Daisy Jones has loved Gideon McElroy her entire life. Painfully shy, she lived for the summers spent at her grandpa’s cabin as a child, when Gideon would come to stay with his grandfather, the Colonel. While the old men reminisced on happier times and discussed the sad state of the future, Daisy would follow Gideon like a puppy, happy just to be in his presence. To her, he was everything a girl could want in a Prince Charming. When he enlisted, she was heartbroken but took solace in the fact that he would still come to visit his aging grandfather when time allowed. Fate had other plans, and when his grandfather passed on, and Gideon didn’t attend the funeral, Daisy knew he was gone forever. She married, had a child, and tried not to think of Gideon or what had become of him. It was a childish infatuation. Fifteen years have come and gone, and Daisy stayed on the summer island after her own grandfather died to raise her little girl. As the local vet, she sees to the needs of the tiny town and keeps to herself after her husband’s suicide. But when rumors fly that a strange man is squatting on the Colonel’s land, she makes it her duty to investigate. She finds Gideon, a battle-scarred, ruthless man now, who wants nothing to do with the town or her. Can she help him overcome his experiences, or will his wounded soul drag her into his dismal world?
Maggie Adams is an Amazon Best Selling contemporary romance author. Her first book in the Tempered Steel Series, Whistlin’ Dixie, debuted in Amazon’s Top 100 for Women’s Fiction, humor, on November, 2014 and then again at #61 in 2016. Since then, she has consistently made the Amazon best seller 5-star list with Leather and Lace, Something’s Gotta Give, Love, Marriage & Mayhem, and Forged in Fire. She is also the recipient of the Dayreader Review’s Best New Series Award for 2015. Her series has launched the tiny town of Grafton, Illinois, into International recognition with sales in Mexico, Ireland, Scotland, Australia and the UK.
Maggie’s books can be found on eBook and paperback and Audible.
My biggest complaint about this book was that it’s a novella instead of a full-on read. I didn’t realize that going in and there is so much goodness that could have been explored but unfortunately there weren’t the pages.
Gideon has lots and lots of scars, both inside and out, and I would have LOVED to get the chance to explore those more. How Daisy manages to break down his fences and get him to think about living again. How he manages to adjust to life after war. How he goes from giving up to trying for more. It’s such a compelling story and while we get parts of it there is so much more there that I would have loved to get to experience it.
We do get to know Daisy a little bit more. The girl has grit, which she needs not just to make her way into Gideon’s home (and his heart) but also to expose the horrible conditions that veterans are experiencing at her local VA. Her husband came back from war suffering and she fought to get him the care he needed. It’s heartbreaking but she didn’t back down and you have to admire her for it. She takes that heart and courage with her when dealing with Gideon.
While the ending is an obvious heart grab, it also worked and I really enjoyed how it wrapped up the story … if only I’d gotten about 200 more pages before I got there :) As long as you are OK with a fast (and somewhat cursory) story I think you’ll enjoy Adams’s story. I’m pretty sure if I’d gone into it with a different understanding of what I was getting it would have been so much more satisfactory since I liked what I got, I was just expecting something different.
**Review given honestly and freely after receipt of a reader copy. This opinion is completely my own and was not influenced in any way.**
I have not read this author before. I fell in love with the synopsis and wanted to read this story. Well, just read the synopsis. It is more of a story than you will get from this very short novella. Sounds perfect--second chance love, single parent, wounded warrior, dogs......Both Daisy and Gideon seem like interesting characters but the author gives us just a glimpse at a fully flushed out character.
The writing is messy and leaps over huge chunks of time and huge chunks of story. Again, the synopsis tells me more than I could have gleaned from the story. Gideon admits loosing memory with his accident yet the third time he sees Daisy, they are falling into bed like they have known each other forever. I got no build up to relationship with these two and even if it was insta-love, it was poorly achieved.
I'd love for the author to go back and give us a fully laid out novel. The topics barely touched on would have had me engrossed. This novella, not really worth the 20 minutes it took me to read it.
*Complimentary copy provided for an honest review.
This was an amazing Novella that should have been a full length novel as far as I am concerned because it could have been. The author gave you just enough but she could have given us so much more that it could have been a phenomenal novel. As I was reading it I felt like I was there. I could feel the soldiers pain and I could feel Daisy's pain and her suffering. This is a story about love, faith, and healing and so much more.
I laughed, I cried and I yelled at my kindle because I was so mad at how they treated the veterans. These are men and women who serve our country and give their all to the country to come home broken and battered and traumatized to not receive the proper help they need. Daisy though she was determined after her husband killed himself that she was going to do so much more for the veterans who return home from war battered and destroyed.
Daisy and Gideon spent every summer together at their grandparents house. Daisy had a crush on Gideon and when she would look forward to summer where she could spend all her time with him. Then they grew up and Gideon stopped coming to his grandfathers cabin and enlisted in the army where he served his country. He was gone for over 17 years and when he returns home he is a broken man and does not remember anyone or anything.
When Daisy finds out that Gideon has returned and she finds him broken she is determined to help him out and when she finds out that he doesn't remember her she is willing to fight for him to get back his memory and some semblance of life.
This is such an emotionally charged novella it will have you laughing and crying and praising the end!
The blurb for Crazy Daisy hooked me. It sounded like an amazing story of two lost, kind of tortured souls. Unfortunately, that's not what I felt that I got in reading the book. The blurb is more detailed than the story itself.
The premise of this book is a solid story, but the execution fell way flat. Are there chapters missing? Gideon goes from wanting nothing to do with Daisy to falling into bed with her the third time their paths cross? I just didn't feel the chemistry between the characters, and things moved way too fast with little to no build-up, which did nothing as far as making me invest in Gideon and Daisy as a couple.
Seeing as this novella is 8 chapters long, it only took me about 20 minutes to read. I think there's a promising story in the midst of the clunky writing and awkward dialog, but it definitely needs to be fleshed out.
I received an advanced copy and voluntarily left a review.
I thought this was a sweet little novella. I kind of wish it had been a full length novel because there was a lot of story here. But being just a handful of chapters it felt like we just got the highlights of Daisy and Gideon's journey instead of really getting into the meat of things. In fact, I would highly recommend reading the blurb before reading the actual book because that's where most of the backstory is! I enjoyed the stuff we got in this novella but I would have loved even more!
I was so drawn to this book with the blurb, but it was just so meh for me. There wasn’t any connection with the characters, in fact Gideon was pretty unlikable. The story felt choppy and very disjointed. I’m so sad that this book didn’t hit the spot for me.
I was so drawn to this book with the blurb, but it was just so meh for me. There wasn’t any connection with the characters, in fact Gideon was pretty unlikable. The story felt choppy and very disjointed. I’m so sad that this book didn’t hit the spot for me.
***Arc was given by author for an honest review***
This was a sweet little novella that hits on PTSD, the crappy affairs of Veterans health, and of course love. All-in-all it was a cute sweet little read.
Crazy Daisy by Maggie Adams is a sweet, romantic read that you'll enjoy. The characters are wonderful and the story line is intriguing. This book is a really short read. It doesn't take long at all, so I finished it pretty quickly.
In this story you meet Daisy. I really loved her character. She's so lovable and caring and when she sees something wrong and thinks others should fix it, she takes a stand until something is done. Her character is so fierce. When Daisy's old friend Gideon comes back to town, she's determined to get past his walls and help him open back up. The second time she goes to see him is hilarious, I couldn't help but grin. These two go through so much together and I loved them together.
I really enjoyed Crazy Daisy all but I felt like there needed to be more to the story. It kinda jumped around too much for me and everything happens so quickly.
I give Crazy Daisy by Maggie Adams 3.5 out of 5 STARS!
The moment I read the synopsis for this book I was drawn to its theme of starting over and to its main couple who experienced a lot of emotional and physical pain in their pasts. As childhood friends there was a solid foundation for romance which made their sensual reunion early in the story a bit more believable. With each turn of the page readers will become invested in these wounded souls and will be rooting them on every step of the way.
Gideon McElroy once had a home full of love and support in the small town of Watertown, so it’s naturally where he’s returned to in order to recover. A wounded warrior full of anger and only wanting to be left alone, he at first turns away the kindhearted young woman who was once so important to him. But when he needs her most she’s there, turning a night full of tears into something long-anticipated as their reunion brings him back to life. Though not much time is spent with these characters, there’s much to like about Gideon. He’s strong and protective, jumps in the moment he senses danger. His scars may have bothered him early on but through Daisy’s eyes he sees himself as the only man she needs in a romance full of heart.
Daisy Jones is a truly good person, caring of those who are in pain and a champion to all those wounded warriors returning home. The suicide of her husband drove her to take on the VA, earning her the moniker of “Crazy Daisy”, and showing herself to be a kindhearted heroine with a strong sense of protectiveness and a soul that lit from within. Daisy always had a crush on Gideon and has no intention of letting him live like a pariah, making it her mission to drag him back to the land of the living. It’s a journey full of heartwarming moments, as well as a few tears, that will keep you glued to the pages while watching them make a life for themselves.
This is a quick read, too quick of a read as it jumped many years in the life of this couple to show some of their most emotional moments. I would’ve love digging deeper into these two characters, having their pain amplified to make their message regarding veteran’s care a more potent debate. This story on a whole remained light, leaving readers wanting more, but content with what’s between the pages as we’re left with a very HEA.
OMG I loved this wonderful little book! It is so well written and brings you straight to the point, right to the good stuff and then ends with a heartbeat skipping finale. I swear this is one book that I could read over and over again. The characters are so very well written and quite developed. Daisy, a widow with a small child has made it her mission to help other military personnel who have returned from serving the country by taking on the VA!! Yes, the treatment of the vets was deplorable and she set out to make things right. Gideon has returned from service, back to his home and is now a recluse. Not remembering anyone from his past he lives with the dog that was in service with him. Daisy, determined to get through to the man who was the boy she had a crush on, takes it upon herself to stop by and visit. But he doesn't remember her, at all. He's mean, gruff and his dog is no better. Giving it one more try, Daisy, being the town's Vet, goes over with the reason of making sure his dog is registered and up to date on his shots. What she doesn't expect is to find Gideon...well, you just read it and see for yourself.
This book will definitely leave your heart full and a smile on your face. I highly recommend this book.
This should of been a full length novel instead of a Novella...just saying.
This is the story of Daisy and Gideon childhood friends who meet again when he returns home.
Gideon is broken from the accident that he suffered while in Afghanistan. He is anti-social, doesn't want to be around others and has lost his memory.
Daisy or as the town calls her "Crazy Daisy" is a single parent after her husband passes away and she took on the VA Hospital after the subpar care her husband got.
Daisy goes to see Gideon and he sends her away. With that in minds she doesn't give up on him, she takes on the role of a savior to help him. She tries to open him up by doing small stuff to make him feel that it is ok to talk to her.
They reconnect in a way that could of been written better, to me there was a lot of the story line missing as if it was being rushed.
This is a quick, sweet read that will make you laugh and tug at your heartstrings.
I simply adored this wonderful novella. The author has given us a delightful storyline that will keep you entranced from start to finish. It's a quick read with very endearing characters. Daisy, a widow and the small town's veterinarian, is quite the character. The town calls her Crazy Daisy for various reasons, as you will see when you read the book. She had a crush on Gideon all through her younger life. But when Gideon joined the army and left her, she moved on but she never forgot her first love. Years later, Gideon returns a broken, injured war vet and wants nothing to do with anyone. But Daisy doesn't take no for an answer very easily, so maybe she is a little Crazy, I'll let you decide for yourself.
This story will make you laugh and make you smile, but most of all it will touch your heart. 2 Thumbs up for a great 5 star read that I highly recommend.
They call her Crazy Daisy, yet it is all for the wrong reasons. Nobody knows the struggles she goes through and what she actually has gone through until Gideon comes back. Years ago they were best friends and seeing him wounded and lonely is too much. With memories of the past still haunting Gideon and a determination in Daisy of not letting him be alone we see a romance bloom before our eyes. What I liked the most is Maggie Adams shows us a bond between these two no one understands only them. As a first time reader of Maggie Adams it was nice to see a sweet romance and a friendship come together so quick. This is more than two people reuniting but a tale of a second chance at life.
"I received an eBook copy from the publisher for the purpose of an honest review. I was not compensated for this review: all conclusions are my own."
What can I say about this book. Well for one Maggie Adams did a awesome job writing it. If you love a military guy and his dog you will love this and the girl Daisy who wants to help every one. You will love Gideon and Daisy it has also the emotions in this book that you just want to reach in the book and give them both a hug. I about through the book at the end Maggie almost have me a heart attack and had me crying. You will love it just one click and see what happens with this couple.
This is the first book that I have ready by Maggie Adams and it certainly won't be the last one. Once I started this book I just could not put it down. It isn't that long of a book but it is packed with a great story line and wonderful characters.
Daisy has had a crush on Gideon since high school. He has returned home from the war and is badly scarred. She sees past all that to the man he was before.
Enjoyed the book and look forward to reading more by her.
This a fast insta love story. It's one I wish that was longer. The characters pulled me right into the story. Though this book is quick the author had me so invested in the characters. There is one point in this book my heart just dropped that I didn't want to read on, but I did. The epilogue was just the perfect touch. It packed the feels.
A sweet love story that could have been expanded into a more detailed novel. The characters of Daisy and Gideon were likable and they story was well written . I will watch for more books by this author
Daisy is been in love wirh Gideon since she was a teenager. He is back in town but is recluded in his house. Can Daisy and her daugther bring him back an show him how to enjoy life again? good audiobook
I rated this three stars because I enjoyed some aspects of the story and I liked the writing style. I wasn't a fan of the final third and the barefoot and pregnant ending that ever romance novels feels the need to have.
Story started out good....then became confusing jumping years then suddenly ending.
I did not like how this short story flowed. It had large gaps in the story and kept jumping years in the future. Disappointing story. Not sure if I would read anything else by this author.
I loved Crazy Daisy!! Maggie Adams gave us a great little read with heart, humour and heat.
I think the only thing that could have improved the read for me was a bit of backstory - their interactions when they were younger and a glimpse of how they were together then.
Daisy is my kinda crazy and much as she drove Gideon to distraction a lot of the time, she was the right blend of crazy and good for him - thankfully it didn't take him too long to stop being an objectionable ass and see what was in front of him!
I'm giving this great little read 4*, mainly because I would have liked more of them!
What a cute and touching story. Even though the history between them is gone, the attraction is still there. Daisy's forthright attitude and determination for achievement, makes her a formidable opponent in her support of fellow man. Loved that they had a life filled with everyday struggles.
Crazy Maggie is sweet, sexy little novella that you can easily read in one setting.
A second chance of sorts between Gideon and Daisy. They had been friends’ years earlier, that is until Gideon left for a stint in the military. . Upon Gideon’s return home after his years of service he was a changed man. As a result of injuries, both physically and mentally, he chose to live as a reclusive. Due to his disfigurement he elected to stay away from the towns people and their questions.
But when Gideon’s dog was injured, it became obvious that he would have to turn to Daisy for help. Showing up at her veterinarian office with his injured dog and her blindness to his injury chanced everything.
An insta-mountain man type love moment that opened up so many new things for Gideon. Needless to say, this led to their HEA!
For some reason I thought this would be a full length novel..so my bad..it was a quick novella, with interesting characters.. I def adore Daisy, who fights for what's right and for the happiness and comfort of others. Gideon, even tho he has a voice and Pov, doesn't stand out to me as much. I think this story was lovely but I still wish it was a full length novel..there's a lot of potential cause Daisy is so incredible.