The Very Worst

The Sublime #2

by Julia Wolf

James O’Malley is hot.

Built like a lumberjack with a beard to match, I can’t take my eyes off him.

I really should be able to, considering we had the very worst sex of my life six months ago. But he won't stop looking at me with his broody, soulful gaze every time I take a seat at his bar and I’m quickly becoming addicted to it.

When he looks at me like that, I think maybe I should throw out all my rules and give him a second chance to become the very best.

James doesn't just want a second chance; he wants all of me, and he won't settle for any less.

I have to decide if I can open myself up to a man whose code I can't quite crack. Because he might want all of me, but I'm not sure he's willing to give me the same.

The Very Worst is a sexy and funny second chance romance with a broody, introverted hero who goes from the worst to the best and a sassy, dancer heroine. It can be read as a standalone!

(The Very Worst was originally titled Cut Loose. Now with new content for 2020!)

Genres: Romance, Second Chance, Contemporary, Contemporary Romance

272 pages, Kindle Edition

First published May 31, 2018

About the author

Julia lives in Maryland with her patient husband and three crazy, beautiful kids!

Reviews

[Bex (Beckie Bookworm) · Rating 4 out of 5]

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️STARS
ARC BOOK REVIEW
Release Date-31/5/18

"Cut Loose" by Julia Wolf was such a sweet emotive read.
I bloody adored James like so much; he was just so god damn adorable in his whole un-surety and inexperience.
I felt almost like we had reversed the roles here; with Frannie taking the part of the take what you want man with the fucking and chucking and James being just that much younger; Twenty-three to her twenty-nine and lacking the social skills and life lessons to maybe quite keep up with Frannie's matter a fact attitude to all things romantic.
Now It was really nice to see James emerge from his shell and find his confidence and voice.
He was so eager to absorb everything Frannie had to teach him a ready and willing student.
And in my opinion, his masculinity was only enhanced by his inexperience; he was such a fast learner and it wasn't long before he was taking the lead reins with Frannie which she really digged.
It was also quite ironic to see Frannie flounder in confusion as she realises she's in deep for the first time in her life and watching her running scared and in self-sabotage mode was like observing everything to not do if you want to succeed in the matters of the heart.
Frannie was her own worst enemy; take about shitty logic this girl had it in spades.
To be on the other side of those pesky feelings is something she was ultimately struggling with.
I thought James seemed more than a match for his girl; his overall personality made him seem much more mature than his actual age and at times he definitely had more logic and wisdom than she had in her entire body.
I read so many alpha male books that this was such a lovely refreshing change to just kick back and appreciate the sweet simplicity offered up here.
And I especially loved the contrast between James manly size and his gentleness; a real-life gentle giant.
What else can I tell you about this great read; erm Frannie is a former dancer and now hair stylist.
James is a bit of a computer nerd slash bartender; he also had an especially well-conditioned beard; that Frannie really likes to sniff a lot; well I didn't say she was quite normal now did I folks.
This was dual POV fiction which is my favourite; there was a fantastic cast of great supporting characters and though "Cut Loose was part of a series this can definitely be read as a standalone; which I did fine.
My only slight criticism here was that I thought Frannie was a bit OTT when it came to her deciding James had lied to her; come on now; pfft they were slight omissions at best; hardly the crime of the century; get a grip girl.
I think its more likely she was just creating reasons to condone her own unreasonable and illogical behaviour.
So with "Cut loose" Frannie may have started things initially but its safe to say James definitely caught up and then some, and though there are no great shocks in the narrative here I still enjoyed this ever so much.
"Cut Loose" at its heart was a fantastically easy read that pulled you into its warm gooey centre; a truly positive. fun and at times humorous experience.
And on a final note; just go to say; my heart went pitter patter every instance these two uttered the repetitive words of Hi Frannie; hi James; it wasn't what was said it was the way it was delivered.
I was like Aww; how awkwardly cute; and that is where I'm going to leave it.
Thank You to the Author for providing me with an ARC of "Cut Loose (The Sublime Book 3) " of which I have reviewed voluntary.
All opinions expressed are entirely my own.

Reviewed By Beckie Bookworm
https://www.facebook.com/beckiebookworm/
www.beckiebookworm.com

[Simply Love Book Reviews · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5 stars

Wow, just wow! There was so much I loved about Cut Loose by Julia Wolf. A couple who had a less than stellar one night stand form a friendship that turns into more in this older woman, younger man romance. This pair seemed complete opposites with the heroine seemingly confident and full of life experience and the hero shy and without a lot of life experience, but together they worked and they worked well and in addition they both grew and learned so much about themselves as well as each other. I loved every emotional, sweet, and sexy moment of this book!

Frannie prides herself on enjoying her life and living it on her terms. She adores her friends, loves her work as a hairdresser, but she believes she doesn’t need a man in her life when there are so many out there she can enjoy when she has an itch to scratch. However, she can’t seem to get her one night with “Beardo” out of her mind especially since he is the bartender in her favorite neighborhood bar.

James isn’t sure what happened the night he went home with Frannie and it is torture seeing her in the bar especially when she meets other men there, but he isn’t one for confrontation and he is busy working two jobs so he just plans to let it go until she asks him out.

I loved both these characters so much Frannie was funny, outspoken and despite seeming like she had it all together but some issues from her childhood keep rearing their head and making her doubt her choices in life. James was a computer geek who would rather be coding that interacting with the three dimensional people, he works as a bartender because his brother realized he needed to socialize more. Watching James’ confidence grow and watching him realize he wasn’t as bad with people as he thought was a thing of beauty. James was sexy in his inexperience and proved to be a fast learner who was eager to please.

I loved the time they spent getting to know one another both in and out of bed and it was easy to see they were both falling fast. They had some ups and downs, but thankfully they were great at communicating and figuring their way through the relationship landmines.

A feel good love story filled with tender moments, slow dancing, and hot nights I loved Cut Loose!

Review copy provided for a voluntary review.

[Jess · Rating 5 out of 5]

Cut Loose is an all new novel by Julia Wolf. continuing from her first book Cut short, this one takes on the story of our beloved Frananas, and how even after one really bad night of sex she's still wound up for the hot bartender James who jack-hammered his way (literally) into her head and heart.

Frannie is a girl who knows what she wants and goes for it. She's not one to shy away from things, in fact her motto is don't avoid conflict but confront it. She does just that after she can't keep her thoughts from James, the bartender she ogles at even though he was possibly her worst one night stand. But maybe the mystery of James includes more than Frannie thought.

James works as Bar Royal and has been eye sexing Frannie since the first night he saw her. His first shot at her didn't go over well, but their undeniable chemistry keeps pulling them together. Frannie wants to get to know him and see what it is that she is so drawn to in him. While James wants to show Frannie that love is possible.

Their story was insanely cute, but don't be alarmed by the "bad one night stand", because let me tell you James brings his A game, one that will have you fanning yourself through the whole book. He's a man of few words, but those words are powerful (and sexy). While Frannie is a perfect spitfire, and so understandable with her insecurities. I loved them both individually, but I loved them more together. Cut Loose had a little bit of everything, and I loved Frannie's character since the first book. The Sublime novels are definitely ones to read, and im anxiously waiting to hear about our girl Eliza in the next book. An amazing 5 Star read!

My Rating: 5 Stars

[Wendy Livingstone · Rating 5 out of 5]

Frannie is an energetic, loving, commitment phobia, and James is a sexy, quiet and shy alpha. These two are total opposites, yet the attraction between them is intense. They spend one disastrous night together, and move on, until a few months later and they have the chance to get to know each other. This author has written a truly beautiful story, which is sweet, humorous and entertaining, and I was totally captivated throughout. I love how all of this authors’ characters are all relatable. I look forward to reading more of this author; work, and highly recommend for all readers.

[Dara]

DNF @45%. The premise hooked me but wasn't enough to sustain my interest. Sometimes I'm in the mood for quirky and twee; today I wasn't.

[Stephanie · Rating 3 out of 5]

Again with the sex positive heroine, which I freaking LOVE. I was so excited for Frannie’s story, however I felt this one did fall flat. The conflicts seemed a little immature for a woman whose main problem with having a relationship with the male MC was their age difference and his lack of experience. (Hallelujah! We have a rarity in the romance genre. A MALE virgin!) Also, I just found it a bit dull.
This is only the second book I’ve read by this author, and I’ll admit, I haven’t been wowed by the actual plots, but I do love the characters. They are quirky (not in that over done way, but more in a real life way) and people you would actually want to hang out with. The writing is funny. The author has a voice that I can actually relate to. She is definitely writing for a new generation/type of romance reader. The world is changing. I’m not young, but I am still pretty progressive when it comes to things like sexuality and gender roles. It seems a lot of romance books slut shame their female characters, or make them out to be unrealistic pillars of virtue. The author here makes it abundantly clear that it’s okay for women to have a healthy sex drive, even if she isn’t in a committed relationship. It’s so much more relatable than most other romance books out there. These are the characters we need in this genre.

[Beyond The Covers Blog · Rating 5 out of 5]

Frannies favorite play to unwind is the Bar Royal,not a dive but it had some History.Sitting in her usual spot and ordering her drink she raises her eyes to meet the soft brown eyes of a very hansom man. 

With his Hello he had Frannie melting in her seat,and all heated up.Frannie had a great life a amazing roommate and a fabulous job,what she lacked was the ability to remain in a long term relationship. She always made it so far and then bolted away,she didn't think she was capable of anything more. One night stands were her motive and all she wanted,which lead her to a night with James she would never forget.It was horrible he acted like he had no experience and Frannie felt let down by the gorgeous man.James Is a bit shy and very quite and attracted to Frannie,not sure what he did wrong he can't seem to get her out of his mind. Frannie is having the same problem James seems to occupy her every thought. Frannie decides its time to have a talk with James and find out what went wrong that night. What they both find is they enjoy being together and talking leads to more .Can they build a relationship that started with a one night stand,or will Frannie bolt from James and everything he can give her.

[Mona williams · Rating 5 out of 5]

wow this book was amazing! she doesnt do relationships . only one night stands. she sees him in the bar and wants to have another go. only he is really shy and already messed up the first time. one person i cant stand is her mother. you must read this book!

[Louise · Rating 5 out of 5]

James James James James JAMES. Goddammit I love James. Growly, quietly-spoken, loving from afar, beardy, beautiful, strong and intelligent James. Not only was this dude just utter perfection but what made this book so so enjoyable was the upbeat, slightly crazy, super confident, sexy and hilarious Frannie. I loved how she loved - just open and honest and like crazy. This book is definitely going in my re-reads because that chemistry and those moments when James just stares at her from afar... sigh.... it was everything a romance book should be. EVERYTHING.
My fave romance book of 2018 so far. YUM!!!!

[Gwen · Rating 3 out of 5]

I gave this 3 stars but it’s really through no fault of the author. I actually read this one first and then picked up the previous books in the series. I just couldn’t really like Frannie. I couldn’t relate to her much and to be honest I don’t know that I’d want to be her friend. She was a real person with lots of faults that didn’t always outweigh her good. On the other hand, I LOVED James. He was so sweet and lovable and I gushed about him to my husband (who nodded politely). There is a lot to like about this story, especially the dancing, but Frannie was kind of a buzzkill.

[Anna Theurer (Anna's Bookshelf) · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Very Worst (aka Cut Loose) is an enjoyable, delightful, and sexy read that falls along the lines of an opposites attract romance. I was intrigued the premise of the book because I really wanted to see how a lackluster one-night stand could lead to something more meaningful.

Told from Frannie’s POV, I enjoyed experiencing first hand her vivacious personality. As a heroine, I liked that she is strong, independent, and generally knows what she wants. Or doesn’t want. This girl doesn’t engage in romantic feelings and she steadfastly avoids anything that remotely resembles a relationship.

I often go for the commanding, alpha heroes in my romances, but James has converted to the ‘shy guys rule’ camp. I positively adored this large, bearded, delicious man who possesses a caring and gentle side to him.

These two had a rather unfortunate night of unimpressive sex and yet Frannie just could not get past their intense attraction. What started off as a slow burn romance evolved into something that necessitated me taking a fire extinguisher to my kindle. Yes, the sparks were flying between these two. Frannie and James are the perfect match in that they each bring out the best in each other.

While at times this book seemed a little long, I did immensely enjoy it. The writing is stellar, the storyline was interesting, and the characters are unique and well-developed. I often times found myself chuckling at their banter followed by fanning myself from the shear hotness. I definitely plan to read the other books in this author’s Sublime series!

I read a complimentary version of this book.

[Unquenchable Book · Rating 5 out of 5]

***ARC Review***

There are so many things I want to say about this book, but I’m not sure someone would want to read a two page essay. First off, I loved Frannie’s character along with her gang of misfits. She made me laugh until I thought I had a stomach ache and she made me want to slap her with some of the decisions she made. Second off, James “Beardo” has officially become my new book boyfriend. I’d just like to wrap him in a pancake and smother him in chocolate syrup.

This story is told in Frannie’s POV. Frannie has had her childhood and the beginning of adulthood planned out for her by her overachiever mother. Instead of compliments, Frannie receives corrections. Instead of knowing what true love feels like, the only thing she knows is that love is held over your head and used against you.

She frees herself of those binds that tie her to repression and begins to reestablish herself. In her skin, she’s the fun-loving friend who doesn’t tackle relationships and sticks to brief encounters until she meets James.

James has his own burdens to bear. He’s the quintessential introvert. Give him a computer and he’s in hog heaven until his brother, Ryan makes him step out of his comfy box. Outside of his box, he finds himself obsessed with Frannie.

But with all love stories, there’s a little bit of surprise to be tethered down.

If you like a feel-good romance with hot under the sheets dancing with a mix of humor and a little bit of angst, Frannie and James’ story is for you.

[Julia Red Hatter Book Blog · Rating 5 out of 5]

Awww! Cut Loose shows you that opposites DO attract and thrive! Just think, the two most opposite people in the world, then put them together for a disastrous night, then bring them back together a few months later and actually have them get to know each, and possibly fall in love. That's James and Frannie. Frannie the beautiful outgoing commitment-phobe. James the sexy quiet nerd. When you think about it, they don't fit. But the reality of them, fit completely perfectly.

Frannie has had a bad go at life. Terrible parents, no one showing her what love could truly be. She runs from relationships so she doesn't end up like her mother. James has a great family, but he's never really got people. Computers are his jam and he sucks at the whole people-ing thing. Through the trials these two go through both grow in leaps and bounds. It was beautiful. Their relationship has so many troubles, but it was beautiful.

Julia Wolf once again swept me off my feet in this adorably, sweet, and beautiful story. She makes me laugh, sigh, squeeze my thighs together, and swoon. All in one chapter. I'm so in love with this world and I truly never want to leave it. I can't wait for more from this author and this world!

[Jenn the Readaholic · Rating 5 out of 5]

Oh, how I loved James in this book. Reading how he found his confidence and always held Frannie as his ideal for so long made me enjoy him so much. He was shy from the start and want sure how to get the girl, but he learned and never gave up on what or who he truly wanted. Frannie was a little harder to love, but she learned to let go of (or at least work through) her childhood and her hard lessons that all love comes with conditions or strings and redeemed herself in the end.

This is part of a series, and while you could read it alone, I’d recommend reading the first book to get a better idea of the closeness of this group of friends. In fact, Frannie’s loyalty and love for her friends made her oh-so-human to me. She doesn’t think she she deserves love or that she knows how to show it, but her constant support of others proves that she just doesn’t realize how much she’s got to give.

Overall, this was a fun, fast read that still managed to make me feel Frannie’s confusion and pain. I’d definitely read the next book in this series.

[Lisa · Rating 5 out of 5]

Rating: 4.5*

Oh James, quiet, unassuming, shy James. My heart went out to this socially and sexually awkward hot man. I am so glad Frannie gave him a second chance and helped bring him out of his shell and with his confidence. The transformation was incredible.

I fell for James right from the start and he needed a strong, confident woman to bring him out. Frannie was very confident in some areas of her life yet in others she demonstrated a vulnerability and a lack of confidence in some areas of her life that are born from her past.

Whilst Frannie is pretty much an open book when it comes to who she is, James keeps a number of elements of his life hidden from Frannie.

I loved the role reversal from your usual girl virgin seeking enlightenment. This worked and it worked really well. There was no judgement about their situations, just a supportive environment. The biggest challenge was the characters own insecurities.

I loved everything about this book and will definitely be coming back for more from this author.

***Reviewed for LBM Book Blog***

[S.E. Rose · Rating 5 out of 5]

Julia Wolf has done it again. Cut Loose picks up with a character we met in Cut Short. And it does not disappoint.
Synopsis: Frannie is trying to avoid serious relationships until she meets James. Can she overcome her issues before it’s too late?
I won’t spill the details. Because you have to go read it yourself. Julia’s gift for tale telling will suck you in early and keep your attention until the very end. These are characters that you are going to fall in love with and root for. And the sexy scenes don’t disappoint either. So if you’re looking for your next holiday weekend read, then you just found it.

[Jolene St Germain Triggs · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is quickly becoming one of my new favorite series! So cute and fun and sweet with some really HOT parts as well. I LOVE James! Poor sweet virgin James (well, not anymore, but yeah)! I really got Frannie, such a good person deep down, same insecurities so many of us share. Facing her flaws, owning them, is a big part of this story. I think this new to me author is quickly becoming a one-click and I absolutely can't wait for Eliza's story! I might wish I was Frannie, but I'm a realist and I know deep down I'm an Eliza, so I can't wait for her much deserved HEA.

[Heather Poll · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was lucky enough to receive an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review! I fell in love with these characters and their story. What I love most about this entire series is the characters are all very relatable. Julia Wolf has a way of not just writing, but allowing you to easily visualize what is going...she draws you in to the story. I want to go to Bar Royal and hangout with everyone!

[Danielle · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received an ARC for this book and even if I didn't, I would have read and l loved it! I have read all the books in this series, but I have to say that this one is my favorite. Just like Frannie feels it, I feel the weird pull towards James. Even when his name was Beardo, I had a soft spot for him too. All the characters from Cut Short are back and it's awesome how they are incorporated. Next though, I need either Eliza or Laurel to get a book...but I know who I want Eliza to end up with!

[Gavinsmommaloves2read · Rating 5 out of 5]

Frannie was an amazing herione. I loved her so much. Frannie doesn't do shy, awkward, or blush but James does all this to her. She can't understand why they had sex months ago and it was bad so so bad bad enough she stopped him before he finshed. When she finds out he was a virgin she upset how can this big alpha moody man be a virgin. James was saving himself for marriage because he ex wanted him to and they were together for seven years and after they broke up Frannie was the next got he was interested in. Frannie doesn't do repeats or relationships. But she can't stop wanting James. But he younger than her and she thinks he needs to go out and date before committing to just one woman. Can these two get there hea.

[Lori Caprio Tate · Rating 5 out of 5]

I can't say enough good things about this book. I knew from the first book that I was going to love Frannie and I did. Her character is do energetic and livable even through all her flaws and when she starts to date Beardo aka James their chemistry is off the chain. I love these books the characters , the plots and the humor. Looking forward to the next book.

[Christine Campbell · Rating 5 out of 5]

James is omg he's 23 and he's a computer geek n a bartender he's not a per se alpha male but he is domineering. he is awesome. Fran is a little bit older and is great at doing hair. she loves his beard he does take great care of it.
I love how she shows him what she likes and he is willing to do as she asked of him.
you won't be disappointed it is awesome.

[Sarah Gulyas · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is my favorite book in the series, so far. I really liked Frannie and James. Their story was perfect. They clicked from the moment they met (really and truly met).

I think my favorite part about the book was how he never forgot her. For those of you that read it, you'll know what I mean. For those who haven't...what are you waiting for??

[Suzanne · Rating 5 out of 5]

Frannie and James the most unlikely couple

Frannie was a dancer but left to be a hairstylist and she loves her job, her Independence and bed hopping ways. She doesn't do relationships..

Frannie sees this hot bearded bartender James at her regular dive bar, she flirts, see watches him. She sleeps with him, but it was horrible aex so she moves on to the next guy. The problem is that no matter who she is with or how much time passes she can't seem to stop thinking about James.

James seems to be captivated by her but never talks to her first. Frannie has to approach him and always leaves flustered and confused.

Their paths cross and they decide to have lunch, and they hit it off. They very start to see each other but lies of omission nearly taers them apart.. Frannie hates being lied to, she uses that and her fear to push James away. It nearly destroyed them both.

You must read to see all the omissions and how they paint a romantic picture of love, loyalty and happy ever after.

[Misty74 · Rating 5 out of 5]

Frannie is straight talking, a no nonesense kind of girl. But she's also a bit insecure and lonely I feel. Along comes James.....shy, awkward, no good in bed bearded James, who smells of oranges. Read the book to find out how this unlikely twosome become one very cute couple.

[Bookish · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the story of Frannie a say what she means, take what she wants kind of girl. Living for the moment and without regrets, there's just one thing she can't move past, James. James is the one guy she can't forget but he's also the worst she's ever had. So why can't she move on and get him out of her head? James is the brooding, breaded hottie behind the bar, a quiet guy who's interest in Frannie is unwavering. Months later Frannie is still watching James and decides to give it another chance. This story is the humor telling of Frannie's fall into the relationship she never knew she wants and can't quite walk away from. You can't help but love James and root for his HEA.

[Cindy Hughes · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved it!

I really loved this story!
It was Frannie and James’ story. Frannie is a woman that doesn’t do relationships. James shy, quiet, bearded bartender. Their attraction is instant! That ended up in a one night stand, that didn’t go so well!
After some time they decided to try again. Will they be able to work through their problems?
This story has me from the first and I couldn’t stop until the end! There were some ups and downs on the road to their relationship. It was a joy to read!
Julia has written a beautifully wonderful story! I can’t wait more from Julia!

[Tammy Deighan · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have to say I was really wondering where this Author was going with this story at the beginning but then when I kept reading I was like wow there was a lot to the main couple then I thought. It was very powerful how the author wrote this book. There are many people out here that can relate to these people and go wow I'm not alone. I had to finish it in one sitting because I needed to find out how it ended. I wanted more but I loved what I read.

[Lylian · Rating 5 out of 5]

Absolutely loved this! It’s funny, sassy, emotional, hot and such a beautiful love story. Frannie and James will forever hold a place in my heart

[Christine · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved everything about this story. Sweet, wonderful goodness! She's a bit older, but debatable as to wiser. He's just so right for her.