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Struggle
"Are you dating him?"
I’ve been best friends with David since we were nine, and that question has been asked about us a lot. It’s like people can’t fathom how a super hot, charismatic guy can be just friends with an overly tall, boyish-figured girl. Wait. I think they probably can, because the next question is always a hopeful, "He’s single?"
David is always single. But, he’s never wanting.
Girls throw themselves at his feet like he’s some kind of rockstar. But not me. No. I’m just his friend; a fact he likes to remind me of at every opportunity.
And I’m OK with that—I think—because he’s right. Our friendship is too important. And honestly, I don’t want to be one of David’s girls. I see the way he uses them to meet his needs then casts them aside when his interest wanes. I’m not about that life. I want something more.
Something I don’t think David is capable of giving me.
That’s not to say I’m immune to his charms. I’ve never been immune.
I delight in the way his eyes twinkle when he smiles at me.
I relish in the way his voice ripples beneath my skin when we share a secret moment.
And I love the way his fingers feel against my skin when we touch…
Love.
Yes, I’ve always loved David. Problem is, David has never loved me. Not the way I want him to, anyway.
So, what's a girl to do? Pine and hope for something that will never come? Or suck it up and move on?
I’m choosing to accept my reality and move on, a choice made easier when I start a new job and the hot AF junior solicitor shows an interest in me despite our office’s ‘No Dating’ policy.
David should be happy for me. Elliot is the first guy I’ve felt a deep attraction to in years. Despite the secrecy needed, he seems like the perfect distraction from my troubles, the perfect solution to heal my heart. He even likes David and doesn’t make an issue about my best friend being a guy.
But David isn’t happy. In fact, he’s downright angry over my new relationship. He says he’s worried I’ll get hurt again. But I don’t know, it feels bigger than that. It feels like I’m losing my best friend. Even though I’m playing by his rules.
What am I supposed to do? While I’m torn with indecision, the choice could be made for me. And this time, I might lose everything…
Katrina struggles with following her heart or following her mind in this gripping romantic drama featuring new and extended scenes from books A Beautiful Struggle and Too Close, republished as Struggle: Beautiful Series, one.
I’ve been best friends with David since we were nine, and that question has been asked about us a lot. It’s like people can’t fathom how a super hot, charismatic guy can be just friends with an overly tall, boyish-figured girl. Wait. I think they probably can, because the next question is always a hopeful, "He’s single?"
David is always single. But, he’s never wanting.
Girls throw themselves at his feet like he’s some kind of rockstar. But not me. No. I’m just his friend; a fact he likes to remind me of at every opportunity.
And I’m OK with that—I think—because he’s right. Our friendship is too important. And honestly, I don’t want to be one of David’s girls. I see the way he uses them to meet his needs then casts them aside when his interest wanes. I’m not about that life. I want something more.
Something I don’t think David is capable of giving me.
That’s not to say I’m immune to his charms. I’ve never been immune.
I delight in the way his eyes twinkle when he smiles at me.
I relish in the way his voice ripples beneath my skin when we share a secret moment.
And I love the way his fingers feel against my skin when we touch…
Love.
Yes, I’ve always loved David. Problem is, David has never loved me. Not the way I want him to, anyway.
So, what's a girl to do? Pine and hope for something that will never come? Or suck it up and move on?
I’m choosing to accept my reality and move on, a choice made easier when I start a new job and the hot AF junior solicitor shows an interest in me despite our office’s ‘No Dating’ policy.
David should be happy for me. Elliot is the first guy I’ve felt a deep attraction to in years. Despite the secrecy needed, he seems like the perfect distraction from my troubles, the perfect solution to heal my heart. He even likes David and doesn’t make an issue about my best friend being a guy.
But David isn’t happy. In fact, he’s downright angry over my new relationship. He says he’s worried I’ll get hurt again. But I don’t know, it feels bigger than that. It feels like I’m losing my best friend. Even though I’m playing by his rules.
What am I supposed to do? While I’m torn with indecision, the choice could be made for me. And this time, I might lose everything…
Katrina struggles with following her heart or following her mind in this gripping romantic drama featuring new and extended scenes from books A Beautiful Struggle and Too Close, republished as Struggle: Beautiful Series, one.
- GenresNew Adult
496 pages, Kindle Edition
Published June 12, 2019
164 people are currently reading
83 people want to read
About the author
Lilliana Anderson
78 books1,175 followersBestselling Author of the Beautiful Series, Drawn and 47 Things, Lilliana has always loved to read and write, considering it the best form of escapism that the world has to offer.
Australian born and bred, she writes New Adult Romance revolving around her authentically Aussie characters with all the quirks you’d expect from those born Down Under.
Lilliana feels that the world should see Australia for more than just it's outback and tries to show characters in a city and suburban setting.
When she isn't writing, she wears the hat of 'wife and mother' to her husband and four children.
Before Lilliana turned to writing, she worked in a variety of industries and studied humanities and communications before transferring to commerce/law at university.
Originally from Sydney's Western suburbs, she currently lives a fairly quiet life in suburban Melbourne.
Australian born and bred, she writes New Adult Romance revolving around her authentically Aussie characters with all the quirks you’d expect from those born Down Under.
Lilliana feels that the world should see Australia for more than just it's outback and tries to show characters in a city and suburban setting.
When she isn't writing, she wears the hat of 'wife and mother' to her husband and four children.
Before Lilliana turned to writing, she worked in a variety of industries and studied humanities and communications before transferring to commerce/law at university.
Originally from Sydney's Western suburbs, she currently lives a fairly quiet life in suburban Melbourne.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 44 reviews
June 12, 2019
*5 Stars*
ARC kindly received in exchange for an honest review.
This is my first Lilliana book, although she has been on my TBR for a while as she was recommended by a friend. This is a revamp of A Beautiful Struggle and Too Close, combining them into one book. I must say, I was hooked on this one pretty fast, and I will definitely be reading more from Lilliana in the future.
Struggle is the story of Katrina and her best friend David, and then things get even more messy when Katrina's hot colleague Elliott is added to the mix. Katrina and David are inseparable best friends, and everyone around them wonders why they aren't together, and they always struggle with the balance of maintaining their friendship when dating.
Katrina has had a pretty horrible past experience with an ex, David is overly protective of her, and then she starts this new job and meets Elliott. He seems like just the right person to help her move on from her past, and also from the fact that nothing is ever going to happen between she and David.
Let me tell you, things really begin a roller coaster ride as all this starts, pretty much from the beginning. I was not expecting to dive into a book with so much angst, but boy oh boy, I could not stop reading. I was so torn between who I wanted Katrina to be with, as I equally liked both David and Elliott. By the end though, David was the one who I was cheering for the most.
Throw in some despicable secondary characters, who I really wanted to punch, and the circle is complete. We have a whole range of people who we're wondering what they will do next, if they're going to cause trouble, or if they're going to get what's coming to them.
I also loved that this was set in Sydney, and whilst I don't live in the city itself, or the Western Suburbs, it's very easy to picture everything and to laugh at, and enjoy how thoroughly authentic these characters are, because I'm a Sydney-sider myself. There were quite a few little things where I messaged my friend, and we had a laugh about how true something was that Lilliana had included.
By the end of the main novel, I really had my heart set on particular things, and I also had suspicions about other characters and what may happen with them. I was fairly accurate with my thoughts for the most part, and I was invested in how things would turn out for these guys. I was quite happy with the ending, although it may fall a little flat for some, because there is a hell of alot of angst for probably 95% of the book, and then you get this ending which seems quite smooth. I did like the ending, I just know that it's contentious for others. I did really like this one, and I would love to see what comes next for some of the other characters. Definitely recommend.
The novella part of the book comes right after the main story, and this one is from David's POV and is his and Trina's story before and right up until the accident with Christopher. It was interesting to get his perspective on things and even though you know how things ultimately play out, because you've already read the main book, you still get so caught up in whats going on. I enjoyed the novella as much as the main book.
I recommend reading Struggle, and I really look forward to continuing this series.
Review also on my blog - Struggle by Lilliana Anderson
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ARC kindly received in exchange for an honest review.
This is my first Lilliana book, although she has been on my TBR for a while as she was recommended by a friend. This is a revamp of A Beautiful Struggle and Too Close, combining them into one book. I must say, I was hooked on this one pretty fast, and I will definitely be reading more from Lilliana in the future.
Struggle is the story of Katrina and her best friend David, and then things get even more messy when Katrina's hot colleague Elliott is added to the mix. Katrina and David are inseparable best friends, and everyone around them wonders why they aren't together, and they always struggle with the balance of maintaining their friendship when dating.
Katrina has had a pretty horrible past experience with an ex, David is overly protective of her, and then she starts this new job and meets Elliott. He seems like just the right person to help her move on from her past, and also from the fact that nothing is ever going to happen between she and David.
Let me tell you, things really begin a roller coaster ride as all this starts, pretty much from the beginning. I was not expecting to dive into a book with so much angst, but boy oh boy, I could not stop reading. I was so torn between who I wanted Katrina to be with, as I equally liked both David and Elliott. By the end though, David was the one who I was cheering for the most.
Throw in some despicable secondary characters, who I really wanted to punch, and the circle is complete. We have a whole range of people who we're wondering what they will do next, if they're going to cause trouble, or if they're going to get what's coming to them.
I also loved that this was set in Sydney, and whilst I don't live in the city itself, or the Western Suburbs, it's very easy to picture everything and to laugh at, and enjoy how thoroughly authentic these characters are, because I'm a Sydney-sider myself. There were quite a few little things where I messaged my friend, and we had a laugh about how true something was that Lilliana had included.
By the end of the main novel, I really had my heart set on particular things, and I also had suspicions about other characters and what may happen with them. I was fairly accurate with my thoughts for the most part, and I was invested in how things would turn out for these guys. I was quite happy with the ending, although it may fall a little flat for some, because there is a hell of alot of angst for probably 95% of the book, and then you get this ending which seems quite smooth. I did like the ending, I just know that it's contentious for others. I did really like this one, and I would love to see what comes next for some of the other characters. Definitely recommend.
The novella part of the book comes right after the main story, and this one is from David's POV and is his and Trina's story before and right up until the accident with Christopher. It was interesting to get his perspective on things and even though you know how things ultimately play out, because you've already read the main book, you still get so caught up in whats going on. I enjoyed the novella as much as the main book.
I recommend reading Struggle, and I really look forward to continuing this series.
Review also on my blog - Struggle by Lilliana Anderson
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June 12, 2019
Despite the title, there was no Struggle with reading and enjoying this
Overall I had a very positive experience reading this and on reflection would say that I thoroughly enjoyed the book. I liked the initial scene setting, world building and getting to know the main players. However I'm going to be brutally honest and say that there was a part of this book that dragged for me. From about 35%-45% I just wasn't quite feeling it, the pace felt slow and the story line a little repetitive. Then **POW** it really kicked up a gear and I found the Lilliana Anderson I know and love. I found the emotional turmoil, the heartache, the feelings that I had only caught passing moments of, until that point.
This is 'sort of' a love triangle, with Katrina torn between her BFF David and her work colleague Elliot. David is the one who she has loved for a very long time but who has already said no to any chance of a relationship. The one man who has always been there for her and can be relied upon, too special to risk losing. Elliot is the hot guy in the office, the one all the girls lust after, but work have a no relationships rule. Is a relationship worth risking their jobs for?
There are times when neither guy deserves Katrina, at one point I even felt as though she should give Connor a chance. They both have baggage that ends up hurting Katrina, leaving the question of who will get their act together first and give her the HEA she deserves?
Since this is an update and re-release of both Struggle and Too Close , I already know who the hero of Book #2 Forever is. Which gave me a heads up of what to expect in this, without actually giving away any spoilers for how this plot would play out. Now in some ways I thought she forgave her 'forever' guy a little too easily BUT the heart wants what the heart wants.
The entire story is from Katrina's point of view, though the author writes with such emotion and passion, that it was very easy to understand how other characters are feeling too. I loved how my feelings towards ALL the main characters altered over the course of the book. There were times I liked them and other times I loathed them, but never did I not care about them - a sure sign of excellent writing.
Katrina very much felt like the young adult she was, sometimes she was naive or foolish, sometimes just down right careless but always believable and real. I sometimes forgot David was the same age, he occasionally felt older, however when I did remind myself of the facts it made his behaviour so much more understandable. Whilst a little older, Elliott was still somewhere between boy and man, evidenced by his lack of backbone where his father was involved. I have to say, normally NA isn't my thing, the fact that I enjoyed this is further evidence of how good I find this author's writing.
I loved how the Too Close gave us a deeper understanding of David. It also altered my perception of Struggle , though I'm still undecided on whether I would have preferred to read it first or not. I do recommend reading this book for NA fans, those who love a good emotional contemporary romance and fans of the author. It's a cracking good read.
Overall I had a very positive experience reading this and on reflection would say that I thoroughly enjoyed the book. I liked the initial scene setting, world building and getting to know the main players. However I'm going to be brutally honest and say that there was a part of this book that dragged for me. From about 35%-45% I just wasn't quite feeling it, the pace felt slow and the story line a little repetitive. Then **POW** it really kicked up a gear and I found the Lilliana Anderson I know and love. I found the emotional turmoil, the heartache, the feelings that I had only caught passing moments of, until that point.
This is 'sort of' a love triangle, with Katrina torn between her BFF David and her work colleague Elliot. David is the one who she has loved for a very long time but who has already said no to any chance of a relationship. The one man who has always been there for her and can be relied upon, too special to risk losing. Elliot is the hot guy in the office, the one all the girls lust after, but work have a no relationships rule. Is a relationship worth risking their jobs for?
There are times when neither guy deserves Katrina, at one point I even felt as though she should give Connor a chance. They both have baggage that ends up hurting Katrina, leaving the question of who will get their act together first and give her the HEA she deserves?
Since this is an update and re-release of both Struggle and Too Close , I already know who the hero of Book #2 Forever is. Which gave me a heads up of what to expect in this, without actually giving away any spoilers for how this plot would play out. Now in some ways I thought she forgave her 'forever' guy a little too easily BUT the heart wants what the heart wants.
The entire story is from Katrina's point of view, though the author writes with such emotion and passion, that it was very easy to understand how other characters are feeling too. I loved how my feelings towards ALL the main characters altered over the course of the book. There were times I liked them and other times I loathed them, but never did I not care about them - a sure sign of excellent writing.
Katrina very much felt like the young adult she was, sometimes she was naive or foolish, sometimes just down right careless but always believable and real. I sometimes forgot David was the same age, he occasionally felt older, however when I did remind myself of the facts it made his behaviour so much more understandable. Whilst a little older, Elliott was still somewhere between boy and man, evidenced by his lack of backbone where his father was involved. I have to say, normally NA isn't my thing, the fact that I enjoyed this is further evidence of how good I find this author's writing.
I loved how the Too Close gave us a deeper understanding of David. It also altered my perception of Struggle , though I'm still undecided on whether I would have preferred to read it first or not. I do recommend reading this book for NA fans, those who love a good emotional contemporary romance and fans of the author. It's a cracking good read.
June 12, 2019
A Beautiful Struggle is a re-release of the 1st book in Lilliana Anderson's "Beautiful Series". This book focuses on the story of Katrina Mahoney - a college student focusing on her law degree, training for a triathlon, and starting a part time job at a law firm. Lilliana brings you into the life of Katrina by articulately describing her life, her feelings, and her non-interest for any type of serious relationship due to an unfortunate ending to her last relationship. Thankfully she has her best friend, David, to rely on as she embarks on her new part time job. That is, until she meets Elliot Roberts, a junior solicitor from her office, and sparks immediately fly!
This story takes you through the lustful relationship of Katrina and Elliot, along with the jealously that overtakes Katrina's best friend (and lady's man), David.
Lillana does an amazing job pulling you into the life and love triangle of Katrina by making you really fall in love (or hate) with the characters. The book is full of romance, desire, loathing, hurt... I mean.. All the feels and emotions! It's definitely an adult read!
I would definitely recommend this book and all of the others in this series as she takes you on a journey through the lives of several characters that you meet along the way.
Happy reading!
This story takes you through the lustful relationship of Katrina and Elliot, along with the jealously that overtakes Katrina's best friend (and lady's man), David.
Lillana does an amazing job pulling you into the life and love triangle of Katrina by making you really fall in love (or hate) with the characters. The book is full of romance, desire, loathing, hurt... I mean.. All the feels and emotions! It's definitely an adult read!
I would definitely recommend this book and all of the others in this series as she takes you on a journey through the lives of several characters that you meet along the way.
Happy reading!
June 22, 2019
Note: An advanced reader copy (ARC) was provided by the author.
Ah, I love it when a triangle involving a female torn between two males doesn't have any villains. Both David and Elliot are good guys. Sure, neither one is perfect, but they do have genuine feelings for Trina, which is why the title for this book seriously fits. The struggle was real for Trina, but then it was real for David and for Elliot, as well. I wouldn't necessarily say that I was on either Team David or Team Elliot. If anything, I was on Team Trina because this girl really needed a man who would love and support her wholeheartedly and be proud to show the rest of the world just how much. Sure, that could have easily been David from the get-go, especially if he had just been a wee bit more open about how he actually felt about her. There would be so many more relationships that go from platonic to romantic without too much of angst of the two people involved learned to talk more, but hey, they do make for some interesting fodder for romance readers like me. The "novella" part of this book is more of a prequel but told from David's POV, so it was so eye-opening. Again, Lilliana Anderson has a winner with Struggle. Five stars. ♥
Ah, I love it when a triangle involving a female torn between two males doesn't have any villains. Both David and Elliot are good guys. Sure, neither one is perfect, but they do have genuine feelings for Trina, which is why the title for this book seriously fits. The struggle was real for Trina, but then it was real for David and for Elliot, as well. I wouldn't necessarily say that I was on either Team David or Team Elliot. If anything, I was on Team Trina because this girl really needed a man who would love and support her wholeheartedly and be proud to show the rest of the world just how much. Sure, that could have easily been David from the get-go, especially if he had just been a wee bit more open about how he actually felt about her. There would be so many more relationships that go from platonic to romantic without too much of angst of the two people involved learned to talk more, but hey, they do make for some interesting fodder for romance readers like me. The "novella" part of this book is more of a prequel but told from David's POV, so it was so eye-opening. Again, Lilliana Anderson has a winner with Struggle. Five stars. ♥
June 12, 2019
3.5 stars
This book annoyed me. A lot. It started off with so much promise. I loved the characters and I loved Katrina and David's relationship. Unfortunately, it started going downhill before too long. It got super annoying and some of the decisions they made had me yelling at my kindle. "Are you flippin serious right now??? Are you a dagum idiot?" Sigh. Then after the long wait and the anticipation, the ending was anticlimactic. This book had so much promise but the author unfortunately rushed the ending and just kind of ruined it for me. Seriously disappointed.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
This book annoyed me. A lot. It started off with so much promise. I loved the characters and I loved Katrina and David's relationship. Unfortunately, it started going downhill before too long. It got super annoying and some of the decisions they made had me yelling at my kindle. "Are you flippin serious right now??? Are you a dagum idiot?" Sigh. Then after the long wait and the anticipation, the ending was anticlimactic. This book had so much promise but the author unfortunately rushed the ending and just kind of ruined it for me. Seriously disappointed.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
June 11, 2019
Thanks again for another great read kept he hooked couldn’t put it down thanks again keep the good work coming
June 20, 2019
Everything you could want in a Lillian Anderson romance and THEN SOME! Struggle was a sensational, heart clenching romance of epic porportions. Sexy, fun, witty, sweet and with so many feels, this book was made for me. It was a brilliant, delectable read and I can't wait for more!
June 12, 2019
A true tale of friendship
In 2013 I bought my first book by Lilliana Anderson, it was called A Beautiful Struggle. Now six years and numerous Lilliana books later, I find myself reading STRUGGLE, a revamp of her original story. Lilliana has enhanced her original story and made it even more beautiful. Lilliana's writing has altered over the journey of her career, and Struggle is a perfect example of how she has honed her talent and enriched her writing.
The title, Struggle, perfectly describes the changes that Katrina and David face during their transition from teen years to young adults. Katrina and David have been the best of friends since they were nine years old, keepers of each others deepest secrets, but they have never taken their relationship that one step further - for fear their friendship would never be the same again. Due to a traumatic event in her past, David is even more protective of Katrina, but is there something else there? Something that he has never been open to before?
Struggle is the quintessential story of a love triangle. One woman torn between the man she has always wanted but would never have and the new guy, her co-worker, a man who matches her in every way possible. Both David and Elliot love Katrina, but who really deserves her love? Who will show her he will always be there for her? It is a true test of friendship.
Lilliana not only gives a story of Katrina and David's current day friendship, she also includes their background story, how they met as young children and how they have managed to retain their friendship over the years. It is an emotional read, one that will have you smiling, crying and ready to throw your book across the room out of sheer frustration.
If this is just a sample of how Lilliana is revamping her original Beautiful series, then I cannot wait to set my eyes on the upcoming books. An excellent beginning.
A recommended read for lovers of true romance.
Read and Reviewed for Reading Is Our Satisfaction.
FIVE ROMANTIC STARS
In 2013 I bought my first book by Lilliana Anderson, it was called A Beautiful Struggle. Now six years and numerous Lilliana books later, I find myself reading STRUGGLE, a revamp of her original story. Lilliana has enhanced her original story and made it even more beautiful. Lilliana's writing has altered over the journey of her career, and Struggle is a perfect example of how she has honed her talent and enriched her writing.
The title, Struggle, perfectly describes the changes that Katrina and David face during their transition from teen years to young adults. Katrina and David have been the best of friends since they were nine years old, keepers of each others deepest secrets, but they have never taken their relationship that one step further - for fear their friendship would never be the same again. Due to a traumatic event in her past, David is even more protective of Katrina, but is there something else there? Something that he has never been open to before?
Struggle is the quintessential story of a love triangle. One woman torn between the man she has always wanted but would never have and the new guy, her co-worker, a man who matches her in every way possible. Both David and Elliot love Katrina, but who really deserves her love? Who will show her he will always be there for her? It is a true test of friendship.
Lilliana not only gives a story of Katrina and David's current day friendship, she also includes their background story, how they met as young children and how they have managed to retain their friendship over the years. It is an emotional read, one that will have you smiling, crying and ready to throw your book across the room out of sheer frustration.
If this is just a sample of how Lilliana is revamping her original Beautiful series, then I cannot wait to set my eyes on the upcoming books. An excellent beginning.
A recommended read for lovers of true romance.
Read and Reviewed for Reading Is Our Satisfaction.
FIVE ROMANTIC STARS
June 8, 2019
This is a YA friends to more with an unrequited love involved. There's definitely the angst you would expect from such a story as well as a roller coaster ride of emotions playing out.
David & Katrina have been friends since she was 9, catching the bus together to school & having a BFF relationship. Of course their partners don't get the dynamic & it also makes them a target for the 'mean girls'. I might add poor Katrina also encounters this at her work.
David has made it clear that she is definitely in the 'friend' zone but is she? More will be revealed in the 2nd story in this bundle. There's a lot going on with their partners esp Katrina, one being Christopher, who left her with more than nightmares. Then there's Elliott, a work colleague, which she falls for. However there is that divide between their financial & social statuses, & being defined as a 'westie'. He has his own demons to deal with esp his father.
This triangle becomes more & more difficult for Katrina to negotiate. So I will let you decide if you're Team David or Team Elliott by reading this.
The author has re-tweaked & updated this story. Being an Aussie I liked the location references as my daughter at one time lived in Cranebrook & I'm well aware of the social divide, as I moved 'west ' when I married. Well now it's the centre of Sydney lol !
This is more mature YA story with a lot of emotional baggage carried by our H & h. I've read this author before & enjoyed her tear jeaker, 47 Things, immensely. So if you like a bit of angst & afew love triangles, no cheating, then you will enjoy this.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review. 4.5*
David & Katrina have been friends since she was 9, catching the bus together to school & having a BFF relationship. Of course their partners don't get the dynamic & it also makes them a target for the 'mean girls'. I might add poor Katrina also encounters this at her work.
David has made it clear that she is definitely in the 'friend' zone but is she? More will be revealed in the 2nd story in this bundle. There's a lot going on with their partners esp Katrina, one being Christopher, who left her with more than nightmares. Then there's Elliott, a work colleague, which she falls for. However there is that divide between their financial & social statuses, & being defined as a 'westie'. He has his own demons to deal with esp his father.
This triangle becomes more & more difficult for Katrina to negotiate. So I will let you decide if you're Team David or Team Elliott by reading this.
The author has re-tweaked & updated this story. Being an Aussie I liked the location references as my daughter at one time lived in Cranebrook & I'm well aware of the social divide, as I moved 'west ' when I married. Well now it's the centre of Sydney lol !
This is more mature YA story with a lot of emotional baggage carried by our H & h. I've read this author before & enjoyed her tear jeaker, 47 Things, immensely. So if you like a bit of angst & afew love triangles, no cheating, then you will enjoy this.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review. 4.5*
June 13, 2019
Amazing. From the first chapter, I was hooked. I felt the pull between Katrina and David from the beginning and as I switched over to listening mode on my commute I found myself hollering out loud "Oh, NO! Don't do it Katrina!" Then realized I was talking to myself and hoping a character would actually take my advice! LOL. This happened more than once. Without spoiling the book - I was team David from the get-go. I remember reading the story when it was originally published, but honestly, I don't remember cheering for the characters near like I have this time. The re-write is brilliant. The maturity of the writer is evident in the character development and story progression.
I do admit to falling for Elliott and feeling his demise with his family. I feel that those struggles are real and many readers can relate to his issues. I also think many readers may find the Christopher situation a bit too close to home. Would they have had the strength to handle it the same way? Maybe Katrina and David will give them that strength. Kudo's to Mrs. Anderson for bringing touchy subjects to the forefront.
As usual, I give it 2 thumbs up. Very enjoyable read, and as usual, I hate that the story has to end and I have to get back to reality!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I do admit to falling for Elliott and feeling his demise with his family. I feel that those struggles are real and many readers can relate to his issues. I also think many readers may find the Christopher situation a bit too close to home. Would they have had the strength to handle it the same way? Maybe Katrina and David will give them that strength. Kudo's to Mrs. Anderson for bringing touchy subjects to the forefront.
As usual, I give it 2 thumbs up. Very enjoyable read, and as usual, I hate that the story has to end and I have to get back to reality!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
June 13, 2019
This book is my first read from this author. What an introduction. I understand this this is a revamped book that is actually two books into one. Either way hang on to your hats as this one will take you on the emotional rollercoaster. As a reader you get all kinds of feels with this book and a need to just turn one more page. Katerina and David are.childhood friends who have developed feelings for one another over time. But neither one will admit a thing and take the chance at losing it all. This has it's own set of challenges to their friendship as each one will date someone else. Both Katerina and David have pasts, but there are no secrets between these two as they have been stuck together since they were nine years old. I found this to be a really entertaining read and so glad the ending played out as it did. This book is well worth picking up to enjoy.
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.
June 9, 2019
Lilliana Anderson has revamped Beautiful Struggle into an amazing story! 4.5 brilliant stars!
Katrina and David have been best friends since little children. They have been there for each other in the best and worst of times. Trina has always been in love with David but he has put her in the friend zone, or did he?
While studying law Trina takes a job where office romance is not allowed. One her first day she meets Elliot, the one who all the girls want. This makes for mean girls all over again which is something she has struggled with all her life.
After pursing a relationship with Elliot she and David are struggling to keep a balance in their friendship.
Will the office mean girls keep interfering in her relationship? Will an old ex that had nearly destroyed Katrina try to ruin her? Or will she find her happy ever after?
Thank you so much Lilliana for a review copy in exchange for my honest review! 💕
Katrina and David have been best friends since little children. They have been there for each other in the best and worst of times. Trina has always been in love with David but he has put her in the friend zone, or did he?
While studying law Trina takes a job where office romance is not allowed. One her first day she meets Elliot, the one who all the girls want. This makes for mean girls all over again which is something she has struggled with all her life.
After pursing a relationship with Elliot she and David are struggling to keep a balance in their friendship.
Will the office mean girls keep interfering in her relationship? Will an old ex that had nearly destroyed Katrina try to ruin her? Or will she find her happy ever after?
Thank you so much Lilliana for a review copy in exchange for my honest review! 💕
June 10, 2019
An updated version of Anderson first book in the beautiful series. It was wonderful to revisit these characters I read about years ago. The original book was my foray into Ms. Anderson work. In this updated version we get the backstory of how David and Katrina met in primary school years ago and how they remained friends years later eventhough they both wanted more than that. We also get in detailed how Katrina was accosted by her boyfriend. This a very realistic view of a woman who has been inlove with her childhood friend for years but him not wanting to start a romance with her not knowing if their friendship will suffer. Katrina falling for Elliott though a part of her heart is still pinning for David. Very tortured story but David and Katrina finally find their way to each other. Giving an arc by the author.
June 9, 2019
What a wonderful story. It almost killed me how frustrating the main characters are, I just wanted to shake them until they opened their eyes and saw what we all could see. She's clueless towards him, burying her head in the sand and looking for love everywhere but where it's found. He's afraid to tell her how he feels and stands not so quietly to the side wishing she was his but never willing to make it so. Then there is the supporting "cast" of friends and office bitches plus a wonderfully lovely man who is living his fathers life rather than his own. Set in Sydney it's wonderfully Aussie, the author always gives great story that reads easily and is totally relatable.
June 10, 2019
Probably one book that I can say the title more than explains the story. You will want to shake your reader and yell at these characters to knock some sense into them. There are characters who you'll pray for comeuppance on and ones that will just get on your nerves.
Forget the Bermuda triangle, this is the triangle you want to get lost in. Don't worry about packing any baggage because this story has more than enough.
I thought I knew or highly suspected how things would go but I may have not been fully correct, which I liked that it wasn't too predictable. I received an ARC for an honest and voluntarily review.
Forget the Bermuda triangle, this is the triangle you want to get lost in. Don't worry about packing any baggage because this story has more than enough.
I thought I knew or highly suspected how things would go but I may have not been fully correct, which I liked that it wasn't too predictable. I received an ARC for an honest and voluntarily review.
June 20, 2019
Struggle is a better hot version of Beautiful Series, and I love every single word of it.
I forgot how beautiful the characters were and how amazing that made me feel re-reading this book with extra spice.
Katrina Mahone for the win - she is a law student, athlete, a best friend, a broken-hearted and works a part-time job at a law firm company.
Her best friend David is her everything, since forever, movie night, shopping, going to work, you name it is David, he is her go-to guy, her best mate.
When Katrina starts dating her coworker Elliot, hot sexy guy, let me tell you, hot sex scenes Ms Lilliana, David staring getting a little annoyed, because of all the secrecy around the relationship because of the workplace policy.
I love seeing more about their childhood together and how protective David was with her.
This book is so like real life meets fiction, the struggle, the pressure to achieve goals in life, the parents, and to be happy whatever gets you there.
Thanks, Lilliana, for a fantastic reading.
My heart is warm and all the Stars.
I forgot how beautiful the characters were and how amazing that made me feel re-reading this book with extra spice.
Katrina Mahone for the win - she is a law student, athlete, a best friend, a broken-hearted and works a part-time job at a law firm company.
Her best friend David is her everything, since forever, movie night, shopping, going to work, you name it is David, he is her go-to guy, her best mate.
When Katrina starts dating her coworker Elliot, hot sexy guy, let me tell you, hot sex scenes Ms Lilliana, David staring getting a little annoyed, because of all the secrecy around the relationship because of the workplace policy.
I love seeing more about their childhood together and how protective David was with her.
This book is so like real life meets fiction, the struggle, the pressure to achieve goals in life, the parents, and to be happy whatever gets you there.
Thanks, Lilliana, for a fantastic reading.
My heart is warm and all the Stars.
June 12, 2019
Never have I been so totally and utterly gutted by a book on page 5, that is until I read Struggle.
I was speechless and left thinking how, and most importantly WHY?
Struggle is a story of friendship, a story of love, and a story of survival.
I couldn't put this book down until I knew how it ended, and I absolutely loved how it ended.
I was speechless and left thinking how, and most importantly WHY?
Struggle is a story of friendship, a story of love, and a story of survival.
I couldn't put this book down until I knew how it ended, and I absolutely loved how it ended.
June 20, 2019
I volunteered to read this ARC for an honest review. I enjoyed this story Katrina and David and Elliot. Katrina and David have been best friends for years. They love nearby and went to school and uni together. When her boyfriend Christopher freaks out about their friendship, first punching David then then shoving Katrina through the siding glass door, both of their lives change for ever. Katrina has loved David for a long time, but everytime she brings up moving past the friend zone, he balks. So when she finally moves on with Elliott, a guy from work, it puts a stress on their friendship, because he's hiding a secret. He loves her to. This story is about them trying to work through all these feelings, guilt, love, betrayal and fear. Katrina tries her hardest to focus on her relationship with Elliott but something is missing. But when push comes to shove true love and friendship prevail.
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.
June 23, 2019
I read the first version of this, and I basically only remembered the hot scenes, and Katrina's conflicts. That's not a bad thing. It's hard to review, though, when you like the other guy instead of the one with the HEA. I really don't know if I liked either guy, as they were both immature when it came to having relationships and I think Katrina probably wasn't ready for a relationship herself. But that's just my thinking. Then again, people make mistakes, hearts getting broken, and life happens. I guess that is why it's called a "beautiful struggle (pun intended)."
June 22, 2019
This is a brilliant book that will you won't be able to put down after the first chapter.
The book is full of emotion, drama, love but also plenty of heartbreak.
David has always been there for Katrina as a friend even when she wanted more but when she finds love in the arms of another man can he stand by and watch her get hurt all over again.
They struggle to keep their friendship throughout the book but will they both get a happy ending?
An absolute must read.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
The book is full of emotion, drama, love but also plenty of heartbreak.
David has always been there for Katrina as a friend even when she wanted more but when she finds love in the arms of another man can he stand by and watch her get hurt all over again.
They struggle to keep their friendship throughout the book but will they both get a happy ending?
An absolute must read.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
June 7, 2019
Struggle is the perfect title for this book. It’s the perfect world to define the 2 characters who just out of teenage hood just need to sort it out how to be an adult.
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.
June 19, 2019
Lilliana never fails to capture all of the angst and heartache of relationships and this book is no exception!
Prepare for a roller coaster of a ride as you battle through all the emotions in this fabulous read.
This is more mature YA story with a LOT of baggage. At times you want to wring the hero and heroines necks and tell them to get their act together but then you wouldn’t have the fantastic read that you get with Lilliana’s writing.
If you love angst, love triangles and no cheating .... then you will love this revamped read. I can’t wait to read the next book in the series.
*i voluntarily reviewed an advanced reader copy of this book*
Prepare for a roller coaster of a ride as you battle through all the emotions in this fabulous read.
This is more mature YA story with a LOT of baggage. At times you want to wring the hero and heroines necks and tell them to get their act together but then you wouldn’t have the fantastic read that you get with Lilliana’s writing.
If you love angst, love triangles and no cheating .... then you will love this revamped read. I can’t wait to read the next book in the series.
*i voluntarily reviewed an advanced reader copy of this book*
June 21, 2019
What a fantastic read. This book follows Katrina as she pursues a new job, school, and more. she finds herself interested in a co-worker at the new job... and her best friend david finds himself jealous! what will happen with the love triangle?
will katrina end up with her best frien dor the new love interest?
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Read
June 22, 2019Loved this book the first time i read it and still love this book now lilliana is a great author a definite must read on this book
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.
June 20, 2019
Really Good Read
I voluntarily reviewed an arc of this book. This is a really good story from Lilliana Anderson. “Struggle” is an enjoyable read with an entertaining, well written storyline and really engaging characters. I was engrossed in their story and their engaging chemistry and interaction had me hooked from beginning to end. This is a very good, must read book
I voluntarily reviewed an arc of this book. This is a really good story from Lilliana Anderson. “Struggle” is an enjoyable read with an entertaining, well written storyline and really engaging characters. I was engrossed in their story and their engaging chemistry and interaction had me hooked from beginning to end. This is a very good, must read book
June 20, 2019
Such an emotional story. When you l9ve something set it free? Thats the old saying, if it was truly yours it will come back, something like that.
That saying well that says it all about this book but with alot of emotions and drama involved. The book is intense and fascinating.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
That saying well that says it all about this book but with alot of emotions and drama involved. The book is intense and fascinating.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
June 20, 2019
I enjoyed David & Katrina's story. Good characters. Put me through a roller coaster of emotions. Looking forward to reading to next book in the series. I'm voluntarily leaving an honest review for a copy of the book via booksprout.
June 20, 2019
OMG loved it, couldn’t put it down, love that it’s all in one book, the book didn’t disappoint.
Everyone needs to read this book and series.
Everyone needs to read this book and series.
June 15, 2019
Love with all your heart, even if it means watching her find love from the sidelines. Katrina and David have been friends since they were 9 and 10years old. Childhood best friends never lovers, there love and friendship for each other was unbreakable until it broke them apart. This story was well written about how in life through fear of losing your friendship you lose your heart. It's a struggle to find the strength to fight for love. Recommended reading.
June 16, 2019
This is the first book that i have red by this author and I loved it! It is filled with emotions and wonderful characters. The storyline is intriguing and entertaining. Will definitely check out her other books.
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.
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