What do you think?
Rate this book
Road Trip Romance #1
Tip the Scales
Come on a ride with contemporary romance author A.K. Evans as she takes a journey across the U.S. in her brand new series...
Max King has lived in northern Maine all his life. And if there's one thing he's learned living in his close-knit community, it's that they look out for one another.
With a life-threatening winter storm approaching, it's no surprise Max is concerned for the residents of his beloved small town. But it's his new neighbor that really has him worried. With the power out and temperatures plummeting, Max does what any good neighbor would do. He offers her a place to stay.
Finding a decent man is hard enough. But for Eleanor Page it's even harder.
Because she's a self-made billionaire. And that seems to be difficult for the men she meets to handle.
So when her rugged, handsome neighbor shows up on her doorstep during a massive storm, Eleanor is a bit shell-shocked. While she initially rejects his offer, it's isn't long before she has no other option.
As the snow piles up outside and Max turns on the charm, Eleanor struggles to share the truth about who she is.
But when tragedy strikes and Eleanor tips the scales, she wonders if she's lost her chance at love.
Max King has lived in northern Maine all his life. And if there's one thing he's learned living in his close-knit community, it's that they look out for one another.
With a life-threatening winter storm approaching, it's no surprise Max is concerned for the residents of his beloved small town. But it's his new neighbor that really has him worried. With the power out and temperatures plummeting, Max does what any good neighbor would do. He offers her a place to stay.
Finding a decent man is hard enough. But for Eleanor Page it's even harder.
Because she's a self-made billionaire. And that seems to be difficult for the men she meets to handle.
So when her rugged, handsome neighbor shows up on her doorstep during a massive storm, Eleanor is a bit shell-shocked. While she initially rejects his offer, it's isn't long before she has no other option.
As the snow piles up outside and Max turns on the charm, Eleanor struggles to share the truth about who she is.
But when tragedy strikes and Eleanor tips the scales, she wonders if she's lost her chance at love.
133 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 1, 2019
161 people are currently reading
1550 people want to read
About the author
A.K. Evans
83 books931 followersNewsletter Sign Up:
http://eepurl.com/dmeo6z
Amazon:
http://amzn.to/2v8sjUH
Facebook:
https://www.facebook.com/authorAKEvans/
Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/authorakevans/
A.K.'s Book Babes (FB Reader Group):
http://bit.ly/2ys50mU
BookBub:
http://bit.ly/2r3fJm8
Twitter:
https://twitter.com/AuthorAKEvans
A.K. Evans is a contemporary romance author of over twenty published novels. While she enjoys writing a good romantic suspense novel, Andrea’s favorite books to write have been her extreme sports romances. That might have something to do with the fact that she, along with her husband and two sons, can’t get enough of extreme sports.
Before becoming a writer, Andrea did a brief stint in the insurance and financial services industry and managed her husband’s performance automotive business. That love of extreme sports? She used to drive race cars!
When Andrea isn’t writing, she can be found homeschooling her two sons, doing yoga, snowboarding, reading, or traveling with her family. She and her husband are currently taking road trips throughout the country to visit all 50 states with their boys.
http://eepurl.com/dmeo6z
Amazon:
http://amzn.to/2v8sjUH
Facebook:
https://www.facebook.com/authorAKEvans/
Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/authorakevans/
A.K.'s Book Babes (FB Reader Group):
http://bit.ly/2ys50mU
BookBub:
http://bit.ly/2r3fJm8
Twitter:
https://twitter.com/AuthorAKEvans
A.K. Evans is a contemporary romance author of over twenty published novels. While she enjoys writing a good romantic suspense novel, Andrea’s favorite books to write have been her extreme sports romances. That might have something to do with the fact that she, along with her husband and two sons, can’t get enough of extreme sports.
Before becoming a writer, Andrea did a brief stint in the insurance and financial services industry and managed her husband’s performance automotive business. That love of extreme sports? She used to drive race cars!
When Andrea isn’t writing, she can be found homeschooling her two sons, doing yoga, snowboarding, reading, or traveling with her family. She and her husband are currently taking road trips throughout the country to visit all 50 states with their boys.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 63 reviews
![Profile Image for Vaishali • [V.L. Book Reviews] .](/_next/image?url=https%3A%2F%2Fi.gr-assets.com%2Fimages%2FS%2Fcompressed.photo.goodreads.com%2Fusers%2F1700331868i%2F85343546._UX200_CR0%2C0%2C200%2C200_.jpg&w=128&q=75)
December 11, 2021
R A T I N G: 3.5/4 stars to Tip the Scales! ★ ★ ★ ★
As I listened to the storm raging outside my window, I knew. This wasn’t going to be just any ordinary storm. This was going to be a storm that changed lives.
Over the years, I've realised that I can build a greater sense of marvel and connection with something through the prism of context. Whether it be a piece of commissioned art, a cinematic composition, ordinary people and their extraordinary behaviours, or of course the written story, everything has a history and hence everything harbours a story. And that's the story I want to know, because as much as I love the created, I'm fascinated by why the creator created. I naturally sleepwalk towards the call of ‘the chronicle’ because in addition to the made and materialised thing, I want to shadow the needle that stitched - the behind-the-scenes perspective has an accessibly humanistic charm of its own, and the intention of the maker is an incentive sweetener that I’d love to drop in my tea on any given day.
Tip the Scales is my first A.K. Evans romance but the author actually starts this book by offering up a pint-sized bit of backstory; she did indeed trigger that aforementioned contextual sweet spot I mentioned above. Titled Road Trip Romance, and contrary to what one might think, the aim of this series isn't to shed light on fresh couples who journey together ‘via the road’. Each book is actually the something-written product of every place the author has visited on her familial pilgrim to visit every state in the US. As such, every book written is a story set within a visited state. So as I understand it, we the reader, hitch a ride through fifty states via fifty stories, and yes with fifty fictional couples. Such a fresh concept; the reader travels as the writer travels, which is where the series name plays into it.
Introverted Ella is new to small-town Maine. The busy city life was a charged drone that drove her to quieter pastures. It's peace that she needs, quiet that she wants and Maine is more silence than the buzz that bothered her. A few months in and Ella hasn't quite made big, grand plans to explore. And she won't get to any time soon when she underestimates the scale of a big local storm just hours before its arrival. Unprepared, underprepared and out of her element, she's snowed in by a frigid storm the likes of which she's never experienced.
While Ella was fairly content to ogle her handsome neighbour from afar, it's a natural disaster that forces her to brave a face to face with the big, the warm, the neighbourly Max King. This low-key lady quickly realises just how lucky she is to have a native-to-Maine man right next door to see her through the worst of the storm. She'd long since decided that Max was husband material and her dream man proves to be the man for her every day he puts her first. Max King is big-hearted, warmhearted and a charitable member of the community. And it just so happens that he's just as taken by the neighbourhood newcomer.
Tip the Scales is a fast track love story and with both Max and Ella it was a case of fast feelings in close quarters. As is expected with shorter reads, the stretch isn't vast but the story carved a warm and wonderful communal cluster. Easy to pick up, easy to read and easy to channel the far-from-chilly chemistry. I'm not a keen observer of overly saccharine novels, and while this was a sweet, softened and self-effacing romance with balmy personalities, Tip the Scales was wholesome without being too wholesome. From the start, it's easy to assume this is going to be a smooth-sailing sort of romance and I actually worked through the story believing that the major point of contention would stem from the surrounding elements; the storm itself.
I hadn't expected the twist or the conflict that eventually emerges between our couple. While it was a nice little disruption that both solicits some tension and disturbs the peace, I did wonder why Ella's withholding a secret became a big point of conflict when she and Max are in the very early doors of a relationship (one that does burn rubber). Or why Max later acts in a way that felt uncharacteristic when the big ball drops. I don’t think the twist itself was a needed plot point. To present a mostly trouble-free (and sometimes repetitious) first half of the book and to then puzzle in an unexpected element of suspense did elicit that 'wait what?' moment. I think the author could have resorted to a more felicitous, to-the-purpose approach to reveal Ella's secret. Perhaps with some additional subtleties, it wouldn't have appeared as off-key.
I really love a dual POV but I was slightly disappointed that Max only gets three POV sequences to Ella's eleven. In certain situations I hoped for a perspective through his lens. But perhaps the main particular that left me wanting was the lack of adventure. I wanted to see Ella explore White Pine. Seeing as this book was both Ella's first time walking new ground, in fresh locale, and the author’s resolve to discover new places I was hoping for that sense of journey and discovery. I love the description of the neighborhood but thanks to the frosty timing and forces of mother nature, the story is very much removed from the outdoors and appointed to the indoors, the setting mostly switching from Ella’s house to Max’s.
Ruminations aside and I if I look beyond a few objections I can honestly say that I really enjoyed the first instalment to A.K. Evans’s Road Trip Romance series. I love the idea. I love the concept. I love the warmth and ease of settling into something intimate, small, simple and cosy. A seasonably appropriate small-town neighbourhood romance where the hero is all rugged lines and gentle heart and protects his heroine with layers of heat and blankets of warmth. Low-key, unadorned and light of heart with some disharmony that plays into an edge of alarm.
C O N T E N T_W A R N I N G: Minimal swearing, one non-explicit bedroom scene (the rest are alluded to). Mentions drugs/drug trafficking. Kidnapping of a child.
----------------------------------------------------
Visit my blog for more reviews: V.L. Book Reviews
T W I T T E R: @TheVicarious1
I N S T A G R A M: @Vicarious.Hearts
----------------------------------------------------
As I listened to the storm raging outside my window, I knew. This wasn’t going to be just any ordinary storm. This was going to be a storm that changed lives.
Over the years, I've realised that I can build a greater sense of marvel and connection with something through the prism of context. Whether it be a piece of commissioned art, a cinematic composition, ordinary people and their extraordinary behaviours, or of course the written story, everything has a history and hence everything harbours a story. And that's the story I want to know, because as much as I love the created, I'm fascinated by why the creator created. I naturally sleepwalk towards the call of ‘the chronicle’ because in addition to the made and materialised thing, I want to shadow the needle that stitched - the behind-the-scenes perspective has an accessibly humanistic charm of its own, and the intention of the maker is an incentive sweetener that I’d love to drop in my tea on any given day.
Tip the Scales is my first A.K. Evans romance but the author actually starts this book by offering up a pint-sized bit of backstory; she did indeed trigger that aforementioned contextual sweet spot I mentioned above. Titled Road Trip Romance, and contrary to what one might think, the aim of this series isn't to shed light on fresh couples who journey together ‘via the road’. Each book is actually the something-written product of every place the author has visited on her familial pilgrim to visit every state in the US. As such, every book written is a story set within a visited state. So as I understand it, we the reader, hitch a ride through fifty states via fifty stories, and yes with fifty fictional couples. Such a fresh concept; the reader travels as the writer travels, which is where the series name plays into it.
Introverted Ella is new to small-town Maine. The busy city life was a charged drone that drove her to quieter pastures. It's peace that she needs, quiet that she wants and Maine is more silence than the buzz that bothered her. A few months in and Ella hasn't quite made big, grand plans to explore. And she won't get to any time soon when she underestimates the scale of a big local storm just hours before its arrival. Unprepared, underprepared and out of her element, she's snowed in by a frigid storm the likes of which she's never experienced.
While Ella was fairly content to ogle her handsome neighbour from afar, it's a natural disaster that forces her to brave a face to face with the big, the warm, the neighbourly Max King. This low-key lady quickly realises just how lucky she is to have a native-to-Maine man right next door to see her through the worst of the storm. She'd long since decided that Max was husband material and her dream man proves to be the man for her every day he puts her first. Max King is big-hearted, warmhearted and a charitable member of the community. And it just so happens that he's just as taken by the neighbourhood newcomer.
Tip the Scales is a fast track love story and with both Max and Ella it was a case of fast feelings in close quarters. As is expected with shorter reads, the stretch isn't vast but the story carved a warm and wonderful communal cluster. Easy to pick up, easy to read and easy to channel the far-from-chilly chemistry. I'm not a keen observer of overly saccharine novels, and while this was a sweet, softened and self-effacing romance with balmy personalities, Tip the Scales was wholesome without being too wholesome. From the start, it's easy to assume this is going to be a smooth-sailing sort of romance and I actually worked through the story believing that the major point of contention would stem from the surrounding elements; the storm itself.
I hadn't expected the twist or the conflict that eventually emerges between our couple. While it was a nice little disruption that both solicits some tension and disturbs the peace, I did wonder why Ella's withholding a secret became a big point of conflict when she and Max are in the very early doors of a relationship (one that does burn rubber). Or why Max later acts in a way that felt uncharacteristic when the big ball drops. I don’t think the twist itself was a needed plot point. To present a mostly trouble-free (and sometimes repetitious) first half of the book and to then puzzle in an unexpected element of suspense did elicit that 'wait what?' moment. I think the author could have resorted to a more felicitous, to-the-purpose approach to reveal Ella's secret. Perhaps with some additional subtleties, it wouldn't have appeared as off-key.
I really love a dual POV but I was slightly disappointed that Max only gets three POV sequences to Ella's eleven. In certain situations I hoped for a perspective through his lens. But perhaps the main particular that left me wanting was the lack of adventure. I wanted to see Ella explore White Pine. Seeing as this book was both Ella's first time walking new ground, in fresh locale, and the author’s resolve to discover new places I was hoping for that sense of journey and discovery. I love the description of the neighborhood but thanks to the frosty timing and forces of mother nature, the story is very much removed from the outdoors and appointed to the indoors, the setting mostly switching from Ella’s house to Max’s.
Ruminations aside and I if I look beyond a few objections I can honestly say that I really enjoyed the first instalment to A.K. Evans’s Road Trip Romance series. I love the idea. I love the concept. I love the warmth and ease of settling into something intimate, small, simple and cosy. A seasonably appropriate small-town neighbourhood romance where the hero is all rugged lines and gentle heart and protects his heroine with layers of heat and blankets of warmth. Low-key, unadorned and light of heart with some disharmony that plays into an edge of alarm.
C O N T E N T_W A R N I N G: Minimal swearing, one non-explicit bedroom scene (the rest are alluded to). Mentions drugs/drug trafficking. Kidnapping of a child.
----------------------------------------------------
Visit my blog for more reviews: V.L. Book Reviews
T W I T T E R: @TheVicarious1
I N S T A G R A M: @Vicarious.Hearts
----------------------------------------------------
October 4, 2019
Erin~
3.5-4 Stars
This was a fun read. I really enjoyed these characters. It was interesting how Evans gave us almost 2 different books. She started things off with a fast-paced romance. This was a total lust (and maybe a little more) at first sight. Things moved quickly. I loved the excitement of their relationship. Then she hits us with something very different. I don’t want to give anything away so I won’t say anything other than it surprised me. While I enjoyed the fast pace of the relationship, the whole book felt a bit rushed. That being said, I did really enjoy Tip the Scales. I thought it was a cute, sexy, exciting read.
3.5-4 Stars
This was a fun read. I really enjoyed these characters. It was interesting how Evans gave us almost 2 different books. She started things off with a fast-paced romance. This was a total lust (and maybe a little more) at first sight. Things moved quickly. I loved the excitement of their relationship. Then she hits us with something very different. I don’t want to give anything away so I won’t say anything other than it surprised me. While I enjoyed the fast pace of the relationship, the whole book felt a bit rushed. That being said, I did really enjoy Tip the Scales. I thought it was a cute, sexy, exciting read.
September 8, 2019
I love a story where the heroine has an embarrassing introduction to the hero. You just seem to know you are in for a good story. And with A.K. Evans it is a guarantee that this story is going to take you on a good ride. Once again she brings us a story of an alpha male who takes charge, is protective and of course a hunk! Max is incredible and the kind of guy our dreams are made of. Ella is the introvert neighbor who we quickly learn is fiercely independent and guarded but she has reasons to be. Luckily Max proves to her that there are men out there worth the chance. Their happily ever after is exactly what we have come to expect from this author and I just can't get enough!
March 14, 2021
I adore this authors writing and characters in past books, they have all been wonderful. This one just was not something that I connected with. Everything was very rushed. The plot, the romance, the big reveal. I really needed more build up and more time for the characters to develop that connection to each other and me as the reader.
January 12, 2022
I knew it would have to travel at warp speed due to the length but this was clunky.
October 1, 2019
Max King has lived in Northern Maine his whole life, while his new neighbor, Eleanor Page, is from Florida. They get to really know each other when a winter storm comes, and Eleanor learns that she thought she knew what she was in for, but she was in over her head. So when Max comes over to check on her, she has no choice but to take him on his offer to stay at his place to ride the storm out. Things are kind of awkward at first, because she's had a tiny secret crush on him since she moved in. Luckily, after Max takes one look at her, he's hit with the feeling that she's everything he's always secretly wanted, so they batten down the hatches and settle in together. As they get to know each other better, they feel some serious chemistry, and since they don't have much else to do while in close quarters, they take the chance of exploring the chemistry, while catching feelings fast. But you know, the heart wants what the heart wants. However, Eleanor is carrying a big secret which she's scared to tell him, so she doesn't, and when a twist hits, he finds out. And this is when all kinds of misunderstandings ensue, and since they're quite new together, communication isn't top of their lists yet. And now the question becomes, will they or won't they end up together?! One click Tip the Scales to find out! HIGHLY HIGHLY HIGHLY RECOMMEND!
October 1, 2019
Tip the Scales by A. K. Evans is the first book that I have read by this author.
Eleanor Page has just moved to Maine and has never been in a snowstorm let a lone a “life-threatening winter storm”. Max King has lived in Maine all his life. Max meets Eleanor after the power is out and temperatures dropping. He let her know that she could stay at his place because he has heat. Most of the residents know to have a full gas tank for heat during these storms. Of course Eleanor didn’t know. Max ends up rescuing Eleanor and she stays at his place.
When something bad happens turns out that Eleanor is a billionaire and Max didn’t know it. She offers to help and after she sees Max’s reaction will all still be okay between them?
If you love romances you should love Tip the Scales! I certainly did! Max is a hunky hunk! He carries her from her house to his house in the storm!
I know that I will be picking up and reading more of A.K. Evans books! Because this book was GOOD!!!
Eleanor Page has just moved to Maine and has never been in a snowstorm let a lone a “life-threatening winter storm”. Max King has lived in Maine all his life. Max meets Eleanor after the power is out and temperatures dropping. He let her know that she could stay at his place because he has heat. Most of the residents know to have a full gas tank for heat during these storms. Of course Eleanor didn’t know. Max ends up rescuing Eleanor and she stays at his place.
When something bad happens turns out that Eleanor is a billionaire and Max didn’t know it. She offers to help and after she sees Max’s reaction will all still be okay between them?
If you love romances you should love Tip the Scales! I certainly did! Max is a hunky hunk! He carries her from her house to his house in the storm!
I know that I will be picking up and reading more of A.K. Evans books! Because this book was GOOD!!!
September 30, 2019
It’s always a mix of emotions when a favourite author begins a new series. On one hand, there’s excitement for being introduced to a new world, characters, and couple; while on the other hand, there’s some trepidation as you wonder how you will connect with these new characters and storyline outside of the previous ones you are already so familiar and comfortable with.
I’m so pleased to report I had no need to worry. I found myself being sucked in to this story and enjoying it so much. This book is fun, funny, sweet, and lovely as are Ella and Max.
I loved getting to know these new characters right alongside them getting to know each other. I look forward to continuing this series and definately recommend this book to anyone looking for a new romance!
I’m so pleased to report I had no need to worry. I found myself being sucked in to this story and enjoying it so much. This book is fun, funny, sweet, and lovely as are Ella and Max.
I loved getting to know these new characters right alongside them getting to know each other. I look forward to continuing this series and definately recommend this book to anyone looking for a new romance!
January 14, 2022
This is a cute short book. Loved the fast-paced relationship built up while it did have some suspense into it. I love this authors books and the fact that each one in this standalone series is set up in a different state.
September 30, 2019
This is a very sweet, quick read. Max and Eleanor are both likeable, charming characters whose clandestine observation of each other culminates in less than promising first meeting, but events soon, dramatically, bring them together.
This is an enjoyable read with a few twists which provide added interest. It moves along at a good pace and brings a satisfying conclusion to a good story. 💖💖
This is an enjoyable read with a few twists which provide added interest. It moves along at a good pace and brings a satisfying conclusion to a good story. 💖💖
September 30, 2019
Loved Tip the Scales it was just one of those books that had me from blurb to the end even the cover is amazing .The only thing I didn't like was how the characters reacted to certain situations but over all they were amazing characters with unique a interesting story line . I can't wait to read more of the Road trip Romance .
September 28, 2019
I’m always hesitant to start a new series after finding one I love so much and have invested so much time reading (ALL of A.K. Evans series ;)). Seriously ya’ll, I didn’t go into a book hole for long... I loved Ella and Max and can NOT wait to see where this series goes!
March 17, 2020
4 stars
Cute premise and a gorgeous cover. It was a cute story but it felt too contrived which was sad because it had the potential to be so much more.
Cute premise and a gorgeous cover. It was a cute story but it felt too contrived which was sad because it had the potential to be so much more.
September 22, 2019
I Loved the start to this new series! It was funny, and sweet! Max and Ella were so cute together. There were times where I wanted to choke him for being stupid! But in the end I fell in love again! Ella was funny! The way her and Max met cracked me up! I Loved this!!
October 1, 2019
I love this new series! If you believe in lust at first glance, this is the book for you! Max and Eleanor are neighbors who have never met. When a large snowstorm comes and knocks out power Eleanor is pretty much force to go stay at her handsome neighbors house. His charm and generosity win her over and she starts to fall for him. She has a secret that could potentially ruin their relationship. He finds out this secret at the worse possible time. If you love a strong man and an independent woman, you will love this new novel. I cannot wait for the next in the series!
September 5, 2019
So yet again, AK Evans manages to shift gears and give us something completely new without sacrificing the writing style to which we’ve become accustomed. Eleanor and Max have the perfect setup to meet more than once, but it takes some intervention from Mother Nature to force their introduction. They manage to move forward with little to no muss or fuss, except Ella has a secret. And it’s a secret that she knows she needs to share, but she’s afraid to because she’s certain that it’ll ruin everything. When Ella and Max are faced with a would-be tragic emergency, her secret comes out, and then the misunderstandings happen. And boy, do they happen! Max and Ella manage to find their way back to each other with minimal drama, and their HEA is a gorgeous one. I can’t wait to see what comes next in this series!
September 7, 2019
I’m a big fan of this authors work and I read everything she writes. This was nothing like I expected, it was better. The characters had such chemistry and I fell in love with them almost immediately. Max is the quintessential Alpha, hot, protective and bossy. I loved him. Ella, was sweet, feisty and shy. Their first meeting was hilarious but slightly embarrassing for Ella. Watching their journey unfold was a joy to read. The supporting characters were amazing too. This storyline had me almost in tears with worry at one point. I loved the way this was written. Even tho there was suspense the main story is their love for each other. Great start to a new series. Can’t wait for the next book.
October 1, 2019
FTC DISCLAIMER: I RECEIVED AN E-ARC FROM THE PUBLISHER THROUGH ONE OF A VARIETY OF SOURCES. I VOLUNTARILY OFFER MY HONEST REVIEW OF THE BOOK, THOUGH IT IS NOT EXPECTED OF ME! RECEIPT OF THIS BOOK IN THIS MANNER DOES NOT AFFECT MY OPINION OF THE BOOK OR THE CONTENT OF MY REVIEW!
This was more of a 3.5 star read for me. There were a lot of things I didn't like about it, but they weren't bad enough to knock it down to a 3 star read. Allow me to go more in depth...
First of all, the book was too short! Everything felt very rushed, including the romance and I didn't really believe that their love would stand up to the troubles of life. I also didn't get a great sense of the setting, which, to me, was important because of the fact that it's listed as a Road Trip Romance series!! Additionally, the characters never actually took the road trip in question, at least not "on stage" in the story! Sure, you could say Eleanor did when she moved, but it felt a little questionable to be naming your series Road Trip Romances and never have your characters leave the area the book is set in!
Secondly, the "suspense" plot didn't really fit the story for me, as it felt tacked into the story for an angst factor. Eleanor and Max were seemingly obsessed over keeping things balanced between them, and it caused major issues when they weren't. They almost lost their fledgling relationship because of this obsession, especially since Max felt that things were wildly out of whack after Eleanor's actions and revelations.
Once I started ignoring the problems I was having with the story, I found it was an engaging and entertaining read. The characters were well written and easy to connect to, and the descriptions of the storm and it's aftermath were done so well that I could actually see it in my mind! These alone saved it from a 3 star rating for me. I am hopeful that the next book in the series will be different!
This was more of a 3.5 star read for me. There were a lot of things I didn't like about it, but they weren't bad enough to knock it down to a 3 star read. Allow me to go more in depth...
First of all, the book was too short! Everything felt very rushed, including the romance and I didn't really believe that their love would stand up to the troubles of life. I also didn't get a great sense of the setting, which, to me, was important because of the fact that it's listed as a Road Trip Romance series!! Additionally, the characters never actually took the road trip in question, at least not "on stage" in the story! Sure, you could say Eleanor did when she moved, but it felt a little questionable to be naming your series Road Trip Romances and never have your characters leave the area the book is set in!
Secondly, the "suspense" plot didn't really fit the story for me, as it felt tacked into the story for an angst factor. Eleanor and Max were seemingly obsessed over keeping things balanced between them, and it caused major issues when they weren't. They almost lost their fledgling relationship because of this obsession, especially since Max felt that things were wildly out of whack after Eleanor's actions and revelations.
Once I started ignoring the problems I was having with the story, I found it was an engaging and entertaining read. The characters were well written and easy to connect to, and the descriptions of the storm and it's aftermath were done so well that I could actually see it in my mind! These alone saved it from a 3 star rating for me. I am hopeful that the next book in the series will be different!
April 7, 2022
I kind of didn’t have huge high hopes for this one but I was so intrigued by the road trip and 50 states idea. Low and behold, a note from the author let me know that it wasn’t going to be a road trip story, just a story set in a state…which was fine. However, I didn’t really connect with the characters or the writing. The relationship pace was too quick and I didn’t feel it, so it was kind of creepy. I’m thinking as the series go on, the stories will get better, but for now the writing style was more tell and less show and I didn’t connect with it.
November 6, 2019
This sucked.
September 16, 2019
Tip the Scales by A.K. Evans
“Who will tip the scales? 4 stars”
Eleanor is from Florida and has never been through a storm in Maine until now. She thought she was good but it turns out she was wrong. Who knew you needed so much propane to make it through a storm? When her very attractive neighbor Max stops by and demands her to stay with him to stop from freezing to death she jumps at it, or would if she wasn’t an icicle. She’s had a secret crush on Max since she moved in is this their time?
Max knew he had a new neighbor but he honestly has been so busy he hadn’t seen her or introduced himself. But when his other neighbor mentions being worried about her, he can’t help but stop by. When he does, she takes his breath away. She’s everything he’s always wanted. They fall for each other fast during a crazy snow storm the question is will they last once the storm is over?
I genuinely liked Tip the Scales. The only thing I didn’t like is how fast the story went. I felt like I blinked and it was over. But with that said I enjoyed Eleanor and Max. I liked the secondary characters who just kicked it up a notch. Honestly if I was one who was into shorter stories, I would give Tip the Scales a 5, I’m not though so I’m giving it a 4.
Plot-4/5
Characters-4/5
Heat-4/5
Writing style-4/5
Overall-4/5
“Who will tip the scales? 4 stars”
Eleanor is from Florida and has never been through a storm in Maine until now. She thought she was good but it turns out she was wrong. Who knew you needed so much propane to make it through a storm? When her very attractive neighbor Max stops by and demands her to stay with him to stop from freezing to death she jumps at it, or would if she wasn’t an icicle. She’s had a secret crush on Max since she moved in is this their time?
Max knew he had a new neighbor but he honestly has been so busy he hadn’t seen her or introduced himself. But when his other neighbor mentions being worried about her, he can’t help but stop by. When he does, she takes his breath away. She’s everything he’s always wanted. They fall for each other fast during a crazy snow storm the question is will they last once the storm is over?
I genuinely liked Tip the Scales. The only thing I didn’t like is how fast the story went. I felt like I blinked and it was over. But with that said I enjoyed Eleanor and Max. I liked the secondary characters who just kicked it up a notch. Honestly if I was one who was into shorter stories, I would give Tip the Scales a 5, I’m not though so I’m giving it a 4.
Plot-4/5
Characters-4/5
Heat-4/5
Writing style-4/5
Overall-4/5
May 14, 2025
Very unrealistic
My main issue was Eleanor’s characterization. A successful secret billionaire who’s so insecure she has to hide her financial situation from the man she basically creeped on for three months? Give me a break. After the whole kidnapping business shes way too worried about what her “man” thought after her very showy reveal and goes full on stage five clinger when he insisted he wants space to think. Frankly Max had only done the bare minimum in the days they were together, but somehow he’s thinks his cold reaction is warranted after learning his gf was a secret billionaire. Everything after the kidnapping was pure eyeroll.
Even fiction needs to be rooted in some sort of reality. This was much too unbelievable for anyone to be able to suspend their disbelief. She’s a billionaire for goodness sake and yet her self worth is at the mercy of a man’s opinion? Be forreal.
My main issue was Eleanor’s characterization. A successful secret billionaire who’s so insecure she has to hide her financial situation from the man she basically creeped on for three months? Give me a break. After the whole kidnapping business shes way too worried about what her “man” thought after her very showy reveal and goes full on stage five clinger when he insisted he wants space to think. Frankly Max had only done the bare minimum in the days they were together, but somehow he’s thinks his cold reaction is warranted after learning his gf was a secret billionaire. Everything after the kidnapping was pure eyeroll.
Even fiction needs to be rooted in some sort of reality. This was much too unbelievable for anyone to be able to suspend their disbelief. She’s a billionaire for goodness sake and yet her self worth is at the mercy of a man’s opinion? Be forreal.
October 1, 2019
This starts off with a hilariously awkward meet-cute. Florida native Eleanor has no idea what to expect when she finds herself facing her first Maine snowstorm. Luckily, hot neighbor Max checks in on her and offers to help her ride out the storm. She's had a crush on him since she moved in, but he has been so wrapped up in his own life, he barely noticed her. But once he does, his eyes are wide open.
Ella and Max fall hard and fast for one another during the blizzard, but will the secret she's been keeping keep them apart once they emerge from their blissful cocoon?
Tip The Scales was a short and lighthearted read. There are some twists in the story, but it's fairly angst-free and a shorter story that's great to read on a binge. I received an advanced copy and voluntarily left a review.
Ella and Max fall hard and fast for one another during the blizzard, but will the secret she's been keeping keep them apart once they emerge from their blissful cocoon?
Tip The Scales was a short and lighthearted read. There are some twists in the story, but it's fairly angst-free and a shorter story that's great to read on a binge. I received an advanced copy and voluntarily left a review.
September 30, 2019
I thought this was a nice read, the type that you can clear your mind and just be. There were a few twists, but everything was fairly straight forward and it was a sweet, but steamy, read! I did enjoy reading it, but I would have liked just a little bit more to it. The pace in which the characters moved seemed a bit fast, but as you know, when they are placed in extreme conditions, it does help make them closer.
All in all, if you are looking for a fairly light read that is a bit on the shorter side, Tip the Scales is definitely a good read for you! With the twists and character chemistry, you will definitely be entertained!
PS: Thank you to AK Evans and Give Me Books PR for allowing me an advanced copy of the book to read and review honestly!
All in all, if you are looking for a fairly light read that is a bit on the shorter side, Tip the Scales is definitely a good read for you! With the twists and character chemistry, you will definitely be entertained!
PS: Thank you to AK Evans and Give Me Books PR for allowing me an advanced copy of the book to read and review honestly!
January 3, 2020
Generous 3 stars
Was OK, but I'm not reading another by her. The whole app developer component was not believable that one person does it all. More research should have been done. Definitely felt rushed and I did not care for the repetitive explanations which just came off as ways to fill the book. Its dual point of view but toward the end you get more from h than H. At times the writing felt forced and some of the conversations did not flow to me. Sometimes I was thinking-people don't talk like that. Nice attempt and was n kindle unlimited. I give all writers a ton of credit for following their passion ! Was a quick read.
Was OK, but I'm not reading another by her. The whole app developer component was not believable that one person does it all. More research should have been done. Definitely felt rushed and I did not care for the repetitive explanations which just came off as ways to fill the book. Its dual point of view but toward the end you get more from h than H. At times the writing felt forced and some of the conversations did not flow to me. Sometimes I was thinking-people don't talk like that. Nice attempt and was n kindle unlimited. I give all writers a ton of credit for following their passion ! Was a quick read.
January 18, 2020
I really love the cover 😍 characters were likeable and it was a quick read.
"Only" 3 stars because of the storyline. It was too much on too few pages..
The plot about the niece wasn't necessary for me, because it just happened. There was no further explanation why it happened, only a short mention in the chapter before that and then Ella saved the day. It felt rushed and dispensable - there could have been another way to tell him who Ella really was. The focus should have remained on their love story and their problems. But that's just my opinion and overall I enjoyed the read! 👍🏻
"Only" 3 stars because of the storyline. It was too much on too few pages..
The plot about the niece wasn't necessary for me, because it just happened. There was no further explanation why it happened, only a short mention in the chapter before that and then Ella saved the day. It felt rushed and dispensable - there could have been another way to tell him who Ella really was. The focus should have remained on their love story and their problems. But that's just my opinion and overall I enjoyed the read! 👍🏻
January 16, 2021
Maybe three and a half stars.
I enjoyed the story, and they’re both rather wholesome (but not goody-two-shoes-y) folks who deserve every happiness - with each other. And there were a few steamy (not crude, not explicit, not raunchy - but hot nevertheless!) scenes, but overall it was just so ... sweet!
What is the “road trip” aspect of this Road Trip Romance - that she transplanted from Florida to Maine?
I enjoyed the story, and they’re both rather wholesome (but not goody-two-shoes-y) folks who deserve every happiness - with each other. And there were a few steamy (not crude, not explicit, not raunchy - but hot nevertheless!) scenes, but overall it was just so ... sweet!
What is the “road trip” aspect of this Road Trip Romance - that she transplanted from Florida to Maine?
May 18, 2023
I knew this was going to be a cute romance. This book is based in Northern Maine. Ella moved to get away from things in her life. Max is her hot next door neighbor. There's a storm coming through and Ella doesn't have enough propane to make it through the storm. Max comes to the rescue and she starts staying with him. Ella is keeping a secret from max, but when his niece gets kidnapped, she has to share her secret.
I loved this book. It was cute, a quick read, and interesting.
I loved this book. It was cute, a quick read, and interesting.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 31, 2024
I liked the idea and the overall arc of the book. It might not have been for me as the tragedy was something that was resolved way too quickly and anti-climatic for what the tragedy was. All of the tragedy lead up to the miscommunication troupe. For me if a different tragedy was used or if the current tragedy was added in with 60 to 100 more pages it could have worked. This just feel a little flat to me due to the extreme fast pace of a situation that made the story feel way too unbalanced
December 5, 2024
Loved her first road trip story to Nothern Maine was so awesome and a winter storm to finally bring 2 neighbors together. I mean Ella and been drooling over Max for months and he made her so nervous and the minute he met her he was a gonner!!! She should of been upfront with him but I totally get it why she didn't. All ended well and happy. Scary situation with his niece there but all of it turned out. And they were forever together happily ever after!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 63 reviews