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Bad Boy's Guide to... #1
Being Not Good: As Opposed to Being Bad
If you don’t like a smattering of serious on a bed of satire, clichéd characters, and over the top situations that know exactly what they are, then this book is definitely not for you.
What do you get when you introduce Deadpool’s personality to Giselle’s? If you answered a love story for the ages, you wouldn’t be totally wrong… But, you wouldn’t be totally right, either.
With a heroine who won’t let a stupid little thing like being too good get in the way of showing her stupid ex what’s what and a hero who wants no part of being the male lead in a romance novel, these two opposites find themselves in an unconventional partnership.
When peppy-go-lucky Avery eventually wears down bad-to-the-bone Davin’s defences, he agrees to help her trash her reputation. And if Davin can help her pass math while he’s at it, all the better. So it’s goodbye to Little Miss Goody-Two-Shoes and hello to a whole new Avery.
Davin was only supposed to be Avery’s mistake – the guy that everyone would eventually call her ‘little phase’ – and he figured it would be good for a laugh when he looked back on it. But the more they’re together, the less either of them feel it’s a mistake.
Now if only one of them could mention that to the other and ease all that angst-ridden tension…
A laugh-out-loud modern-day fairy-tale told in dual POV for those who know life never quite goes according to plan.
The first book in a new standalone series: Bad Boy's Guide to...
This story is not intended for younger readers due to mature content. Please be aware that this story is set in Australia and therefore uses Australian English spelling and syntax.
What do you get when you introduce Deadpool’s personality to Giselle’s? If you answered a love story for the ages, you wouldn’t be totally wrong… But, you wouldn’t be totally right, either.
With a heroine who won’t let a stupid little thing like being too good get in the way of showing her stupid ex what’s what and a hero who wants no part of being the male lead in a romance novel, these two opposites find themselves in an unconventional partnership.
When peppy-go-lucky Avery eventually wears down bad-to-the-bone Davin’s defences, he agrees to help her trash her reputation. And if Davin can help her pass math while he’s at it, all the better. So it’s goodbye to Little Miss Goody-Two-Shoes and hello to a whole new Avery.
Davin was only supposed to be Avery’s mistake – the guy that everyone would eventually call her ‘little phase’ – and he figured it would be good for a laugh when he looked back on it. But the more they’re together, the less either of them feel it’s a mistake.
Now if only one of them could mention that to the other and ease all that angst-ridden tension…
A laugh-out-loud modern-day fairy-tale told in dual POV for those who know life never quite goes according to plan.
The first book in a new standalone series: Bad Boy's Guide to...
This story is not intended for younger readers due to mature content. Please be aware that this story is set in Australia and therefore uses Australian English spelling and syntax.
400 pages, Kindle Edition
Published April 5, 2019
190 people are currently reading
214 people want to read
About the author
Elizabeth Stevens
77 books368 followersWriter. Reader. Perpetual student. Nerd.
I started out writing fantasy. But, I like to write anything, honestly. These days, I mainly stick to YA and there's always at least a sprinkling of romance, if not a 'whoops, I dropped the whole packet in'. Almost all my books are set in my home state of South Australia, either in real or fictional places - gotta write what you know - with Netherfield being the only current exception.
Like most writers, I love to read. Although, time for reading at the moment is hard to come by. When I'm not too busy writing, I'm usually reading a number of authors. Some of my favourites are Rick Riordan, Jane Austen, Kate Forsyth, Cecilia Dart-Thornton, Kasie West, John Flanagan, Terry Pratchett, Isobelle Carmody, Christina Benjamin, Emily Rodda, and many more.
I'm an avid fan of Marvel, DC, Doctor Who, Supernatural, Red Dwarf, IT Crowd, and pretty much anything similar. I've recently discovered Richard Ayoade's Travel Man and it's brilliant. I love watching soccer (go Gunners) and thoroughly look forward to seeing Eurovision every year. Celebrity crushes include Anna Kendrick and Chris Evans, because they are wonderful.
I live in Adelaide with my husband and a menagerie of animals – a cat reliving her (sixth) youth, a cowardly Beagle-Cavalier who thinks he’s smaller than he is, one meeping guinea pig who thinks any plastic bag has his greens in, two chickens who are terrified of free-ranging, and a turtle with a penchant for sticking her head up her filter pipe.
I have a Master of Arts (Writing) from Swinburne University of Technology. I also have a Master of Arts (Editing and Publishing) at University of Southern Queensland and, am now working towards my PhD. I also hope to one day undertake a PhD in Creative Writing - perpetual student, am I.
I also organise the Sleeping Dragon Emerging Fantasy Writers’ Collective writing group. The group self-published their anthology Tales from the Sleeping Dragon in 2012.
You can also find me on:
Facebook
Instagram
Wattpad
If you'd like to keep up with all my shenanigans, you can sign up for my newsletter here.
NB: I'm usually happy to discuss review copies of my books. A track record of reviewing is preferable, but not completely necessary.
I started out writing fantasy. But, I like to write anything, honestly. These days, I mainly stick to YA and there's always at least a sprinkling of romance, if not a 'whoops, I dropped the whole packet in'. Almost all my books are set in my home state of South Australia, either in real or fictional places - gotta write what you know - with Netherfield being the only current exception.
Like most writers, I love to read. Although, time for reading at the moment is hard to come by. When I'm not too busy writing, I'm usually reading a number of authors. Some of my favourites are Rick Riordan, Jane Austen, Kate Forsyth, Cecilia Dart-Thornton, Kasie West, John Flanagan, Terry Pratchett, Isobelle Carmody, Christina Benjamin, Emily Rodda, and many more.
I'm an avid fan of Marvel, DC, Doctor Who, Supernatural, Red Dwarf, IT Crowd, and pretty much anything similar. I've recently discovered Richard Ayoade's Travel Man and it's brilliant. I love watching soccer (go Gunners) and thoroughly look forward to seeing Eurovision every year. Celebrity crushes include Anna Kendrick and Chris Evans, because they are wonderful.
I live in Adelaide with my husband and a menagerie of animals – a cat reliving her (sixth) youth, a cowardly Beagle-Cavalier who thinks he’s smaller than he is, one meeping guinea pig who thinks any plastic bag has his greens in, two chickens who are terrified of free-ranging, and a turtle with a penchant for sticking her head up her filter pipe.
I have a Master of Arts (Writing) from Swinburne University of Technology. I also have a Master of Arts (Editing and Publishing) at University of Southern Queensland and, am now working towards my PhD. I also hope to one day undertake a PhD in Creative Writing - perpetual student, am I.
I also organise the Sleeping Dragon Emerging Fantasy Writers’ Collective writing group. The group self-published their anthology Tales from the Sleeping Dragon in 2012.
You can also find me on:
Wattpad
If you'd like to keep up with all my shenanigans, you can sign up for my newsletter here.
NB: I'm usually happy to discuss review copies of my books. A track record of reviewing is preferable, but not completely necessary.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 49 reviews
December 21, 2020
I would give this a 3.8 just because the main character was as awful as they come. I disliked her with a PASSION. If the main guy (forgive me, my husband) wasn't like he is I would've totally given it a 2.5. For trying. But WITH him? Let me just get out of the way this fact: HE IS SARCASTIC. AND HE LOVES READING, I REPEAT, HE LOVES READING. Catch me please, I have fallen. Down a cliff, call 911. My heart cannot take the pressure. Shrapnel...everywhere. And let me tell you, would I recommend this? Not necessarily, based on the fact that again, the main girl? An absolute pain in the butt. Or like, as much pain as getting your toe punctured by that dang corner that ALWAYS seems to want to stab you. That's how I would describe her. Also, sunshine on a Disney movie. On steroids. I don't like princesses so yes, she would be exactly that. Again, let me fangirl a bit about Davin. He was wow, he was perfection. He was glorious. Exquisite, mouth watering, amazing, unfathomably awesome. Yes, that would explain him perfectly. I will leave this mini mess of a review by blessing you with scraps of his existence, excuse my French, his beautiful existence, which may or may not have made me incredibly thirs-
I sighed and stretched my neck. “Okay.” I thought about it. “I twomble. If
there was an Olympic medal for twombling, I would get gold. Every time. Hands
down.”
She snorted. “You what?”
“Twomble. It means to abruptly leave an awkward situation without saying a
word.”
He looked at me, his eyebrow quirked in surprise. “What?”
“You went over there and ordered with total ease and confidence.”
“I’m not shy, Avery. I dislike social contact. There’s a difference.”
Pardon me, how am I not supposed to fall head over heels for him??? Also, another saving point? His grandma. Loved her. Loved him. As usual, I finished the book content, all: Awww that was so sweet, I hope they persist or like, break up. Because the main witch here, needs a backbone. Make that four.
To then (after closing the book and taking a deep breath, walking around, stretching my cramped self. Reading is a perilous thing my loves. Very...difficult on the bones. And like, eyesight. *snort*) have a total and absolute moment of: I NEED HIM, WHY IS HE NOT REAL?!? WHY IS HE WITH HER?!? WHERE CAN I HAVE HIM CRAFTED?!?! YO DISNEY! YOUR GIRL NEEDS YOUUUU!!*cue sadness for days* I will forever remember you, Davin Ambrose.
P.S: Did I forget to tell you HE READS?!? AND LOVES READING?!? That's it, someone get me a wedding dress and a ring. This man here, my husband he is.
P.S.S: A very nice being gently instructed me that "p.s" meant post-script (which I knew but to be fair, it was 2 am. Don't attack me please) And y'all know what I thought that "p.s" meant at that moment? Postponed Sarcasm. Pondering Sassiness. Preposterous Saltiness. Someone hit me with a brick porfavor. A small brick. Better yet, just make me watch Allegiant *horrified shudder*.
I sighed and stretched my neck. “Okay.” I thought about it. “I twomble. If
there was an Olympic medal for twombling, I would get gold. Every time. Hands
down.”
She snorted. “You what?”
“Twomble. It means to abruptly leave an awkward situation without saying a
word.”
He looked at me, his eyebrow quirked in surprise. “What?”
“You went over there and ordered with total ease and confidence.”
“I’m not shy, Avery. I dislike social contact. There’s a difference.”
Pardon me, how am I not supposed to fall head over heels for him??? Also, another saving point? His grandma. Loved her. Loved him. As usual, I finished the book content, all: Awww that was so sweet, I hope they persist or like, break up. Because the main witch here, needs a backbone. Make that four.
To then (after closing the book and taking a deep breath, walking around, stretching my cramped self. Reading is a perilous thing my loves. Very...difficult on the bones. And like, eyesight. *snort*) have a total and absolute moment of: I NEED HIM, WHY IS HE NOT REAL?!? WHY IS HE WITH HER?!? WHERE CAN I HAVE HIM CRAFTED?!?! YO DISNEY! YOUR GIRL NEEDS YOUUUU!!*cue sadness for days* I will forever remember you, Davin Ambrose.
P.S: Did I forget to tell you HE READS?!? AND LOVES READING?!? That's it, someone get me a wedding dress and a ring. This man here, my husband he is.
P.S.S: A very nice being gently instructed me that "p.s" meant post-script (which I knew but to be fair, it was 2 am. Don't attack me please) And y'all know what I thought that "p.s" meant at that moment? Postponed Sarcasm. Pondering Sassiness. Preposterous Saltiness. Someone hit me with a brick porfavor. A small brick. Better yet, just make me watch Allegiant *horrified shudder*.
December 1, 2019
Being not good, but not being bad. A funny story of opposites attract. I love how Stevens manages to talk about mental illness, suicide and other issues in her books and approach them in a safe manner that can be understood from the reader POV. Not just as a negative but how to overcome and work on them. I love the love story because it isn’t a fake relationship, its a different approach to it.
April 19, 2019
*I have received an ARC in exchange for an honest review
What another great book from a really good author. There was tons of chemistry and a great romance that followed. The hero and heroine were great characters. I loved how they often butted headed, but underneath they had a lot in common. Even though this book is a fairy tale retelling, it didn't feel like one. The book felt like it had its own unique plot.
The romance is a really nice slow-burn. I liked how things progressed slowly and at a pretty good pace. Things weren't rushed and I was able to enjoy the hero and heroine falling in love. In addition, the author wrote some darn good kissing scenes. They were super sweet.
In summary, this is a really good novel from an awesome author. Go one-click it for you contemporary romance lovers.
What another great book from a really good author. There was tons of chemistry and a great romance that followed. The hero and heroine were great characters. I loved how they often butted headed, but underneath they had a lot in common. Even though this book is a fairy tale retelling, it didn't feel like one. The book felt like it had its own unique plot.
The romance is a really nice slow-burn. I liked how things progressed slowly and at a pretty good pace. Things weren't rushed and I was able to enjoy the hero and heroine falling in love. In addition, the author wrote some darn good kissing scenes. They were super sweet.
In summary, this is a really good novel from an awesome author. Go one-click it for you contemporary romance lovers.
June 9, 2020
I checked this book out with Prime Reading. I had read another by this author and enjoyed it, so I was hopeful I would like this one too. I was right! The story was cute and the characters were well developed and relatable. I liked the idea of the "good girl" wanting to change her image after a betrayal like Avery experienced. What I liked even more, was how both Davin and Avery ended up learning that there was more to the other than meets the eye. I'm a sucker for a "don't judge a book by it's cover" story.
Davin's backstory was very sad. If I had to improve on this book, I would give just a bit more information there. Perhaps explore his penchant for talking to someone who isn't there. Is it the reader? Is it his mother?
All in all, I truly enjoyed this book and will likely read more by this author in the future.
Davin's backstory was very sad. If I had to improve on this book, I would give just a bit more information there. Perhaps explore his penchant for talking to someone who isn't there. Is it the reader? Is it his mother?
All in all, I truly enjoyed this book and will likely read more by this author in the future.
April 7, 2019
I enjoyed this story which suprised me. I have to start by saying I don’t like high school, college type stories. For some reason I can’t get past the school children image. I normally don’t even try to read them and started to read this without realising it was. The storyline was very entertaining and drew me in really quickly. Even the fact that Avery seemed very childish in a lot of ways didn’t spoil this for me. I loved her personality and both she and Davin were fantastic together. It’s a true talent when you can lead someone to really enjoy something they are totally against.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
April 1, 2019
4.5 stars
This author has the remarkable talent of crafting humorous, enjoyable YA novels while also threading in some important messages. Bad Boy’s Guide to … Being Not Good runs more along the lines of satire which I think made the story. Set in high school, Avery is considered to be “too good” and after a public breakup, she decides to approach the “bad boy” Davin, to teach her to not be so good by dating him. What could possibly go wrong with a social experiment like this?
The two characters are complete opposites and yet, they mesh so well together. Told from a dual POV, you get a look into Avery’s upbeat, brightly colored personality and we also get to experience Davin’s more grumpier, anti-social outlook on life. I adored Davin. His sarcastic wit and his inner monologue involving his thoughts and observations when it comes to Avery are hilarious. Yet, there is a seriousness and some other things about him that I could identify with. Avery appears to always be happy and always lending a hand to the point of many treating her like she’s not very smart or a doormat. At times, she was almost too bubbly for me, but while I couldn’t identify with her buoyant, very happy approach to life, I could very much relate to her being “good” - people pleaser and not always standing up for herself. The Lord of Malcontent and the Queen of Pep are two very different people who truly “see” each other. I wish that as I high schooler, I read this book as the take home messages are something that every teen and young adult should hear. The author beautifully illustrates how everyone deserves respect and is worthy of love and that you also have to be true to yourself. Overall, I really enjoyed this book. It moved at a great pace; had likable and relatable characters; and had the right mix of humor, sarcasm, and satire. I received this book for free and I voluntarily leave this review.
This author has the remarkable talent of crafting humorous, enjoyable YA novels while also threading in some important messages. Bad Boy’s Guide to … Being Not Good runs more along the lines of satire which I think made the story. Set in high school, Avery is considered to be “too good” and after a public breakup, she decides to approach the “bad boy” Davin, to teach her to not be so good by dating him. What could possibly go wrong with a social experiment like this?
The two characters are complete opposites and yet, they mesh so well together. Told from a dual POV, you get a look into Avery’s upbeat, brightly colored personality and we also get to experience Davin’s more grumpier, anti-social outlook on life. I adored Davin. His sarcastic wit and his inner monologue involving his thoughts and observations when it comes to Avery are hilarious. Yet, there is a seriousness and some other things about him that I could identify with. Avery appears to always be happy and always lending a hand to the point of many treating her like she’s not very smart or a doormat. At times, she was almost too bubbly for me, but while I couldn’t identify with her buoyant, very happy approach to life, I could very much relate to her being “good” - people pleaser and not always standing up for herself. The Lord of Malcontent and the Queen of Pep are two very different people who truly “see” each other. I wish that as I high schooler, I read this book as the take home messages are something that every teen and young adult should hear. The author beautifully illustrates how everyone deserves respect and is worthy of love and that you also have to be true to yourself. Overall, I really enjoyed this book. It moved at a great pace; had likable and relatable characters; and had the right mix of humor, sarcasm, and satire. I received this book for free and I voluntarily leave this review.
April 12, 2019
This was a fun read!
I think what I liked most about the story was Davin - hands down. I liked how, over the course of the story, he learned to open up and let some happiness, colour, and even over-the-top peppy goodness (in short: Avery) into his life.
I also like how the author plays with various rom-com clichés and blatantly and unapologetically hits the reader over the head with them. :)
What didn't work for me was Davin breaking the 4th wall - that would have worked better with a visual medium like comics/graphic novels or movies IMO.
Overall, an enjoyable read.
4/5 stars
(I'd give the first 70% (or so) of the story 4.5 stars, it kind of fizzled out for me after that to more of a 3.5 star rating.)
I think what I liked most about the story was Davin - hands down. I liked how, over the course of the story, he learned to open up and let some happiness, colour, and even over-the-top peppy goodness (in short: Avery) into his life.
I also like how the author plays with various rom-com clichés and blatantly and unapologetically hits the reader over the head with them. :)
What didn't work for me was Davin breaking the 4th wall - that would have worked better with a visual medium like comics/graphic novels or movies IMO.
Overall, an enjoyable read.
4/5 stars
(I'd give the first 70% (or so) of the story 4.5 stars, it kind of fizzled out for me after that to more of a 3.5 star rating.)
May 27, 2019
Funny & Engaging
Avery is the seemingly vapid tiny tornado of colorful optimism to Davon's dark and mysterious "bad boy" persona. When they begin to know each other they find that neither is what the other seems. Through Davon, Avery hopes to change everything about herself, but Davon accepts Avery for exactly who she is. One of the first things he says to her is to never change herself for any one, including him. I loved Davon, his wit and sarcasm were funny. While Avery and Davon seemingly have nothing in common, they're exactly what the other needs, perfectly matched. This was my second read by this author and I've liked both books so far. Very good read.
Avery is the seemingly vapid tiny tornado of colorful optimism to Davon's dark and mysterious "bad boy" persona. When they begin to know each other they find that neither is what the other seems. Through Davon, Avery hopes to change everything about herself, but Davon accepts Avery for exactly who she is. One of the first things he says to her is to never change herself for any one, including him. I loved Davon, his wit and sarcasm were funny. While Avery and Davon seemingly have nothing in common, they're exactly what the other needs, perfectly matched. This was my second read by this author and I've liked both books so far. Very good read.
April 15, 2019
I haven’t read all of Elizabeth’s books (yet) but I have loved every single one that I have read, and this book is no exception. I love all of her characters and Avery and Davin are two more lovely characters in this story. They are charming and hilarious. I am really hoping there will be more to their story since this is a book 1, but almost think it will involve some other characters from the book. Either way, I can’t wait to read more from Elizabeth and highly recommend you read this and her other books if you haven’t already!
September 5, 2019
How can you be too good?
Absolutely love this book. Love the two POV's. Two people could not be more mismatched then Avery and Davin. I laughed so much.
She is all happiness and colour and he is all antisocial and moody. Love the way that Davin describes Avery through the book, and love Avery's persistence to get what she thinks she wants.
This is a must read. Davin seems to talk to the reader but he thinks he doesn't say that stuff out loud. Avery just learns to go with it when he says something that was not to her.
Absolutely love this book. Love the two POV's. Two people could not be more mismatched then Avery and Davin. I laughed so much.
She is all happiness and colour and he is all antisocial and moody. Love the way that Davin describes Avery through the book, and love Avery's persistence to get what she thinks she wants.
This is a must read. Davin seems to talk to the reader but he thinks he doesn't say that stuff out loud. Avery just learns to go with it when he says something that was not to her.
October 15, 2019
Laugh out loud
Stevens writes this as satire, and I suppose that works, too. It is definitely a commentary on romance novels, but as an English academic myself who would in no way list this in my list of satirical novels, I definitely appreciate it as metafiction. Avery’s voice is neither fresh nor demonstrative of Stevens intent, but Davin is both. He is by the funniest and irreverent Byronic hero I’ve read. It was a pleasure realizing him so fully within the text. This is not just any trope driven love story, it’s a singular feat of ingenious romantic comedy.
Stevens writes this as satire, and I suppose that works, too. It is definitely a commentary on romance novels, but as an English academic myself who would in no way list this in my list of satirical novels, I definitely appreciate it as metafiction. Avery’s voice is neither fresh nor demonstrative of Stevens intent, but Davin is both. He is by the funniest and irreverent Byronic hero I’ve read. It was a pleasure realizing him so fully within the text. This is not just any trope driven love story, it’s a singular feat of ingenious romantic comedy.
January 5, 2022
This review will not be helpful, please scroll away.
I do not remember this book, I think I didn´t like the main character, I assume there wasn´t that much of a character development. But this was one of my midnight-can´t-sleep-work-tomorrow-buys, and I cannot tell you a single fact about this read. The only reason it gets two stars is because I obviously read it, at least that´s what kindle tells me. Thank you and goodnight.
I do not remember this book, I think I didn´t like the main character, I assume there wasn´t that much of a character development. But this was one of my midnight-can´t-sleep-work-tomorrow-buys, and I cannot tell you a single fact about this read. The only reason it gets two stars is because I obviously read it, at least that´s what kindle tells me. Thank you and goodnight.
April 10, 2019
Great read
I really like this author she has a great way of writing. This story is set in an Australian high school. The two main characters are complete obesity but the way the story unfolds they work really well together. There is some sex in the story which works and is written sweetly
I really like this author she has a great way of writing. This story is set in an Australian high school. The two main characters are complete obesity but the way the story unfolds they work really well together. There is some sex in the story which works and is written sweetly
June 21, 2022
Couldn't put down
This was a really good story! In the beginning, I wasnt convinced that I would enjoy this book, but as I kept reading, I fell in love with Davin and Avery! It has steamy parts and sweet parts. True opposites attract story that left me with a bit of a book hangover. Definitely worth every word.
This was a really good story! In the beginning, I wasnt convinced that I would enjoy this book, but as I kept reading, I fell in love with Davin and Avery! It has steamy parts and sweet parts. True opposites attract story that left me with a bit of a book hangover. Definitely worth every word.
February 14, 2021
Whimsical. I knew it was a different sort of book, but I think I’d have appreciated it more if I’d realized it was satirical, earlier. Knowing that, it’s more...something. I liked it, though I think I liked the male lead best. :)
July 2, 2023
One of my favorites
Davin is one of my all time favorite characters. I love his sarcasm and he propensity to break the fourth wall. I love the opposite unwillingly attract that this book has going on and absolutely love the scene at the fair.
Davin is one of my all time favorite characters. I love his sarcasm and he propensity to break the fourth wall. I love the opposite unwillingly attract that this book has going on and absolutely love the scene at the fair.
April 28, 2019
Delightful, really. I love Stevens' writing. I had this book pre-ordered the moment I was notified.
She's amazing with characters, dialogue, and story development. In the synopsis, the author warns that if you don't like satire, cliches, or over-the-top situations, then the book's not for you...but I beg to differ. The author does all of it in such a way that is unique and refreshing. I'd be surprised if you didn't come away from the book with a smile and a chuckle. I love that the main male character, Davin, talks to you, the reader, occasionally. He was by far my favorite character: grumpy, pessimistic, dry wit, "bad" but not really, smart. He was adorable. This book is a lot more than just what it claims to be with cliches and troupes. I highly recommend it. I look forward to more in the series.
She's amazing with characters, dialogue, and story development. In the synopsis, the author warns that if you don't like satire, cliches, or over-the-top situations, then the book's not for you...but I beg to differ. The author does all of it in such a way that is unique and refreshing. I'd be surprised if you didn't come away from the book with a smile and a chuckle. I love that the main male character, Davin, talks to you, the reader, occasionally. He was by far my favorite character: grumpy, pessimistic, dry wit, "bad" but not really, smart. He was adorable. This book is a lot more than just what it claims to be with cliches and troupes. I highly recommend it. I look forward to more in the series.
September 2, 2019
I love this author. I have read several of her books. This is a great story of how to people that are opposites are so right for each other.
September 9, 2019
Excellent Read!!
Charming, witty, love the characters!! Love the emotions and understanding of the characters! Didnt want to put it down ! Awesome
Charming, witty, love the characters!! Love the emotions and understanding of the characters! Didnt want to put it down ! Awesome
July 29, 2021
Love it!
This book is just adorable. I loved our anti Hero Davin & the pink fairy Avery. I just loved how he helped her & she helped him. But most of all I loved the snark!
This book is just adorable. I loved our anti Hero Davin & the pink fairy Avery. I just loved how he helped her & she helped him. But most of all I loved the snark!
March 7, 2023
I loved this book! Elizabeth Stevens is fast becoming one of my favorite authors.
November 24, 2024
Dark at times, but I loved the light heartedness that the female lead brought to the story!
July 19, 2021
Elizabeth creates a book that will take you on an emotional roller coaster but in a good way. I laughed, I cried, and I screamed for these two characters to wake up and come to their senses. It is told from both Davin’s and Avery’s POVs, which helps the reader understand their characters a little bit better. Have you ever tried to be bad to prove you were not too good? Well, Avery has decided to try it and all she has to do is convince Davin to help her. You get a journey of self discovery from both characters which makes the story that much more entertaining!
Go on an amazing journey as Davin and Avery find their true selves, my dear readers!
Merged review:
Elizabeth creates a book that will take you on an emotional roller coaster but in a good way. I laughed, I cried, and I screamed for these two characters to wake up and come to their senses. It is told from both Davin’s and Avery’s POVs, which helps the reader understand their characters a little bit better. Have you ever tried to be bad to prove you were not too good? Well, Avery has decided to try it and all she has to do is convince Davin to help her. You get a journey of self discovery from both characters which makes the story that much more entertaining!
Go on an amazing journey as Davin and Avery find their true selves, my dear readers!
Go on an amazing journey as Davin and Avery find their true selves, my dear readers!
Merged review:
Elizabeth creates a book that will take you on an emotional roller coaster but in a good way. I laughed, I cried, and I screamed for these two characters to wake up and come to their senses. It is told from both Davin’s and Avery’s POVs, which helps the reader understand their characters a little bit better. Have you ever tried to be bad to prove you were not too good? Well, Avery has decided to try it and all she has to do is convince Davin to help her. You get a journey of self discovery from both characters which makes the story that much more entertaining!
Go on an amazing journey as Davin and Avery find their true selves, my dear readers!
September 8, 2021
You guys, I don't often leave reviews but for this book, I had to. I pre-ordered (how do you say no to a $0.99 pre-order?!) and from the time it was delivered to my Kindle til the moment I finished I couldn't put it down.
The concept is super cute but kind of cliched, which is part of the fun I think. What really made this book a winner is the characters. Both Davin and Avery are so much despite being so different and watching them interact was nothing short of amazing. I couldn't really relate to Avery's incessant bubbliness (I'm much more of a Davin myself) but I still liked her and rooted for her from the beginning. Davin's internal monologue was hilarious and his general misanthropy was highly relatable.
What I found surprisingly original was the author's take on Davin's "bad boy" character. He didn't have a lot of the traits you find in romantic bad boys: he wasn't (much of) a manwhore, he wasn't an outrageous partier and he didn't start fights with people for no reason. He just kind of hated everyone and was constantly annoyed with the world. He was mostly a hot nerd who was dark and broody and I don't know about you guys but I'm super down with that.
The concept is super cute but kind of cliched, which is part of the fun I think. What really made this book a winner is the characters. Both Davin and Avery are so much despite being so different and watching them interact was nothing short of amazing. I couldn't really relate to Avery's incessant bubbliness (I'm much more of a Davin myself) but I still liked her and rooted for her from the beginning. Davin's internal monologue was hilarious and his general misanthropy was highly relatable.
What I found surprisingly original was the author's take on Davin's "bad boy" character. He didn't have a lot of the traits you find in romantic bad boys: he wasn't (much of) a manwhore, he wasn't an outrageous partier and he didn't start fights with people for no reason. He just kind of hated everyone and was constantly annoyed with the world. He was mostly a hot nerd who was dark and broody and I don't know about you guys but I'm super down with that.
June 3, 2019
Not bad. A cute read about an unlikely couple. Avery and Davin attend the same high school. Avery is the nice popular girl and Davin is the darkly handsome and brooding geek...badass (oxymoron right!!). When Avery's boyfriend cheated on her, then dumped her in front of the whole school saying that she as too good, Avery decided that she will pick the "bad guy" of the school to date and help her not be good. This is where Davin comes in. Davin is happy minding his business of ignoring and limiting his interaction with his classmates. When he's approached by perky Avery, he is curious as to what she would want from him. After hearing her request, he turned her down. Bust Avery is persistent and she keeps badgering him to help her. Unable to convince her to stay away from him, Davin agrees to date her and do all he can to help her stop "Being not good".
This is a slow burn story with a sweet side. I enjoyed the interaction between Avery and Davin and smiled and laughed at their antics. If you don't mind the slow pace of the story development, then this is the book for you. I am voluntarily reviewing this book after receiving an ARC from Hidden Gems.
This is a slow burn story with a sweet side. I enjoyed the interaction between Avery and Davin and smiled and laughed at their antics. If you don't mind the slow pace of the story development, then this is the book for you. I am voluntarily reviewing this book after receiving an ARC from Hidden Gems.
May 14, 2019
💡Miss Ray of 🌞Sunshine convinces Master ☁ Gray Skies to pair up: Lovely!😍
May 13, 2019
Format: Kindle Edition
👍👍😘
I really loved this pairing of a bubbly optimist with a sarcastic loner. Avery wants moody bad boy Davin's help to crush her Goody Two Shoes image but, in the end, I think he's the one that gets more of a transformation from the relationship. I love a well-written tale of high school romance and this book met the mark; it had everything. Some supportive family, a teenage jerk to start the drama rolling, some devoted friends (for Avery, at least), a few pranks and the social events whirl of a senior high schooler's life. But most importantly, it had a pair of opposites who grow into each other and both end up the better for it, all while finding real passion (medium🔥 heat) and caring despite their differences. A truly enjoyable read!😊
I read a complimentary advance copy of the book; this is my voluntary and honest review.
May 13, 2019
Format: Kindle Edition
👍👍😘
I really loved this pairing of a bubbly optimist with a sarcastic loner. Avery wants moody bad boy Davin's help to crush her Goody Two Shoes image but, in the end, I think he's the one that gets more of a transformation from the relationship. I love a well-written tale of high school romance and this book met the mark; it had everything. Some supportive family, a teenage jerk to start the drama rolling, some devoted friends (for Avery, at least), a few pranks and the social events whirl of a senior high schooler's life. But most importantly, it had a pair of opposites who grow into each other and both end up the better for it, all while finding real passion (medium🔥 heat) and caring despite their differences. A truly enjoyable read!😊
I read a complimentary advance copy of the book; this is my voluntary and honest review.
August 25, 2019
The quintessential bad boy and the sickeningly sweet good girl, how could things ever work out with two people so opposite? This may be a recurring theme for Elizabeth Stevens books, but let me tell you it works. I'm officially addicted to Steven's YA contemporary romance. She creates realistic imperfect characters with real-life issues and actual flaws, then helps them grow on their own and in relationships.
I enjoyed reading a romance where the big challenge that could ruin everything wasn't one person doing something detrimentally horrible to the other, which often leaves a bad taste in my mouth and I have a hard time being happy for the couple in the end. Here the biggest issue of all takes charge, miscommunication. If that isn't one of the most common problems in every relationship, I don't know what is.
Also Gran is the best! My gosh I loved her character and every interaction with her.
I enjoyed reading a romance where the big challenge that could ruin everything wasn't one person doing something detrimentally horrible to the other, which often leaves a bad taste in my mouth and I have a hard time being happy for the couple in the end. Here the biggest issue of all takes charge, miscommunication. If that isn't one of the most common problems in every relationship, I don't know what is.
Also Gran is the best! My gosh I loved her character and every interaction with her.
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October 17, 2019My favourite book of Elizabeth Stevens! I've read it several times and is loving it! No bs, it's captivating and different. I love that the female lead is not a stereotypical virgin and the male lead is not violent. In so many YA-novels the male lead are violent and controling and that is dangerus when the reader is young and might not understand that in real life, those things is not sexy, they can be life thretening. So refreshing to read something different.
The book is written in an accessible way for readers like me, who doesnt have English as my first language.
The only part not to my likeing is in the end, and this is a small spoiler, is the introduction of a new character without any background or need of it.
The book is written in an accessible way for readers like me, who doesnt have English as my first language.
The only part not to my likeing is in the end, and this is a small spoiler, is the introduction of a new character without any background or need of it.
May 16, 2025
Elizabeth Stevens can be hit or miss for me, but when she hits she’s brilliant. I’m sure this book has faults, but Davin Ambrose is a stellar character (and I’ve known someone very much like him in real life). I’ve read this at least twice. YA romance can often be embarrassing or cringeworthy. This isn’t that. I love that Stevens’ books often include sex and swearing. It makes them more realistic and less syrupy. It’s very hard to find the kind of romance I like…a hint of sweetness, a tiny bit of angst, enough realism that I’m not rolling my eyes, and enough sex (explicit or not) that my heart races a bit. Elizabeth Stevens does this -very- well.
June 11, 2019
The characters are definitely over the top silly but I still enjoyed reading them for the most part. I don’t love how davin behaves because he is kind of ass but in his own way he is sweet to her. I didn’t quite understand why someone who is happy or upbeat had to be made out to be dumb though. From a naive perspective I’d say maybe she could be ignorant but not stupid. That aspect of the story bothered me a lot because she obviously isn’t lacking intelligence. Sometimes the way they talk could be annoying or confusing (but the slang isn’t horrible). Over all I enjoyed it nonetheless.
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