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Polson Falls #1
The Player Next Door
From the international bestselling author of The Simple Wild and Ten Tiny Breaths comes a new second-chance, hate-to-love romance.
Scarlet Reed has returned to Polson Falls, convinced that twelve years away is long enough to shed her humiliating childhood identity as the town harlot's daughter. With a teaching job secured and an adorable fixer-upper to call home, things in her life are finally looking up.
That is, until she finds out that Shane Beckett lives next door.
Shane Beckett, the handsome and charismatic high school star quarterback who smashed her heart. The lying, cheating player who was supposed to be long gone, living the pro football dream and fooling women into thinking he's Prince Charming. Shane Beckett, who is as attractive as ever and flashing his dimples at her as if he has done no wrong.
Scarlet makes it abundantly clear that old wounds have not been forgotten. Neighbors they may be, but friends they most certainly are not. She won't allow herself to fall for the single father and firefighter again, no matter how many apologies he offers, how many times he rushes to her aid, or how hard he makes her heart pound.
But as she spends more time with him, she begins to fear that maybe she's wrong. Maybe Shane has changed.
And maybe this time she's the one playing herself—out of a chance at true happiness.
Scarlet Reed has returned to Polson Falls, convinced that twelve years away is long enough to shed her humiliating childhood identity as the town harlot's daughter. With a teaching job secured and an adorable fixer-upper to call home, things in her life are finally looking up.
That is, until she finds out that Shane Beckett lives next door.
Shane Beckett, the handsome and charismatic high school star quarterback who smashed her heart. The lying, cheating player who was supposed to be long gone, living the pro football dream and fooling women into thinking he's Prince Charming. Shane Beckett, who is as attractive as ever and flashing his dimples at her as if he has done no wrong.
Scarlet makes it abundantly clear that old wounds have not been forgotten. Neighbors they may be, but friends they most certainly are not. She won't allow herself to fall for the single father and firefighter again, no matter how many apologies he offers, how many times he rushes to her aid, or how hard he makes her heart pound.
But as she spends more time with him, she begins to fear that maybe she's wrong. Maybe Shane has changed.
And maybe this time she's the one playing herself—out of a chance at true happiness.
367 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 16, 2020
3154 people are currently reading
16670 people want to read
About the author
K.A. Tucker
66 books25k followersK.A. Tucker writes captivating stories with an edge.
She is the internationally bestselling author of over thirty books, including Ten Tiny Breaths, The Simple Wild, and the Fate & Flame series, Until It Fades, Say You Still Love Me, and Keep Her Safe. Her books have been featured in national publications including USA Today, Globe & Mail, Suspense Magazine, Publisher's Weekly, Oprah Mag, and First for Women.
Ten Tiny Breaths, The Simple Wild, and A Queen of Thieves & Chaos were Goodreads Choice award nominees.
K.A. Tucker lives outside of Toronto. When she's not writing books, you can find her reading recipes she'll never make or chasing rabbits away from her hostas.
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She is the internationally bestselling author of over thirty books, including Ten Tiny Breaths, The Simple Wild, and the Fate & Flame series, Until It Fades, Say You Still Love Me, and Keep Her Safe. Her books have been featured in national publications including USA Today, Globe & Mail, Suspense Magazine, Publisher's Weekly, Oprah Mag, and First for Women.
Ten Tiny Breaths, The Simple Wild, and A Queen of Thieves & Chaos were Goodreads Choice award nominees.
K.A. Tucker lives outside of Toronto. When she's not writing books, you can find her reading recipes she'll never make or chasing rabbits away from her hostas.
Join Tucker's Troop on Facebook! >>
https://www.facebook.com/groups/14685...
Signup for her newsletter >> https://www.katuckerbooks.com/newslet...
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 1,654 reviews
June 21, 2020
2.5 stars
the blurb got me excited but also hesitant because apparently Shane (H) broke Scarlett's (h) heart and he was a "lying, cheating player", so obviously that would make people scratch their heads because ~ cheating ~ is the keyword right there but at the same time i was like fuck yess grovelling time but ha ha ha where was the grovel?
before i get into the spoiler talk, lemme just give y'all the backstory.
this was pretty cute and light. i kinda liked the banter between Scarlett and Shane and Cody was adorable but knowing what Shane did and how he's all forgetting the past > talk about things and grovel and the other dramas that were annoying ruined things for me.
anyways, i feel like ranting so | SPOILERS |
first of all, i just want to point out that this is a me thing and im the type of person who holds grudges (sorry!!) but Shane was a dumbass . like, i can't. i really cannot. i was sideeyeing him the whole time whenever he would flirt or try to be funny. yeah i would laugh sometimes but then i remember what he did so i was always like this:
after finding out what he did in the past - breaking up with Scarlett then the very next day he hooks up with Penelope (ex/current baby mama) and dated her for a year - obviously i would hate him. and that hate just... did not.. go away. i tried okay?? i really did but i just couldn't because of:
dating the Scarlett's bully for a year knowing how she treated her like shit was one thing but also having a baby with her, forever tying himself with her was like a slap in the face.
and when Scarlett finally confronted him about this she was like,
and he was all like,
and i was like
let go? oh my god THE AUDACITY . he didn't really grovel and i didn't really feel his remorse because this book was entirely in Scarlett's perspective but this is the one time where i 100% feel that the H's pov was important to have because what he did was shitty and his reason was also shitty.
what was the reason you ask?
i get that the reason is 'realistic' and all but goddamn. it was really hard for me to like him at this point.
also during the confrontation, he subtly blamed Scarlett and turned it around on her like she was the bad guy because he was all like "you weren't easy" or "don't paint me the asshole blah blah i just told you what you wanted to hear" or "you didn't exactly have the best role model for relationships". and then he gets mad because she won't let it go then tells her to grow up, and then tells her that they should just be friends, then he ignored her and went on a date with OW.
and whats worse is that Shane acts like the victim and Scarlett felt like she was the one in the wrong and deserved the tantrum he threw at her, feeling regret because she wanted to give him a chance and she ended up apologizing to him ... like what?? girl nooo. please for the love of god know what you deserve and don't feel bad for feeling the way you feel.
i know 13 years is a long time but that really doesn't matter. you can't invalidate someone's feelings and pain just because of how much time has passed.
also apparently he "cheated" on Scarlett when they were still together because when she told him that he probably hooked up with Penelope before they broke up he didn't deny it... but what the f do i know this subject was brushed off and forgotten.
i wanted to like this because simple wild is one of my favorite books ever but the way things were handled, how the past mistakes were brushed off considering the shitty thing Shane did and how she felt like she was the one doing something wrong while he was acting like a victim and the whole drama by the end that i wasn't even interested in anymore, just made me disappointed.
so again, ~ thank u next ~
the blurb got me excited but also hesitant because apparently Shane (H) broke Scarlett's (h) heart and he was a "lying, cheating player", so obviously that would make people scratch their heads because ~ cheating ~ is the keyword right there but at the same time i was like fuck yess grovelling time but ha ha ha where was the grovel?
before i get into the spoiler talk, lemme just give y'all the backstory.
↳ Scarlett and Shane had a summer fling before senior year started. Scarlett was the "shy girl" and Shane was your typical popular jock, destined to go to the NFL. a week before senior year starts, Shane suddenly gives her the cold shoulder, breaks up with her and a day after she saw him making out with Penelope, her bully. 12/13 years later she moves back to her hometown and realizes that her neighbor is none other than Shane and thus ensues their romance.
this was pretty cute and light. i kinda liked the banter between Scarlett and Shane and Cody was adorable but knowing what Shane did and how he's all forgetting the past > talk about things and grovel and the other dramas that were annoying ruined things for me.
anyways, i feel like ranting so | SPOILERS |
first of all, i just want to point out that this is a me thing and im the type of person who holds grudges (sorry!!) but Shane was a dumbass . like, i can't. i really cannot. i was sideeyeing him the whole time whenever he would flirt or try to be funny. yeah i would laugh sometimes but then i remember what he did so i was always like this:
after finding out what he did in the past - breaking up with Scarlett then the very next day he hooks up with Penelope (ex/current baby mama) and dated her for a year - obviously i would hate him. and that hate just... did not.. go away. i tried okay?? i really did but i just couldn't because of:
a) how he handled his past mistakes
b) his reasoning and,
c) HOW. HE. HANDLED. IT. (gotta mention this twice)
dating the Scarlett's bully for a year knowing how she treated her like shit was one thing but also having a baby with her, forever tying himself with her was like a slap in the face.
and when Scarlett finally confronted him about this she was like,
"I was in love with you and you broke my heart!"
and he was all like,
"That summer was thirteen fucking years ago. Why can't you let go?"
and i was like
let go? oh my god THE AUDACITY . he didn't really grovel and i didn't really feel his remorse because this book was entirely in Scarlett's perspective but this is the one time where i 100% feel that the H's pov was important to have because what he did was shitty and his reason was also shitty.
what was the reason you ask?
⤷ that Scarlett was "too complicated" and he just wanted something easy and straightforward because he had pro football in his mind.
i get that the reason is 'realistic' and all but goddamn. it was really hard for me to like him at this point.
also during the confrontation, he subtly blamed Scarlett and turned it around on her like she was the bad guy because he was all like "you weren't easy" or "don't paint me the asshole blah blah i just told you what you wanted to hear" or "you didn't exactly have the best role model for relationships". and then he gets mad because she won't let it go then tells her to grow up, and then tells her that they should just be friends, then he ignored her and went on a date with OW.
and whats worse is that Shane acts like the victim and Scarlett felt like she was the one in the wrong and deserved the tantrum he threw at her, feeling regret because she wanted to give him a chance and she ended up apologizing to him ... like what?? girl nooo. please for the love of god know what you deserve and don't feel bad for feeling the way you feel.
i know 13 years is a long time but that really doesn't matter. you can't invalidate someone's feelings and pain just because of how much time has passed.
also apparently he "cheated" on Scarlett when they were still together because when she told him that he probably hooked up with Penelope before they broke up he didn't deny it... but what the f do i know this subject was brushed off and forgotten.
i wanted to like this because simple wild is one of my favorite books ever but the way things were handled, how the past mistakes were brushed off considering the shitty thing Shane did and how she felt like she was the one doing something wrong while he was acting like a victim and the whole drama by the end that i wasn't even interested in anymore, just made me disappointed.
so again, ~ thank u next ~
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June 15, 2020
ARCs will be available June 7th, 2020 for those who signed up with Valentine PR. The ARC request list is now closed.
NEW RELEASE DATE!
The good news is my upcoming contemporary romance The Player Next Door is longer than I anticipated (more story for you!). The not so good news is I have to push the release date back by two weeks to allow myself more time for editing.
This book is:
✅fun & flirty
✅ second-chance
✅ hate-to-love
✅ small town
ARCs will not be available until around June 7th. If you are blogger or bookstagrammer and are interested in signing up to receive one, here is the link --> https://bit.ly/TPNDKATsu
Releasing May 31st, 2020 on Apple, Nook, and Kobo (Preorder now because the book will be removed from these platforms on May 31st, once the preorder goes out)
Releasing June 2nd, 2020 on Amazon and KindleUnlimited.
IMPORTANT ORDERING INFORMATION (PLEASE READ):
EBOOK:
iBooks: http://hyperurl.co/zfycqy
Kobo: https://bit.ly/2zqrASj
Nook: https://bit.ly/3blKF5K
Please preorder to ensure you get an ecopy. The ebook will be delivered to your ereader on May 31st. The book will be removed from these platforms on May 31st. You won't be able to get it on these platforms once it has been removed.
Amazon: This will be a live release and published exclusively on Amazon and the KU program. Ensure you're subscribed to my newsletter to get an email notification once it's available, with links to order. >> https://bit.ly/2YLpDL9
PAPERBACK:
A paperback version will be available on release day through online retailers
AUDIOBOOK:
An audiobook version will be available at a later date.
July 18, 2020
Okay, it was fast, hooking, tempting, entertaining, angsty as hell , well-written romance. I love K. A. Tucker’s works since Ten Tiny Breaths series. She may write stories shake you to the core. She knows how to find true words warm our heart and how to brush our deep feelings.
This second chance book is safe read. There is nothing surprising, twisty and there is no jaw dropping part makes us question about our own reality.
Two high school lovers broke up badly and 12 years later they become neighbors. Of course both of them still have unresolved feelings for each other. Scarlet mostly smart, strong, a little uptight, insecure but still likable character and Shane is charming, flirty, caring, kind. (At least he is quite opposite from his younger self)But there are so many obstacles they have to fight against:
-Scarlet’s trusting issues: yes, they were only 17 when they were dating. She caught Shane kissing her all time nemesis Penelope Rhodes at the same day he dumbed her ass. And he acted like she was invisible to him throughout the rest of the school term( Hero earned so many jerk-I want to use you as my punching bag- points) and now she is so scared to fall hard and she doesn’t want her heart broken one more time!
-Shane has a 11 year old kid from notorious Penelope!And his dear Penelope is vindictive as hell, she can do anything to ruin Scarlet’s reputation because she still blame Scarlet’s mother to ruin her parents’ marriage. (Yes, our heroine has an entertaining, slutty mother Dottie reminds us of small town version of Sex and City’s Samantha. I visualized Kim Cattrall when I read her parts)
-Scarlet is teacher of Shane and her shameless nemesis’ sweet son Cody. So there will be ethical issues if they start to date even though there is no school rule against it.
What I like about the story is:
Sizzling, pant melting, hyperventilating chemistry of the couple: they’re so cute together and their shameless banters and sweet, sexy flirting make you blush and giggle like high school girls.
-The angst parts were heartbreakingly well written.
-The conclusion of the story was heartwarming.
But... The cheating was still a big “no” and irritating subject for me. As soon as I see it, I stop reading a book. Shane was only 17 and dumb arrogant boy. And when he kissed Penelope, they were already broken up. But it still felt like cheating because he didn’t explain why he treated her unfairly. His explanation about his actions that he was dumb and he was focused on his football carrier and she was complicated!!! What if he hasn’t been injured during the football game, would be still an asshole to her? He changed for good but I agree with heroine’s trust issues even though I found her a little obsessed about the guy by watching every move he makes from the next door.
And I also wanted to see closure about the mother and daughter’s resentments and unresolved issues.
But I still had great time and after cutting some points for the irritating issues bugged me during my read: I still round up 3.5 stars to 4! It was still riveting, fast paced, sexy, enjoyable, feel-good, well-written second chance story!
This second chance book is safe read. There is nothing surprising, twisty and there is no jaw dropping part makes us question about our own reality.
Two high school lovers broke up badly and 12 years later they become neighbors. Of course both of them still have unresolved feelings for each other. Scarlet mostly smart, strong, a little uptight, insecure but still likable character and Shane is charming, flirty, caring, kind. (At least he is quite opposite from his younger self)But there are so many obstacles they have to fight against:
-Scarlet’s trusting issues: yes, they were only 17 when they were dating. She caught Shane kissing her all time nemesis Penelope Rhodes at the same day he dumbed her ass. And he acted like she was invisible to him throughout the rest of the school term( Hero earned so many jerk-I want to use you as my punching bag- points) and now she is so scared to fall hard and she doesn’t want her heart broken one more time!
-Shane has a 11 year old kid from notorious Penelope!And his dear Penelope is vindictive as hell, she can do anything to ruin Scarlet’s reputation because she still blame Scarlet’s mother to ruin her parents’ marriage. (Yes, our heroine has an entertaining, slutty mother Dottie reminds us of small town version of Sex and City’s Samantha. I visualized Kim Cattrall when I read her parts)
-Scarlet is teacher of Shane and her shameless nemesis’ sweet son Cody. So there will be ethical issues if they start to date even though there is no school rule against it.
What I like about the story is:
Sizzling, pant melting, hyperventilating chemistry of the couple: they’re so cute together and their shameless banters and sweet, sexy flirting make you blush and giggle like high school girls.
-The angst parts were heartbreakingly well written.
-The conclusion of the story was heartwarming.
But... The cheating was still a big “no” and irritating subject for me. As soon as I see it, I stop reading a book. Shane was only 17 and dumb arrogant boy. And when he kissed Penelope, they were already broken up. But it still felt like cheating because he didn’t explain why he treated her unfairly. His explanation about his actions that he was dumb and he was focused on his football carrier and she was complicated!!! What if he hasn’t been injured during the football game, would be still an asshole to her? He changed for good but I agree with heroine’s trust issues even though I found her a little obsessed about the guy by watching every move he makes from the next door.
And I also wanted to see closure about the mother and daughter’s resentments and unresolved issues.
But I still had great time and after cutting some points for the irritating issues bugged me during my read: I still round up 3.5 stars to 4! It was still riveting, fast paced, sexy, enjoyable, feel-good, well-written second chance story!
June 14, 2020
4 stars
I love a good second chance romance and I love a single dad romance even more. The Player Next Door was the perfect summer read. It was sweet, fun, and angsty in the best way!
Scarlet left town after graduation and never looked back. Now, twelve years later, a job and a house brings her back. One of the main reasons she left is Shane Beckett. She had it bad for Shane and right before their senior year, after a wonderful summer together, he dumped her. The last thing she expects is to be next door neighbors with him, but there he is. Right. Next. Door.
Scarlet still sees Shane as that player he was in high school, but he's changed his ways. Becoming a father was one thing that did that. Shane and Scarlet have so much chemistry. They have a connection that was never severed. Scarlet wants to hate Shane, but he makes it incredibly difficult. He's just so dang helpful and charming.
I loved watching Shane and Scarlet fall for one another all over again, and I especially loved seeing Shane as a dad. Of course, there is some angst and drama with Scarlet's high school nemesis but I liked how it was resolved at the end.
Overall, this book was loads of fun. I loved Scarlet's best friend (I would love a book for her!) and I enjoyed watching Scarlet's relationship with her mom change and develop. Of course, Shane's son was the most darling and I loved all the scenes with him in it. If you're looking for a small town romance that's a bit enemies to lovers, a bit second chance, and a whole lot of steamy- pick this up!
I love a good second chance romance and I love a single dad romance even more. The Player Next Door was the perfect summer read. It was sweet, fun, and angsty in the best way!
Scarlet left town after graduation and never looked back. Now, twelve years later, a job and a house brings her back. One of the main reasons she left is Shane Beckett. She had it bad for Shane and right before their senior year, after a wonderful summer together, he dumped her. The last thing she expects is to be next door neighbors with him, but there he is. Right. Next. Door.
Scarlet still sees Shane as that player he was in high school, but he's changed his ways. Becoming a father was one thing that did that. Shane and Scarlet have so much chemistry. They have a connection that was never severed. Scarlet wants to hate Shane, but he makes it incredibly difficult. He's just so dang helpful and charming.
I loved watching Shane and Scarlet fall for one another all over again, and I especially loved seeing Shane as a dad. Of course, there is some angst and drama with Scarlet's high school nemesis but I liked how it was resolved at the end.
Overall, this book was loads of fun. I loved Scarlet's best friend (I would love a book for her!) and I enjoyed watching Scarlet's relationship with her mom change and develop. Of course, Shane's son was the most darling and I loved all the scenes with him in it. If you're looking for a small town romance that's a bit enemies to lovers, a bit second chance, and a whole lot of steamy- pick this up!
July 15, 2020
3.75 Stars
*Shrieks*
What is wrong with me? Did I just read a second chance hate to love romance and actually . . . savored it?
YES! 🙈
I will have to give my thanks to Halle (@halle_reads). Had she not warned me , I would have most likely come out with a more sour review. I was better prepared because of it and that abated the negative emotions I felt.
The Player Next Door for me was like being told I was going to fall on a pile of horse dung but instead landed a few millimeters away beside it. Sorry, that’s a gross analogy. I couldn’t think of something better. Don’t think it’s even 100% accurate, but in hindsight . . .
The story is one we’ve seen being redone over and over again. I rolled my eyes a number of times but it was with a tinge of amusement instead of disapproval. Everything was wonderful up until we hit the 80% mark where things with the main leads took a turn for the worse.
Loved the dedication of this book,
Apart from the overdramatic unpleasantness, I think this book delivers what is promised. It could be because I’d been forewarned that I wasn’t bothered as much as I normally would have, but I’m kinda digging this lighthearted, sexy, flirty, and playful route the author’s taken.
*Shrieks*
What is wrong with me? Did I just read a second chance hate to love romance and actually . . . savored it?
YES! 🙈
I will have to give my thanks to Halle (@halle_reads). Had she not warned me , I would have most likely come out with a more sour review. I was better prepared because of it and that abated the negative emotions I felt.
I want this to happen, and yet I cannot ignore the dark cloud of warriness that lingers, the one there to remind me we’re no longer seventeen, and there are careers, children, and vindictive ex-girlfriends to consider.
The Player Next Door for me was like being told I was going to fall on a pile of horse dung but instead landed a few millimeters away beside it. Sorry, that’s a gross analogy. I couldn’t think of something better. Don’t think it’s even 100% accurate, but in hindsight . . .
The story is one we’ve seen being redone over and over again. I rolled my eyes a number of times but it was with a tinge of amusement instead of disapproval. Everything was wonderful up until we hit the 80% mark where things with the main leads took a turn for the worse.
Loved the dedication of this book,
For all those who need a fun and flirty escape. I promise, there are no masks or threats of quarantine within these pages. There is definitely close contact.
Apart from the overdramatic unpleasantness, I think this book delivers what is promised. It could be because I’d been forewarned that I wasn’t bothered as much as I normally would have, but I’m kinda digging this lighthearted, sexy, flirty, and playful route the author’s taken.
August 11, 2020
for a book that was written and then self-published/released in quarantine, this is actually pretty good. but i dont even know why i doubted KAT in the first place.
i will say this is really nothing new in the romance genre. its your pretty standard ‘second chance at love’ story with many familiar tropes - a very ‘what you see is what youre gonna get’ kind of story - but, as a creature of habit, i appreciate that. i like that i could just turn my brain off and enjoy the story for what it is.
so if youre looking for some sweet and easy entertainment, this is the book for you.
↠ 4 stars
i will say this is really nothing new in the romance genre. its your pretty standard ‘second chance at love’ story with many familiar tropes - a very ‘what you see is what youre gonna get’ kind of story - but, as a creature of habit, i appreciate that. i like that i could just turn my brain off and enjoy the story for what it is.
so if youre looking for some sweet and easy entertainment, this is the book for you.
↠ 4 stars
June 21, 2020
2.5 STARS
That moment when you don't love a book by one of your most beloved authors. Awkward city. Population of one.
Gosh. Where do I even start here. I love a second chance romance with a splash of angst and some hate lust when they get reunited. The blurb to this sounded like the ultimate reader catnip for me. Unfortunately, this had my one and only hard limit when it comes to romance, and so it went downhill for me super quick. But I'll get to that in a second. I do want to clarify that this is entirely personal preference here. I know I'm picky, okay? But sadly, I like what I like, and I don't what I don't.
I waffled with my rating for a while. Do I rate it 3 stars since I was invested enough to finish? But the more I sat and thought about it, the clearer it became that there was a lot more about this story that I disliked versus what I enjoyed. And to be fair to those true middle of the road three stars I've read, I just couldn't go with that rating here. Hence the 2.5
So why did I dislike it? Multiple reasons really.
Reason 1: the heroine. My god, she annoyed me to no end. Her mommy issues aside, she just rubbed me wrong the entire book. I can't even place my finger on any one specific thing, but I couldn't connect with her for the life of me.
Reason 2: the drama. UGH. Just UGH. This is my one hard limit, guys. I won't spoiler it for those that haven't read it, but I will say that there's a certain plot twist when it comes to Shane (or a reveal, if you will) that I absolutely HATED. Like LOATHED it. Like wanted to set my kindle on fire hate. Look, I seriously disliked it, is what I'm saying here, okay? That's the simple truth of it. Majority of the conflict is continuous drama driven by Shane's ex and it stems for the ENTIRE. FREAKING. book. I got so tired of it. To be frank, I was tired of it after 3 chapters. And to have it continue to the end, no matter how nice it ends, was just too much for me. The fact that his ex is a psycho b*tch for the majority of the story certainly didn't help matters. Nor is the fact that she was the main point of conflict for Shane and Scarlet. Nor is the fact that she also has ties to Scarlet beyond the Shane thing. I got worked up all over again just typing this up. GAH.
Reason 3. Shane. *hides*
I'm sorry, guys! Yes, he was swoony as a man and I loved the way he pursued Scarlet and tried to atone for his mistakes. But I just couldn't connect for his reasons from the past. They felt petty and childish. And I get that he was just a kid back then, a teenager with his entire life ahead of him. But his choices just made me cringe. I would have loved a deeper something behind all of it. But alas, it was anything but deep. Mistakes of the youth or not, it was hard to choke down. Add into it the repercussions that he had from his choices and where it lands him and Scarlet in the present, and yikes. I just can't.
Scarlet's mom was...interesting. She's painted as the town slut, to put it bluntly, and a terrible mother. Only for a switch to be flipped and things to start coming out and she be completely redeemed in the end. It was...weird. I still don't know how I feel about it.
What I loved was Scarlet's best friend. She's a nut with a smart mouth and I really hope we see a book for her. I'd love to read it! While I didn't love this one, K.A. Tucker is still one of my favorites, so I will gladly and eagerly read the next book if this is the start of a series. You can't love them all, and considering I've loved every other book I've read of this author, I suppose this is my one-off. But don't let my experience drive you. Who knows, you just may love it.
ARC courtesy of author in exchange for an honest review
Find me on:
Fool me once, shame on you. This second time, though? That’s all on me.
That moment when you don't love a book by one of your most beloved authors. Awkward city. Population of one.
Gosh. Where do I even start here. I love a second chance romance with a splash of angst and some hate lust when they get reunited. The blurb to this sounded like the ultimate reader catnip for me. Unfortunately, this had my one and only hard limit when it comes to romance, and so it went downhill for me super quick. But I'll get to that in a second. I do want to clarify that this is entirely personal preference here. I know I'm picky, okay? But sadly, I like what I like, and I don't what I don't.
I waffled with my rating for a while. Do I rate it 3 stars since I was invested enough to finish? But the more I sat and thought about it, the clearer it became that there was a lot more about this story that I disliked versus what I enjoyed. And to be fair to those true middle of the road three stars I've read, I just couldn't go with that rating here. Hence the 2.5
So why did I dislike it? Multiple reasons really.
Reason 1: the heroine. My god, she annoyed me to no end. Her mommy issues aside, she just rubbed me wrong the entire book. I can't even place my finger on any one specific thing, but I couldn't connect with her for the life of me.
Reason 2: the drama. UGH. Just UGH. This is my one hard limit, guys. I won't spoiler it for those that haven't read it, but I will say that there's a certain plot twist when it comes to Shane (or a reveal, if you will) that I absolutely HATED. Like LOATHED it. Like wanted to set my kindle on fire hate. Look, I seriously disliked it, is what I'm saying here, okay? That's the simple truth of it. Majority of the conflict is continuous drama driven by Shane's ex and it stems for the ENTIRE. FREAKING. book. I got so tired of it. To be frank, I was tired of it after 3 chapters. And to have it continue to the end, no matter how nice it ends, was just too much for me. The fact that his ex is a psycho b*tch for the majority of the story certainly didn't help matters. Nor is the fact that she was the main point of conflict for Shane and Scarlet. Nor is the fact that she also has ties to Scarlet beyond the Shane thing. I got worked up all over again just typing this up. GAH.
Reason 3. Shane. *hides*
I'm sorry, guys! Yes, he was swoony as a man and I loved the way he pursued Scarlet and tried to atone for his mistakes. But I just couldn't connect for his reasons from the past. They felt petty and childish. And I get that he was just a kid back then, a teenager with his entire life ahead of him. But his choices just made me cringe. I would have loved a deeper something behind all of it. But alas, it was anything but deep. Mistakes of the youth or not, it was hard to choke down. Add into it the repercussions that he had from his choices and where it lands him and Scarlet in the present, and yikes. I just can't.
Scarlet's mom was...interesting. She's painted as the town slut, to put it bluntly, and a terrible mother. Only for a switch to be flipped and things to start coming out and she be completely redeemed in the end. It was...weird. I still don't know how I feel about it.
What I loved was Scarlet's best friend. She's a nut with a smart mouth and I really hope we see a book for her. I'd love to read it! While I didn't love this one, K.A. Tucker is still one of my favorites, so I will gladly and eagerly read the next book if this is the start of a series. You can't love them all, and considering I've loved every other book I've read of this author, I suppose this is my one-off. But don't let my experience drive you. Who knows, you just may love it.
ARC courtesy of author in exchange for an honest review
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June 11, 2020
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➽ KITTY KATS CRAZY ABOUT BOOKS
THE PLAYER NEXT DOOR: Is a full length second chance romance novel by K.A. Tucker.
Get ready for 'The Player Next Door' to start ticking all those boxes ladies!!
✅fun & flirty
✅ second-chance
✅ hate-to-love
✅ small town
THE PAST:
The two seventeen year olds had spent the whole summer together, when out of the blue before their senior year was ready to kick off he said that he couldn’t handle a relationship due to wanting to concentrate on his football and she’d become too much of a distraction. Hours after their separation she sees him locking lips with another girl, leaving her heartbroken.
NOW:
Thirteen years later she’s back in her home town of Polson Falls, Pennsylvania in her dream clapboard fixer-upper home she’d purchased outright with funds from an absentee grandfather who she'd only briefly met many years previously.
Not thinking upon purchasing the property to ask who her closest neighbours are she gets the shock of her life when she claps eyes on that very same boy who broke her heart, Shane Beckett.
It's only inevitable that these two would run into each other living in such proximity to each other.
Gone is that boy and in his place is an even sexier version of the boy who broke her heart. He's all muscle, and a handy man to have around when things start falling to bits, add in the fact this sexy beast of a man doesn't close his curtains at night and the x rated night time routine played out was one to look forward to!!
Phew I know us woman are the absolute queens when it comes to holding a grudge but boy did Scarlet Reed take it next level, many years later and she still held that grudge dear to her heart. It took a while to thaw those walls of hers, and many chapters of us reading about it. But props to Shane for not giving up, god how I loved this man. I get he hurt her beyond measure, but it just took a wee bit too long to let the past hurts go. Other than that little niggle of how far she was riding that grudge train this would've been a 5 star read for me.
Then the ending kind of felt a wee bit rushed, I turned the page expecting a wee bit more, I didn't want it to end, hopefully the author can work on the ending a bit more because it ended so abruptly. Or maybe it was just me and my greedy little heart wanting more.
There were so many things I loved about this book, being brutally honest I usually don't really tend to read second chance romances, because the plot and ending has already been written, a reconnection, a second chance romance, the end, and there you have it your HEA. But this author made me believe in this genre again. I loved the small town feels this wrung out in me, the mean girl that still hadn't really grown up, the mother who still had town tramp tattooed on her forehead.
Everything this author promised us, she went above and beyond and delivered it!!
June 19, 2020
2 Stars 🌟
Let me start out by saying that I have truly loved most of KA Tucker's books in the past and she has written some of my favourite stories so when I first heard about this book I was beyond excited. The blurb drew me in and I couldn't wait to dive in. Sadly though this book did not work for me. I wanted to like this book sooo much but I just couldn't. The book starts out with a declaration that says
'For all those who need a fun and flirty escape.'
Which made me relax thinking yesss this is what I need a fun take on 2nd chance romance with a hate to love feel and banter galore but all I got was DRAMA, DRAMA, DRAMA and not the kind I like.
The story starts out when Scarlet and Shane are in their senior year of high school. The had a summer romance that was ended by Shane which left Scarlet heart broken and made 10x worse when she found Shane already moving on with the one girl (Penelope) who has made Scarlet's life miserable for the past couple of years.
Fast Forward 13yrs Scarlet moves back to her hometown after she accepts a job at the local school and moves into a 'fixer up' house she used to admire and dream about owning as a kid. What she is not expecting is her next door neighbour being the one and only Shane Beckett who broke her heart when they were 17 and even more of a shock to her is finding out he is a single father to 11yr old Cody whose mother is, you guessed it none other than, Penelope.
Things I liked //
▪ The story was written in a way that I flew through it and finished it in a day and half. I found myself fully immersed in this world and emotionally invested in the main characters from page one and wanted nothing more than to see the way their story would play out.
▪ The push & pull dynamic to begin with was something I was enjoying it did have those fun and flirty moment's that were promised.
▪ The whole idea behind fixing the house up. I love home renovation type things so I really enjoyed seeing Scarlet & Shane working together on the house.
▪ Scarlet's best friend Justine. She was one of the best parts of this book and I loved everything about her.
Things I Disliked //
▪ Shane & Scarlet's first big confrontational argument. I went back and forth throughout the entire book with which main character frustrated me the most. They were not perfect, they had flaws (which I don't hate) but there were definitely a few times that their actions and reactions gutted me. The main one being Shane's excuse as to why he broke things off with Scarlet and his reasons behind choosing to be with Penelope instead (though their actual relationship was short they are now tied together due to their son). I wanted to SLAP Shane hard during this moment. I can forgive the dumb actions of a 17yr old honestly that kind of thing doesn't bother me but the way he chose to say it to her 13yrs later and that entire conversation felt insensitive and cruel. Also the whole 'cheating' aspect was implied but don't think it was ever 100% confirmed and it felt glossed over.
▪ The whole 2nd chance romance aspect fell extremely short for me. Apart from that confrontation between the MC it felt liked the 2nd chance part of the story was glossed over. It barely even felt present as the story soon turned more into a forbidden/taboo romance between a Single Father and his son's Teacher. I would've prefered more flashback scenes between these two to really feel what Scarlet felt for Shane back in high school because to me it was a lot of 'telling and no showing'. It took me a while to truly understand why she was still hurting so bad after all this time but I guess that also had to do with the fact that she never dealt with the issue verbally or emotionally until she moved back home.
▪ We got more flashbacks and background story for Penelope and her treatment of Scarlet than we did of the actual couple. Was this story about Shane and Scarlet or about Penelope??
▪ We only got Scarlet's point of view which isn't necessarily a bad thing but I would've loved some of Shane's aswell
▪ The thing that happened to Justine at around 85%
▪ The fact that for the first half of the book (at least) the majority of Scarlet and her peers who are all 30ish were acting like immature, bratty, selfish and somewhat judgy people. Im 31 years old and some of the way these people reacted and spoke I just could not relate to.
▪ Even though this story did have some lighter, fluffier, fun & flirty scenes for me they were all overshadowed by the crazy amount of DRAMA. I was expecting some drama, I mean it is a 2nd chance romance after all, but this was the kind of drama I did not appreciate what so ever and it ruined the story for me. I'm not one to be affected by OW/OM drama but in this book the Baby Mama/Ex drama was excruciating and gave me anxiety for majority of the book.
▪ Drama Llama I will admit that I actually enjoy small town drama or really drama of any kind in books where it is dealt with properly but for me this book had too much of it infused throughout the entire story and the way in which it was dealt was the MAIN REASON I found I couldn't enjoy this book. Why would I want to subject myself to a story that has the Hero have a baby with one of the worst character's in the book. The token 'mean bitchy' girl from high school that never got over her insecurities, manipulative and vindictive behaviour and decides to use her Son to cause drama fueled by jealousy and pettiness. I do not like how this situation was handled at all. The actions of the parents (both Penelope's and Scarlet's) started a chain reaction of terrible behaviour and hatred that affected 2 individual teenage girls differently and because neither of these issues were dealt with appropriately or respectfully a fued was born that then ended up affecting an 11yr old boy. Cody was the real victim here as he definitely deserved a better mother than the selfish one he got. I 100% understand how each girl felt and what they went through as a conditioning of what the parents started but the fact that it was never addressed or concluded properly is the reason this book left a bad taste in my mouth. Why go through all this pain and drama to have the book wrap up quickly and feel very much unresolved. All I wanted was for 1) Shane to stand up to Penelope and tell her she needs to get help and if he truly wanted to put his son first he would've intervened ages ago. This woman needed THERAPY ASAP but Shane kept making excuses for her as it was easier than dealing with her. NEWSFLASH you share a kid and unless you want him to turn out like her or with a lot of emotional baggage maybe you should MAN UP and do SOMETHING. 2) A proper sit down converstion between Penelope and Scarlet. These girls needed some sort of closure where their animosity was concerned. At the very least an ACTUAL apology from Penelope to Scarlet. 3) A proper discussion between Scarlet and her Mother instead of skirting around there issues. A nice long therapeutic chat or something other then the barely mentioned rushed ending we got. She was incredibly judgemental towards her mother and never even tried to sit down and discuss with her why or how it all affected her. I'm a firm believer of their are two sides to every story and I 100% understand a young Scarlett being embarrassed and wanting to distance herself from her mother's actions but surely at 30 they would want to sit down and I dunno TALK..
I will say it again these people all needed THERAPY or Mediation or something to help break this cycle of TOXIC behaviour that was definitely affecting the kids whether they were 30 or 11.
A lot can happen in a book and I will admit that I am one of those readers who can easily forgive and over look certain parts of a story even if I don't enjoy a book as long as there is a satisfactory ending. The ending of this book felt rushed and left too many things not properly resolved for me to over look. I really wanted to SEE these two to work it out together and have a nicely and neatly wrapped up HEA and I'm sorry that's not what I got and the HFN ending did not feel satisfactory to me at all. I will say that I know I'm in the minority with this book and I'm sure that most others will enjoy this book and I do hope they do as it def had potential to be great but for me it was just not enough.
Let me start out by saying that I have truly loved most of KA Tucker's books in the past and she has written some of my favourite stories so when I first heard about this book I was beyond excited. The blurb drew me in and I couldn't wait to dive in. Sadly though this book did not work for me. I wanted to like this book sooo much but I just couldn't. The book starts out with a declaration that says
'For all those who need a fun and flirty escape.'
Which made me relax thinking yesss this is what I need a fun take on 2nd chance romance with a hate to love feel and banter galore but all I got was DRAMA, DRAMA, DRAMA and not the kind I like.
The story starts out when Scarlet and Shane are in their senior year of high school. The had a summer romance that was ended by Shane which left Scarlet heart broken and made 10x worse when she found Shane already moving on with the one girl (Penelope) who has made Scarlet's life miserable for the past couple of years.
Fast Forward 13yrs Scarlet moves back to her hometown after she accepts a job at the local school and moves into a 'fixer up' house she used to admire and dream about owning as a kid. What she is not expecting is her next door neighbour being the one and only Shane Beckett who broke her heart when they were 17 and even more of a shock to her is finding out he is a single father to 11yr old Cody whose mother is, you guessed it none other than, Penelope.
Things I liked //
▪ The story was written in a way that I flew through it and finished it in a day and half. I found myself fully immersed in this world and emotionally invested in the main characters from page one and wanted nothing more than to see the way their story would play out.
▪ The push & pull dynamic to begin with was something I was enjoying it did have those fun and flirty moment's that were promised.
▪ The whole idea behind fixing the house up. I love home renovation type things so I really enjoyed seeing Scarlet & Shane working together on the house.
▪ Scarlet's best friend Justine. She was one of the best parts of this book and I loved everything about her.
Things I Disliked //
▪ Shane & Scarlet's first big confrontational argument. I went back and forth throughout the entire book with which main character frustrated me the most. They were not perfect, they had flaws (which I don't hate) but there were definitely a few times that their actions and reactions gutted me. The main one being Shane's excuse as to why he broke things off with Scarlet and his reasons behind choosing to be with Penelope instead (though their actual relationship was short they are now tied together due to their son). I wanted to SLAP Shane hard during this moment. I can forgive the dumb actions of a 17yr old honestly that kind of thing doesn't bother me but the way he chose to say it to her 13yrs later and that entire conversation felt insensitive and cruel. Also the whole 'cheating' aspect was implied but don't think it was ever 100% confirmed and it felt glossed over.
▪ The whole 2nd chance romance aspect fell extremely short for me. Apart from that confrontation between the MC it felt liked the 2nd chance part of the story was glossed over. It barely even felt present as the story soon turned more into a forbidden/taboo romance between a Single Father and his son's Teacher. I would've prefered more flashback scenes between these two to really feel what Scarlet felt for Shane back in high school because to me it was a lot of 'telling and no showing'. It took me a while to truly understand why she was still hurting so bad after all this time but I guess that also had to do with the fact that she never dealt with the issue verbally or emotionally until she moved back home.
▪ We got more flashbacks and background story for Penelope and her treatment of Scarlet than we did of the actual couple. Was this story about Shane and Scarlet or about Penelope??
▪ We only got Scarlet's point of view which isn't necessarily a bad thing but I would've loved some of Shane's aswell
▪ The thing that happened to Justine at around 85%
▪ The fact that for the first half of the book (at least) the majority of Scarlet and her peers who are all 30ish were acting like immature, bratty, selfish and somewhat judgy people. Im 31 years old and some of the way these people reacted and spoke I just could not relate to.
▪ Even though this story did have some lighter, fluffier, fun & flirty scenes for me they were all overshadowed by the crazy amount of DRAMA. I was expecting some drama, I mean it is a 2nd chance romance after all, but this was the kind of drama I did not appreciate what so ever and it ruined the story for me. I'm not one to be affected by OW/OM drama but in this book the Baby Mama/Ex drama was excruciating and gave me anxiety for majority of the book.
▪ Drama Llama I will admit that I actually enjoy small town drama or really drama of any kind in books where it is dealt with properly but for me this book had too much of it infused throughout the entire story and the way in which it was dealt was the MAIN REASON I found I couldn't enjoy this book. Why would I want to subject myself to a story that has the Hero have a baby with one of the worst character's in the book. The token 'mean bitchy' girl from high school that never got over her insecurities, manipulative and vindictive behaviour and decides to use her Son to cause drama fueled by jealousy and pettiness. I do not like how this situation was handled at all. The actions of the parents (both Penelope's and Scarlet's) started a chain reaction of terrible behaviour and hatred that affected 2 individual teenage girls differently and because neither of these issues were dealt with appropriately or respectfully a fued was born that then ended up affecting an 11yr old boy. Cody was the real victim here as he definitely deserved a better mother than the selfish one he got. I 100% understand how each girl felt and what they went through as a conditioning of what the parents started but the fact that it was never addressed or concluded properly is the reason this book left a bad taste in my mouth. Why go through all this pain and drama to have the book wrap up quickly and feel very much unresolved. All I wanted was for 1) Shane to stand up to Penelope and tell her she needs to get help and if he truly wanted to put his son first he would've intervened ages ago. This woman needed THERAPY ASAP but Shane kept making excuses for her as it was easier than dealing with her. NEWSFLASH you share a kid and unless you want him to turn out like her or with a lot of emotional baggage maybe you should MAN UP and do SOMETHING. 2) A proper sit down converstion between Penelope and Scarlet. These girls needed some sort of closure where their animosity was concerned. At the very least an ACTUAL apology from Penelope to Scarlet. 3) A proper discussion between Scarlet and her Mother instead of skirting around there issues. A nice long therapeutic chat or something other then the barely mentioned rushed ending we got. She was incredibly judgemental towards her mother and never even tried to sit down and discuss with her why or how it all affected her. I'm a firm believer of their are two sides to every story and I 100% understand a young Scarlett being embarrassed and wanting to distance herself from her mother's actions but surely at 30 they would want to sit down and I dunno TALK..
I will say it again these people all needed THERAPY or Mediation or something to help break this cycle of TOXIC behaviour that was definitely affecting the kids whether they were 30 or 11.
A lot can happen in a book and I will admit that I am one of those readers who can easily forgive and over look certain parts of a story even if I don't enjoy a book as long as there is a satisfactory ending. The ending of this book felt rushed and left too many things not properly resolved for me to over look. I really wanted to SEE these two to work it out together and have a nicely and neatly wrapped up HEA and I'm sorry that's not what I got and the HFN ending did not feel satisfactory to me at all. I will say that I know I'm in the minority with this book and I'm sure that most others will enjoy this book and I do hope they do as it def had potential to be great but for me it was just not enough.
nope
June 18, 2020I hate "second chances in love" trope in romance books. They are rarely done right. I usually hate the reason of their break-up. I can only deal with second chance romance if the couple was separated because of outside factors, not because he is a douchebag etc.
In this case, he is a hero I can never forgive. He just leaves her for an easier girl because our heroine is complicated and he chooses her bully as his next girlfriend. Then he has a child from her. That's unforgivable in my book!
My dear friend Phuong has written a very useful review about this book if you need more information to decide whether to read this book or not.
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
In this case, he is a hero I can never forgive. He just leaves her for an easier girl because our heroine is complicated and he chooses her bully as his next girlfriend. Then he has a child from her. That's unforgivable in my book!
My dear friend Phuong has written a very useful review about this book if you need more information to decide whether to read this book or not.
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
June 15, 2020
– 2.75 stars
I've finally read a K.A. Tucker book and it was ehhh okayish.
The only thing I know about K.A. Tucker is that she wrote The Simple Wild, a book that is beloved by many, therefore I tried to go in with not too high expectations.
The Player Next Door started out good. I liked Scarlet and Shane as individuals. Miss Tucker's writing is easy to follow and I didn't get bored by the story which is a big plus lately. But the more I read, the more frustrated I got with the main characters, especially Scarlet.
– MILD SPOILERS –
A little background story:
Scarlet and Shane dated one summer before their senior year. They had a great time together and Shane even said that he thought he was falling in love with her during that summer and Scarlet was already head over heels for Shane. Then, a day before their senior year, Shane breaks up with her and the next day in school Scarlet sees him making out with Penelope (OW), her worst enemy and bully.
Many many many years later, Shane and Scarlet are back in the same town and very unfortunate for Scarlet they are neighbors. Scarlet still holds a grudge for what happened and she's hellbent on not letting Shane getting too close. And here is where the first problem is: I understand where Scarlet's grudge comes from and why she still holds onto it even after a decade. Shane broke her heart and she's still not really over it, BUT the way she acted towards him was super annoying. Shane was being a perfectly nice guy and trying to help her around the house, inviting her to dinners and apologizing for his past dumb self and Scarlet made it clear that she did not want to go out with him, so she had no reason to act all jealous and possessive over him when another woman asks him to a date. She acted so childish and immature and I could only roll my eyes. The "I don't want him, but that doesn't mean he can see other woman' thing got tiring very quickly.
I was annoyed at Shane as well, because his excuse why he broke up with Scarlet was NOT GOOD ENOUGH. //BIGGER SPOILER// The reason why he broke up with her was because Scarlet was "too complicated" and that she had to many trust issues cause of her mom and he wasn't looking for anything serious. Like serously?? I expected a little bit more than "I'm sorry, I was dumb and was looking for an easy lay". Dude, no just no. Why even bother courting her the whole summer? I really thought it was some lame excuse and the real reason would be revealed later how he had to break up with her for her sake, but no it's because he was stupid. As realistic as this reason is cause it reflects how guys at that age may or may not act with their dicks, I didn't appreciate it.
Oh did I forget to mentioned that Shane has a son with Penelope??? Yay, I love the single father trope, but here it created so much drama with the OW, which was the other problem I had with this book. Of course the OW had to be the biggest bi*ch on earth. Penelope was a constantly in Shane and Scarlet's business cause Scarlet is Cody's (Shane and Penelope's son) teacher. She was a huge pain in the ass and so annoying. Honestly, I was ashamed for her, she's a 30 years old, acting like a 10 year old kid having a tantrum cause someone played with her favorite toy. Jesus woman get a grip.
What I did enjoy was all the Cody/Scarlet and Cody/Shane scenes. Kids in books are great and I stand by that. I also loved Scarlet and Justine's friendship. Justine was an amazing secondary character. She has no filter and is so funny. Loved her so much. After what happened to her at the end of the book, I really really hope she gets her own book because that girl deserves the world.
While I wasn't really impressed, I'll read K.A. Tucker's other books. I have high hopes for The Simple Wild. 🤞
*Arc proved by Valentine PR in exchange for an honest review.
I've finally read a K.A. Tucker book and it was ehhh okayish.
The only thing I know about K.A. Tucker is that she wrote The Simple Wild, a book that is beloved by many, therefore I tried to go in with not too high expectations.
The Player Next Door started out good. I liked Scarlet and Shane as individuals. Miss Tucker's writing is easy to follow and I didn't get bored by the story which is a big plus lately. But the more I read, the more frustrated I got with the main characters, especially Scarlet.
– MILD SPOILERS –
A little background story:
Scarlet and Shane dated one summer before their senior year. They had a great time together and Shane even said that he thought he was falling in love with her during that summer and Scarlet was already head over heels for Shane. Then, a day before their senior year, Shane breaks up with her and the next day in school Scarlet sees him making out with Penelope (OW), her worst enemy and bully.
Many many many years later, Shane and Scarlet are back in the same town and very unfortunate for Scarlet they are neighbors. Scarlet still holds a grudge for what happened and she's hellbent on not letting Shane getting too close. And here is where the first problem is: I understand where Scarlet's grudge comes from and why she still holds onto it even after a decade. Shane broke her heart and she's still not really over it, BUT the way she acted towards him was super annoying. Shane was being a perfectly nice guy and trying to help her around the house, inviting her to dinners and apologizing for his past dumb self and Scarlet made it clear that she did not want to go out with him, so she had no reason to act all jealous and possessive over him when another woman asks him to a date. She acted so childish and immature and I could only roll my eyes. The "I don't want him, but that doesn't mean he can see other woman' thing got tiring very quickly.
I was annoyed at Shane as well, because his excuse why he broke up with Scarlet was NOT GOOD ENOUGH. //BIGGER SPOILER// The reason why he broke up with her was because Scarlet was "too complicated" and that she had to many trust issues cause of her mom and he wasn't looking for anything serious. Like serously?? I expected a little bit more than "I'm sorry, I was dumb and was looking for an easy lay". Dude, no just no. Why even bother courting her the whole summer? I really thought it was some lame excuse and the real reason would be revealed later how he had to break up with her for her sake, but no it's because he was stupid. As realistic as this reason is cause it reflects how guys at that age may or may not act with their dicks, I didn't appreciate it.
Oh did I forget to mentioned that Shane has a son with Penelope??? Yay, I love the single father trope, but here it created so much drama with the OW, which was the other problem I had with this book. Of course the OW had to be the biggest bi*ch on earth. Penelope was a constantly in Shane and Scarlet's business cause Scarlet is Cody's (Shane and Penelope's son) teacher. She was a huge pain in the ass and so annoying. Honestly, I was ashamed for her, she's a 30 years old, acting like a 10 year old kid having a tantrum cause someone played with her favorite toy. Jesus woman get a grip.
What I did enjoy was all the Cody/Scarlet and Cody/Shane scenes. Kids in books are great and I stand by that. I also loved Scarlet and Justine's friendship. Justine was an amazing secondary character. She has no filter and is so funny. Loved her so much. After what happened to her at the end of the book, I really really hope she gets her own book because that girl deserves the world.
While I wasn't really impressed, I'll read K.A. Tucker's other books. I have high hopes for The Simple Wild. 🤞
*Arc proved by Valentine PR in exchange for an honest review.
June 18, 2020
★4.5★
The Player Next Door is a passionate second chance romance by the gifted KA Tucker. Scarlet Reed's dreams are finally coming true. She has bought a house in her old home town and is about to start teaching at the local elementary school. Little does she know that her dream has a huge plot twist looming. Living right next door to Scarlet is her old flame, Shane Beckett. Shane was everything Scarlet wanted and after being dumped by the smoking hot "football star" she was left heartbroken. Now that Scarlet and Shane are all grown up, Shane will do anything for Scarlet to give him another chance at romance.
For more reviews/reveals/giveaways visit:
"Is he nailing your fence nice and hard?"
The Player Next Door is a passionate second chance romance by the gifted KA Tucker. Scarlet Reed's dreams are finally coming true. She has bought a house in her old home town and is about to start teaching at the local elementary school. Little does she know that her dream has a huge plot twist looming. Living right next door to Scarlet is her old flame, Shane Beckett. Shane was everything Scarlet wanted and after being dumped by the smoking hot "football star" she was left heartbroken. Now that Scarlet and Shane are all grown up, Shane will do anything for Scarlet to give him another chance at romance.
"He's everything I want."Told in Scarlet's POV, The Player Next Door is a stunning read with complex characters and a rich plot. The dialogue is beautifully crafted with humor, passion, and plenty of small-town drama. The secondary characters enhance the plot greatly as both Shane and Scarlet navigate the choppy waters of heartbreak and regret. This second chance romance is passionate, tender, and had me swooning the entire read.
"Are you crazy?"Overall, The Player Next Door will definitely appeal to readers who enjoy a second chance romance that explores forgiveness, family, and love. As always, KA Tucker never fails to deliver a story that evokes a brilliant spectrum of emotion due to the tender loving care she pours into every page. This read is definitely going on my top reads of 2020! Bravo Ms. Tucker! Bravo!
"In love with you."
For more reviews/reveals/giveaways visit:
January 8, 2023
It's been well documented that I am obsessed with everything K.A. Tucker, and this book is no exception.
Scarlett Reed and Shane Beckett were high school sweethearts – that is, until he broke her heart and left her for his ex-girlfriend (and her arch nemesis), Penelope. After enduring the senior year from hell, Scarlett went away to college and never looked back.
Twelve years later, she is back in her hometown of Polson Falls after getting a job as a middle school teacher and buying her childhood dream house. She's also a lot more confident than her teenage self, which means she doesn't completely (outwardly) freak out when she realizes her new neighbor is none other than Shane, who is retired from his superstar football days and now works as a firefighter.
Oh, and he also has an eleven-year-old son with Penelope (his ex once again) who will be one of Scarlett's students for the next school year. Fun!
Shane is immediately eager to be back is Scarlett's orbit, and she's not above making him work for it. Her pettiness and his cluelessness are so funny and satisfying; their story reminds me a lot of Taylor Swift's song August, and how those two people would interact a decade later.
K.A. Tucker can write the hell out of romance, and her books always feel so cozy and I reread them all the time!
This is such a funny, steamy, snarky second chance romance, one of my favorite comfort rereads.
Scarlett Reed and Shane Beckett were high school sweethearts – that is, until he broke her heart and left her for his ex-girlfriend (and her arch nemesis), Penelope. After enduring the senior year from hell, Scarlett went away to college and never looked back.
Twelve years later, she is back in her hometown of Polson Falls after getting a job as a middle school teacher and buying her childhood dream house. She's also a lot more confident than her teenage self, which means she doesn't completely (outwardly) freak out when she realizes her new neighbor is none other than Shane, who is retired from his superstar football days and now works as a firefighter.
Oh, and he also has an eleven-year-old son with Penelope (his ex once again) who will be one of Scarlett's students for the next school year. Fun!
Shane is immediately eager to be back is Scarlett's orbit, and she's not above making him work for it. Her pettiness and his cluelessness are so funny and satisfying; their story reminds me a lot of Taylor Swift's song August, and how those two people would interact a decade later.
K.A. Tucker can write the hell out of romance, and her books always feel so cozy and I reread them all the time!
This is such a funny, steamy, snarky second chance romance, one of my favorite comfort rereads.
May 2, 2021
Scarlet's life had not been easy, suffering for the sins of her mother whose loose ways made her the talk of the town. Scarlet leaves for college, determined never to return to the town that was the cause of so much heartbreak for her.
But as luck would have it, her old school principal lures her back, and the house she always coveted as a child comes on the market, so back she comes to Polson Falls. At one point I wanted to rename the town Poison Falls, because there were some seriously nasty people living in that town.
I loved the way Scarlet put her faithless ex-high school boyfriend, Shane, in his place, thinking he could get back into her good graces after he broke her heart so many years ago - with just an apology! (The Scorpio in me wanted to see him squirm for his callous stupidity when he broke up with young Scarlet because she was "complicated.") Thirteen years later, Shane swears he has changed and deeply regrets that selfish youthful decision, but Scarlet fights him off, telling him time and again that she will never trust him (and there I was, cheering her on from the sidelines!)
Still, the two can't seem to stay away from one another, and equally ironic, fate and old high school foes continue to conspire to keep them apart even after Scarlet admits to herself that she wants to give him a second chance . (I was actually a little disappointed that she didn't keep him dangling - and suffering - for a lot longer. He had humiliated her and treated her like she was invisible after he broke up with her in high school. Personally, I would have preferred to have drawn and quartered him instead, but I guess Scarlet's character arc isn't a Scorpio: Scorpios can forgive, but we never forget!)
Right up until the very end, I wasn't sure if they would be able to overcome the many obstacles the plot threw in their way. No spoilers here: find out how Shane finally convinces Scarlet that this time, "complicated" will never again be a reason that keeps them apart. In the end, I had to admire K.A. Tucker's true-to-life portrayal of young love gone sour, with older heads and hearts approaching this second chance at love relationship with wiser and less star-struck eyes.
This vein of realism is why I am a fan of K.A. Tucker's novels.
Highly recommended: really fine, sizzling storytelling.
P.S. I know there are somehow two versions of this review. I spent hours last night trying to "combine editions" as per Goodreads instructions. It isn't working. I give up! I will leave both reviews up - they are now exactly the same - because I don't want to delete the discussions on either one. I was thinking of approaching one of the Goodreads Librarians to see if they can fix this or merge it, but I suspect they have bigger problems, so I'm just leaving the two separate reviews. I only ever read the EBook/Kindle version of this book, so I have no idea how my review landed on the paperback version. I tried to change this, but no go, either.)
July 4, 2020
This was a light hearted, feel good kind of book! I quite enjoyed it, and I fell in love with the sexy, fire fighter hero that starred in this story!
KA Tucker is always able to transport me into her worlds that she creates! Her romances are usually the kind that make butterflies in my stomach flutter, and puts warmth in my heart. She also creates a sexy read, and in this story adds a slow burn that had me begging for more!
This was a second chance romance between Shane and Scarlett. It wasn’t all smooth sailing for them though. They had more than a few hurdles to cross. Will they be able to jump the hurdles or will they crash? It was definitely enjoyable to find out!
I absolutely recommend this book if you are looking for low angst and a feel good story!
My only complaint would be the ending. It ended abruptly and would have been much better with a nice epilogue!
Thanks Steph for another wonderful Buddy Read! This was a good one!❤️
KA Tucker is always able to transport me into her worlds that she creates! Her romances are usually the kind that make butterflies in my stomach flutter, and puts warmth in my heart. She also creates a sexy read, and in this story adds a slow burn that had me begging for more!
This was a second chance romance between Shane and Scarlett. It wasn’t all smooth sailing for them though. They had more than a few hurdles to cross. Will they be able to jump the hurdles or will they crash? It was definitely enjoyable to find out!
I absolutely recommend this book if you are looking for low angst and a feel good story!
My only complaint would be the ending. It ended abruptly and would have been much better with a nice epilogue!
Thanks Steph for another wonderful Buddy Read! This was a good one!❤️
June 26, 2020
3.5 STARS
I am such a big fan of K.A. Tucker, so when I heard she’d be releasing a new standalone with summer vibes, I couldn’t wait to get my hands on it! Also, I’m always a sucker for both second chance romances and single parent romances. I ended up enjoying Shane and Scarlet’s story – it’s both sweet and dramatic, if that makes sense. If you want a summer read with a swoony hero and lots of unresolved tension, give The Player Next Door a try!
Scarlet has returned home after being away for twelve years to be a school teacher. She packed up and never looked back as soon as she could, not wanting to deal with heartbreak and her narcissistic mother any more. But she’s moved into the cute little house she always admired, not knowing that her next door neighbor is none other than the guy who broke her heart and caused her to want to leave: Shane Beckett. Who also happens to be the father of one of her new students.
This romance is a bit of an enemies to lovers one, at least on our heroine Scarlet’s side. She hasn’t forgiven Shane for breaking her heart over a decade ago and isn’t about to make it easy for him to try to get her to give him a second chance. I love a heroine who makes a hero work for her affections, though I do feel Shane could’ve groveled a bit more rather than say it was something that happened so long ago. There’s plenty of chemistry, of push and pull, between Shane and Scarlet to make this romance exciting and fun.
The main reason I’m not rating this higher is that I felt a bit disconnected from our main characters. I liked them, but I never truly connected with their stories. I may have rolled my eyes a bit at some of the miscommunication and it wasn’t quite as light and fluffy as I expected. But still, it’s a quick, sweet (which mostly comes from our charming hero and his son) romp with a dash of drama (from our heroine) that will make this a fun summer read!
I am such a big fan of K.A. Tucker, so when I heard she’d be releasing a new standalone with summer vibes, I couldn’t wait to get my hands on it! Also, I’m always a sucker for both second chance romances and single parent romances. I ended up enjoying Shane and Scarlet’s story – it’s both sweet and dramatic, if that makes sense. If you want a summer read with a swoony hero and lots of unresolved tension, give The Player Next Door a try!
Scarlet has returned home after being away for twelve years to be a school teacher. She packed up and never looked back as soon as she could, not wanting to deal with heartbreak and her narcissistic mother any more. But she’s moved into the cute little house she always admired, not knowing that her next door neighbor is none other than the guy who broke her heart and caused her to want to leave: Shane Beckett. Who also happens to be the father of one of her new students.
This romance is a bit of an enemies to lovers one, at least on our heroine Scarlet’s side. She hasn’t forgiven Shane for breaking her heart over a decade ago and isn’t about to make it easy for him to try to get her to give him a second chance. I love a heroine who makes a hero work for her affections, though I do feel Shane could’ve groveled a bit more rather than say it was something that happened so long ago. There’s plenty of chemistry, of push and pull, between Shane and Scarlet to make this romance exciting and fun.
The main reason I’m not rating this higher is that I felt a bit disconnected from our main characters. I liked them, but I never truly connected with their stories. I may have rolled my eyes a bit at some of the miscommunication and it wasn’t quite as light and fluffy as I expected. But still, it’s a quick, sweet (which mostly comes from our charming hero and his son) romp with a dash of drama (from our heroine) that will make this a fun summer read!
avoid
September 23, 2021Note to self: he cheats on the h with hot ow in high school, then dumps the h to date the girl he cheated with for a year. Has baby with the ow.
The h is another doormat who takes back the cheater 13 yrs later without much groveling. Also teaches his kid he had with the ow he cheated with
And this is someone’s bright idea of a romance novel.
The h is another doormat who takes back the cheater 13 yrs later without much groveling. Also teaches his kid he had with the ow he cheated with
And this is someone’s bright idea of a romance novel.
June 19, 2020
What a nice surprise ❤️❤️
I really liked this one, if you are looking for a second chance romance, this is what you need!The story was sweet and the characters were great!
It has the great amount of tension ,drama and sweet moments!Shane and Scarlet had a hot and intense romance .
The Player Next Door is a great summer read!
I really liked this one, if you are looking for a second chance romance, this is what you need!The story was sweet and the characters were great!
It has the great amount of tension ,drama and sweet moments!Shane and Scarlet had a hot and intense romance .
The Player Next Door is a great summer read!
June 23, 2020
Dnf at 85% ( review contains spoilers)
I felt like i was reading a wattpad story, the characters were do freaking immature and they were in their 30s. 😫 so the story is about Scarlet whose mom is known for sleeping around with men, especially married men and cuz of that Scarlet gets bullied in highschool but when Shane the popular jock starts dating her, everyone likes her but soon he breaks her heart and hooks up with her biggest enemy Penelope. Years later Scarlet is back in town and Shane wants another chance cuz he is a changed man, and he is a firefighter and has a son with penelope by accident. Scarlet first refuses to give him a second chance but eventually they start dating but then breaks up cuz Scarlet doesnt think they should be together, and then I “dnfed” it. So my problem was with the hero and heroine, they both are such confused characters. Scarlet doesnt trust anyone especially Shane but from the moment they met again, she cant stop talking how hot he is. Mind you she is 30 and talks + behaves like a teenager. He is her neighbour so she keeps looking out of her window and see him change, keeps track when he is home and when he is not and then she says she doesnt care about him and has moved on. When he asks for a second chance she says no but still keeps stalking him and when he tries to date other women she accuses him for not being trustworthy. 😶 she literally annoyed me so much cuz she behaves like a child! First she says she doesn’t want to even talk to him, then she watches him get naked and through out the whole book talks about his body and then when he asks her out she says no, then she says they should just he friends and when he even talks to other women or even looks at them she fights with him 😑😑😑. I just cant.
Shane on the other hand annoyed me too, he says he wants her but then when other girls offers him to go on a date he says yes and when Scarlet approaches him for a date he says they should just be friends but the next day they kiss. The hero’s excuse for breaking up with her in highschool is that she is too complicated but again he also confessed that he is falling in love with her🤦🏽♀️🤦🏽♀️ the whole plot was so immature and childish. I didnt see any chemistry between the characters and this book being a single parent romance, i didnt even see a bond or a Connection between the kid and Scarlet. They barely even talked and everything happened towards the end, it was so rushed up.
I felt like i was reading a wattpad story, the characters were do freaking immature and they were in their 30s. 😫 so the story is about Scarlet whose mom is known for sleeping around with men, especially married men and cuz of that Scarlet gets bullied in highschool but when Shane the popular jock starts dating her, everyone likes her but soon he breaks her heart and hooks up with her biggest enemy Penelope. Years later Scarlet is back in town and Shane wants another chance cuz he is a changed man, and he is a firefighter and has a son with penelope by accident. Scarlet first refuses to give him a second chance but eventually they start dating but then breaks up cuz Scarlet doesnt think they should be together, and then I “dnfed” it. So my problem was with the hero and heroine, they both are such confused characters. Scarlet doesnt trust anyone especially Shane but from the moment they met again, she cant stop talking how hot he is. Mind you she is 30 and talks + behaves like a teenager. He is her neighbour so she keeps looking out of her window and see him change, keeps track when he is home and when he is not and then she says she doesnt care about him and has moved on. When he asks for a second chance she says no but still keeps stalking him and when he tries to date other women she accuses him for not being trustworthy. 😶 she literally annoyed me so much cuz she behaves like a child! First she says she doesn’t want to even talk to him, then she watches him get naked and through out the whole book talks about his body and then when he asks her out she says no, then she says they should just he friends and when he even talks to other women or even looks at them she fights with him 😑😑😑. I just cant.
Shane on the other hand annoyed me too, he says he wants her but then when other girls offers him to go on a date he says yes and when Scarlet approaches him for a date he says they should just be friends but the next day they kiss. The hero’s excuse for breaking up with her in highschool is that she is too complicated but again he also confessed that he is falling in love with her🤦🏽♀️🤦🏽♀️ the whole plot was so immature and childish. I didnt see any chemistry between the characters and this book being a single parent romance, i didnt even see a bond or a Connection between the kid and Scarlet. They barely even talked and everything happened towards the end, it was so rushed up.
June 25, 2020
4.5 Stars!
(ARC provided by Valentine PR)
Scarlet Reed grew up in Polson Falls, Pennsylvania, and couldn't wait to get as far away from the town and living in the shadow of her mother's often scandalous reputation. She heads to NY for college, and twelve years later a job opportunity and her child dream home becoming available help cement her decision to return to her hometown. She's excited for a fresh start even in a world of familiar faces. Things are finally going her way, and then she learns Shane Beckett is her new next door neighbor.
Shane was the gorgeous, popular quarterback of the football team in high school. They had a whirlwind summer romance that ended right before senior year when he abruptly broke things off. What she felt had been real, powerful, and all-consuming, and then he smashed her seventeen year old heart to pieces, and she was left feeling played and betrayed. He became like a stranger, and last she heard he'd followed his football dreams to California.
Over a decade later, and Scarlet hasn't forgiven Shane for breaking her heart all those years ago. She's no longer that love struck teenager she used to be, and she makes it clear she still holds a grudge, and there will never be anything between them again. She's a woman scorned, and they can be neighbors, and nothing more, but how on earth is she supposed to live next door to him, and have to see him everyday? She can't seem to escape him, and he's still just as beautiful, and thinks flashing those dimples will magically make her forget the past. He claims he's grown up and changed. He wants a real chance, but it's complicated. Will she resist his charms, or will she let herself be vulnerable and take a chance on love?
-He's still gorgeous. In fact, he's more gorgeous than he ever was. I'd recognize him from a mile away, even after all these years later.
-This is Shane Beckett I'm dealing with, I remind myself. My first love, my first heartbreak. Still the most beautiful man I've ever laid eyes on. Rationally, I can't stop myself from being attracted to him. What I can-must-stop myself from doing is acting on it.
The Player Next Door by K.A. Tucker is a hate-to-love, small town contemporary romance about unbreakable connections, and second chances. It's a sexy, flirty story full of humor, emotion, and chemistry. This was my first K.A. Tucker book, and I absolutely LOVED it!!! I can't wait to read more by this amazing author!
***NOW AVAILABLE***
https://amzn.to/2Y6nglp
(ARC provided by Valentine PR)
Scarlet Reed grew up in Polson Falls, Pennsylvania, and couldn't wait to get as far away from the town and living in the shadow of her mother's often scandalous reputation. She heads to NY for college, and twelve years later a job opportunity and her child dream home becoming available help cement her decision to return to her hometown. She's excited for a fresh start even in a world of familiar faces. Things are finally going her way, and then she learns Shane Beckett is her new next door neighbor.
Shane was the gorgeous, popular quarterback of the football team in high school. They had a whirlwind summer romance that ended right before senior year when he abruptly broke things off. What she felt had been real, powerful, and all-consuming, and then he smashed her seventeen year old heart to pieces, and she was left feeling played and betrayed. He became like a stranger, and last she heard he'd followed his football dreams to California.
Over a decade later, and Scarlet hasn't forgiven Shane for breaking her heart all those years ago. She's no longer that love struck teenager she used to be, and she makes it clear she still holds a grudge, and there will never be anything between them again. She's a woman scorned, and they can be neighbors, and nothing more, but how on earth is she supposed to live next door to him, and have to see him everyday? She can't seem to escape him, and he's still just as beautiful, and thinks flashing those dimples will magically make her forget the past. He claims he's grown up and changed. He wants a real chance, but it's complicated. Will she resist his charms, or will she let herself be vulnerable and take a chance on love?
-He's still gorgeous. In fact, he's more gorgeous than he ever was. I'd recognize him from a mile away, even after all these years later.
-This is Shane Beckett I'm dealing with, I remind myself. My first love, my first heartbreak. Still the most beautiful man I've ever laid eyes on. Rationally, I can't stop myself from being attracted to him. What I can-must-stop myself from doing is acting on it.
The Player Next Door by K.A. Tucker is a hate-to-love, small town contemporary romance about unbreakable connections, and second chances. It's a sexy, flirty story full of humor, emotion, and chemistry. This was my first K.A. Tucker book, and I absolutely LOVED it!!! I can't wait to read more by this amazing author!
***NOW AVAILABLE***
https://amzn.to/2Y6nglp
May 2, 2021
Scarlet's life had not been easy, suffering for the sins of her mother whose loose ways made her the talk of the town. Scarlet leaves for college, determined never to return to the town that was the cause of so much heartbreak for her.
But as luck would have it, her old school principal lures her back, and the house she always coveted as a child comes on the market, so back she comes to Polson Falls. At one point I wanted to rename the town Poison Falls, because there were some seriously nasty people living in that town.
I loved the way Scarlet put her faithless ex-high school boyfriend, Shane, in his place, thinking he could get back into her good graces after he broke her heart so many years ago - with just an apology! (The Scorpio in me wanted to see him squirm for his callous stupidity when he broke up with young Scarlet because she was "complicated.") Thirteen years later, Shane swears he has changed and deeply regrets that selfish youthful decision, but Scarlet fights him off, telling him time and again that she will never trust him (and there I was, cheering her on from the sidelines!)
Still, the two can't seem to stay away from one another, and equally ironic, fate and old high school foes continue to conspire to keep them apart even after Scarlet admits to herself that she wants to give him a second chance . (I was actually a little disappointed that she didn't keep him dangling - and suffering - for a lot longer. He had humiliated her and treated her like she was invisible after he broke up with her in high school. Personally, I would have preferred to have drawn and quartered him instead, but I guess Scarlet's character arc isn't a Scorpio: Scorpios can forgive, but we never forget!)
Right up until the very end, I wasn't sure if they would be able to overcome the many obstacles the plot threw in their way. No spoilers here: find out how Shane finally convinces Scarlet that this time, "complicated" will never again be a reason that keeps them apart. In the end, I had to admire K.A. Tucker's true-to-life portrayal of young love gone sour, with older heads and hearts approaching this second chance at love relationship with wiser and less star-struck eyes.
This vein of realism is why I am a fan of K.A. Tucker's novels.
Highly recommended: really fine, sizzling storytelling.
P.S. I know there are somehow two versions of this review. I spent hours last night trying to "combine editions" as per Goodreads instructions. It isn't working. I give up! I will leave both reviews up - they are now exactly the same - because I don't want to delete the discussions on either one. I was thinking of approaching one of the Goodreads Librarians to see if they can fix this or merge it, but I suspect they have bigger problems, so I'm just leaving the two separate reviews. I only ever read the EBook/Kindle version of this book, so I have no idea how my review landed on the paperback version. I tried to change this, but no go, either.)
June 21, 2020
RTC
I feel like I read a different book to other reviewers, especially the ones praising Shane and saying Scarlet held a grudge for too long. I struggled to like a single character apart from Cody, Dottie was a waste of space and do not even get me started on Justine.
Ok so I am not a massive fan of Tucker, I know a lot of people adore her work. But honestly the only book I really like by this author is Burying Water, I found the Ten Tiny Breaths series massively boring and overrated. However, she can write and I like to see second chance romances done well, if the past is properly explored and the betrayer redeems themselves. I did not feel it here. There was no passion for me. It was all kind of mediocre. I am also not a fan of everyone thinking that because something happened 13 years ago, and that the guy was a teen, that the heroine should get over his behaviour. Shane was a scumbag. He basically dated Scarlet all summer, was falling for her and seemed invested, until he just switched. He was scared of his feelings blah blah, hate that bullshit excuse. It gets worse as he basically tells her he does not want a distraction or a proper relationship. Then the very next day, after he breaks up with her, she sees him basically mounting Penelope, a bitch from school who made her life hell. He then goes on to ignore Scarlet and Date the ow their whole senior year. Let’s just unwrap this, the disrespect alone is enough for me to bury him. So not only did he go after a girl who was pretty naive, geeky etc, someone he knew was not particularly experienced and hardened. He dated her, let her fall for him etc, to only dump her and leave her alone as he dated her enemy. So he bullshitted her about not wanting to have a girlfriend, moves on straight away, to a girl he knows hurt the girl he supposedly cared about, and then acts like she didn’t exist. But because they were teens, she is meant to forget that, forgive him and be delighted he wanted to act the hero and help her with her house? Fuck that shit. He never apologised at the time, never contacted her to make amends, and really never would have pursued her if she had not moved back to town and fallen into his lap. I am meant to swoon over this guy because? If he really liked Scarlet he would not have been able to move on so quickly, to then go to school everyday with her for a year and ignore her. He apparently got with Penelope as he knew what he was getting with her? I did not appreciate the reason Shane stepped away from Scarlet, as it was partly blamed on Scarlet’s issues and insecurities. He basically reinforced them, if he honestly cared about her he should have fought to reassure her, and earn her trust, not fuck her over. Not only that, we find out in the present day, that Shane not only was an asshole, but a cheater, as he was hooking up with Penelope before he ended things with Scarlett. At that point he was done for me. He did not own up to it at the time and likely would not have told Scarlet ever. It was handled so badly, this big revelation comes out and is forgotten instantly. We never find out why he cheated, or for how long, he never really makes amends. It did not add up, Scarlet was still so angry over being betrayed all those years ago, but she makes no big deal over the fact that Shane actually cheated. Moving on quickly is one thing, but going purposely behind your back is another. Also, I kept hearing about Shane grovelling and Scarlet being harsh. Really? Shane hardly grovelled, he made apologies years later, and that seemed to be linked to wanting to get in her pants. Also, attached to all the apologies was the sentiment of ‘I was a kid, it was years ago, can’t you get over it or forgive me?’ So how genuine was his remorse? Also, sure he was a prince who kept saving the damsel in distress, from burst pipes, dodgy ovens etc. But it was somewhat motivated by wanting to get Scarlett back, he was not some pure soul reaching out just to help, it suited his motivations as well. Do not get me wrong I am no Scarlet fan. I found her arrogant, obnoxious and immature. Sure the whole getting jealous and flirting with Dean was pathetic, but it made sense. Shane was all contrition for past behaviour and basically said he had feelings for Scarlet, but yet again he did not bother to really try. She obviously was wary, he had a child with her enemy, but instead of waiting it out a bit longer and earning her trust, he flirts with an ex of his in front of her and agrees to a date with her. Sure they are not together, and he technically owes her nothing. But if Shane wants to claim to have changed, to really regret his past actions, and actually care about Scarlet, a bit of celibacy and being patient would not have killed him, and would have spoken a lot about his character. I felt no really passion, it was all lacklustre, like Shane was so blasé. Did he love Scarlet? Probably as much as he can love anyone, but there was no real drive, I did not feel that if there was a real tragedy or tough spot in their lives, that Shane would fight for Scarlett or necessarily stay faithful. I think maybe I have just read so many strong, loyal heroes, who would move mountains to get their girl back, that Shane’s half assed attempts and declarations fell flat for me.
Justine, Justine, Justine I loathed her. She was a perv, especially for someone who supposedly loved her partner so much. She was obnoxious, far too meddling and gave terrible advice. She did not know Shane, apart from that he fucked over Scarlett. Yet advised Scarlet to fuck him pretty much straight away. Nope terrible advice and terrible friend. But it all fell into place when we are told that her boyfriend is her brothers best friend, who left her to marry someone else six years ago. Of course a tool who takes back a man who chose someone else, is gonna tell her friend to go for an asshole. I was also not as shocked by Bill cheating, as he had left Justine behind in the past and seeemd scared of commitment. I was shocked he chose the other woman, as he has known Justine since they were kids, and was best friends with her brother. The whole bros sentiment annoyed me, assuming that guys forgiving shitty behaviour and buddy up again. This is what is said about the fact Bill cheated for months on Justine, and left her for someone else, as if this is what is an acceptable reaction:
“Her brother said he’s going to murder him.” Bill and Jeff have been best friends for decades, so to do this to his baby sister is reprehensible. Of course, they’re guys, so they’ll likely get drunk, punch each other out, and then go golfing the next day.’
What the fuck is this mindset? This is not ok and should not be normalised, Scarlet would want to have higher standards for people’s actions, and Justine would want to get a new brother. This was not some trivial drama like kissing your friends ex girlfriend from high school, or denting your car. This is someone you trust destroying your sibling, who you should want to protect. He owes Justine loyalty, and as a decent human should lose all respect and trust in his best friend, therefore Bill should be beat down verbally or physically, and then kicked to the curb. The morals and standards in this book are shocking, all shitty behaviour easily forgiven.
Scarletts mother Dottie is a piece of work, who realistically would have been hospitalised years ago. You go around sleeping with married men and people’s sons, and you are gonna cross the wrong bitch and get yourself beaten up at some point. It was not even just the sleeping around, it was the drinking and shitty parenting. She literally was a waste of skin and hair, what was her purpose? Her behaviour is never really explored, neither is her and Scarletts relationship, but all is forgiven, she stops being a whore and a drunk due to a nice guy liking her? Really? Also, why on earth would a decent Chief,’who seems like a decent man, who was widowed really want Dottie? Apart from the fact she fucks men the same age as her daughter, quite happily screws married men, and is regularly drunk. She also was a bad parent who seemed to have no real good qualities or personality. Why would he be interested in her? It just makes no sense. Also, quite frankly she didn’t deserve a great guy and an easy road. Bitch needed counselling, rehab and to make amends with people she hurt. Like she is randomly and unbelievably redeemed! There needed to realistic consequences in this book, but everything was glossed over.
I also did not appreciate Shane explaining why Dottie managed to seduce men. When Scarlet is understandably angry that Dottie fucked a guy Scarlet knew from high school, Shane’s friend:
“See? So why is it okay because it’s Dottie Reed?” Why are my school peers entertaining her shamelessness, and right in front of me?
“Because she’s sexy and she’s not any of our moms?” He winces, as if he knows that’s a weak excuse. “I don’t know. There’s something about her.”
“Yeah, no morals and a serious dependency on alcohol.”
“Maybe.” He shrugs.
“But it’s the way she carries herself, with confidence and no regrets. And she makes men feel good about themselves.” An apologetic smile takes over his face.
“A lot of guys find that attractive.” I’ve seen her in action. She’s a master of stroking male egos, though, truth be told, it doesn’t seem to take much to turn them into her lapdogs. But the way Shane is talking about my mother right now … My stomach drops with the horror.
“Oh my God! Please tell me you haven’t slept with her—”
“No.” He shakes his head furtively and follows it with a soft chuckle.
“I swear, I never even entertained the idea.”
I do not know how more people were not grossed out by this. It was creepy and cringe, he is basically mansplaining why her mom is hot and gets dick. Instead of seeing a washed up, sad woman he sees a milf? Are you kidding me? Sorry but this would be enough to put me off him, Shane is a loser. The way he talks about Dottie was enough to make Scarlet wonder if he fucked her, says it all to me.
Also, Scarlet perving on Shane and watching him undressed, literally counting down to when she would see his dick, was all kinds of messed up. It is not ok to watch someone undress when they are unaware, it is perverted, not cute, and not to be used to set the scene for comedy or sexual tension in books.
All in all this was a shit show, with immature behaviour and Over the top characters, mostly not likeable. I won’t be in a rush to read another of Tucker’s books.
I feel like I read a different book to other reviewers, especially the ones praising Shane and saying Scarlet held a grudge for too long. I struggled to like a single character apart from Cody, Dottie was a waste of space and do not even get me started on Justine.
Ok so I am not a massive fan of Tucker, I know a lot of people adore her work. But honestly the only book I really like by this author is Burying Water, I found the Ten Tiny Breaths series massively boring and overrated. However, she can write and I like to see second chance romances done well, if the past is properly explored and the betrayer redeems themselves. I did not feel it here. There was no passion for me. It was all kind of mediocre. I am also not a fan of everyone thinking that because something happened 13 years ago, and that the guy was a teen, that the heroine should get over his behaviour. Shane was a scumbag. He basically dated Scarlet all summer, was falling for her and seemed invested, until he just switched. He was scared of his feelings blah blah, hate that bullshit excuse. It gets worse as he basically tells her he does not want a distraction or a proper relationship. Then the very next day, after he breaks up with her, she sees him basically mounting Penelope, a bitch from school who made her life hell. He then goes on to ignore Scarlet and Date the ow their whole senior year. Let’s just unwrap this, the disrespect alone is enough for me to bury him. So not only did he go after a girl who was pretty naive, geeky etc, someone he knew was not particularly experienced and hardened. He dated her, let her fall for him etc, to only dump her and leave her alone as he dated her enemy. So he bullshitted her about not wanting to have a girlfriend, moves on straight away, to a girl he knows hurt the girl he supposedly cared about, and then acts like she didn’t exist. But because they were teens, she is meant to forget that, forgive him and be delighted he wanted to act the hero and help her with her house? Fuck that shit. He never apologised at the time, never contacted her to make amends, and really never would have pursued her if she had not moved back to town and fallen into his lap. I am meant to swoon over this guy because? If he really liked Scarlet he would not have been able to move on so quickly, to then go to school everyday with her for a year and ignore her. He apparently got with Penelope as he knew what he was getting with her? I did not appreciate the reason Shane stepped away from Scarlet, as it was partly blamed on Scarlet’s issues and insecurities. He basically reinforced them, if he honestly cared about her he should have fought to reassure her, and earn her trust, not fuck her over. Not only that, we find out in the present day, that Shane not only was an asshole, but a cheater, as he was hooking up with Penelope before he ended things with Scarlett. At that point he was done for me. He did not own up to it at the time and likely would not have told Scarlet ever. It was handled so badly, this big revelation comes out and is forgotten instantly. We never find out why he cheated, or for how long, he never really makes amends. It did not add up, Scarlet was still so angry over being betrayed all those years ago, but she makes no big deal over the fact that Shane actually cheated. Moving on quickly is one thing, but going purposely behind your back is another. Also, I kept hearing about Shane grovelling and Scarlet being harsh. Really? Shane hardly grovelled, he made apologies years later, and that seemed to be linked to wanting to get in her pants. Also, attached to all the apologies was the sentiment of ‘I was a kid, it was years ago, can’t you get over it or forgive me?’ So how genuine was his remorse? Also, sure he was a prince who kept saving the damsel in distress, from burst pipes, dodgy ovens etc. But it was somewhat motivated by wanting to get Scarlett back, he was not some pure soul reaching out just to help, it suited his motivations as well. Do not get me wrong I am no Scarlet fan. I found her arrogant, obnoxious and immature. Sure the whole getting jealous and flirting with Dean was pathetic, but it made sense. Shane was all contrition for past behaviour and basically said he had feelings for Scarlet, but yet again he did not bother to really try. She obviously was wary, he had a child with her enemy, but instead of waiting it out a bit longer and earning her trust, he flirts with an ex of his in front of her and agrees to a date with her. Sure they are not together, and he technically owes her nothing. But if Shane wants to claim to have changed, to really regret his past actions, and actually care about Scarlet, a bit of celibacy and being patient would not have killed him, and would have spoken a lot about his character. I felt no really passion, it was all lacklustre, like Shane was so blasé. Did he love Scarlet? Probably as much as he can love anyone, but there was no real drive, I did not feel that if there was a real tragedy or tough spot in their lives, that Shane would fight for Scarlett or necessarily stay faithful. I think maybe I have just read so many strong, loyal heroes, who would move mountains to get their girl back, that Shane’s half assed attempts and declarations fell flat for me.
Justine, Justine, Justine I loathed her. She was a perv, especially for someone who supposedly loved her partner so much. She was obnoxious, far too meddling and gave terrible advice. She did not know Shane, apart from that he fucked over Scarlett. Yet advised Scarlet to fuck him pretty much straight away. Nope terrible advice and terrible friend. But it all fell into place when we are told that her boyfriend is her brothers best friend, who left her to marry someone else six years ago. Of course a tool who takes back a man who chose someone else, is gonna tell her friend to go for an asshole. I was also not as shocked by Bill cheating, as he had left Justine behind in the past and seeemd scared of commitment. I was shocked he chose the other woman, as he has known Justine since they were kids, and was best friends with her brother. The whole bros sentiment annoyed me, assuming that guys forgiving shitty behaviour and buddy up again. This is what is said about the fact Bill cheated for months on Justine, and left her for someone else, as if this is what is an acceptable reaction:
“Her brother said he’s going to murder him.” Bill and Jeff have been best friends for decades, so to do this to his baby sister is reprehensible. Of course, they’re guys, so they’ll likely get drunk, punch each other out, and then go golfing the next day.’
What the fuck is this mindset? This is not ok and should not be normalised, Scarlet would want to have higher standards for people’s actions, and Justine would want to get a new brother. This was not some trivial drama like kissing your friends ex girlfriend from high school, or denting your car. This is someone you trust destroying your sibling, who you should want to protect. He owes Justine loyalty, and as a decent human should lose all respect and trust in his best friend, therefore Bill should be beat down verbally or physically, and then kicked to the curb. The morals and standards in this book are shocking, all shitty behaviour easily forgiven.
Scarletts mother Dottie is a piece of work, who realistically would have been hospitalised years ago. You go around sleeping with married men and people’s sons, and you are gonna cross the wrong bitch and get yourself beaten up at some point. It was not even just the sleeping around, it was the drinking and shitty parenting. She literally was a waste of skin and hair, what was her purpose? Her behaviour is never really explored, neither is her and Scarletts relationship, but all is forgiven, she stops being a whore and a drunk due to a nice guy liking her? Really? Also, why on earth would a decent Chief,’who seems like a decent man, who was widowed really want Dottie? Apart from the fact she fucks men the same age as her daughter, quite happily screws married men, and is regularly drunk. She also was a bad parent who seemed to have no real good qualities or personality. Why would he be interested in her? It just makes no sense. Also, quite frankly she didn’t deserve a great guy and an easy road. Bitch needed counselling, rehab and to make amends with people she hurt. Like she is randomly and unbelievably redeemed! There needed to realistic consequences in this book, but everything was glossed over.
I also did not appreciate Shane explaining why Dottie managed to seduce men. When Scarlet is understandably angry that Dottie fucked a guy Scarlet knew from high school, Shane’s friend:
“See? So why is it okay because it’s Dottie Reed?” Why are my school peers entertaining her shamelessness, and right in front of me?
“Because she’s sexy and she’s not any of our moms?” He winces, as if he knows that’s a weak excuse. “I don’t know. There’s something about her.”
“Yeah, no morals and a serious dependency on alcohol.”
“Maybe.” He shrugs.
“But it’s the way she carries herself, with confidence and no regrets. And she makes men feel good about themselves.” An apologetic smile takes over his face.
“A lot of guys find that attractive.” I’ve seen her in action. She’s a master of stroking male egos, though, truth be told, it doesn’t seem to take much to turn them into her lapdogs. But the way Shane is talking about my mother right now … My stomach drops with the horror.
“Oh my God! Please tell me you haven’t slept with her—”
“No.” He shakes his head furtively and follows it with a soft chuckle.
“I swear, I never even entertained the idea.”
I do not know how more people were not grossed out by this. It was creepy and cringe, he is basically mansplaining why her mom is hot and gets dick. Instead of seeing a washed up, sad woman he sees a milf? Are you kidding me? Sorry but this would be enough to put me off him, Shane is a loser. The way he talks about Dottie was enough to make Scarlet wonder if he fucked her, says it all to me.
Also, Scarlet perving on Shane and watching him undressed, literally counting down to when she would see his dick, was all kinds of messed up. It is not ok to watch someone undress when they are unaware, it is perverted, not cute, and not to be used to set the scene for comedy or sexual tension in books.
All in all this was a shit show, with immature behaviour and Over the top characters, mostly not likeable. I won’t be in a rush to read another of Tucker’s books.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
nope
June 14, 2020So let me get this straight. He was in love with her but because he was a dumb horny teenager he dumped her then hooked up with her bully and got her pregnant? Get the fuck outta here with this shit. This is why I hate second chance romance. It’s always the same OW drama. Authors, why don’t ya’ll change things up and reverse the roles for once? Or just not have OW/baby mama drama? It’s not fun to read especially when the OW who will be in their lives forever is a girl that bullied her.
nope-nope-nope
June 21, 2020Slight spoilers
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Why does it always have to be the nemesis? I just will never understand why authors do this. There is not one thing that is romantic about the guy you love sticking his dick into a girl who treated you like shit, NOTHING!!! 😫
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Why does it always have to be the nemesis? I just will never understand why authors do this. There is not one thing that is romantic about the guy you love sticking his dick into a girl who treated you like shit, NOTHING!!! 😫
July 22, 2020
2.5 Stars
Overall Opinion: I struggled with this one. I didn’t connect with the characters. I didn’t feel their connection to each other. I didn’t like that the H never explained himself (at least enough to me) for his past actions. I didn’t like that we never got the H’s POV and that resulted in me not really feeling like I knew who he was supposed to be (other than hot — which after 3,000,000 descriptions about his hotness I GOT). I didn’t like that their conflict was resolved with a few weeks of therapy — I’m a psych major so I believe in the power of therapy, but! Years and years of resentment and bullying being fixed like that?! Yeah, I’m not believing it. And that ending?! It left me a little fuming tbh. It literally throws you into a “sneak peak” of another book and I was wondering where the ending for this book went! Oops. Sorry guys! I got a little ranty there, but this was a big disappointment for me.
Brief Summary of the Storyline: This is Scarlet and Shane’s story. Shane broke Scarlet’s heart right before senior year of high school, so she is shocked to find that he is her new neighbor when she buys her childhood dream house when she moves back to town. She is further shocked to find that she is going to be teaching his son and who said son’s mother is. There are some past baggage they have, some sexy times, and some ex confrontations...and they get a HFN ending.
Point Of View (POV): This was told in Scarlet’s POV.
Overall Pace of Story: Alright. It did feel a little slow at times but I never skimmed.
Instalove: No, but strong feelings still linger from their past.
H (Hero) rating: 3 stars. Shane. I don’t think I got a grasp on who he really was supposed to be.
h (heroine) rating: 3.5 stars. Scarlet. She was a little bit better than the H but just because we got her POV and a little bit deeper into her characterization (but not much).
Sadness level: Low, no tissues needed
Push/Pull: Yes
Heat level: Good. They have some good tension, chemistry, and scenes -- but not so much it takes away from the story.
Descriptive sex: Yes
OW (Other Woman)/OM (Other Man) drama: Yes
Sex scene with OW or OM: No
Cheating: Not during their current relationship, but some vague implication that the H cheated on her when they were in high school.
Separation: Yes
Possible Triggers: Yes
Closure: WTH was that ending?! I’m not going to going into it anymore, but I am really frustrated with that abrupt ending and vague closure. I would call it a HFN ending.
Safety: This one should be either Safe or Safe with exception for most safety gang readers depending on personal preferences.
Overall Opinion: I struggled with this one. I didn’t connect with the characters. I didn’t feel their connection to each other. I didn’t like that the H never explained himself (at least enough to me) for his past actions. I didn’t like that we never got the H’s POV and that resulted in me not really feeling like I knew who he was supposed to be (other than hot — which after 3,000,000 descriptions about his hotness I GOT). I didn’t like that their conflict was resolved with a few weeks of therapy — I’m a psych major so I believe in the power of therapy, but! Years and years of resentment and bullying being fixed like that?! Yeah, I’m not believing it. And that ending?! It left me a little fuming tbh. It literally throws you into a “sneak peak” of another book and I was wondering where the ending for this book went! Oops. Sorry guys! I got a little ranty there, but this was a big disappointment for me.
Brief Summary of the Storyline: This is Scarlet and Shane’s story. Shane broke Scarlet’s heart right before senior year of high school, so she is shocked to find that he is her new neighbor when she buys her childhood dream house when she moves back to town. She is further shocked to find that she is going to be teaching his son and who said son’s mother is. There are some past baggage they have, some sexy times, and some ex confrontations...and they get a HFN ending.
Point Of View (POV): This was told in Scarlet’s POV.
Overall Pace of Story: Alright. It did feel a little slow at times but I never skimmed.
Instalove: No, but strong feelings still linger from their past.
H (Hero) rating: 3 stars. Shane. I don’t think I got a grasp on who he really was supposed to be.
h (heroine) rating: 3.5 stars. Scarlet. She was a little bit better than the H but just because we got her POV and a little bit deeper into her characterization (but not much).
Sadness level: Low, no tissues needed
Push/Pull: Yes
Heat level: Good. They have some good tension, chemistry, and scenes -- but not so much it takes away from the story.
Descriptive sex: Yes
OW (Other Woman)/OM (Other Man) drama: Yes
Sex scene with OW or OM: No
Cheating: Not during their current relationship, but some vague implication that the H cheated on her when they were in high school.
Separation: Yes
Possible Triggers: Yes
Closure: WTH was that ending?! I’m not going to going into it anymore, but I am really frustrated with that abrupt ending and vague closure. I would call it a HFN ending.
Safety: This one should be either Safe or Safe with exception for most safety gang readers depending on personal preferences.
June 17, 2020
2.5 stars
K.A Tucker is a great writer and I've read some pretty great books from her. But while there were some awesome moments in this book, I'm feeling kinda let down and unsatisfied.
*mild spoilers ahead*
The ending was disappointing. It felt like it was wrapped into a nice little neat bow very quickly. It felt rushed. I didn't even realise I was on the last chapter. I also thought there would be more scenes of Cody and Scarlet together since he's a huge part of Shane's life.
And Shane's reason for doing what he did in high school was really stupid. I mean who isn't complicated ? We all have our shit. And if he didn't want a serious relationship why the hell did he even ask her out in the first place or spent the whole summer with her ?
Also all of the characters were 30 years old and they were acting like they were still in high school. Ugh.
I also didn't get a cute epilogue like I wanted. The ending was just unsatisfactory.
I like some drama in my books but after this I just wanna read a light and fluffy book like a palate cleanser lol. There was SO MUCH drama.
This was one of my most anticipated books and I'm so sad that I didn't like it more. :(
This had one of my favourite tropes ever - second chance. I love the angst in these books. And while there was some low tier angst in the begining of the book, I was again not satisfied. The second chance aspect of the book was so quickly over and that part was the one that I was excited for the most.
I also noticed that she was holding a grudge for a long time. But honestly if I had been in the same position, I wouldn't have forgiven so easily too.
One thing I did like is the romance between the couple. The road had A LOT of bumps but they both sped through like champs. The chemistry between them was good. I didn't take breaks while reading. I did not get bored one time in this book.
I really hope that she writes about some of the side characters in this world. I would like to read both Justine and Becca's books. I loved the friendship between Justine and Scarlet.
K.A Tucker is a great writer and I've read some pretty great books from her. But while there were some awesome moments in this book, I'm feeling kinda let down and unsatisfied.
*mild spoilers ahead*
The ending was disappointing. It felt like it was wrapped into a nice little neat bow very quickly. It felt rushed. I didn't even realise I was on the last chapter. I also thought there would be more scenes of Cody and Scarlet together since he's a huge part of Shane's life.
And Shane's reason for doing what he did in high school was really stupid. I mean who isn't complicated ? We all have our shit. And if he didn't want a serious relationship why the hell did he even ask her out in the first place or spent the whole summer with her ?
Also all of the characters were 30 years old and they were acting like they were still in high school. Ugh.
I also didn't get a cute epilogue like I wanted. The ending was just unsatisfactory.
I like some drama in my books but after this I just wanna read a light and fluffy book like a palate cleanser lol. There was SO MUCH drama.
This was one of my most anticipated books and I'm so sad that I didn't like it more. :(
This had one of my favourite tropes ever - second chance. I love the angst in these books. And while there was some low tier angst in the begining of the book, I was again not satisfied. The second chance aspect of the book was so quickly over and that part was the one that I was excited for the most.
I also noticed that she was holding a grudge for a long time. But honestly if I had been in the same position, I wouldn't have forgiven so easily too.
One thing I did like is the romance between the couple. The road had A LOT of bumps but they both sped through like champs. The chemistry between them was good. I didn't take breaks while reading. I did not get bored one time in this book.
I really hope that she writes about some of the side characters in this world. I would like to read both Justine and Becca's books. I loved the friendship between Justine and Scarlet.
June 29, 2020
I am a huge K.A Tucker fan. The Simple Wild was one of my all time favorite books. That being said, I was a little nervous about this one given the sub par reviews. However, I was pleasantly surprised and really enjoyed The Player Next Door. Scarlet Reed returns to Polson Falls to begin a teaching job after purchasing the fixer upper she loved as a child. Polson Falls holds some rough memories for her being the daughter of the town harlot. She had also suffered her first and only heartbreak at the hands of Shane Beckett. She is ready to move forward but is shocked to discover her new neighbor is none other than the man who crushed her heart to pieces in high school.
Shane was a jerk in high school but fully redeemed himself as an adult as far as I was concerned. He was sexy and funny and completely devoted to Scarlet. Some readers were upset that he didn’t have a better excuse for being a jerk in high school but I thought that honestly made the story more realistic. A lot of boys are jerks in high school but grow up to be better adults (of course some just stay jerks 🤣). I also really liked Scarlet as the main heroin. While I did feel that she held onto the high school resentment for a little too long, it wasn’t as drawn out as other reviews made it seem. Scarlet and Shane had great chemistry from their first encounter and the supporting characters were great as well. I would love a follow up featuring Justine and Dean.
This was the perfect quick summer read! Highly recommend for a beach read or quarantine escape. This was definitely lighter than most of K.A. Tucker’s books and I already can’t wait for her next one!
Shane was a jerk in high school but fully redeemed himself as an adult as far as I was concerned. He was sexy and funny and completely devoted to Scarlet. Some readers were upset that he didn’t have a better excuse for being a jerk in high school but I thought that honestly made the story more realistic. A lot of boys are jerks in high school but grow up to be better adults (of course some just stay jerks 🤣). I also really liked Scarlet as the main heroin. While I did feel that she held onto the high school resentment for a little too long, it wasn’t as drawn out as other reviews made it seem. Scarlet and Shane had great chemistry from their first encounter and the supporting characters were great as well. I would love a follow up featuring Justine and Dean.
This was the perfect quick summer read! Highly recommend for a beach read or quarantine escape. This was definitely lighter than most of K.A. Tucker’s books and I already can’t wait for her next one!
June 21, 2020
Somewhere between 3.5 and 4
Second chance romance is not my most favorite trope but I enjoy a sexy neighbor any day of the week.
The novel was a sweet and fluffy read, perfect for summer. I enjoyed the couple, and the supporting cast. And the novel had some wonderful scenes, great humor, chemistry, attraction, and some unresolved drama and emotional package that needed to be taken care of first. All in all, the book delivered in what it was supposed to do, being an easy and lighthearted novel.
For me it was the perfect book for in between heavier novels. The perfect summer beach read.
Now let's get to the reason why I didn't rate it higher.
I think my biggest issue was that the story didn't sync for me as well as it could have. The back and forth between the couple and the unresolved emotional scars from high-school dragged the book down a bit, much more than needed. And if I'm honest, it wasn't a standout romance novel for me. The something SPECIAL was missing to make it a memorable story.
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Second chance romance is not my most favorite trope but I enjoy a sexy neighbor any day of the week.
The novel was a sweet and fluffy read, perfect for summer. I enjoyed the couple, and the supporting cast. And the novel had some wonderful scenes, great humor, chemistry, attraction, and some unresolved drama and emotional package that needed to be taken care of first. All in all, the book delivered in what it was supposed to do, being an easy and lighthearted novel.
For me it was the perfect book for in between heavier novels. The perfect summer beach read.
Now let's get to the reason why I didn't rate it higher.
I think my biggest issue was that the story didn't sync for me as well as it could have. The back and forth between the couple and the unresolved emotional scars from high-school dragged the book down a bit, much more than needed. And if I'm honest, it wasn't a standout romance novel for me. The something SPECIAL was missing to make it a memorable story.
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July 18, 2020
Want to know something scandalous? I’ve never read K.A Tucker’s book until this year.
I read her Wild duet for the first time this year and I was a goner! I LOVED that duet so much so that I read it back to back…twice!
So yes, I was thrilled to read The Player Next Door. I remember I dropped by then current read and eagerly started this book.
I guess you could say it went all down hill from there? Nah..I think that’s a little harsh.
Truthfully speaking, I enjoyed The Player Next Door. Was it as good as her Wild duet? Absolutely not. Is it fair that I am comparing the two? No and a yes.
I think for me, the one thing that I ended up finding tedious was the whole childhood romance grudge. I remember thinking to myself “WOW Scarlett is beyond stubborn to the point where it’s getting really immature”. I get her reasoning but it’s been how long now? YEARS!!!!!
I like Shane to be honest. He was an ok dude.
Having said all that, I didn’t hate the book. Would I recommend it? Hm…. I don’t know. Maybe? There were moments that were fun and hot. So maybe I would recommend it if you were in the mood for something frivolous and fun.
3.5 stars
I read her Wild duet for the first time this year and I was a goner! I LOVED that duet so much so that I read it back to back…twice!
So yes, I was thrilled to read The Player Next Door. I remember I dropped by then current read and eagerly started this book.
I guess you could say it went all down hill from there? Nah..I think that’s a little harsh.
Truthfully speaking, I enjoyed The Player Next Door. Was it as good as her Wild duet? Absolutely not. Is it fair that I am comparing the two? No and a yes.
I think for me, the one thing that I ended up finding tedious was the whole childhood romance grudge. I remember thinking to myself “WOW Scarlett is beyond stubborn to the point where it’s getting really immature”. I get her reasoning but it’s been how long now? YEARS!!!!!
I like Shane to be honest. He was an ok dude.
Having said all that, I didn’t hate the book. Would I recommend it? Hm…. I don’t know. Maybe? There were moments that were fun and hot. So maybe I would recommend it if you were in the mood for something frivolous and fun.
3.5 stars
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
hell-fucking-no
June 16, 2020Absolutely disgusting. Hero was in love with her but he breaks up with her to fuck her bully and then knocks her up? get the fuckkkkkk outtaaa here with this garbage
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