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Elusion
Plans.
Commitment.
Responsibility.
These are things Jordan Waters avoids.
At least until a semi-naked punishment leads to a chance encounter, which ends in a mind-numbing kiss. For the twenty-one-year-old guitarist, this is a problem, as the owner of the other set of lips wants nothing to do with him.
Callie Henders is an enigma Jordan is dedicated to deciphering—for a while anyway. With a complicated life as her only explanation for staying away from him, he finds a challenge he's all too willing to accept. But in the process of uncomplicating her life—and getting her into his bed—he discovers there's more to Callie than she wants anyone to see.
Invisible wounds tell Callie's real story with certain people leaving more than their fair share of marks.
Jordan can't have the girl without accepting her scars, and being in her life might mean taking on a few of his own.
- GenresNew Adult
367 pages, Kindle Edition
Published June 7, 2019
24 people are currently reading
139 people want to read
About the author
C.G. Blaine
10 books144 followersC.G. Blaine writes contemporary romance and new adult novels. At one time, she was cool. Now she lives in the middle of nowhere with her husband and plays pillow to a forever-hangry blind cat. She’s terrible at texting back, and if she’s overly nice to you, chances are she’s not a fan.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 40 reviews
July 20, 2021
this was such a pleasant surprise!!
if you are looking for an angsty, drama-filled new adult book that will keep you turning those pages look no more- this is it!!
if you love college setting books with amazing characters, hero chasing the heroine, emotions, and epic soulmate love stories, you have to read this book!!
if you are looking for an angsty, drama-filled new adult book that will keep you turning those pages look no more- this is it!!
if you love college setting books with amazing characters, hero chasing the heroine, emotions, and epic soulmate love stories, you have to read this book!!
August 26, 2019
HOOKED from start to finish! Told from the male's point of view was a real treat. Jordan is such a marvelous character and so is Callie, the mysterious and strong girl who puts Jordan through the paces. There's plenty of angst when child neglect and child abuse enters the picture -- and it's not easy to read at times literally bringing me to tears. Great character development throughout this story as we watch Callie and Jordan mature. Also, readers will be delighted with the variety in the secondary cast who bring some great moments to the main feature. At the end I was wishing for a little more advancement into this couple's future via the Epilogue that ended a bit to quickly for this reader's appetite.
September 20, 2019
I loved this book. If I could give it 10 stars I would do it in a heartbeat. I could not put it down. Read this book in a private place otherwise your loud outbursts of maniacal laughter will disturb your fellow man or possibly frighten them. This is not a RomCom. But there are so many instances that were just hilarious. Blaine infuses sweltering romance, bone crushing heart-break and giddy laughter all in one story. She is a master at layering her characters with vulnerability. They come to life on the page and just feel so real. I fell in love with the hero Jordan Waters almost from the beginning. His completely self centered approach to relationships get totally derailed when he meets Callie Henders. “She shoves the box into my hands and bounces down the steps to her car. I want to yell after her that she’s the one who makes everything difficult and I miss her and I don’t want her stupid box and I want her and to never come back and to never leave. Instead, I just stand here, watching her drive away.” Oh, so moving...so powerful! More Ms. Blaine! More!
May 18, 2021
So imagine my surprise when I discovered I've read this author before (Fallen Rebel, which I'll be rereading soon!). I recognized the philosophical monologues and immediately felt familiarity. Usually I do NOT like when authors use more monologue than active conversation, but y'all, C.G. Blaine has a way with writing that is so immersive and descriptive and important to the story.
Callie and Jordan's story is unforgettable. From an unusual meet-cute, the chase, the humor, the side characters, the multiple subplots, the philosophical ramblings, and the sweet, yet sexy times, I couldn't read this one fast enough. A heartfelt, emotional, tragically realistic look into childhood trauma and the beauty of creating your own family from those who stand in your corner.
I loved Jordan from page one. He was a fantastic MMC from start to finish. Sweet, goofy, honest, steadfast. Callie took a while for me to warm up to, but God, when you find out her reasons, I just needed to hug her.
Connor, Cate, Benji, Gavin, Johnny, Trry, Pete, Tony, Felicia...seriously, y'all, but the side characters made this story that much more enjoyable. I'm amazed how C.G. Blaine can weave such emotional content with humor so easily.
June 14, 2019
Jordan is normally then guy that only has one night or not so long love affairs and nothing that resembles a relationship until one girl in a red coat.
Callie is making his life hard, challenging and dramatically different. His life has purpose now and it comes with Connor and Cate and the addions of Trey, Pete and Tony too.
This story really does tug on your heart strings. Jordan's Chase becomes a new life with a new family. Just what Callie and her siblings need.
I couldn't put this story down. Jordan reminded me of all the gold good guys in the world and his bandmates kept on surprising me too. This story needs tissues and you'll want to brase for impact on the emotional rollercoaster ride.
Too often kids are put through the ringer from negeltful or abusive (or both) parents. I'm so glad that Jordan becoming part of Callie's life helped to change this fate.
I just want to hug all of them, especially Connor. He needs lots of love.
The epilogue was cute but not enough... I have so many questions. I would have loved to see Connor in the future. Maybe 4 years later. Where is he? Is he playing college ball? Is he proud of his now brother in law? Has Connor also found his the love of his life? What about an update on how it went to live fulltime with Callie-and Jordan?-how'd Cate do?
Next I need to know if the band sticks together even just as friends, and do they all get their own HEAs? Does Jess and Johnny actually date or they just fling buddies... Does Benji and Felcia have something going on? Will they at least get seperate HEAs? And Gavin, Trey, Tony and Pete- will they all find some happiness?
I loved that this story was told completely from the guys pov. It was very unique and enjoyable.
Lastly how did Jordan's parents take it All? Does Dustin survive his party days and get hit with a love bug?
I hope this becomes part of a series. I'd love to see these other characters get explored plus and update about Callie and Jordan thrown in.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Callie is making his life hard, challenging and dramatically different. His life has purpose now and it comes with Connor and Cate and the addions of Trey, Pete and Tony too.
This story really does tug on your heart strings. Jordan's Chase becomes a new life with a new family. Just what Callie and her siblings need.
I couldn't put this story down. Jordan reminded me of all the gold good guys in the world and his bandmates kept on surprising me too. This story needs tissues and you'll want to brase for impact on the emotional rollercoaster ride.
Too often kids are put through the ringer from negeltful or abusive (or both) parents. I'm so glad that Jordan becoming part of Callie's life helped to change this fate.
I just want to hug all of them, especially Connor. He needs lots of love.
The epilogue was cute but not enough... I have so many questions. I would have loved to see Connor in the future. Maybe 4 years later. Where is he? Is he playing college ball? Is he proud of his now brother in law? Has Connor also found his the love of his life? What about an update on how it went to live fulltime with Callie-and Jordan?-how'd Cate do?
Next I need to know if the band sticks together even just as friends, and do they all get their own HEAs? Does Jess and Johnny actually date or they just fling buddies... Does Benji and Felcia have something going on? Will they at least get seperate HEAs? And Gavin, Trey, Tony and Pete- will they all find some happiness?
I loved that this story was told completely from the guys pov. It was very unique and enjoyable.
Lastly how did Jordan's parents take it All? Does Dustin survive his party days and get hit with a love bug?
I hope this becomes part of a series. I'd love to see these other characters get explored plus and update about Callie and Jordan thrown in.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
May 25, 2019
A well written new adult romance that’s complex, funny, and emotional
First of all, I can’t say I’ve read a romance novel told entirely from the guy’s perspective before. While I was skeptical at first, the author absolutely made it work, with witty dialogue, a great cast of supporting characters, and evolving Jordan’s character from the guy just trying to get in the girl’s pants to him realizing it was so much more all along.
Overall, the beginning of the book captures so many aspects of that time of life perfectly — that guy that won’t stop hitting on you, that girl that isn’t going to give it up, the crazy exploits of college, the spectrum of zany friends that often get you into as much trouble as they save you from. It was refreshing, funny, and relatable.
Beyond the new adult romance aspect, it’s really Callie’s story slowly unfurling that keeps the tension of the story going. Her plight is emotional, complex, and distressing in a way that strains the bounds of her and Jordan’s budding relationship. It’s more than any eighteen-year-old should ever have to deal with, and doubly worrisome as their love hangs in the balance. But that’s not the biggest thing at stake for either Jordan or Callie, and watching events unfold and push the narrative of their lives forward was all-consuming.
This story isn’t just interesting, romantic, complex, funny, and emotional. It’s immensely well written, with characters that are endearing in a way that makes you want to go back in time and smack your college self for thinking you had problems, and ultimately a beautiful story of the transformative power of love. Not just romantically, but for our friends, and family. It demonstrates that love touches our lives, acting on our destiny, in ways we can never predict. In short, if you like a romance that’s got depth, look no further.
First of all, I can’t say I’ve read a romance novel told entirely from the guy’s perspective before. While I was skeptical at first, the author absolutely made it work, with witty dialogue, a great cast of supporting characters, and evolving Jordan’s character from the guy just trying to get in the girl’s pants to him realizing it was so much more all along.
Overall, the beginning of the book captures so many aspects of that time of life perfectly — that guy that won’t stop hitting on you, that girl that isn’t going to give it up, the crazy exploits of college, the spectrum of zany friends that often get you into as much trouble as they save you from. It was refreshing, funny, and relatable.
Beyond the new adult romance aspect, it’s really Callie’s story slowly unfurling that keeps the tension of the story going. Her plight is emotional, complex, and distressing in a way that strains the bounds of her and Jordan’s budding relationship. It’s more than any eighteen-year-old should ever have to deal with, and doubly worrisome as their love hangs in the balance. But that’s not the biggest thing at stake for either Jordan or Callie, and watching events unfold and push the narrative of their lives forward was all-consuming.
This story isn’t just interesting, romantic, complex, funny, and emotional. It’s immensely well written, with characters that are endearing in a way that makes you want to go back in time and smack your college self for thinking you had problems, and ultimately a beautiful story of the transformative power of love. Not just romantically, but for our friends, and family. It demonstrates that love touches our lives, acting on our destiny, in ways we can never predict. In short, if you like a romance that’s got depth, look no further.
June 13, 2019
The Girl in a Red Coat
Family love drifts through this great read with its wonderfully descriptive characters. A slow burn of a start, but nevertheless an intriguing, heart breaking read with steamy love and of course a HEA romance. The adorable six year old Cate had me laughing so much at her manipulations of all the band members! Jordan’s Cinderella search for Callie, the random girl was hilarious with social media that everyone uses today! But still nothing wins Callie over as he tries every trick in the book to win her over! You cannot but help loving Benji who supports Jordan all the way, in his quiet cryptic way! Can and will Jordan survive Callie’s messy life? Will Callie's unaltered life ever change? This first book by this author actually impressed me with her empathetic journey in this story of life’s horrors and curves that are thrown at families. I would recommend this as a really good book to one-click.
I voluntarily reviewed this book after receiving a free copy
Family love drifts through this great read with its wonderfully descriptive characters. A slow burn of a start, but nevertheless an intriguing, heart breaking read with steamy love and of course a HEA romance. The adorable six year old Cate had me laughing so much at her manipulations of all the band members! Jordan’s Cinderella search for Callie, the random girl was hilarious with social media that everyone uses today! But still nothing wins Callie over as he tries every trick in the book to win her over! You cannot but help loving Benji who supports Jordan all the way, in his quiet cryptic way! Can and will Jordan survive Callie’s messy life? Will Callie's unaltered life ever change? This first book by this author actually impressed me with her empathetic journey in this story of life’s horrors and curves that are thrown at families. I would recommend this as a really good book to one-click.
I voluntarily reviewed this book after receiving a free copy
June 7, 2019
Elusion😍😍😍😍😍
The boy meets a girl that seems like a normal love story
But if it is so, the boy will meet the girl and have a goal to sleep with the girl
And the girl does everything to ignore this boy.
When he finally he has the opportunity and he no longer wants it
To be honest reading it was funny and emotional the characters liked them all
And what amazed me about it Novel is written only from the Jordan point of view,
and I was a little afraid of how it all played out but the author did a wonderful job
I strongly recommend reading it
Thank you!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
The boy meets a girl that seems like a normal love story
But if it is so, the boy will meet the girl and have a goal to sleep with the girl
And the girl does everything to ignore this boy.
When he finally he has the opportunity and he no longer wants it
To be honest reading it was funny and emotional the characters liked them all
And what amazed me about it Novel is written only from the Jordan point of view,
and I was a little afraid of how it all played out but the author did a wonderful job
I strongly recommend reading it
Thank you!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
June 7, 2019
So I picked up this book with no expectations, but was totally thrown for a surprise when I became totally hooked by not just the couple, but also the story. Not only do you love Jordan from the beginning (if not, get checked - sounds serious) but you also get why Callie is so closed off yet still doesn't completely let him go. She definitely makes him work for it and you've gotta love a guy who sticks in there, when most would bail. The writing was fantastic and the secondary characters were just as interesting, which makes me hopeful that their stories are coming too.
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 30, 2020
I really enjoyed the writing in this book. Kudos to the author! The story was really fun at first and then it took a dark turn which I didn’t except. I really really enjoyed about 60% of the book but then I started to feel bored. He was trying to win her over and then it kind of fell flat. I was waiting for something to happen to keep me reading but I pushed through because once I start a book I need to finish. The ending got kind of intense which was written very well. Over all the book was a great read.
June 7, 2019
Talk about characters who speak to you long after you put the book down. This is the perfect book for romance fans, it's got a dash of everything within these pages that makes it a smart, powerful and easy to fall in love with story.
Jordan and Callie are so well described, felt and unforgettable characters. They are incredible. I loved taking the journey with them, I felt like they pulled me in to their lives.
I received an ARC for an honest and voluntarily review.
Jordan and Callie are so well described, felt and unforgettable characters. They are incredible. I loved taking the journey with them, I felt like they pulled me in to their lives.
I received an ARC for an honest and voluntarily review.
June 8, 2019
I was in for a suprise when I started this book. It was told from Jordan's point of view. He met Callie and wanted to get to know her, but she did not want anything to do with him. He got Callie's friend to help him out. As he keeps trying, things from Callie's past comes into play. Callie is hurt and instead of putting her first like he wants to he muct put her family first.
This book was a funny, emotional read.
I received a free copy of this book for a voluntarity honest review.
This book was a funny, emotional read.
I received a free copy of this book for a voluntarity honest review.
June 7, 2019
The story is well written with characters that will mark in any way possible as you see them coursing thru life, their feelings, and pasts. You will fall in love with Jordan and Callie. There's drama, romance, it's funny, emotional and all every romance fan absolutely adores.
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.
September 18, 2019
An amazing, captivating, interesting and oh-so-satisfying read!
The writing draws you in and keeps you interested until the end.
The chemistry between the H and h is amazing plus their attitudes and events going on make the story even richer.
I received a free copy of this book. This review was posted voluntarily.
The writing draws you in and keeps you interested until the end.
The chemistry between the H and h is amazing plus their attitudes and events going on make the story even richer.
I received a free copy of this book. This review was posted voluntarily.
March 17, 2020
I couldn’t put this book down!! All the stars for Jordan and Callie!!!🤍🤍 🤍
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We meet Jordan running around half naked in frigid temps asking girls for a kiss! A punishment ensued by his bandmates. I mean, I loved him from the start!😂 This is where he meets Callie. She’s not like the other girls who falls at his feet. She keeps telling him he’s wasting his time to pursue her as his mission Win Callie Over commences. But he’s persistent in supplying her coffee with forehead kisses and asking her if she needs a ride to class anyway.
I loved his snarky and witty personality and his philosophical tangents he goes off on. I loved how he acts with little rambunctious six yr old Cate, and I loved his friends especially Benji!! Can we please get a book on him?! As well as ALL the secondary characters, even her ex boyfriend Pete! I would so read all of those!
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Callie, she is stubborn just as much as she is fierce and loyal taking care of her siblings and always putting them first.
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Even though I was giggling throughout the whole book, it’s not a romcom. It turns pretty serious at the end.
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This could easily be a reread for me and now I’m onto the next C.G. Blaine book!!❤️😍
5/5⭐️
Steam:🔥🔥
October 3, 2020
Jordan's punishment from his bandmate is that he has to run around campus in the freezing cold wearing nothing but a thong and a towel. He has 10 min to get a girl to kiss him. When it comes down to the wire a girl in a pink beanie, scarf and red coat catches his eye. She gives in and give him the kiss that he needs. That kiss catches him off guard and now he needs to have Red Coat Girl aka Callie. He makes it his mission. But the more he chases her the more he realizes that this girl may not just be about the chase.
Jordan and Callie were so much fun. I love how she wasn't falling for his charm and games. How she was pushing back to get him to realize that it wasn't just about the chase. Then when he realized that and gave in, he was such a kind, caring sweetheart. I loved his soft side so dang much. He is truly one of the best book boyfriends out there. I loved how deeply he felt for Callie before he realized it, how he would always put her first (when she wouldn't) until it came down to what he knew that she wanted first. Ugh, pulled at my heartstrings so dang much. I adore books that are from the male POV only but I think this is the first time I am bummed that I didn't see the female POV. Callie had so much messed up family drama I would have liked to have seen one or two glimpses into her thoughts. But overall loved this book and will definitely be picking up more by this author.
Jordan and Callie were so much fun. I love how she wasn't falling for his charm and games. How she was pushing back to get him to realize that it wasn't just about the chase. Then when he realized that and gave in, he was such a kind, caring sweetheart. I loved his soft side so dang much. He is truly one of the best book boyfriends out there. I loved how deeply he felt for Callie before he realized it, how he would always put her first (when she wouldn't) until it came down to what he knew that she wanted first. Ugh, pulled at my heartstrings so dang much. I adore books that are from the male POV only but I think this is the first time I am bummed that I didn't see the female POV. Callie had so much messed up family drama I would have liked to have seen one or two glimpses into her thoughts. But overall loved this book and will definitely be picking up more by this author.
March 17, 2020
3 Stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️
First off I loved the writing style of this book. It was somewhat poetic and fun. I really liked that is was from Jordan’s POV. Most times books are from the females POV so it was a new twist to see it from the male perspective.
I thought this story was really fun at first then it went a lot deeper than I expected it to. I did like that the author brought up some difficult topics for people to read about, I think it’s important to bring awareness to readers about emotional and physically abusive parents.
The only thing I didn’t like was around 70% of the book I started feeling antsy, like I wanted something to happen to keep me intrigued. The beginning was great because he was trying to win her over. Then the second part where he learned about her past. Then after a fight or two I felt like it dragged on a little bit. It could have possibly been because the chapters felt longer?
But all in all I thought this book was really great!
First off I loved the writing style of this book. It was somewhat poetic and fun. I really liked that is was from Jordan’s POV. Most times books are from the females POV so it was a new twist to see it from the male perspective.
I thought this story was really fun at first then it went a lot deeper than I expected it to. I did like that the author brought up some difficult topics for people to read about, I think it’s important to bring awareness to readers about emotional and physically abusive parents.
The only thing I didn’t like was around 70% of the book I started feeling antsy, like I wanted something to happen to keep me intrigued. The beginning was great because he was trying to win her over. Then the second part where he learned about her past. Then after a fight or two I felt like it dragged on a little bit. It could have possibly been because the chapters felt longer?
But all in all I thought this book was really great!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 2, 2022
Not gonna lie, this book was confounding. For most of the book, I didn't understand their rationale. Is this how Gen Z interactions go between their friends and their romantic interests these days...have encounters, date, hook up, create challenges or what not? The machinations, the game playing?! Ugh, the inauthenticity of it all. A lot of their actions didn't make sense. Tbh, the H could be a bit of a pu$$y at times too.
I'm probably not the right target audience for this. I'm too old and out of touch apparently. Nonetheless, I stuck with it. I wouldn't say it's an epic love story and it took a very long while to develop their storyline. However, the themes in this book run deep, and while I can't pinpoint why I persisted, the fact that I felt compelled to finish it instead of DNF, says a lot. This would be great as an interconnected series.
I'm probably not the right target audience for this. I'm too old and out of touch apparently. Nonetheless, I stuck with it. I wouldn't say it's an epic love story and it took a very long while to develop their storyline. However, the themes in this book run deep, and while I can't pinpoint why I persisted, the fact that I felt compelled to finish it instead of DNF, says a lot. This would be great as an interconnected series.
October 4, 2019
Sweet journey with perfect ending
I loved this novel and the change up of hearing from the lead male perspective instead of alternating viewpoints or only from the female view. This story is deep and heavy in some places, but delivered with the perfect about of sarcasm and humor. I fell in love with Jordan in the first few pages, and Callie is the perfect heroine. Definitely recommend. Wonderful writing and excellent character development.
I loved this novel and the change up of hearing from the lead male perspective instead of alternating viewpoints or only from the female view. This story is deep and heavy in some places, but delivered with the perfect about of sarcasm and humor. I fell in love with Jordan in the first few pages, and Callie is the perfect heroine. Definitely recommend. Wonderful writing and excellent character development.
July 5, 2019
I loved this, it was so fun and well written, hilarious at times, and dead serious at others. The narration is fast paced and snarky, Jordan is delightful. He's a carefree college playboy in a band--until he kisses Callie, and therein meets his match. The Girl In The Red Coat wants nothing to do with him, and the rom-com worthy hi-jinks he cartwheels through to get her attention had me laughing out loud. When she finally cracks he comes to find she has a dark past and secrets at home that might threaten her very life someday. I loved Callie. She is tough and strong and stands up against fate in ways that most of us will never be tested. The ending had me in tears SEVERAL times, thank you for that, and I loved how Ms. Blaine sewed it all up in the end.
May 19, 2019
The characters in this book, even those outside of the protagonists, are very well developed.
The author definitely brings you into the world of Jordan Waters and Callie Henders to the point you will fall in love with both. At least...I did.
I would absolutely reccomend any romance novel fans read this. There's a little bit of humor and drama to keep you smiling or your heart pounding.
Excellent read.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
The author definitely brings you into the world of Jordan Waters and Callie Henders to the point you will fall in love with both. At least...I did.
I would absolutely reccomend any romance novel fans read this. There's a little bit of humor and drama to keep you smiling or your heart pounding.
Excellent read.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
June 7, 2019
One of the best written books I’ve read in a while. The push and pull of Callie and Jordan’s story makes for a great read. I loved the writing style and am hoping for another book about the two of them!
June 8, 2019
Callie and Jordan are terrific characters and their relationship is fun to read. Loved this wonderfully written book.
I read a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving my review.
I read a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving my review.
June 3, 2021
3/3.25 ⭐️
After seeing Limbo and reading the blurb, I knew I wanted to read it. However after reading Elusion first (Jordan’s side of the story) I can honestly say I am not so sure now.
Jordan Jensen Waters is juggling college life alongside his friends, who are also his bandmates in their band Beta Void for which he is a guitarist. When a punishment (courtesy of his bandmate) leads to an encounter with Callista ‘Callie’ Henders ending with a mind-numbing kiss, Jordan can’t seem to get Callie out of his head. Too bad she doesn’t want anything to do with him though. But that isn’t going to deter Jordan from getting what he wants, regardless of not knowing what he is getting himself into when it comes to the enigma that is Callie.
The blurb definitely made the story appealing in catching my attention and wanting to read it. When I started reading the book, it definitely captured me from the get go considering what happens in the first chapter alone. I just couldn’t help but become intrigued with wanted to know more.
However the more I got into the story, the more I started to lose interest. It even got to the point of where I was actually considering putting it down as DNF. But obviously I didn’t, seeing as my subconscious wouldn’t let me.
Yes this book definitely had mystery and suspense, with not knowing much about the enigma that is Callie and her strange/bizarre behaviour around Jordan. Something that did catch my attention. However with the narrative being prolonged because of the very slow pace of the story, I couldn’t help but get restless. It just felt so bland with the constant repetitiveness of the same routine between Jordan and Callie happening over again for longer than I would’ve liked or preferred. Lacking any spark or substance into giving the story the pizzazz it needed to make it more upbeat and alluring IMO.
I will admit though further into the story the narrative did start to pick up, sparking my attention again. With C.G. Blaine building up suspense that managed to reel back in. Considering all the chaos that ensued from the drama that occurred after the revelation of the secret mysteries being divulged. Finally giving me all the answers I wanted from the questions I had since the beginning. Though I will admit, I was surprised with the revelations. Since at that point was when the story seemed to flip into a somewhat darker story, which I definitely didn’t see coming. Resulting in the surfacing of topics that are deeper, intense and very emotional being made aware to us the readers.
It has to be said Elusion wasn't a typical Romance story, with it being told from a guys POV only. In this case Jordan’s perspective, something you don’t see much of when it comes to Romance books. Giving you an inside to a guys perspective when it comes to life, girls and most importantly emotions and feelings when it comes to relationship. One of things which I liked about the book.
Overall, Elusion was still a decent read and I am glad I stuck through in completing the book.
*I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
After seeing Limbo and reading the blurb, I knew I wanted to read it. However after reading Elusion first (Jordan’s side of the story) I can honestly say I am not so sure now.
Jordan Jensen Waters is juggling college life alongside his friends, who are also his bandmates in their band Beta Void for which he is a guitarist. When a punishment (courtesy of his bandmate) leads to an encounter with Callista ‘Callie’ Henders ending with a mind-numbing kiss, Jordan can’t seem to get Callie out of his head. Too bad she doesn’t want anything to do with him though. But that isn’t going to deter Jordan from getting what he wants, regardless of not knowing what he is getting himself into when it comes to the enigma that is Callie.
The blurb definitely made the story appealing in catching my attention and wanting to read it. When I started reading the book, it definitely captured me from the get go considering what happens in the first chapter alone. I just couldn’t help but become intrigued with wanted to know more.
However the more I got into the story, the more I started to lose interest. It even got to the point of where I was actually considering putting it down as DNF. But obviously I didn’t, seeing as my subconscious wouldn’t let me.
Yes this book definitely had mystery and suspense, with not knowing much about the enigma that is Callie and her strange/bizarre behaviour around Jordan. Something that did catch my attention. However with the narrative being prolonged because of the very slow pace of the story, I couldn’t help but get restless. It just felt so bland with the constant repetitiveness of the same routine between Jordan and Callie happening over again for longer than I would’ve liked or preferred. Lacking any spark or substance into giving the story the pizzazz it needed to make it more upbeat and alluring IMO.
I will admit though further into the story the narrative did start to pick up, sparking my attention again. With C.G. Blaine building up suspense that managed to reel back in. Considering all the chaos that ensued from the drama that occurred after the revelation of the secret mysteries being divulged. Finally giving me all the answers I wanted from the questions I had since the beginning. Though I will admit, I was surprised with the revelations. Since at that point was when the story seemed to flip into a somewhat darker story, which I definitely didn’t see coming. Resulting in the surfacing of topics that are deeper, intense and very emotional being made aware to us the readers.
It has to be said Elusion wasn't a typical Romance story, with it being told from a guys POV only. In this case Jordan’s perspective, something you don’t see much of when it comes to Romance books. Giving you an inside to a guys perspective when it comes to life, girls and most importantly emotions and feelings when it comes to relationship. One of things which I liked about the book.
Overall, Elusion was still a decent read and I am glad I stuck through in completing the book.
*I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
June 6, 2021
Callie Henders life has never been easy, thanks to her uncaring parents, they take far more from her then they ever give. They are not loving parents, there are no hugs or mentions of love, they are anything but normal parents. Their marriage imploded years ago and of course their children have taken the brunt of the backlash, and have often been used as bargaining chips between them. Watching all this unravel has made Callie determined to never find love or fully give herself to another person, as she is certain it's bound to end with her hurt in the end.
But she never accounted for a man like Jordan Waters to show up on her doorstep... he is determined to make her see that love doesn't always hurt and that she deserves to be happy. She just has to be brave enough to open her heart to the possibility...
Elusion is the story of a boy who isn't looking for love, but one peck on the lips from a beautiful mysterious girl and he begins to sing another tune. She is the girl he never knew he needed in his life, and once she is there he never wants to let her go. But she swears she isn't the loving kind and he is far better off walking away before anything ever gets started. But Jordan is a patient and determined man, who always gets what he wants... and he wants her and will stop at nothing to win her over.
I loved watching these two find their way to a happily ever after, it wasn't always a perfect love story, but they eventually got their stuff figured out and found their happy. At times it was an emotional and painful road, but with the support of the other and their persistent hearts they made it through. If you like emotional new adult romances that give the heartstrings a nice little tug then I have no doubt you will love what you find between the pages here! Highly recommend!
I requested an advanced copy of this title from the publisher, and I am voluntarily leaving my honest and unbiased opinion.
But she never accounted for a man like Jordan Waters to show up on her doorstep... he is determined to make her see that love doesn't always hurt and that she deserves to be happy. She just has to be brave enough to open her heart to the possibility...
Elusion is the story of a boy who isn't looking for love, but one peck on the lips from a beautiful mysterious girl and he begins to sing another tune. She is the girl he never knew he needed in his life, and once she is there he never wants to let her go. But she swears she isn't the loving kind and he is far better off walking away before anything ever gets started. But Jordan is a patient and determined man, who always gets what he wants... and he wants her and will stop at nothing to win her over.
I loved watching these two find their way to a happily ever after, it wasn't always a perfect love story, but they eventually got their stuff figured out and found their happy. At times it was an emotional and painful road, but with the support of the other and their persistent hearts they made it through. If you like emotional new adult romances that give the heartstrings a nice little tug then I have no doubt you will love what you find between the pages here! Highly recommend!
I requested an advanced copy of this title from the publisher, and I am voluntarily leaving my honest and unbiased opinion.
June 21, 2021
Wow so much more than I was expecting in the best of ways.
This is my first book by this author and she did a fabulous job of giving you two very relatable characters. This book starts off on the fun side with you know just a guy running in super cold weather in a towel looking to kiss someone in five mins. So of course this piqued my interest a little more and after the fun starts you dive into some serious issues along the way, and you get a few disturbing situations that occur.
So if you want a sweet but inconsistent guy who needs a bet to win a girl's affection so he can ultimately get his one night with her to drop afterwards look no further than Jordan Waters. He is a guitarist with an extremely high almost genius IQ level, that he seems not to use it very often as he should lol. He starts out as the over cocky guy at first but slowly morphs into a sweet and lovable guy who falls in love with the first girl who challenged him at every turn to gain her attention let alone her affection. Enters said girl of his dreams Callie Henders, a mysterious freshman who tries to evade Jordan at all costs, but slowly let's him into world that is so far from perfect. Once she falls for him things go from good to worse until they find a HEA.
This book does touch on dysfunctional families to child neglect and abuse so if your sensitive to these issues beware. I feel like the author did a great job of not exposing a ton of violence just what you need to understand the situations. I definitely recommend this book if you want a book with fun but emotional moments that will have you turning the pages to see what happens next with all these characters in the story. Great read that will keep you engaged till the very end.
This is my first book by this author and she did a fabulous job of giving you two very relatable characters. This book starts off on the fun side with you know just a guy running in super cold weather in a towel looking to kiss someone in five mins. So of course this piqued my interest a little more and after the fun starts you dive into some serious issues along the way, and you get a few disturbing situations that occur.
So if you want a sweet but inconsistent guy who needs a bet to win a girl's affection so he can ultimately get his one night with her to drop afterwards look no further than Jordan Waters. He is a guitarist with an extremely high almost genius IQ level, that he seems not to use it very often as he should lol. He starts out as the over cocky guy at first but slowly morphs into a sweet and lovable guy who falls in love with the first girl who challenged him at every turn to gain her attention let alone her affection. Enters said girl of his dreams Callie Henders, a mysterious freshman who tries to evade Jordan at all costs, but slowly let's him into world that is so far from perfect. Once she falls for him things go from good to worse until they find a HEA.
This book does touch on dysfunctional families to child neglect and abuse so if your sensitive to these issues beware. I feel like the author did a great job of not exposing a ton of violence just what you need to understand the situations. I definitely recommend this book if you want a book with fun but emotional moments that will have you turning the pages to see what happens next with all these characters in the story. Great read that will keep you engaged till the very end.
February 19, 2020
C.G. Blaine is coming for my heart with these characters. I could not put this book down. This book was superbly written. I loved every second of the plot. At times I was looking at my % and wondering "How do I still have so much book left?" but it never dragged and I don't think it actually needed to end sooner than it did (so maybe that was me just aggressively wanting Callie and Jordan to be happy because they deserved it, damn it).
Jordan - Such a guy, but also really endearing. I loved that the entire book was from his POV. He had a lot of depth and I liked that he had a really natural progression from kind of a cad to a to-die-for Hero. It didn't feel forced and I was rooting for his character growth every step of the way.
Callie - Damn, Callie had a lot going on. I admittedly felt a little frustrated with Callie at times, but I respect a girl who can admit she was wrong. I actually think that speaks to her feeling like a real person and not just a character. Her story, though sad, was really realistic and I think C.G. handled it with a lot of grace.
Jordan - Such a guy, but also really endearing. I loved that the entire book was from his POV. He had a lot of depth and I liked that he had a really natural progression from kind of a cad to a to-die-for Hero. It didn't feel forced and I was rooting for his character growth every step of the way.
Callie - Damn, Callie had a lot going on. I admittedly felt a little frustrated with Callie at times, but I respect a girl who can admit she was wrong. I actually think that speaks to her feeling like a real person and not just a character. Her story, though sad, was really realistic and I think C.G. handled it with a lot of grace.
June 6, 2021
This is Jordan and Callie’s story. Jordan is in college, and is the guitarist in a popular band, and is determined to live life to the fullest and have fun before he is forced to attend law school as per her parents. Callie is strong, sassy, and mysterious, and from the moment she meets Jordan there is an instant connection between them. When Callie just brushes off Jordan’s attempts and keeps brushing him off, but he just doubles his efforts, and she certainly makes him work for her attention, and I loved how their relationship evolved. This is a beautifully written emotionally charged story, with a plot which flows seamlessly, and with sexual tension, witty banter, great secondary characters, angst, and is a humorous and entertaining page turner. I look forward to reading more from this talented author whose work I highly recommend.
April 28, 2022
new book boyfriend
Jordan has just reached the top of my list of favorite book boyfriends. I loved his inner monologues, when he started pacing and going off on a wild rant, and especially his cheeky one liners. This book made me laugh, cry and feel and that’s when you know you’re reading something great. My only complaint is wishing we got to see their lives further than 2 months in the future in the epilogue. I would love to revisit them and see how they’re doing. I’d one click that book so fast. All of the supporting character were great. I especially loved when Jordan’s friends would congregate and start talking about his life choices like he wasn’t in the room 😂
Jordan has just reached the top of my list of favorite book boyfriends. I loved his inner monologues, when he started pacing and going off on a wild rant, and especially his cheeky one liners. This book made me laugh, cry and feel and that’s when you know you’re reading something great. My only complaint is wishing we got to see their lives further than 2 months in the future in the epilogue. I would love to revisit them and see how they’re doing. I’d one click that book so fast. All of the supporting character were great. I especially loved when Jordan’s friends would congregate and start talking about his life choices like he wasn’t in the room 😂
March 5, 2023
swoon worthy
I fell in love with Callie and Jordan and their loveable, wild friends in Limbo. So I love getting to see things from Jordans perspective, even hearing some new things along the way, was so amazing. It just makes me want more. I'd love to hear some of Benji's story, Felicia's, Johnny's, Trey's and even Pete's.
I fell in love with Callie and Jordan and their loveable, wild friends in Limbo. So I love getting to see things from Jordans perspective, even hearing some new things along the way, was so amazing. It just makes me want more. I'd love to hear some of Benji's story, Felicia's, Johnny's, Trey's and even Pete's.
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