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Hopes and Dreams
"Riley Warren has spent her entire life in the same small town in Upstate New York. There aren’t many prospects for true love, but she keeps hoping she’ll find it somehow. She dreams of owning the small movie theater she manages, but that takes money, which is hard to get when you live paycheck to paycheck. Victoria Thayer has fallen for a woman more interested in her money than her heart for the last time. When she runs into Riley, the first girl she ever had a crush on, at their high school reunion, she’s hoping there might just be a chance for the kind of relationship she’s always wanted. But Victoria can’t help wondering if Riley too is only after her money, and Riley can’t seem to forgive the fact that Victoria was part of a group of kids who used to bully her. When hopes and dreams are on the line, will true love find a way?"
181 pages, Kindle Edition
Published August 11, 2020
34 people are currently reading
83 people want to read
About the author
P.J. Trebelhorn
13 books75 followersPJ Trebelhorn was born and raised in the greater metropolitan area of Portland, Oregon. Her love of sports — mainly baseball and ice hockey — was fueled in part by her father’s interests. She likes to brag about the fact that her uncle managed the Milwaukee Brewers for five years, and the Chicago Cubs for one year.
PJ now resides in western New York with Cheryl, her partner of many years, and their menagerie of pets. When not writing or reading, PJ spends her time rooting for the Flyers, Phillies, and Eagles, or watching movies. (from the publisher's website)
PJ now resides in western New York with Cheryl, her partner of many years, and their menagerie of pets. When not writing or reading, PJ spends her time rooting for the Flyers, Phillies, and Eagles, or watching movies. (from the publisher's website)
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 39 reviews
July 26, 2020
I am extremely conflicted about this book. The overall idea of Hopes and Dreams was great, and both Riley and Vic have believable insecurities and are really relatable. I also root for the pair, but I feel like something was missing in the story and that made it hard for me to feel at ease with their relationship.
Riley Warren grew up with a negligent alcoholic mother and was relentlessly bullied by Vanessa Thayer and her friends in high school. The Thayers own the Thayer Group and are richer than Riley could imagine. When Riley's then-crush Vic Thayer, Vanessa's twin, comes back to small-town Wolf Bay for her sister's wedding, Riley does not want to see her. But Vic intends to convince Riley that she is a changed woman. As the pair reconnect, Vic is not sure if Riley is also after her money and Riley doesn't think Vic is serious about her.
The last name Thayer reminded me of Thayer School of Engineering at Dartmouth. No doubt it helped paint a picture of the big family name. Trebelhorn did a wonderful job at creating the awful yet almost comical Vera Thayer, Vic and Vanessa's mother. I don't know if I was seething or found her laughable whenever she showed up. The prologue of the story was also a nice touch. It features Riley and Vanessa, providing a bond between Riley and her love interest's twin whom she otherwise have nothing in common with.
This book is angsty with a lot of miscommunications. I think while Riley's and Vic's insecurities were strong, they were also the very reason I had a hard time believing that the relationship would work out in the long run. One of the issues I have is Riley's character inconsistency. When they exchanged ILYs, I had to go back and reread one of their first encounters because I couldn't quite believe it. I fully understand that Riley and Vic are both acting very reasonably throughout the development of their relationship, but I don't think I was let into their lives enough to actually understand what they are going through. There were a lot of convenient time gaps that led to my confusion over their romance working out. Also, Vic has some really horrible friends and that is not very convincing when she says she is a changed person. I honestly fear they would break up very soon.
There were also a few instances of fattism. Since a lot of the characters haven't seen each other in twenty years since high school, there were a lot of comments on how some did not become "fat" while others did. Twice, was "fat" and "ugly" used together, and that is not okay. Also, the cover is rather questionable. Who are the two women? With Vic's short hair barely reaching her shoulders, I doubt either of them was her.
Hopes and Dreams has so much potential and I found it mostly enjoyable. However, considering the big picture, it did not work for me. If you like rich girl/poor girl romance or twenty-year-crush romance, this book is for you.
I received an e-ARC from Bold Strokes Books via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Riley Warren grew up with a negligent alcoholic mother and was relentlessly bullied by Vanessa Thayer and her friends in high school. The Thayers own the Thayer Group and are richer than Riley could imagine. When Riley's then-crush Vic Thayer, Vanessa's twin, comes back to small-town Wolf Bay for her sister's wedding, Riley does not want to see her. But Vic intends to convince Riley that she is a changed woman. As the pair reconnect, Vic is not sure if Riley is also after her money and Riley doesn't think Vic is serious about her.
The last name Thayer reminded me of Thayer School of Engineering at Dartmouth. No doubt it helped paint a picture of the big family name. Trebelhorn did a wonderful job at creating the awful yet almost comical Vera Thayer, Vic and Vanessa's mother. I don't know if I was seething or found her laughable whenever she showed up. The prologue of the story was also a nice touch. It features Riley and Vanessa, providing a bond between Riley and her love interest's twin whom she otherwise have nothing in common with.
This book is angsty with a lot of miscommunications. I think while Riley's and Vic's insecurities were strong, they were also the very reason I had a hard time believing that the relationship would work out in the long run. One of the issues I have is Riley's character inconsistency. When they exchanged ILYs, I had to go back and reread one of their first encounters because I couldn't quite believe it. I fully understand that Riley and Vic are both acting very reasonably throughout the development of their relationship, but I don't think I was let into their lives enough to actually understand what they are going through. There were a lot of convenient time gaps that led to my confusion over their romance working out. Also, Vic has some really horrible friends and that is not very convincing when she says she is a changed person. I honestly fear they would break up very soon.
There were also a few instances of fattism. Since a lot of the characters haven't seen each other in twenty years since high school, there were a lot of comments on how some did not become "fat" while others did. Twice, was "fat" and "ugly" used together, and that is not okay. Also, the cover is rather questionable. Who are the two women? With Vic's short hair barely reaching her shoulders, I doubt either of them was her.
Hopes and Dreams has so much potential and I found it mostly enjoyable. However, considering the big picture, it did not work for me. If you like rich girl/poor girl romance or twenty-year-crush romance, this book is for you.
I received an e-ARC from Bold Strokes Books via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
October 25, 2020
This was my first book by Trebelhorn. While a did like it, I had some issues with it as well.
“Hopes and Dreams” is about Riley and Vic Thayer. They are from the same small town in New York and grew up together. Vic comes from a wealthy family and she and her sister bullied Riley when they were in high school because she was poor. After she left for college, Vic never went back to their town until now. It’s been 20 years since they graduated high school and Vic is finally back to help prepare for her sister’s wedding.
I found it very difficult to believe that both Riley and Vic could just start dating so quickly after meeting back up after so many years. They never dated in high school, they only had small crushes on each other. Plus, you add in the fact that Vic was complicit in the bullying Riley had to endure it just felt very far fetched to me. They each have feelings and issues with things that happened in the past but they seemed to sweep a lot of it under the rug for the most part. I would have really liked the story a lot more if Trebelhorn had dealt with everything a bit more deeply.
A lot of the characters were also inconsistent to me about their thoughts and feelings on things. The worst being Vic’s sister Vanessa. She would go from being apologetic to Riley to telling Vic that she thought she could do better. There just seemed to be a lot of back and forth and it got annoying after a while.
Just an aside, but the cover of the book…I don’t feel has anything to do with the actual book? I felt like it completely misrepresents the book.
While I wasn’t crazy about this story, I think I’m willing to give her another chance as this wasn’t a bad story, I just didn’t agree with a lot of the choices made.
“Hopes and Dreams” is about Riley and Vic Thayer. They are from the same small town in New York and grew up together. Vic comes from a wealthy family and she and her sister bullied Riley when they were in high school because she was poor. After she left for college, Vic never went back to their town until now. It’s been 20 years since they graduated high school and Vic is finally back to help prepare for her sister’s wedding.
I found it very difficult to believe that both Riley and Vic could just start dating so quickly after meeting back up after so many years. They never dated in high school, they only had small crushes on each other. Plus, you add in the fact that Vic was complicit in the bullying Riley had to endure it just felt very far fetched to me. They each have feelings and issues with things that happened in the past but they seemed to sweep a lot of it under the rug for the most part. I would have really liked the story a lot more if Trebelhorn had dealt with everything a bit more deeply.
A lot of the characters were also inconsistent to me about their thoughts and feelings on things. The worst being Vic’s sister Vanessa. She would go from being apologetic to Riley to telling Vic that she thought she could do better. There just seemed to be a lot of back and forth and it got annoying after a while.
Just an aside, but the cover of the book…I don’t feel has anything to do with the actual book? I felt like it completely misrepresents the book.
While I wasn’t crazy about this story, I think I’m willing to give her another chance as this wasn’t a bad story, I just didn’t agree with a lot of the choices made.
January 17, 2021
This had me a little torn... 'cause I didn't know whether to give it two stars or three. I thought the story was pretty good, and I liked the main characters individually. I just thought it was weird to have them connect and date after the torment Vic, her sister and their friends put Riley through way back when.
I think if the book was longer, and Vic did more than just take Riley out to dinner to show she'd actually changed, I'd have believed in their connection more.
Overall, I'm willing to ignore these conflicting thoughts 'cause I did like the story and how it all ended, or started again, rather for Riley and Vic.
I think if the book was longer, and Vic did more than just take Riley out to dinner to show she'd actually changed, I'd have believed in their connection more.
Overall, I'm willing to ignore these conflicting thoughts 'cause I did like the story and how it all ended, or started again, rather for Riley and Vic.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 19, 2020
ARc received via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
This one had an interesting premise, but it didn’t live up to it. This features MC Riley, who manages a movie theatre in her home town, and Vic who is returning home for her twin sister’s wedding. Vic and her sister Vanessa used to bully Riley back in high school, and Riley and Vic both had unrequited crushes on the other.
So, as I said, interesting premise, and both Riley and Vic are interesting and likeable characters individually, but for me the chemistry didn’t quite gel. Although I did like that Vic had thought of what she’d done to Riley over the years and made amends right away. I still couldn’t get over Riley actually wanting to be with Vic after the way she’d treated her though.
Megan, Riley’s bff was a good character, but Vanessa, Vic’s twin blew hot and cold, and I couldn’t warm to her. The other issue was that both women had terrible relationships with their mothers, who were very cartoonishly drawn, and much of the dialogue and the way those scenes turned out just seemed over the top to me. Same with the reunion scene, I didn’t buy that people would actually act like that at a reunion.
Then there’s the constant harping on the past and Vic’s insecurity that Riley only wants her for her money. Riley also has insecurities and these lead to the requisite breakup, which is resolved blindingly fast. I didn’t buy the HEA, in fact, I barely bought the ending as a HFN. I wish I’d liked this as much as I thought I would. 3 stars.
This one had an interesting premise, but it didn’t live up to it. This features MC Riley, who manages a movie theatre in her home town, and Vic who is returning home for her twin sister’s wedding. Vic and her sister Vanessa used to bully Riley back in high school, and Riley and Vic both had unrequited crushes on the other.
So, as I said, interesting premise, and both Riley and Vic are interesting and likeable characters individually, but for me the chemistry didn’t quite gel. Although I did like that Vic had thought of what she’d done to Riley over the years and made amends right away. I still couldn’t get over Riley actually wanting to be with Vic after the way she’d treated her though.
Megan, Riley’s bff was a good character, but Vanessa, Vic’s twin blew hot and cold, and I couldn’t warm to her. The other issue was that both women had terrible relationships with their mothers, who were very cartoonishly drawn, and much of the dialogue and the way those scenes turned out just seemed over the top to me. Same with the reunion scene, I didn’t buy that people would actually act like that at a reunion.
Then there’s the constant harping on the past and Vic’s insecurity that Riley only wants her for her money. Riley also has insecurities and these lead to the requisite breakup, which is resolved blindingly fast. I didn’t buy the HEA, in fact, I barely bought the ending as a HFN. I wish I’d liked this as much as I thought I would. 3 stars.
July 27, 2020
I wish I could say that I totally loved this book, but I didn’t. For that reason, my review of Hopes and Dreams by P.J. Trebelhorn is going to be a mixture of good and bad.
First the good. I did really like the premise of the story. The idea of a book about two women where one had been a bully to the other in high school is an interesting story line. It provides all kinds of angst as well as moments of introspection for the characters about their lives then and now. Both of those things did happen in the story, at least with the two main characters, Riley and Vic. Overall, the tale is well written and flows easily. I read the entire book without having to skim which sometimes happens with stories I have trouble with.
My biggest problem is with the characters, both main and secondary. I connected with Riley who was the bullying victim in the novel. Her thoughts and actions ring true to her character. I had trouble connecting with Vic. She was wishy-washy through most of the tale, and only really showed she had any kind of a back bone when she was fighting with her mother. She was constantly giving in to her twin sister Vanessa’s wishes and actions. Vanessa was one the leaders of the group that bullied Riley in high school, but throughout the novel she would go from being apologetic for her former behavior to acting like an adult version of that high school bully. It happened so often that I felt like I was getting virtual whiplash. I began thinking of her as this book’s Dr. Jekyll and Ms. Hyde. She was so irritating that I think whatever her character was supposed to do for the story became lost. She needed to be either one or the other, or at least show a steady progression of character improvement.
The other major problem with this novel is the ending. The big conflict/angst part of the tale didn’t happen until very late in the story, and because of that, there was an extremely short resolution to the romance. This, of course, made the ending feel very rushed. In fact, this book is screaming for an epilogue that isn’t there, and I’m left wondering if these two will really stay a couple.
As I said at the beginning of this book, the story is not all bad. It did keep my interest, and I can tell from the writing that Ms. Trebelhorn is an accomplished writer. Though I honestly can’t recommend this novel, I will look forward to reading more of her writing.
Thanks to NetGalley and Bold Strokes Books for giving me the chance to read and honestly review this novel.
Rainbow Reflections: http://rainbowreflections.home.blog/
First the good. I did really like the premise of the story. The idea of a book about two women where one had been a bully to the other in high school is an interesting story line. It provides all kinds of angst as well as moments of introspection for the characters about their lives then and now. Both of those things did happen in the story, at least with the two main characters, Riley and Vic. Overall, the tale is well written and flows easily. I read the entire book without having to skim which sometimes happens with stories I have trouble with.
My biggest problem is with the characters, both main and secondary. I connected with Riley who was the bullying victim in the novel. Her thoughts and actions ring true to her character. I had trouble connecting with Vic. She was wishy-washy through most of the tale, and only really showed she had any kind of a back bone when she was fighting with her mother. She was constantly giving in to her twin sister Vanessa’s wishes and actions. Vanessa was one the leaders of the group that bullied Riley in high school, but throughout the novel she would go from being apologetic for her former behavior to acting like an adult version of that high school bully. It happened so often that I felt like I was getting virtual whiplash. I began thinking of her as this book’s Dr. Jekyll and Ms. Hyde. She was so irritating that I think whatever her character was supposed to do for the story became lost. She needed to be either one or the other, or at least show a steady progression of character improvement.
The other major problem with this novel is the ending. The big conflict/angst part of the tale didn’t happen until very late in the story, and because of that, there was an extremely short resolution to the romance. This, of course, made the ending feel very rushed. In fact, this book is screaming for an epilogue that isn’t there, and I’m left wondering if these two will really stay a couple.
As I said at the beginning of this book, the story is not all bad. It did keep my interest, and I can tell from the writing that Ms. Trebelhorn is an accomplished writer. Though I honestly can’t recommend this novel, I will look forward to reading more of her writing.
Thanks to NetGalley and Bold Strokes Books for giving me the chance to read and honestly review this novel.
Rainbow Reflections: http://rainbowreflections.home.blog/
August 13, 2020
Victoria (Vic) Thayer hadn’t been back to Wolf Bay for a while, it fact more than a few years but she was returning now for one reason and one reason only. And that was to be with her twin sister, Vanessa on her wedding day. She was asked to leave and never come back by her mother Vera, upon finding out Vic was a lesbian. Her kind was not welcome but Vera didn’t have a choice if she wanted Vanessa to use the family estate for her wedding.
Even though she didn’t want to work in the family business, Vic couldn’t find a way to quit and be able to work on her painting. Now going back seems to have given her the courage she needed. She wasn’t moving back to be close to her mother but to hopefully develop a relationship with the girl she’d crushed on in highschool, Riley Warren.
Riley Warren never forgot the Thayer twins. They along with their friends made high school a nightmare for her. Riley grew up poor, getting her clothing from a local charity. She wouldn’t find any comfort living with an alcoholic mother who just plain and simply didn't want her around. She had been told that all her life. Her saving grace was the older couple who looked out for her and her best friend Megan, who she now shared a home with.
Working at the local theatre was not going to make her rich but if she could find a way to purchase the place she could at least make enough so she wasn’t always broke. Now with the twins coming home for the wedding and Vic asking Riley if they could have Vanessa's bridal shower at the theatre was just going too far.
Ms Trebelhorn has a way of writing that when you start reading you just don’t want to put down. Both MC’s are likeable and engaging with just enough twists in the plot to make for a very enjoyable read.
ARC via NetGalley/Bold Stroke Books
Even though she didn’t want to work in the family business, Vic couldn’t find a way to quit and be able to work on her painting. Now going back seems to have given her the courage she needed. She wasn’t moving back to be close to her mother but to hopefully develop a relationship with the girl she’d crushed on in highschool, Riley Warren.
Riley Warren never forgot the Thayer twins. They along with their friends made high school a nightmare for her. Riley grew up poor, getting her clothing from a local charity. She wouldn’t find any comfort living with an alcoholic mother who just plain and simply didn't want her around. She had been told that all her life. Her saving grace was the older couple who looked out for her and her best friend Megan, who she now shared a home with.
Working at the local theatre was not going to make her rich but if she could find a way to purchase the place she could at least make enough so she wasn’t always broke. Now with the twins coming home for the wedding and Vic asking Riley if they could have Vanessa's bridal shower at the theatre was just going too far.
Ms Trebelhorn has a way of writing that when you start reading you just don’t want to put down. Both MC’s are likeable and engaging with just enough twists in the plot to make for a very enjoyable read.
ARC via NetGalley/Bold Stroke Books
July 9, 2020
Riley spent her whole like in her small town Wolf Lake Bay she works at a movie theater and dreams of owning it one day. She has a great friend in Megan and the two people Nancy and Andy who she consider more her parents then her own mother who never wanted nothing to do with her.
Victoria aka Vic in town for her twin sister Vanessa wedding she doesn’t want to go back to her small town especially staying with her mother Vera who disown her for being a lesbian but also because of the guilt she feels when she was teenager and her and sister and their friends use to bully Riley.
Vic has a crush on Riley and so did Riley but neither one knew because they both was struggling with their feelings and as she tries to stick up for her but cowardly join in the bullying so she wouldn’t get bully herself. Riley and Vic meets years later and Vic vow this time she tell Riley how she feels and apologize for the way she treated her in high school.
Even though they both came from different backgrounds Vic being rich and Riley being poor they both seem to fit but can they believe that and not let what happen in the past and what others say keep them from being happy.
I received an ARC copy of this book from the Publisher via Netgalley and voluntarily leaving my review.
Victoria aka Vic in town for her twin sister Vanessa wedding she doesn’t want to go back to her small town especially staying with her mother Vera who disown her for being a lesbian but also because of the guilt she feels when she was teenager and her and sister and their friends use to bully Riley.
Vic has a crush on Riley and so did Riley but neither one knew because they both was struggling with their feelings and as she tries to stick up for her but cowardly join in the bullying so she wouldn’t get bully herself. Riley and Vic meets years later and Vic vow this time she tell Riley how she feels and apologize for the way she treated her in high school.
Even though they both came from different backgrounds Vic being rich and Riley being poor they both seem to fit but can they believe that and not let what happen in the past and what others say keep them from being happy.
I received an ARC copy of this book from the Publisher via Netgalley and voluntarily leaving my review.
July 26, 2022
Waoh!
Reading this took a lot from me to finish.
The depiction and character relationships were disappointedly shallow.
We have here a twin who romantically chases a woman who in high school was bullied by her twin and friends. Twins are rich, woman is not. And goes on the drama involved.
Now my problems with the story are many. I had a whole list of them earlier but I lost it while typing and not encouraged to redo. The only thing I can say is how could this have been oversighted by beta or alpha readers much less an editor?
Reading this took a lot from me to finish.
The depiction and character relationships were disappointedly shallow.
We have here a twin who romantically chases a woman who in high school was bullied by her twin and friends. Twins are rich, woman is not. And goes on the drama involved.
Now my problems with the story are many. I had a whole list of them earlier but I lost it while typing and not encouraged to redo. The only thing I can say is how could this have been oversighted by beta or alpha readers much less an editor?
July 20, 2020
Riley Warren grew up poor with an alcoholic mother who never did anything for her. She still lives in the same town she grew up and works at the local movie theater that she wishes to own one day. She was bullied by her peers in HS and she even had a crush on one of them. Victoria Thayer and her twin sister (who was the ring leader) was part of the group that tormented Riley. Victoria really didn't want to bully Riley growing up. She often tried to defend her because she had feelings for Riley in HS. Victoria now goes by Vic and she has her own set of issues. Most women want her for her money and her mom has pretty much disowned her. Vic and her twin head back to the town they grew up in for Vic's sister's wedding and also to attend their 10 year class reunion.
So Hopes and Dreams was just ok for me. I had issues with Vic and her feelings for Riley and how Riley even could have a crush on someone who was not kind to her in HS. I just found it odd. I did like Riley and her supportive friends and I could see that she has some major issues with trust. The connection between Riley and Vic just doesn't seem believable. I did like the how Riley took her time with Vic, but Vic still had a hard time trusting that Riley would only want her money. That just was odd because Riley didn't seek her out and she was very cautious. So I did have some issues with this one. I like the concept of the story but just think the execution was great.
3 stars because I made it through relatively quickly and was still a decent enough read.
This arc was provided by the publisher for an honest review.
So Hopes and Dreams was just ok for me. I had issues with Vic and her feelings for Riley and how Riley even could have a crush on someone who was not kind to her in HS. I just found it odd. I did like Riley and her supportive friends and I could see that she has some major issues with trust. The connection between Riley and Vic just doesn't seem believable. I did like the how Riley took her time with Vic, but Vic still had a hard time trusting that Riley would only want her money. That just was odd because Riley didn't seek her out and she was very cautious. So I did have some issues with this one. I like the concept of the story but just think the execution was great.
3 stars because I made it through relatively quickly and was still a decent enough read.
This arc was provided by the publisher for an honest review.
August 13, 2020
I really really need a system that allows half stars on ratings. This was a curious book, because I enjoyed it, but not as much as I enjoy the ones I rate 4 stars, but it wasn't as bad as a 3 star. It had it's issues, the rushed lust on first sight for someone who supossedly hated someone so much was my main complain.
But let me say, the author does explain the internal conflict that causes Riley, and she does externalize it, it's so adult and mature about it, it was great, but still I felt it rushed. So it's a 3 1/2 stars for this one.
But let me say, the author does explain the internal conflict that causes Riley, and she does externalize it, it's so adult and mature about it, it was great, but still I felt it rushed. So it's a 3 1/2 stars for this one.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 27, 2020
I had hoped this book was a bit better than it actually was. The blurb had me wondering if this would be a nice book to read, and it was an ok read, but the story is just a bit on the boring side for me.
Riley has lived in the same town all her life when one night she is driving home and she sees an accident happen. She saves the woman in the car online to discover it's one of the Thayer twins, her biggest tormentors from high school. Riley had a crush on Victoria Thayer, the nicer one of the twins, the woman she saved is Vanessa. Fast forward to a year later and the Thayer twins are back in town for Vanessa's wedding. Vic has always felt bad about how they treated Riley in high school and now she has discovered no one in her family has ever thanked Riley for saving Vanessa's life, she needs to apologize and see if she can ever connect with her. Vic had a secret crush on Riley when they were in high school but Vic hadn't figured out that she was into women. Riley is on the fence when they meet up again but also pulled to Vic. They both held onto the crush they had in high school. Dealing with horrible mothers and some self-esteem issues their budding relationship is riddled with doubt and pulling away.
I didn't care much for either of the main characters and they did nothing to win me over. Their story isn't convincing for me because Riley never fully trusts Vic, because of the bullying and her own self-esteem issues. Riley wants to take the relationship slowly, but when Vic says she is moving closer to their hometown Riley happily moves in with her. There are just so many things that don't make sense to me.
This book was mediocre at best.
*ARC received in exchange for an honest review*
Riley has lived in the same town all her life when one night she is driving home and she sees an accident happen. She saves the woman in the car online to discover it's one of the Thayer twins, her biggest tormentors from high school. Riley had a crush on Victoria Thayer, the nicer one of the twins, the woman she saved is Vanessa. Fast forward to a year later and the Thayer twins are back in town for Vanessa's wedding. Vic has always felt bad about how they treated Riley in high school and now she has discovered no one in her family has ever thanked Riley for saving Vanessa's life, she needs to apologize and see if she can ever connect with her. Vic had a secret crush on Riley when they were in high school but Vic hadn't figured out that she was into women. Riley is on the fence when they meet up again but also pulled to Vic. They both held onto the crush they had in high school. Dealing with horrible mothers and some self-esteem issues their budding relationship is riddled with doubt and pulling away.
I didn't care much for either of the main characters and they did nothing to win me over. Their story isn't convincing for me because Riley never fully trusts Vic, because of the bullying and her own self-esteem issues. Riley wants to take the relationship slowly, but when Vic says she is moving closer to their hometown Riley happily moves in with her. There are just so many things that don't make sense to me.
This book was mediocre at best.
*ARC received in exchange for an honest review*
July 14, 2020
2.5 Stars. Riley Warren is the manager of the local movie theater and has never left her home town. She was bullied in high school by a ground of the popular girls, including the twins Victoria and Vanessa Thayer. Riley saves Vanessa one night after witnessing a car accident and is upset when she is never thanked for saving the person she hates the most form high school. Vic was always afraid of what to do in high school, she knew she was different and had a crush on the person they made fun of the most, Riley. Riley also secretly had a crush on Vic but knew it would never go anywhere. When they see each other 20 years after high school in their home town, they cannot stay away from each other as they both have changed.
This novel was okay, I feel like the two characters started to have feelings too quick. Riley forgave Vic very quickly for her crappy high school, she did not even really give it any time. Riley seemed to just accept the change, which I did not really like. They really only dated a couple weeks and that seemed to bother how fast their relationship changed. Vic is afraid of Riley stealing her money and I feel like that barely comes up. The drama in this book, is the worst, its a misunderstanding that could have been solved by a conversation. I am not sure I would recommend this one.
This novel was okay, I feel like the two characters started to have feelings too quick. Riley forgave Vic very quickly for her crappy high school, she did not even really give it any time. Riley seemed to just accept the change, which I did not really like. They really only dated a couple weeks and that seemed to bother how fast their relationship changed. Vic is afraid of Riley stealing her money and I feel like that barely comes up. The drama in this book, is the worst, its a misunderstanding that could have been solved by a conversation. I am not sure I would recommend this one.
July 16, 2020
2 stars
Riley Warren will never forget the bullying she experienced at the hands of Vanessa Thayer's friend group in high school. Looking back, she can see they were all just rich, entitled jerks, including Victoria, Vanessa's twin sister. So why is it that Riley's still harboring a crush on Victoria after all this time? It's taken Victoria Thayer a while to take control of her life. After being disowned by her mother for being a lesbian, only her sister's upcoming wedding can bring Victoria back to the town where she grew up. But now that she is back home, she might as well take the chance to win over the girl she's always wanted—Riley Warren. Can Victoria and Riley find their happily ever after, or was their love story doomed from the start?
cw: suicidal thoughts (past), minor character death, so much homophobia, so much classism, so much mommy issues, alcoholism, car accident, child neglect (past)
Argh. So I really did not get what I expected or wanted from this book. As you can tell by my content warnings, this was a rough ride. Okay, I did think the book would need to address the past bullying, but it was too much. The bullying did not stay in the past and there was way too much hate in this book for it to be a pleasant read.
The Characters: Riley was a nice person, even though her lack of self confidence was a bit frustrating at times. Vic was... supposed to be nice? But I kind of just got the read that she was obsessed with money / entitled like the rest of her family, but she's slightly better because she's not homophobic because she's gay herself. The MCs were pretty defined by their issues with their mothers, and that made them both one-dimensional in a way. I didn't really like any of the side characters. Some were plain jerks, and even the nice ones made poor judgment calls at least once. Small peeve, but I got the twins' names mixed up super often in the beginning. I also did not like the Thayer family dynamic. There's the extremely homophobic mother, the supportive father who stands up to the mother, and the twin sister who is supportive but sometimes makes homophobic and classist comments. It didn't mesh or make sense to me. You know when you're reading amateur writing and all the characters sound the same because they're written in the same voice? That's what this felt like, except there was the author's voice and the author-imitating-bigotry voice.
The Romance: I couldn't root for Riley and Victoria. I'm not totally convinced that Vic is a good person, and Riley also has her own issues surrounding money. (I suddenly cringed remembering how Riley gushed over Victoria's rooftop pool and heated bathroom floor.) I didn't buy the crushes that Riley and Vic supposedly had on each other in high school. There were some enjoyable reactions thrown in there, but it was mainly unconvincing progress in which they fall in love way too fast, then some angst, then the HEA.
The Plot: The plot is the romance, which was a bit unfortunate. It doesn't make sense.
The Writing: Here's the thing... I've read one of PJ Trebelhorn's sports romances before, and I enjoyed it. I'm very confused about what happened here. As I started reading, I thought to myself, okay, this is a little rocky but I'll probably get into the story soon. And then it got worse and worse and fell apart.
Sigh, I'm sad about writing such a negative review. I think as I was reading and more problems with the plot appeared, I disengaged from the storyline and just kept pushing ahead without trying to get back into it. So at the end, I was just left with a lot of complaints and not much positive feedback.
I think my main issue with this book was that it felt out of touch. In some ways, it was kind of problematic. While the homophobia is addressed somewhat, I don't think the class difference is talked about enough.
Unless you have a thing for overdone poor girl/rich girl romances, I would not recommend this.
**I received an ARC via NetGalley. All opinions are my own.
Riley Warren will never forget the bullying she experienced at the hands of Vanessa Thayer's friend group in high school. Looking back, she can see they were all just rich, entitled jerks, including Victoria, Vanessa's twin sister. So why is it that Riley's still harboring a crush on Victoria after all this time? It's taken Victoria Thayer a while to take control of her life. After being disowned by her mother for being a lesbian, only her sister's upcoming wedding can bring Victoria back to the town where she grew up. But now that she is back home, she might as well take the chance to win over the girl she's always wanted—Riley Warren. Can Victoria and Riley find their happily ever after, or was their love story doomed from the start?
cw: suicidal thoughts (past), minor character death, so much homophobia, so much classism, so much mommy issues, alcoholism, car accident, child neglect (past)
Argh. So I really did not get what I expected or wanted from this book. As you can tell by my content warnings, this was a rough ride. Okay, I did think the book would need to address the past bullying, but it was too much. The bullying did not stay in the past and there was way too much hate in this book for it to be a pleasant read.
The Characters: Riley was a nice person, even though her lack of self confidence was a bit frustrating at times. Vic was... supposed to be nice? But I kind of just got the read that she was obsessed with money / entitled like the rest of her family, but she's slightly better because she's not homophobic because she's gay herself. The MCs were pretty defined by their issues with their mothers, and that made them both one-dimensional in a way. I didn't really like any of the side characters. Some were plain jerks, and even the nice ones made poor judgment calls at least once. Small peeve, but I got the twins' names mixed up super often in the beginning. I also did not like the Thayer family dynamic. There's the extremely homophobic mother, the supportive father who stands up to the mother, and the twin sister who is supportive but sometimes makes homophobic and classist comments. It didn't mesh or make sense to me. You know when you're reading amateur writing and all the characters sound the same because they're written in the same voice? That's what this felt like, except there was the author's voice and the author-imitating-bigotry voice.
The Romance: I couldn't root for Riley and Victoria. I'm not totally convinced that Vic is a good person, and Riley also has her own issues surrounding money. (I suddenly cringed remembering how Riley gushed over Victoria's rooftop pool and heated bathroom floor.) I didn't buy the crushes that Riley and Vic supposedly had on each other in high school. There were some enjoyable reactions thrown in there, but it was mainly unconvincing progress in which they fall in love way too fast, then some angst, then the HEA.
The Plot: The plot is the romance, which was a bit unfortunate. It doesn't make sense.
The Writing: Here's the thing... I've read one of PJ Trebelhorn's sports romances before, and I enjoyed it. I'm very confused about what happened here. As I started reading, I thought to myself, okay, this is a little rocky but I'll probably get into the story soon. And then it got worse and worse and fell apart.
Sigh, I'm sad about writing such a negative review. I think as I was reading and more problems with the plot appeared, I disengaged from the storyline and just kept pushing ahead without trying to get back into it. So at the end, I was just left with a lot of complaints and not much positive feedback.
I think my main issue with this book was that it felt out of touch. In some ways, it was kind of problematic. While the homophobia is addressed somewhat, I don't think the class difference is talked about enough.
Unless you have a thing for overdone poor girl/rich girl romances, I would not recommend this.
**I received an ARC via NetGalley. All opinions are my own.
August 14, 2020
Mushy Awwwws
Riley has spent her whole life in her small home town. As a kid she was bullied terribly because she was poor, had an alcoholic mother and was a lesbian. As a result, her self-esteem has never been overly high but she doesn’t give up and in spite of living paycheck to paycheck she has hopes and dreams that keep her going. Vic and her sister Vanessa are twins and filthy rich. They were among the biggest tormentors back in the day. What no one knew is that Vic had such confusing feelings for the other girl but it wouldn’t be until much later that she would understand. Now they have a second chance but there is so much standing in their way. Can they find their way out of the past or is there just too much damage to forge ahead?
PJ Trebelhorn is one of my go to authors when I need a really well written, feel good romance. She has never failed me and this book is just another showcase of her wonderful talent. Riley and Vic have much more in common than they knew and it was interesting to see how they deal with the things and people that made them who they are. I loved watching these two women bond and fall in love while doing their best to forgive and move on. This story has so many emotions and so much drama that kept me hooked and reading well into the night. I laughed and cried, got mad and happy and felt so much relief when things started to go right again. I fell a little in love with both Riley and Vic and wanted the best for them both. They are characters I will think about for a while to come. If you love sweet, dramatic reunion, enemy to friend to lover books, this one is one of the best.
Riley has spent her whole life in her small home town. As a kid she was bullied terribly because she was poor, had an alcoholic mother and was a lesbian. As a result, her self-esteem has never been overly high but she doesn’t give up and in spite of living paycheck to paycheck she has hopes and dreams that keep her going. Vic and her sister Vanessa are twins and filthy rich. They were among the biggest tormentors back in the day. What no one knew is that Vic had such confusing feelings for the other girl but it wouldn’t be until much later that she would understand. Now they have a second chance but there is so much standing in their way. Can they find their way out of the past or is there just too much damage to forge ahead?
PJ Trebelhorn is one of my go to authors when I need a really well written, feel good romance. She has never failed me and this book is just another showcase of her wonderful talent. Riley and Vic have much more in common than they knew and it was interesting to see how they deal with the things and people that made them who they are. I loved watching these two women bond and fall in love while doing their best to forgive and move on. This story has so many emotions and so much drama that kept me hooked and reading well into the night. I laughed and cried, got mad and happy and felt so much relief when things started to go right again. I fell a little in love with both Riley and Vic and wanted the best for them both. They are characters I will think about for a while to come. If you love sweet, dramatic reunion, enemy to friend to lover books, this one is one of the best.
August 18, 2020
Riley has lived all her life in a small town while Victoria Thayer with all her wealth left town after high school. The two reunite at a high school reunion when Victoria returns home for her sister's wedding, and their history comes bubbling to the surface. Riley was bullied all throughout high school by Victoria's sister Vanessa and their group of friends. Old hurts and new insecurities butt heads with their attraction. Will their new found love survive?
The past few books by PJ Trebelhorn have been a bit of a miss for me. I do really enjoy their writing style overall, with cute small towns and nice secondary characters and great chemistry between the mains. However this book had a little too many coincidences and inconsistencies that made me have to suspend belief a little more than I like and some of the many mentions of wealth made me feel little icky in this book. There is a lot of angst and family drama in this book but it is fairly well balanced with some lighter, sweeter moments.
I received an ARC via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
The past few books by PJ Trebelhorn have been a bit of a miss for me. I do really enjoy their writing style overall, with cute small towns and nice secondary characters and great chemistry between the mains. However this book had a little too many coincidences and inconsistencies that made me have to suspend belief a little more than I like and some of the many mentions of wealth made me feel little icky in this book. There is a lot of angst and family drama in this book but it is fairly well balanced with some lighter, sweeter moments.
I received an ARC via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
August 9, 2020
Hopes and Dreams tells the story of Riley and Vic. Riley is a small town movie theatre manager who grew up poor, living in a trailer park with her alcoholic, abusive mother. Vic is from a ridiculously wealthy family. She was part of the popular crowd, and her sister Vanessa bullied Riley relentlessly during their high school years. Both Riley and Vic were hiding secret crushes on each other in their youth.
20 years later, Vic is back in town for her sister's wedding. The two reconnect, and sparks fly. But can they overcome their past?
This was a very cute love story. Definitely predictable, but also delving into some more serious emotional issues. I have read a number of relatively similar books, and this one was a very good addition to the collection. It didn't leap out and grab my attention quite as much as some, which is why I would give it 3.5 stars if half stars were an option. There was nothing that I particularly disliked, but it didn't pull me in quite as much as some others. I didn't feel as connected to the characters, to any of their little individual quirks. Overall it was a sweet story, kind of a comforting, but ultimately not exceptional love story.
I would definitely recommend it if you are a fun of books like this one. I did like the slower build up to the romance. It just didn't stand out from other books I have read recently.
20 years later, Vic is back in town for her sister's wedding. The two reconnect, and sparks fly. But can they overcome their past?
This was a very cute love story. Definitely predictable, but also delving into some more serious emotional issues. I have read a number of relatively similar books, and this one was a very good addition to the collection. It didn't leap out and grab my attention quite as much as some, which is why I would give it 3.5 stars if half stars were an option. There was nothing that I particularly disliked, but it didn't pull me in quite as much as some others. I didn't feel as connected to the characters, to any of their little individual quirks. Overall it was a sweet story, kind of a comforting, but ultimately not exceptional love story.
I would definitely recommend it if you are a fun of books like this one. I did like the slower build up to the romance. It just didn't stand out from other books I have read recently.
July 16, 2020
This new novel by PJ Trebelhorn is such a sweet and refreshing love story, a story of forgiveness and learning to put the hurts of growing up behind. Riley Warren had been bullied throughout high school, even to the point of being told she should kill herself. One of those that were part of the bullying group was Victoria Thayer, who secretly had a crush on Riley but was not sure how to deal with the confusing feelings she was having. Fast forward nearly 20 years and their paths cross again, this time with Vic having come to terms with her sexuality and determined to apologize for the pain she had caused. Riley still lived in the same town, working and living paycheck to paycheck. The two search for how to forgive and build a new relationship together.
This was a fantastic story, a slow burn that leaves you wanting this couple to get together so badly that it hurts. The author does a great job of developing the back story and showing how powerful words can be as a teenager and how they can go on to affect you for the rest of your life. Riley is justified in being cautious with her forgiveness after the pain that she had gone through growing up. But Vic slowly chips away at the walls Riley had built up. It is such a beautiful story of forgiveness.
If you are looking for a good slow burn love story, this one will be a sure hit for you.
I received an ARC of this novel in exchange for a fair and unbiased review.
This was a fantastic story, a slow burn that leaves you wanting this couple to get together so badly that it hurts. The author does a great job of developing the back story and showing how powerful words can be as a teenager and how they can go on to affect you for the rest of your life. Riley is justified in being cautious with her forgiveness after the pain that she had gone through growing up. But Vic slowly chips away at the walls Riley had built up. It is such a beautiful story of forgiveness.
If you are looking for a good slow burn love story, this one will be a sure hit for you.
I received an ARC of this novel in exchange for a fair and unbiased review.
July 9, 2020
With the book „Hopes and Dreams“ by PJ Trebelhorn my expectations were not disappointed. A beautifully written book with likeable characters and a convincing plot.
After many years Riley meets Vic again, one of her tormentors, who made her high school days hell. Even though she had a crush on her back then, she doesn't want to have anything to do with her anymore. Vic has other plans and does everything to reconcile with Riley and to apologize for her behaviour back then. The two come from different worlds, Riley grew up in the trailer park and Vic comes from a wealthy background. The book accompanies the two protagonists on their way to leave the past behind in order to start something new.
The story has captivated me from the very beginning and I only put the book out of my hand again after I had read it through. A reading pleasure!
At the beginning I had difficulties to find out the age of Riley and Vic (38), because the book sometimes says that Vic was "almost 20 years" and sometimes "16 years" not in Wolf Bay, their hometown.
I received a copy from netgalley in exchange for a an honest review.
After many years Riley meets Vic again, one of her tormentors, who made her high school days hell. Even though she had a crush on her back then, she doesn't want to have anything to do with her anymore. Vic has other plans and does everything to reconcile with Riley and to apologize for her behaviour back then. The two come from different worlds, Riley grew up in the trailer park and Vic comes from a wealthy background. The book accompanies the two protagonists on their way to leave the past behind in order to start something new.
The story has captivated me from the very beginning and I only put the book out of my hand again after I had read it through. A reading pleasure!
At the beginning I had difficulties to find out the age of Riley and Vic (38), because the book sometimes says that Vic was "almost 20 years" and sometimes "16 years" not in Wolf Bay, their hometown.
I received a copy from netgalley in exchange for a an honest review.
July 17, 2020
An honest review thanks to NetGalley. This book was very difficult for me to review. I loved this book, I was so engaged and loved the characters until some issues arose that made me really start to loose my enthusiasm for it. The good. I loved Riley, she was amazing and I felt a connection immediately to her. Vic at the beginning was great to, I know it was fast but because of her personality I could totally see how Riley forgave her so quickly for the bullying in high school. The issues. Well the first problem was Vanessa. One second she was Vic's biggest supporter and the next she was fake and being the version we were introduced to in high school flashbacks. Another issue that really irritated me was Vic was considering her feelings for Riley was just the chase and then two pages further and she is head over heels in love with her. That was the moment that this went from a five star read to a three star. These issues seem quite small but they squashed my love for this in the beginning. This was still a good read, I was just a little let down as I loved it so much the first half of it.
July 14, 2020
I thought this was an ok book. longer than needed tbh.
I also did not feel that Riley was poor. they kept saying she's poor but never did she struggle with anything ext for that dream purchase.
Now Riley's mother, felt like the author wanted to give her a nicer image at the end but somehow changed her mind around the middle.
Victoria was a very boring character, her sister who confused me a lot was too.
the writing was ok. thank you for the author and her teem for the free copy
I also did not feel that Riley was poor. they kept saying she's poor but never did she struggle with anything ext for that dream purchase.
Now Riley's mother, felt like the author wanted to give her a nicer image at the end but somehow changed her mind around the middle.
Victoria was a very boring character, her sister who confused me a lot was too.
the writing was ok. thank you for the author and her teem for the free copy
August 20, 2020
I rate this book 4.5 out of 5 stars.
Victoria Thayer comes from a very wealthy family and helps run the family business in New York City. After coming out, she was told by her mother, Vera, to stay away and not come back. However, Victoria has a twin with whom she is close, and who is now getting married. The problem is that her sister, Vanessa, is having the wedding back home at the family estate and she wants her sister Victoria to be her bridesmaid. So, Vera reluctantly agrees to have Victoria in the house for the wedding functions only and then she must leave.
The other main character is Riley Warren. She never left Wolf Lake Bay and is the manager at the small movie theater in town. Riley dreams of owning the quaint theater someday, but she has always been poor and will probably never have enough money to fulfill her dream.
Riley and the Thayer twins all went to grade school together. The Thayer twins were part of a clique headed by Vanessa who enjoyed bullying other students who were not part of the “in” crowd. Riley was one of the main targets for this bullying. While growing up, Riley had a crush on Victoria. As it turns out, Victoria, while struggling with her own feelings, had a crush on Riley. Of course, neither knew about the other’s feelings. When Victoria and Vanessa return to Wolf Lake Bay for the wedding, Riley does not want to have anything to do with the twins, but circumstances throw them together.
I enjoyed this book. It was a light romance with a smooth storyline. Was the story believable? Yes, in a fairytale manner of speaking, and we all can benefit from an occasional fairytale. Ms. Trebelhorn did a good job on character development. Readers will appreciate Hopes and Dreams.
I received this ARC in exchange for my honest opinion.
Victoria Thayer comes from a very wealthy family and helps run the family business in New York City. After coming out, she was told by her mother, Vera, to stay away and not come back. However, Victoria has a twin with whom she is close, and who is now getting married. The problem is that her sister, Vanessa, is having the wedding back home at the family estate and she wants her sister Victoria to be her bridesmaid. So, Vera reluctantly agrees to have Victoria in the house for the wedding functions only and then she must leave.
The other main character is Riley Warren. She never left Wolf Lake Bay and is the manager at the small movie theater in town. Riley dreams of owning the quaint theater someday, but she has always been poor and will probably never have enough money to fulfill her dream.
Riley and the Thayer twins all went to grade school together. The Thayer twins were part of a clique headed by Vanessa who enjoyed bullying other students who were not part of the “in” crowd. Riley was one of the main targets for this bullying. While growing up, Riley had a crush on Victoria. As it turns out, Victoria, while struggling with her own feelings, had a crush on Riley. Of course, neither knew about the other’s feelings. When Victoria and Vanessa return to Wolf Lake Bay for the wedding, Riley does not want to have anything to do with the twins, but circumstances throw them together.
I enjoyed this book. It was a light romance with a smooth storyline. Was the story believable? Yes, in a fairytale manner of speaking, and we all can benefit from an occasional fairytale. Ms. Trebelhorn did a good job on character development. Readers will appreciate Hopes and Dreams.
I received this ARC in exchange for my honest opinion.
December 19, 2022
This has been a pretty good romance in my opinion. It has its fair share of drama, the kind that looks like at any moment it's going to blow everything up. Because the two main characters have a story that comes from high school. One of them, Riley, was then the recipient of the bullying that the group of friends of the other main character, Vic. But that bullying situation hid the attraction between Vic and Riley, which they separately were noticing. And now, many years later, the two of them meet again and that pull still is there.
The part that complicates the matter is that Vic has a twin sister, Vanessa, with whom she does not have much resemblance in terms of character although they are physically identical. Vic and Vanessa belong to a very wealthy family in the village and their mother is very classy, conceited and snobbish, as well as certainly disrespectful towards those she considers to be of a lower class. And Riley has an alcoholic mother who has neglected her since she was a child and who has never loved her. So Riley is doubly self-conscious about the school abuse and about her mother, who is also her only family.
But luckily for the story, both Riley and Vic are not bitter or spiteful people. Because Vic also has its own complexes, on the one hand the contempt of her mother since she came out as a lesbian and on the other the thinking that all her relationships are with her only for economic interest.Her family and friends don't help Vic much in that regard. Riley has better luck with her best friend Megan.
So despite all these difficulties and doubts from both of them, the story has developed quite nicely and has been very much to my liking.
An advanced reading copy has been sent to me by the publisher Bold Strokes Books through Netgalley for my honest review
The part that complicates the matter is that Vic has a twin sister, Vanessa, with whom she does not have much resemblance in terms of character although they are physically identical. Vic and Vanessa belong to a very wealthy family in the village and their mother is very classy, conceited and snobbish, as well as certainly disrespectful towards those she considers to be of a lower class. And Riley has an alcoholic mother who has neglected her since she was a child and who has never loved her. So Riley is doubly self-conscious about the school abuse and about her mother, who is also her only family.
But luckily for the story, both Riley and Vic are not bitter or spiteful people. Because Vic also has its own complexes, on the one hand the contempt of her mother since she came out as a lesbian and on the other the thinking that all her relationships are with her only for economic interest.Her family and friends don't help Vic much in that regard. Riley has better luck with her best friend Megan.
So despite all these difficulties and doubts from both of them, the story has developed quite nicely and has been very much to my liking.
An advanced reading copy has been sent to me by the publisher Bold Strokes Books through Netgalley for my honest review
July 20, 2020
Hopes and Dreams is a rich girl - poor girl romance. And then also one where the rich girl was part of a group of bullying teenagers when in high school. You would think it will all be a bit much to overcome and ofcourse the road has bumps. Riley grew up in a trailer with an alocoholic mother and a low self asteem, while Victoria grew up with all the money in the world and experiences that people only want her to get money. Unlikely as it seems there is connection between them when Victoria comes back to town for 3 weeks because her twin sister gets married. This was a slowly developing romance with all of a sudden an ending that felt a bit rushed in comparison to the romance speed... it glossed over a lot of stuff. Disagreement, no contact, all of a sudden both going to the other to fight for it. This speeds up the storyline for over a month and it offers the reader no insight into why now all of a sudden the change of hearts. I was sort of invested in their journey but now it feels like my journey got cut short and confusing near the end. Also it felt like the writer wanted to make something more out of the storyline with Riley's mom at some point but then didn't follow through. My overall problem with this book is that you didn't quite get a good read on the main characters so it was hard to stay invested in the story.
*** An ARC was provided by Netgalley in exchange for a honest review ***
*** An ARC was provided by Netgalley in exchange for a honest review ***
July 20, 2020
This is a read about life after high school and the baggage we may carry with us if it has not been processed. Bullying is painful. Bullying can shape the way you feel about yourself. I really dislike bullies. Riley Warren, small town girl, kinda looking for love, and really wants to purchase the movie theatre she manages. Money is an issue. Riley was bullied by the so called cool and well-to-do kids. Victoria Thayer, former small towner, now living in the big city, and wants to possibly establish a relationship with her high school crush, Riley.
Riley is a likable character who is easy to cheer for. She had a crush on Victoria and still does. Victoria's character, grows on the reader as she works to redeem herself with Riley. On the other hand, Victoria's twin sister, Vanessa is a hit and miss for me. At times she is okay and other times not so much. This is also a read about a mother not accepting her daughter for who she is. The comments she makes are very ugly and distasteful. Miscommunication runs rapid to almost the detriment of the story. In general, a good read with family and friend dynamics which were okay. I wanted Vic to have to work harder to "win" Riley. the she has money and she does not have money was not flushed out enough as well as the mother daughter dynamic.
ARC provided by Bold Strokes Books, Inc. via NetGalley
Riley is a likable character who is easy to cheer for. She had a crush on Victoria and still does. Victoria's character, grows on the reader as she works to redeem herself with Riley. On the other hand, Victoria's twin sister, Vanessa is a hit and miss for me. At times she is okay and other times not so much. This is also a read about a mother not accepting her daughter for who she is. The comments she makes are very ugly and distasteful. Miscommunication runs rapid to almost the detriment of the story. In general, a good read with family and friend dynamics which were okay. I wanted Vic to have to work harder to "win" Riley. the she has money and she does not have money was not flushed out enough as well as the mother daughter dynamic.
ARC provided by Bold Strokes Books, Inc. via NetGalley
August 6, 2020
I have quite mixed feelings about this book. The plot was promising an excellent novel, but the deliverance sort of lacks. Too many times the money issues have been brought up and easily forgiven, too many "envious or jealous exes or so-called friends" are meddling in a relationship of two adult women, and too many tears shedded over it, so at times, this sounded more like a YA novel, which I didn't like.
August 1, 2020
When your childhood is a mess and you can't get out, but still make a life for yourself it is courageous at least. Having your high school crush come back to your life is priceless. Not to mention that person also was part of the bully group.
I really liked this story. It is very uplifting and promising.
I would wish for one extra chapter...maybe 2 years later??
I really liked this story. It is very uplifting and promising.
I would wish for one extra chapter...maybe 2 years later??
August 11, 2020
A capturing romance with some angst, which captures you right from the start.
Riley: Raised by an verbally abusive, drunk woman in a trailer park, Riley wants to live life without being sucked into her mother’s negative spiral. The verbal abuse centers on Riley being unlovable, which has severely affected Riley self-image and self-confidence. Riley’s biggest dream is being able to own the Movie theatre she supervise, but due to her low funds she realize this is probably never going to happen.
Vic: Grew up in a rich family with her twin sister as her best friend, a demanding mother and a wonderful father. Were part of the cool crowd which terrorize Riley due to Riley being different and poor. This makes her feel awful, and follows her as her biggest regret. In collage she realize she’s gay and her mother reacts by wanting to disown her. Vic’s biggest hope and dream is being loved for who she is, and not for her money.
Pro:
Extremely well written start – It took me half a paragraph to get hooked by the story. The characters and the setting grabbed me right off the batch and kept me interested during the entire book.
Redemption – After reuniting with Riley, Vic starts her own walk towards redemption from how she stood by when Riley was badly treated. Vic knew even back then that it was wrong, but wasn’t strong enough to be able to stand up for what’s right.
Slow burn – This story focus more on the personal growth the characters go through to be able to be their true self, than an intense romance. Though the romance is a central part of the story, I enjoy that they take the time to get to know one another. The romance, and the characters, feel real.
Some angst – You feel right from the start that somewhere there will be a twist. The angst is wonderfully written and how the characters act feels real and true.
Con:
No epilogue – This is not a major con, but I would have wanted to see how it all works out in the end.
This review is based on NetGalley ARC provided in exchange for an honest, unbiased opinion.
Riley: Raised by an verbally abusive, drunk woman in a trailer park, Riley wants to live life without being sucked into her mother’s negative spiral. The verbal abuse centers on Riley being unlovable, which has severely affected Riley self-image and self-confidence. Riley’s biggest dream is being able to own the Movie theatre she supervise, but due to her low funds she realize this is probably never going to happen.
Vic: Grew up in a rich family with her twin sister as her best friend, a demanding mother and a wonderful father. Were part of the cool crowd which terrorize Riley due to Riley being different and poor. This makes her feel awful, and follows her as her biggest regret. In collage she realize she’s gay and her mother reacts by wanting to disown her. Vic’s biggest hope and dream is being loved for who she is, and not for her money.
Pro:
Extremely well written start – It took me half a paragraph to get hooked by the story. The characters and the setting grabbed me right off the batch and kept me interested during the entire book.
Redemption – After reuniting with Riley, Vic starts her own walk towards redemption from how she stood by when Riley was badly treated. Vic knew even back then that it was wrong, but wasn’t strong enough to be able to stand up for what’s right.
Slow burn – This story focus more on the personal growth the characters go through to be able to be their true self, than an intense romance. Though the romance is a central part of the story, I enjoy that they take the time to get to know one another. The romance, and the characters, feel real.
Some angst – You feel right from the start that somewhere there will be a twist. The angst is wonderfully written and how the characters act feels real and true.
Con:
No epilogue – This is not a major con, but I would have wanted to see how it all works out in the end.
This review is based on NetGalley ARC provided in exchange for an honest, unbiased opinion.
August 9, 2020
Forced to return home after 16 years for her sister’s wedding, Victoria Thayer not only had to contend with her homophobic mother but also someone she could not forget since high school.
As a descendant of The Thayer family, the crown jewel of Wolf Bay, Victoria has had misgivings about the intentions of her partners who have often sought her for the wealth of her family. When she returned home and had the chance to start afresh with Riley, her crush from high school, dare she hope that Riley be any different? And will Riley give her a chance to right all her wrongs?
Riley Warren is a survivor in her own rights. Subjected to bullying since high school for her sexuality and poverty due to an alcoholic and absent mother, she made a way for herself. When Victoria her high school crush came back to town, she found herself unable to resist someone who used to part of the bullying.
The premise was promising however I could not really reconcile how easily the relationship developed with such a history between the pair. Riley was not only subjected to bullying but also blatantly ignored even when she saved Vanessa, Victoria’s twin’s life. Having to question her worth when compared to Victoria’s flings was hard to read. I really like the author’s character of Riley but could not really relate how she had to condition herself to fit into Victoria’s life. Overall it was an ok read and feel readers will be able to like the book better if Victoria’s feelings for Riley were explored further.
I just reviewed Hopes and Dreams by PJ Trebelhorn. #NetGalley
As a descendant of The Thayer family, the crown jewel of Wolf Bay, Victoria has had misgivings about the intentions of her partners who have often sought her for the wealth of her family. When she returned home and had the chance to start afresh with Riley, her crush from high school, dare she hope that Riley be any different? And will Riley give her a chance to right all her wrongs?
Riley Warren is a survivor in her own rights. Subjected to bullying since high school for her sexuality and poverty due to an alcoholic and absent mother, she made a way for herself. When Victoria her high school crush came back to town, she found herself unable to resist someone who used to part of the bullying.
The premise was promising however I could not really reconcile how easily the relationship developed with such a history between the pair. Riley was not only subjected to bullying but also blatantly ignored even when she saved Vanessa, Victoria’s twin’s life. Having to question her worth when compared to Victoria’s flings was hard to read. I really like the author’s character of Riley but could not really relate how she had to condition herself to fit into Victoria’s life. Overall it was an ok read and feel readers will be able to like the book better if Victoria’s feelings for Riley were explored further.
I just reviewed Hopes and Dreams by PJ Trebelhorn. #NetGalley
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July 27, 2020I really like Riley’s character. She is so kind and amazing, well except for her low self esteem and insecurities but who can blame her if all her life she’s not appreciated both at school and at home. Vic’s feeling for Riley is kinda confusing especially in the middle of the story. She’s always second guessing her feelings for Riley (to think she had those since high school).
A rich girl - poor girl love story, homophobic rich mother, alcoholic poor mother, a twin sister who can’t decide between supporting her sister or siding with her mother. A lot of things are going on at the same time so you get pulled at every direction and some conflicts were just resolved so fast , when there should be more to it.
Over all it was still a good read, except for some parts that were happening so fast, like moving in together, kinda gave me a whiplash.
I received an ARC from the publishers through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
A rich girl - poor girl love story, homophobic rich mother, alcoholic poor mother, a twin sister who can’t decide between supporting her sister or siding with her mother. A lot of things are going on at the same time so you get pulled at every direction and some conflicts were just resolved so fast , when there should be more to it.
Over all it was still a good read, except for some parts that were happening so fast, like moving in together, kinda gave me a whiplash.
I received an ARC from the publishers through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
July 28, 2020
I was kindly sent an advance copy of this book by netgalley in replacement for my honest opinion.
This book is about Riley and Vic (Victoria) who not knowing had feelings for each other during high school but took 20 years to act on them.
A rich/poor relationship. Homophobic rich mother, alcoholic poor mother, twin unsure if to be supportive or the relationship or not.
I really connected with Riley’s character and felt that her feelings and lack of trust was normal of a person who has been belittled with low self esteem.
Although I enjoyed Hopes and Dreams issues appeared and disappeared just as quickly and left me with with a number of questions, does Riley except the gift? What happens with Megan and Peter?
The writing style of this book is easy to follow and I would read more of PJ Trebelhorn books
This book is about Riley and Vic (Victoria) who not knowing had feelings for each other during high school but took 20 years to act on them.
A rich/poor relationship. Homophobic rich mother, alcoholic poor mother, twin unsure if to be supportive or the relationship or not.
I really connected with Riley’s character and felt that her feelings and lack of trust was normal of a person who has been belittled with low self esteem.
Although I enjoyed Hopes and Dreams issues appeared and disappeared just as quickly and left me with with a number of questions, does Riley except the gift? What happens with Megan and Peter?
The writing style of this book is easy to follow and I would read more of PJ Trebelhorn books
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