selbstständigkeit pocht. Charaktertechnisch hat Lizzie in meinen Augen nicht viel zu bieten. Unfertig erscheint sie mir und sehr wankelmütig. Sie ist kurz gesagt extrem anstrengend.

Wenn man also solche Probleme mit beiden Charakteren einer Liebesgeschichte hat, weiß man wie sich die Lesefreude für mich gestaltet hatte: sie stürzte ab ins Bodenlose. Die Story plätscherte nur dahin und regte mich wie gesagt einfach nur auf, weil das ganze hin und her in meinen Augen einfach unnötig war. Schrecklich!

Ich muss an dieser Stelle gestehen: normalerweise hätte ich das Buch abgebrochen. Da ich es in einer Leserunde jedoch erhalten hatte, habe ich mich durch gequält. Nun kann ich jedoch sagen: man muss es nicht lesen. Es ist zwar vom Schreibstil her gut, aber das Drama einfach too much und nicht gut umgesetzt. Da gibt es bedeutend bessere Romane.

[Caro · Rating 3 out of 5]

Erster Satz:

"Es war Lizzies achtzehnter Geburstag, und gerade hatte sie einen Vertrag bei einer berühmten Modelagentur unterschrieben."


Meine Rezension:

Beginnend tut die Geschichte mit einem längeren Prolog, man bekommt einen ersten längeren Eindruck der Charaktere. Man erkennt sofort, dass die Situation aussichtslos ist. Nick und Lizzie haben schon sehr lange Gefühle füreinander, jedoch konnten sie es sich nicht eingestehen. So kommt es eher zu Verletzungen und aus dem Weg gehen.

So zieht Lizzie nach Amerika und beginnt eine Modelkarriere, Nick bleibt in England zurück. Sie verlieren sich aus den Augen, sehen sich nur bei Schicksalsschlägen oder persönlichen Katastrophen.

Und genauso treffen die beiden wieder aufeinander, Nick holt Lizzie nach einem Skandal nach England, damit sie alles erst einmal hinter sich lassen kann und zur Ruhe kommen kann. Doch tut es ihm wirklich gut, wenn sie so nah bei ihm ist?

Ab diesem Zeitpunkt beginnt ein großes Hin und Her, viel Drama und entgegenschlitternde Situationen. Zum Glück haben sie Personen um sich herum, die ihnen den richtigen Anstoß gegeben haben, endlich in eine Richtung zu gehen.


Die Charaktere wurden gut beschrieben, man kann sich in sie hineinversetzen und ihre Gefühle und Gedanken nachvollziehen. Es sind zwei Charaktere, die im Leben stehen, jedoch nicht auf ganzer Linie bereit sind, das zu fordern, was sie glücklich machen würde. Es gab einige schöne Momente mit ihnen, aber an der ein oder anderen Stelle hat etwas Gefühl gefehlt, damit es sich echter und romantischer wurde. Auch die ruhigen Szenen hätten etwas mehr ausgeschmückt werden können.


Der Schreibstil war leicht zu verfolgen, innerhalb der Kapitel gab es Perspektivwechsel, sodass man das Geschehen von beiden Protagonisten mitbekommt. So kann man sich besser in die Charaktere hineinversetzen. Die Sprache ist einfach und das Buch lässt sich flüssig lesen.


Fazit:

Mit „Forever You“ bekommt man eine Liebesgeschichte geboten, die leider nicht gänzlich von sich überzeugen kann.

[Linda · Rating 5 out of 5]

Happy Birthday Lizzie!! A grand party thrown in honour of Lizzie’s 18th birthday and no expense was spared. A tall, blonde, naturally beautiful girl Lizzie had it all. Having been signed by a major New York model agency, she is riding high and having a ball! Her family and dearest friends are all gathered to wish her all the best, as well as Nick. Nick is Lizzie’s brother Robert, best friend. She has had a crush on Nick forever! He doesn’t seem to notice that, in fact he still thinks of her as a tag along little sister. Propositioning Nick to take her virginity before she leaves for the states leaves him horrified and her feelings wounded.

Nick cannot believe Lizzie has just asked him to sleep with her! What are the chances of his lifelong dream actually coming true!? He was taken quite by surprised that his brusque answer surprised him. Having loved Lizzie as a sister when they were younger had grown more as they did. Losing both his parents when he was very young, Nick was raised by his aunt and uncle who showed more affection for his sister than him. Lizzie’s family was a second family for him and was loved by them all.

Once Lizzie is in the states, she finds the work exhausting and lonely. After begging her family to visit, her world comes to a halting stop as her parents are killed in a car crash that leaves Robert in a coma. Devastated she finds the comfort of Nick who comes to help her deal with her loss. Feeling as though he has lost his family as well, Nick wants to be there for Lizzie any way he can.

Insisting Nick return to London, Lizzie is consumed with depression and begins to lead a life that is spiraling out of control. The party girl finds herself with the most unfit men imaginable. Viewing this on the telly, Nick tries to carry on and put Lizzie out of his mind. When a particular sex scandal involving her and her so called boyfriend, Nick finds he is once again rushing to her side to take charge of her disheveled life.

[Daniela (danis_bookpourri) · Rating 3 out of 5]

"Forever You" von Kathryn Freeman, klang ja vom Klappentext sehr viel versprechend:
Held (Nick) und Heldin (Lizzie) seit Kindheitstagen schon in einander verliebt, nur zu schüchtern dem anderen ihre Gefühle zu gestehen. Dann über Jahre getrennt, bis ein Schicksalsschlag sie doch wieder zusammen bringt.

Den Anfang vom Prolog / Vorspann fand ich ehrlich gesagt etwas verwirrend. Erst befinden wir uns bei Lizzies 18. Geburtstag, dann wird gesagt, man springt 2 Jahre in die Vergangenheit, was aber eigentlich 6 Jahre in die Zukunft war, als das erste einschneidene Erlebnis für Lizzie stattfand, um dann nochmal 2 Jahre nach vorn zu gehen zu der Zeit, wo die eigentliche Handlung spielt.
Danach wird die Geschichte relativ gradlinig erzählt, dass heißt Nick und Lizzie sind immer noch zu schüchtern ihre Gefühle für den jeweils anderen einzugestehen, was irgendwie den Eindruck bei mir hinterließ, dass sich die Charaktere nur im Kreis drehen. Bis fast genau zu Halbzeit vom Buch, auf einmal beide beschließen, jetzt ist es an der Zeit eine Affäre anzufangen. Das machte zumindestens bei mir den Eindruck, als wenn die Autorin beschlossen hat, jetzt muss etwas Sex in die Handlung, da die Hälfte des Buches rum ist.
Nur das danach die beiden wieder nur sich im Kreis sich gedreht haben mit ihren Entscheidungen, was dann zur Folge hatte, dass das wirkliche Happy End etwas zu kurz am Schluss gekommen ist. Dieses im Kreis drehen wurde eben auch dadurch verstärkt, dass man immer abwechselnd in den Kopf von Lizzie und Nick schauen konnte.

Erst kommt die Handlung nicht so richtig vorwärts, dann kommt das Ende zu abrubt, irgendwie schade.

Dennoch hatten die beiden auch ihre schönen Momente, die entweder Herzklopfen verursacht haben, oder auch die Tränen zum Fließen gebracht haben.

Vielen Dank an den "beHEARTBEAT"-Verlag von Bastei Lübbe und NetGallery für das zur Verfügung stellen eines Rezensionsexemplars.

[Joanne · Rating 5 out of 5]

When you settle down with a ChocLit book you know you are in for a romantic read, with a gorgeous hero and not a few bumps along the path to true love. Too Damn Nice delivered in all these respects and I enjoyed reading it immensely.

Nick Templeton has worshipped Lizzie Donavue from afar for years, being her big brother's best friend. She views him like another brother doesn't she? Well, Lizzie may have harboured similar feelings for Nick but neither have quite managed to let the other know. On her 18th birthday, just when Nick had decided it's now or never, Lizzie announces she's got a top modelling contract and is off to New York! It seems they just aren't destined to be together. Fast forward a few years, during which Lizzie has suffered a family tragedy and become a world renowned model, Nick comes to her rescue following some particularly lurid tabloid headlines.

Kathryn Freeman has created a lovely character in Nick, one who I think I may have been just a bit in love with! Yes he is the nice guy, steady, reliable with the so called boring job - a safe option perhaps. But he is also so considerate and sensitive and willing to do anything to make sure his beloved Lizzie is happy, even if it means putting his own happiness on hold. It seems that nice boys do kiss like that and for all the celebrity relationships Lizzie may have had as a top model in New York, no-one has made her feel like Nick. The chemistry between them was apparent every time the two were near each other.

I seem to have focused on Nick rather a lot - can't think why! Lizzie was also a very likeable character who, despite her huge fame and success, seemed quite down-to-earth. I found her to be infuriating at times and was practically shouting at the book: just tell him how you feel would you! The grief she felt following her family tragedy is sensitively portrayed throughout the book as is her horror and humiliation at the scandal she finds herself at the centre of.

Did I finish the book with a contented sigh and a smile on my face? Well of course I did, but to find out how the story of Nick and Lizzie gets to that point, you'll need to buy the book for yourself! Too Damn Nice is a thoroughly enjoyable read, perfect for when you want a feel good read and a happy ending.

[Alison · Rating 4 out of 5]

So the title of this book should give a hint of what’s inside Too Damn Nice shouts lovey dovey romance to me. I’ve never gone for a nice guy, always erred on the bad boy side so I was curious to see if this would be a bit too sickly sweet for me. I have enjoyed books by Kathryn previously so that clinched the deal of reading and reviewing.

Well after reading the fairly lengthy prologue by the time I got to the first chapter I was beginning to get involved with the characters, a bit further in and I was hooked.

Nick has adored his best friends’ sister Lizzie forever, when it gets to her eighteenth birthday he finally feels it’s the right time to make his feelings known. But sods law means Lizzie is about to disappear out of his life and follow her dream of becoming a model in the USA.

Once she drifts into the glamorous world of fame Nick becomes a distant memory for her. First a tragedy strikes her family, and then she becomes involved in a scandal. Can her knight in shining armour come to the rescue?

This is a cute love story, two people who need each other but so many hurdles get in the way. Timing is crucial, will Lizzie realise Nick is the one person who can dig her out of her chaos…

I really enjoyed this, there is enough depth in the story to make it intriguing but also an underlying simplicity which shows we all need that special person who has our back no mater what stupid situations arise. As much as I didn’t want to succumb to ‘Mr’ smooth and perfect’s charms he really was Too Damn Nice and he managed to capture a piece of my heart.

Excellent storytelling from Kathryn and the perfect romance we come to expect from Choc Lit. My thanks to them and Netgalley for my copy which I read and reviewed voluntarily and to Brook Cottage Books for inviting me onto the tour.

[Rachel (Rae) · Rating 5 out of 5]

It's safe to say that I wasn't expecting to feel such an emotional pull towards the story and characters. Both Lizzie and Nick have had traumatic pasts and I loved their connection. Nick is pretty much the perfect guy the way he came to Lizzie's rescue was so sweet. To the public eye Lizzie may seem like she has things together and appear to be the perfect celebrity. However behind closed doors it's a different story and this made me like her even more especially when a horrible event brings everything falling down.

The story moves smoothly and after a couple of chapters I had warmed to both Lizzie and Nick. I loved hearing the story from both perspectives and I found myself smiling at their friendship. The timing just never seems right for Nick to reveal his feelings and I really did feel for his situation.

There is a lot of heart in this story that was quite surprising to me as I possibly expected a slightly more fluffier story. However the combination of this heart warming story along with an emotional connection was perfect and made such a delightful read for me. If you are looking to just sit back and relax Too Damn Nice is the ideal solution. I couldn't wait to see how everything would turn out for Nick and Lizzie after having had such tragedy in their pasts. Kathryn Freeman has written a story that made it so easy to fall straight into the characters lives and to hope that they found their perfect ending. In Too Damn Nice there are themes of grief, love and friendship which all came together to make a gorgeous combination. This is the first book that I have read by Kathryn Freeman but after reading such a sweet and heartfelt story it definitely won't be my last.

With thanks to Brook Cottage Books & Netgalley for my copy. This is my honest and unbiased opinion.

[Marsha Keeper Bookshelf · Rating 5 out of 5]

Reviewed at Keeper Bookshelf

I had such fun with Too Damn Nice. Well, truthfully, I always have fun with a Kathryn Freeman novel, but this one touch a few special spots for me. Nick is proof positive that yeah, often nice guys finish last… but when finishing last means he gets the girl he’s loved then last is a good place to be when it means forever.

Lizzie and Nick have always had feelings for each other. Friendship that grew into a crush and then even more as adults. But life doesn’t always run smoothly and before those feelings could be tested Lizzie was off to New York and a modeling career that would take her to the top of her profession. Nick stayed behind and while his career was important, his loss of Lizzie is obvious in so many ways. Their turning point came with such unbelievable tragedy that your heart will indeed ache for them. Sometimes you have to reach rock bottom before you can fight your way back up. The loss of her parents, her brother’s medical condition, a scandal that she has no memory about will bring Lizzie to the point of losing all she’s worked for or finding something worth fighting for.

While there is heartache in Too Damn Nice, there is also hope and love. Lizzie and Nick will face a lot, most of it together as they discover that what once was a childhood crush based on friendship can turn into the forever kind of love that will always have your back. I enjoyed Nick and Lizzie’s journey very much and would highly recommend this one for any Romance reader.

*I received an e-ARC of this novel from the publisher via NetGalley. That does not change what I think of this story. It is my choice to leave a review giving my personal opinion about this book.*

[Meine_Buecher · Rating 4 out of 5]

>>Du hast mich für immer.<<

Nick ist schon lange in Lizzy, die kleine Schwester seines besten Freundes, verliebt. An ihrem 18. Geburtstag will der 23-jährige Nick ihr seine Liebe gestehen, doch als er endlich den Mut dafür aufbringt, kommt sie ihm mit der Ankündigung zuvor, am nächsten Tag nach New York zu gehen und einen Vertrag bei einer renommierten Modelagentur zu unterschreiben.
Acht Jahre später ist Lizzy ein bekanntes Topmodel geworden und kostet ihr Celebrity Leben voll und ganz aus - immer einen Bad Boy an ihrer Seite. Nach einem Unglücksfall vor zwei Jahren schlägt das Schicksal nun erneut bei ihr schwer zu. Aber Nick ist wie immer für sie da und schottet sie von der Außenwelt ab, damit sie zur Ruhe komme kann. Wieder zurück in ihrer Heimat England bei Nick zuhause verbringen die Beiden eine intensive Zeit, doch sie sind beste Freunde, richtig? Außerdem leben sie völlig unterschiedlichen Lebensweisen. Er ist Steuerberater, sie ist ein Supermodel. Er lebt in England auf dem Land, sie mittlerweile in Glamour-Glitzer-Welt von LA. Er liebt es ruhig und friedlich, sie liebt das Rampenlicht. Doch die Anziehung zwischen ihnen nimmt von Tag zu Tag zu. Aber da sind ja auch immer noch Lizzy's Schuldgefühle, die ihr verbieten, glücklich zu sein. . .

„Forever You – Auf Einmal Ist Es Liebe“ ist ein schöner Roman von Kathryn Freeman. Die Geschichte wird aus beiden Perspektiven erzählt, der Schreibstil und die Erzählweise sind angenehm flüssig und bildhaft zu lesen. Die Charaktere sind auch sympathisch gezeichnet. Das ein oder andere Mal hätte ich sie gerne geschüttelt, damit sie endlich ihre Gefühle füreinander preisgeben, aber ich konnte auch ihre Befürchtungen und Ängste verstehen, dass damit ihre Freundschaft zerstört werden könnte, sollte der jeweils Andere nicht das Gleiche fühlen. Dazu kommen die Trauer und die nachvollziehbaren Schuldgefühle, unter denen Lizzy leidet. Gegen Ende sind sogar ein paar Tränchen bei mir geflossen.

Fazit: Eine einfühlsame Geschichte über Freundschaft, Familie und die große Liebe <3

[Louise · Rating 5 out of 5]

You may be forgiven for thinking this is a flowery, superficial love story like so many others, but this book is so much more than that! I was lost in the lives of Nick and Lizzie and yes, there were times when I just wanted to bang their heads together (but in a good way!)

They have known each other forever but somehow the time was never right for them to get together. Nick is secretly in love with Lizzie but he feels she’s out of reach when she lands a job modeling for a New York agency. When tragedy strikes for Lizzie, Nick is there waiting to pick up the pieces.

Do they sail away under the sunset together? No, because Nick believes that he could never be good enough for Lizzie and doesn’t want to take advantage of her fragile state.

This is a story of the perfect couple pushing each other away because they both wrongly assume a relationship could never happen. If only they could see what is glaringly obvious to everyone else, it would save so much heartbreak.

I loved how Nick was just a normal nice guy, it makes you believe that the right person for you could be living down your street, delivering your groceries or fixing the washing machine. It shows that Mr. Right doesn’t have to be a sexy millionaire with floppy hair and pearly white teeth. He could be waiting patiently in the sidelines, for the time to be right, feeling insecure and a little afraid of rejection.

Kathryn Freeman has created a beautiful heart-wrenching story that fills your heart with hope, sets your mind thinking that anything is possible and leaves you wanting more.