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The Harlow Brothers #1
Carter
Fate brought her back to me, and I will fight to make her mine again.
Carter
She’s always been the one for me.
The one that I knew would be mine forever, until I made the biggest mistake of my life.
I’ve tried to move on, and I’ve tried to put the memory of her behind me, but she’s always there, consuming my thoughts.
Now, she’s back in our hometown, trying to rebuild a new life, but I know deep down, that she’s keeping secrets.
She tries to hide them from me, but I will do whatever it takes to prove that I’m the one she needs.
Shelby Ross is the other part of me that I can’t live without, and I refuse to let her go again.
Shelby
He broke my heart.
I never thought that I would be able to pick up the pieces he left behind, so when he let me go, I ran away from it all, thinking it was the easiest thing to do.
However, running always has a price, and I’ve paid it in full for years. Now, I’m back to where it all began, and it should’ve been easy.
Carter Harlow is slowly reawakening long buried emotions that I thought were gone.
He wants to make me his again, but I can’t let that happen.
He ruined me once, and then broke my heart, and now, I’m afraid I’ll never survive it a second time around.
This is a standalone series, and it does not have to be read in order.*
Carter
She’s always been the one for me.
The one that I knew would be mine forever, until I made the biggest mistake of my life.
I’ve tried to move on, and I’ve tried to put the memory of her behind me, but she’s always there, consuming my thoughts.
Now, she’s back in our hometown, trying to rebuild a new life, but I know deep down, that she’s keeping secrets.
She tries to hide them from me, but I will do whatever it takes to prove that I’m the one she needs.
Shelby Ross is the other part of me that I can’t live without, and I refuse to let her go again.
Shelby
He broke my heart.
I never thought that I would be able to pick up the pieces he left behind, so when he let me go, I ran away from it all, thinking it was the easiest thing to do.
However, running always has a price, and I’ve paid it in full for years. Now, I’m back to where it all began, and it should’ve been easy.
Carter Harlow is slowly reawakening long buried emotions that I thought were gone.
He wants to make me his again, but I can’t let that happen.
He ruined me once, and then broke my heart, and now, I’m afraid I’ll never survive it a second time around.
This is a standalone series, and it does not have to be read in order.*
Kindle Edition
First published July 22, 2016
129 people are currently reading
532 people want to read
About the author
Brie Paisley
24 books364 followersBrie Paisley was born and raised in a small town in Mississippi, and now, she currently lives in different locations, due to her husband being military. She wanted to write at a young age and was always filling journals with her thoughts and short stories. Brie started with an idea for her debut novel a few years ago, and with the encouragement of her husband and sister-in-law, she was able to write and publish her first book. When she isn’t writing, you can find her reading a good book, watching a good movie, or spending time with her wonderful husband and beautiful daughter.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 177 reviews
July 23, 2016
Carter fell in love with Shelby when he was eleven years old but then he made a huge mistake and pushed her away. Shelby was distraught when Carter rejected her and she ran away vowing never to return but now she's back but she's not ready to face him.
This is a first in series and I liked all the Harlow boys but ultimately this was only an okay read for me, I didn't particularly like Shelby, I tried and while I felt sorry for her I didn't really like her and while I liked Carter more I didn't buy his reason for pushing her away and found it difficult to feel sorry for him because of it.
Parts of this seemed a little OTT and it reminded me of 'Until November' at times.
July 26, 2016
You know a book is that bad when you'd rather skip few pages worth of sex scenes because you're exasperated with the characters starring in it. I'm sorry. I just can't.
We have characters in their 30's but have the maturity of a 16 year old kid who just hit puberty. Also zero grovelling, and too much pent-up predictable unnecessary secrets. No thanks.
We have characters in their 30's but have the maturity of a 16 year old kid who just hit puberty. Also zero grovelling, and too much pent-up predictable unnecessary secrets. No thanks.
March 31, 2021
3 ⭐⭐⭐ - OK decent reads.
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Hero was forgiven very quickly and not even grovel enough. Our heroine was not the smartest person and fell for all the tricks of her evil mother. The villains vanished into the mists of Romancelandia and did not receive their comeuppance. It was an ok read and nothing else.
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Hero was forgiven very quickly and not even grovel enough. Our heroine was not the smartest person and fell for all the tricks of her evil mother. The villains vanished into the mists of Romancelandia and did not receive their comeuppance. It was an ok read and nothing else.
But everything changed once he left for college. When Carter Harlow broke my heart, I did what I knew best. I ran.
Betrayed by everyone I thought were the ones looking out for me. What a crock of shit.
I need to feel safe again.
Easton Carrington. My lying, cheating, asshole of an ex-husband.
I’d been married for seven years, and now, I’m … free.
Once I knew my closest friends betrayed me, I made sure to leave inconspicuously.
After all this time that I’ve been away from her, it still hurts like hell knowing I’m the reason she’ll never come back into my life. Every single day, since I stupidly pushed her away and let her go, I’ve regretted it.
It’s not like I’ve been sitting at home for thirteen years pining over the one that got away. I’ve dated a few women, but none ever lasted.
Carter ripped my heart to pieces once, and I know I won’t be able to survive it a second time. Some things are just better left alone, and I believe this is the way it has to be.
It took me a long time to get over what happened the day Carter broke my heart. Actually, I never really got over it.
but my smile fades when I see Bethany walking behind Cason. I haven’t seen her since the night Cason and Caden brought me over to talk to Carter.
Carter places my wine in front of me, and I turn away from her angry gaze. I don’t know what I’ve done for her to dislike me so much, but on the other hand, I’m starting not to give a shit about her or what she thinks of me.
If Bethany doesn’t want to get to know me and learn the truth, then fuck her.
Every time Carter would try to talk to me or even look my way, Bethany would ask him something. Pretty much anything to take his attention away from me, she did. I don’t want to feel second best, but I do.
I’m confused by his look and I instantly think something’s wrong. He hasn’t moved out of the doorway fully, and before I can ask what’s wrong, I hear her voice. “Carter, come back to bed.” My stomach falls, and I swallow hard trying to get the lump that’s forming in my throat to go away before I ask, “Please tell me that’s not Bethany in there.”
I should’ve known something was going on between him and Bethany.
But I didn’t have to look very hard for him. I stood still as I watched him in the kitchen taking shots out of a girl’s cleavage. Afterward he pulled her by the waist, placing her under his arm, and for a moment I thought he was going to kiss her. My mouth dropped shocked he would do this, and I was confused as to why he lied to me.
“Shel, I fucked up. I’ve been fucking up a lot, and I think … I think it would be best if we stopped seeing each other.”
I was alone, abandoned, heartbroken, and I never thought Carter would be the one to make me feel this way.
“You have five fucking seconds to explain what the hell that was.” I can’t feel bad for yelling at her. This is such bullshit. I never fucked Bethany. I never fucking touched her. I didn’t even know she was in the same bed as me until I woke up this morning. This whole fucked up situation is just bullshit.
“Because, Carter. I thought you’d finally see me as more than a friend.” “I’ll never see you that way, Bethany. It’s always been her, and that’ll never change.”
I didn’t see Bethany’s feelings for me. But what shocks me the most is the cruelty I’ve noticed in her since Shelby has returned
I can’t go another day knowing she thinks I fucked Bethany. I haven’t even talked to Bethany since she admitted her feelings.
“I pushed the door open, and my mouth fell open as I saw Easton fucking Mom. I was disgusted, and I had to cover my mouth to hold back the bile from spilling. All I could hear was her cries of pleasure and when she looked at me then smiled, I dashed back downstairs. I emptied my stomach in the sink, realizing this had to have been going on for a long time. It made sense to me as to why she moved there and quickly attached herself to Easton.”
Things would be absolutely perfect if not for the times he brings up Bethany. I know I shouldn’t be jealous, but it’s hard not to be.
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July 21, 2016
3.5 Stars-No Connection for Me
Carter is a genre that always gets me, the long lost love. Brie Paisley gives her readers just that with Carter and Shelby. Friends since they were little kids, it grew into more and then of course as they got older, things started to fall apart.
"When Carter Harlow broke my heart, I did what I knew best. I ran." ~ Shelby
It is now thirteen years later and Shelby is returning to her hometown to get away from her current life. No matter where or who she was with, even after all of these years it's always come back around to Carter Harlow, the boy that broke her heart. He's still living in the small town, but Shelby needs to get out and will take the chance of running into him.
"How could I ever try to really commit when my heart belongs to someone else?" ~ Carter
The same can be said for Carter. Everything boils back down to Shelby, even after all these years. He graduated law school and has been working alongside his dad at the family firm. No longstanding girlfriends in his past and nothing current, needless to say, Carter is shocked when he finds out Shelby has come home.
"No woman has called to me like Shelby. No woman has made my heart and soul ache just to see her again." ~ Carter
Aw so sweet and I really, really wanted to like Carter and Shelby, but I didn't. What kept sticking in my mind was their age. If they were teens or even early twenties, I'd have been okay with the back and forth between them. However these guys were in their early thirties acting like this and still pining away for each other. I'm a fan of the epic love story, but this didn't hit the mark for me. The immaturity level of Shelby got on my nerves and she sealed the deal when she blamed Carter for what happened to her after they broke up. No responsibility for her actions.
The book is well written from dual points of view. It is part of a series and Brie Paisley did a great job introducing the rest of the Harlow Brothers to perk my ears up for the next one. Hopefully it will be Clark, he seems to be the mysterious brother.
Reviewed for Renee Entress's Blog.
Carter is a genre that always gets me, the long lost love. Brie Paisley gives her readers just that with Carter and Shelby. Friends since they were little kids, it grew into more and then of course as they got older, things started to fall apart.
"When Carter Harlow broke my heart, I did what I knew best. I ran." ~ Shelby
It is now thirteen years later and Shelby is returning to her hometown to get away from her current life. No matter where or who she was with, even after all of these years it's always come back around to Carter Harlow, the boy that broke her heart. He's still living in the small town, but Shelby needs to get out and will take the chance of running into him.
"How could I ever try to really commit when my heart belongs to someone else?" ~ Carter
The same can be said for Carter. Everything boils back down to Shelby, even after all these years. He graduated law school and has been working alongside his dad at the family firm. No longstanding girlfriends in his past and nothing current, needless to say, Carter is shocked when he finds out Shelby has come home.
"No woman has called to me like Shelby. No woman has made my heart and soul ache just to see her again." ~ Carter
Aw so sweet and I really, really wanted to like Carter and Shelby, but I didn't. What kept sticking in my mind was their age. If they were teens or even early twenties, I'd have been okay with the back and forth between them. However these guys were in their early thirties acting like this and still pining away for each other. I'm a fan of the epic love story, but this didn't hit the mark for me. The immaturity level of Shelby got on my nerves and she sealed the deal when she blamed Carter for what happened to her after they broke up. No responsibility for her actions.
The book is well written from dual points of view. It is part of a series and Brie Paisley did a great job introducing the rest of the Harlow Brothers to perk my ears up for the next one. Hopefully it will be Clark, he seems to be the mysterious brother.
Reviewed for Renee Entress's Blog.
nope
August 25, 2016Just a reminder. Read a review that said the characters don't interact for over half of the book; and may flashbacks. Besides heroine immaturity
July 8, 2016
First off let’s start with that cover, OMFG it’s amazing and I love it hard! I have read every single book by Brie, but this one takes her writing to a whole new level. I was completely sucked in and consumed with the story. Not only did I fall in love with Carter, but also all four of the other Harlow brother’s as well. Each of them have a story to tell, and I can’t wait to read them. This book brings out the feels so be ready because Carter and Shelby will consume your every thought.
First off, this book is set in my hometown, which is amazing. Also it’s a second chance romance book, which is one of my favorites. Carter and Shelby have grown up together. They met when one day on a swing years ago, and things were never the same. The minute Carter looked at Shelby her whole world changed. They went from strangers, to friends, to lovers… until they weren’t. In the blink of an eye everything changed.
It’s been 15 years, and Shelby is headed back to the place she swore she would never return. She has been living in hell for many years and she needs to head back to a place that brought her peace, joy, and happiness. Shelby knows returning home will bring a whole new pain when she sees Carter Harlow. But some demons are stronger than others so maybe it’s worth the risk after all.
Carter lost the one person who met the most to him and has spent many years with regret of what might have been. He hasn’t settled down because his heart has only ever belonged to one. When Carter comes face to face with Shelby after so many years, it brings of emotions that he isn’t ready for. Can Carter and Shelby overcome their demons together or was their love never meant to be?
I loved this book so hard. My heart broke for not only Shelby, but Carter as well. Both have made mistakes that can’t be taken back, but together they can fight all odds… right? I also loved the secondary characters in this book. The Harlow boys are charming, funny, and all hold secrets ready to be unlocked. I also HATED Shelby’s mother with a passion. I wanted to jump through my kindle and strangle that woman a few times. This book is pure perfection and I can’t express how much I loved it. I can’t wait to see what Brie brings next!
July 24, 2016
Disappointed
I thought this book would be good from the blurb but I was very disappointed. Shelby may have been written as a victim but she came off as shellfish, timid and whiney. She was a very unlikable character. Shelby spend most of the book feeling sorry for herself she acts like a victim not a survivor. At 31%, the 2 main characters STILL have not gotten together all we read is endless monolgue about how Shelby "regrets" just about everything and feels guilty all the time. Ugh, give it a rest. Carter is a better and less annoying character. The story is very inconsistent and at the end its just ridiculous with Shelby's mom. Dont bother!
I thought this book would be good from the blurb but I was very disappointed. Shelby may have been written as a victim but she came off as shellfish, timid and whiney. She was a very unlikable character. Shelby spend most of the book feeling sorry for herself she acts like a victim not a survivor. At 31%, the 2 main characters STILL have not gotten together all we read is endless monolgue about how Shelby "regrets" just about everything and feels guilty all the time. Ugh, give it a rest. Carter is a better and less annoying character. The story is very inconsistent and at the end its just ridiculous with Shelby's mom. Dont bother!
July 22, 2016
When I start to read a new book so many thoughts goes through my head. Will I like it? Will I be addicted only from reading the first chapter? Will I vibrate and dream about this story?
Brie Paisley is a new author to me and when the opportunity arose to meet one of her works I did not hesitate. From only the prologue I knew I would live a roller coaster of feelings and emotions.
"Carter" is the first book of "The Harlow Brothers Series".
This book is told by Shelby and Carter. Shelby is a lost soul. She was betrayed and deceived by those she trusted and is forced to flee, leaving everything behind and start a new life away from the cheating ex-husband and from all and everyone that hurt her. The fact that she had a childhood marked by her mother’s abandonment and by her father's negligence made her an insecure person and with some serious trust issues. All she wants is to return to her hometown, even if she had sworn, thirteen years ago, that she would never come back, but she believes this city is the only place that she can find happiness again.
Carter is the older brother of five. He’s the one that is always there, ready to help when and where you need him. There is in him something pure and kind. For 13 years he suffered the absence of his best friend Shelby and blamed himself for her departure. They were lovers in high school, but something happened that separated them and from that day he never saw her again.
Can a love so strong cease to exist? Can they meet again and delete all these years of absence, hurt and pain?
This book had much impact on my way of seeing things, only came to show that there are no obstacles in life that we cannot overcome, no matter how bad they may seem there is always a turn to give.
The family, love, friendship and complicity are in great prominence in this book, but the betrayal, hate, psychological torture are also present.
Brie has a way of writing that appeals to the best we have but can also awaken the bad emotions as well. If you do not believe me, go grab your copy and start reading, then we can speak. And the hot scenes, you ask? Of course there is and you will be hot, very very hot ...
I'm in love with this book and cannot wait to learn more about The Harlow Brothers.
Brie Paisley is a new author to me and when the opportunity arose to meet one of her works I did not hesitate. From only the prologue I knew I would live a roller coaster of feelings and emotions.
"Carter" is the first book of "The Harlow Brothers Series".
This book is told by Shelby and Carter. Shelby is a lost soul. She was betrayed and deceived by those she trusted and is forced to flee, leaving everything behind and start a new life away from the cheating ex-husband and from all and everyone that hurt her. The fact that she had a childhood marked by her mother’s abandonment and by her father's negligence made her an insecure person and with some serious trust issues. All she wants is to return to her hometown, even if she had sworn, thirteen years ago, that she would never come back, but she believes this city is the only place that she can find happiness again.
Carter is the older brother of five. He’s the one that is always there, ready to help when and where you need him. There is in him something pure and kind. For 13 years he suffered the absence of his best friend Shelby and blamed himself for her departure. They were lovers in high school, but something happened that separated them and from that day he never saw her again.
Can a love so strong cease to exist? Can they meet again and delete all these years of absence, hurt and pain?
This book had much impact on my way of seeing things, only came to show that there are no obstacles in life that we cannot overcome, no matter how bad they may seem there is always a turn to give.
The family, love, friendship and complicity are in great prominence in this book, but the betrayal, hate, psychological torture are also present.
Brie has a way of writing that appeals to the best we have but can also awaken the bad emotions as well. If you do not believe me, go grab your copy and start reading, then we can speak. And the hot scenes, you ask? Of course there is and you will be hot, very very hot ...
I'm in love with this book and cannot wait to learn more about The Harlow Brothers.
August 16, 2016
3 Stars
The synopsis for this book really drew me in when I read it, it seemed like something I would love. Second chance romances are something I really enjoy but to be honest this one fell a little short for me.
I found Shelby and Carter's back and forth pretty annoying and very immature, I would expect this if they were younger but with being in their thirties I would have thought they would have grown up by now.
Shelby was by far the more immature of the two, she acted like a child nearly the whole way through. The final thing that made me dislike her so much was the fact she blames Carter for the things she went through after they split up in their teens. Which is totally unfair after that I had absolutely no respect for her at all!
I liked Carter if I'm being honest but I just couldn't like Shelby at all. Don't get me wrong there were times I felt sorry for her and my heart hurt for her but her character didn't fill me with the warm fuzzies!
This is the first book in Brie's new series about the Harlow brothers and I have to say I'm intrigued to see where she takes us next with these hunky men! I'm hoping it's Cason if I'm being honest I think he has history with Shelby's mother.
February 16, 2017
It started out fantastic and since I'm a sucker for great second chance love stories - aaand McHottie brothers -, it was decided, I'm going to love this book.
Well, that didn't turn out well.
At the beginning, I thought there'd be deep secrets revealed, a lot of groveling and a sweet second chance given to their relationship, maybe a little complication at the end with Shelby's mom or ex. Similar stories were written before, but it never gets old and has serious potential. But as well as it started out, I quickly grew exasperated with the characters, the immature reasons for them staying away from each other had me shaking my head like crazy and after the first half or so, I felt like nothing was really happening, but sappy love confessions.
Except for Caden, I couldn't like it at all.
Well, that didn't turn out well.
At the beginning, I thought there'd be deep secrets revealed, a lot of groveling and a sweet second chance given to their relationship, maybe a little complication at the end with Shelby's mom or ex. Similar stories were written before, but it never gets old and has serious potential. But as well as it started out, I quickly grew exasperated with the characters, the immature reasons for them staying away from each other had me shaking my head like crazy and after the first half or so, I felt like nothing was really happening, but sappy love confessions.
Except for Caden, I couldn't like it at all.
July 12, 2016
Carter
Brie Paisley
4.5 stars
This seems to be a great start to a new series we are getting from Brie. I love the cover – what a great shot. I always like to go back and take the cover in AFTER I finish the book – this one is spot on.
The Harlow brothers are going to be a great treat for us. This book centers around Carter and Shelby.
Carter and Shelby have known each other since she was five. Befriending her on the playground she found a friend and then her first love until he broke her heart. Not knowing what to do and having a crappy family life – Shelby runs. Now running back home after divorcing her horrific husband Easton, Shelby finds herself hiding from Carter. Thirteen years she stayed away – and now she has to face him eventually and she doesn’t know if she can handle it. Finding peace in Annie and William’s house, Shelby starts to put the pieces of her life back together having to suffer through more than a 32 year old woman should have to.
This is a very strong love story between friends that became family. I love the fact that we get the background on all the Harlow boys – Caden is Carters younger brother, Carter is the oldest at thirty three. Caden and Cason are twins. Clark has joined the military and Caleb the youngest and getting ready to graduate from MIT. I have a feeling Im going to love Clark’s book. Cason should be interesting as well as he seems to find trouble – something happened to him after Shelby took off. Handling Carter changed him.
There is a secondary character named Bethany that I really loved as well. I hope she will stick around. Losing Shelby sends Carter into a sea of regret and loss. Having a second chance means working to get there together. Shelby has a troubled past and Carter has something he’s hiding. Its either make or break time --- Shelby’s piece of work mother wont help matters either.
I loved the story and the characters in this release and look forward to more. Its nothing brutal or un-nerving so snatch this one up. The writing is realistic to a point and that’s what hit home with me. Reading something that someone out there might be able to relate to – starting over – finding what matters most back again – perfection.
Thank you Brie for the ARC! LOVE this book! -- Review to post to Ramblings From Beneath The Sheets!
Brie Paisley
4.5 stars
This seems to be a great start to a new series we are getting from Brie. I love the cover – what a great shot. I always like to go back and take the cover in AFTER I finish the book – this one is spot on.
The Harlow brothers are going to be a great treat for us. This book centers around Carter and Shelby.
Carter and Shelby have known each other since she was five. Befriending her on the playground she found a friend and then her first love until he broke her heart. Not knowing what to do and having a crappy family life – Shelby runs. Now running back home after divorcing her horrific husband Easton, Shelby finds herself hiding from Carter. Thirteen years she stayed away – and now she has to face him eventually and she doesn’t know if she can handle it. Finding peace in Annie and William’s house, Shelby starts to put the pieces of her life back together having to suffer through more than a 32 year old woman should have to.
This is a very strong love story between friends that became family. I love the fact that we get the background on all the Harlow boys – Caden is Carters younger brother, Carter is the oldest at thirty three. Caden and Cason are twins. Clark has joined the military and Caleb the youngest and getting ready to graduate from MIT. I have a feeling Im going to love Clark’s book. Cason should be interesting as well as he seems to find trouble – something happened to him after Shelby took off. Handling Carter changed him.
There is a secondary character named Bethany that I really loved as well. I hope she will stick around. Losing Shelby sends Carter into a sea of regret and loss. Having a second chance means working to get there together. Shelby has a troubled past and Carter has something he’s hiding. Its either make or break time --- Shelby’s piece of work mother wont help matters either.
I loved the story and the characters in this release and look forward to more. Its nothing brutal or un-nerving so snatch this one up. The writing is realistic to a point and that’s what hit home with me. Reading something that someone out there might be able to relate to – starting over – finding what matters most back again – perfection.
Thank you Brie for the ARC! LOVE this book! -- Review to post to Ramblings From Beneath The Sheets!
July 21, 2016
This was a book about second chances where fate kinda stepped in. Shelby and Carter met when they were just kids, Shelby a not very taken care of child and Carter a well taken care of child. Shelby's home life is in shambles mom doesn't care and dad drinks. Carter has the normal home life. Carter sees Shelby sitting on the swing and approaches her to see if he can push her and the biggest smile forms on her face cause that's all she wants is a "friend". That one day has been the reason Shelby and Carter are inseparable. Each one is the others best friend and Carter's family welcomes Shelby into their family circle. Carter is Shelby's first kiss at 15. Shelby has only wanted to be cared for and she is by Carter's family and a couple (Annie and William Barrett) down the street from her awful home. As the years go by it is time for Carter to go off to college and this is where heartbreak starts. Shelby surprises Carter at college one night and he let's her go thinking it is best for Shelby so she can go on to college now instead of waiting for him. Well needless to say Carter was wrong. He realizes his mistake but is too late to say sorry because Shelby is gone. The Harlow family is kinda broken without Shelby but hey Carter was the dumb ass that caused it. Shelby thought that life would be easy once she forgot about Carter and start a new, wrong it starts good and goes horrible. Thirteen years later Shelby has come home to Mississippi from South Carolina but she still hasn't forgotten what Carter did and will she be able to face him again when they meet in their some town. Wanna know pick this book up and find out....
Brie you did a good job in the story of Shelby and Carter. Both P.O.V is my favorite style of writing at the moment. I love this second chance story that you have shared with us and can't wait for the rest of the series. Drama, love, fate and deceit all missed in this one and then the truth in the end.
***Reviewed for Sweet & Spicy Reads - ARC provided for a honest review ***
Carter
Brie you did a good job in the story of Shelby and Carter. Both P.O.V is my favorite style of writing at the moment. I love this second chance story that you have shared with us and can't wait for the rest of the series. Drama, love, fate and deceit all missed in this one and then the truth in the end.
***Reviewed for Sweet & Spicy Reads - ARC provided for a honest review ***
Carter
September 22, 2017
This book had a good premise but the story fell short for me. I don't even know where to start. At the beginning of the book Shelby is running away from her ex-husband and her crazy mother. She hides under a hoodie, slips into small spaces so no one will see her, spends hours crouching in a bathroom stalls and looking over her shoulder. She seems terrified of being found. I kept waiting for the ball to drop and the ex to show up and try to kill her or something, but he never makes an appearance in the book. Not to mention, if he was already her ex, why did she need to run away from him? Why was she with him at all if they were divorced? Then she gets to her hometown and she doesn't want the hero to know she's back because a long time ago he hurt her feelings. And even though they live in a small town and his brothers and parents know she's back, somehow she doesn't run into the hero for 6 months! And it takes almost half of the book! Meanwhile there is a lot of internal dialogue where the heroine whines and complains about everything that's happened in her life to make her the way she is, and the girl has a myriad of issues. She reads more like a whiny 20 year old than the early thirties divorcee she's supposed to be.
The loose ends were everywhere too. What happened to Summer and her promise of retribution for Carter telling her to GTFO? Did Bethany just fall off the face of the Earth never to be seen or heard from again? Why was Cason staring down Shelby's mom and what about all the allusion that something had happened between them once upon a time?
There were some redeeming qualities to this book. Carter was likeable. The writing and editing was mostly good and the brotherly antics were funny.
The loose ends were everywhere too. What happened to Summer and her promise of retribution for Carter telling her to GTFO? Did Bethany just fall off the face of the Earth never to be seen or heard from again? Why was Cason staring down Shelby's mom and what about all the allusion that something had happened between them once upon a time?
There were some redeeming qualities to this book. Carter was likeable. The writing and editing was mostly good and the brotherly antics were funny.
July 26, 2016
☆☆Reviewed for Hooked On Books and CherryOBlossoms Promotions ☆ ☆
I gave this book 4.5 stars!
Ever have a book that by the end , you don't want it to end? Well this book will leave you in a book hangover. From the start we get just a glimpse into what hell Shel went through and by the end of the book we get to see what a strong woman she has become. This book had many directions it could have went and at times I was guessing what was going to happen next. I absolutely love the Harlow boys and their antics. The way Annie and William and the Harlow was truly Shel family and the way they support her is amazing.
Shel and Carter have been best friends since they were 6. As years went by their feelings turned to more. When Carter went off to Harvard for law school he ended up breaking Shel heart. He thought he was doing the right thing. Shel was heartbroken and decided to go away to SC for college. That is where she met Easton. Easton seemed like a good man and she ends up married to him. When crap hits the fan with them, she does was she always done and runs back home. Carter works for his dad in his hometown. He dated a few girls but none them holds his soul like Shel. With it being a small town and everybody knowing everything it's just a matter of time before Shel and Carter see each other. When the Shel past comes back, can Carter show her she is strong enough not to run?
Brie's writting is flawless and this book just flows. She gives it the perfect twist, turns and then a little bit of surprises for everyone to fall in love with it. I can't wait to see what Harlow brother book we get next, but I will definitely be on the look out for it.
I gave this book 4.5 stars!
Ever have a book that by the end , you don't want it to end? Well this book will leave you in a book hangover. From the start we get just a glimpse into what hell Shel went through and by the end of the book we get to see what a strong woman she has become. This book had many directions it could have went and at times I was guessing what was going to happen next. I absolutely love the Harlow boys and their antics. The way Annie and William and the Harlow was truly Shel family and the way they support her is amazing.
Shel and Carter have been best friends since they were 6. As years went by their feelings turned to more. When Carter went off to Harvard for law school he ended up breaking Shel heart. He thought he was doing the right thing. Shel was heartbroken and decided to go away to SC for college. That is where she met Easton. Easton seemed like a good man and she ends up married to him. When crap hits the fan with them, she does was she always done and runs back home. Carter works for his dad in his hometown. He dated a few girls but none them holds his soul like Shel. With it being a small town and everybody knowing everything it's just a matter of time before Shel and Carter see each other. When the Shel past comes back, can Carter show her she is strong enough not to run?
Brie's writting is flawless and this book just flows. She gives it the perfect twist, turns and then a little bit of surprises for everyone to fall in love with it. I can't wait to see what Harlow brother book we get next, but I will definitely be on the look out for it.
August 3, 2016
4 stars
One chapter in and I was already blurry-eyed. Shelby and Carter have been friends since they were six. When one boy asked if he could push a girl on the swings. Since then they've been inseparable. Shelby spent all of her time with Carter and his family. It was only natural that when they got older their relationship transitioned into something more. One night and a few sentences changed it all. That day is when Shelby left only to return many, many years later. Her life isn't what she thought it would be. She's a different person now because of it.
Carter regrets the day he pushed Shelby away. There isn't a day that's gone by that he hasn't thought of her. He's been thinking about her more lately, having seen girls that remind him of her. Only, he knows that she'd never come back.
There was a lot of redemption and forgiveness in this story. When Shelby left, she didn't just leave behind Carter, she left his family, all who had accepted her has one of theirs, as well as the family who took care of her when she was younger. It tells the struggles of leaving a rocky, abusive relationship and trying to trust people again. Shelby has to learn to be on her own and value herself again. I enjoyed seeing her and Carter on the journey to trusting each other again and building that friendship back that they had so long ago. Brie Paisley wrote this story well. It even had alternating point of views, which I enjoyed. I liked seeing how they both handled these situations and all that life had thrown at them.
**Read and reviewed by FMR Book Grind**
One chapter in and I was already blurry-eyed. Shelby and Carter have been friends since they were six. When one boy asked if he could push a girl on the swings. Since then they've been inseparable. Shelby spent all of her time with Carter and his family. It was only natural that when they got older their relationship transitioned into something more. One night and a few sentences changed it all. That day is when Shelby left only to return many, many years later. Her life isn't what she thought it would be. She's a different person now because of it.
Carter regrets the day he pushed Shelby away. There isn't a day that's gone by that he hasn't thought of her. He's been thinking about her more lately, having seen girls that remind him of her. Only, he knows that she'd never come back.
There was a lot of redemption and forgiveness in this story. When Shelby left, she didn't just leave behind Carter, she left his family, all who had accepted her has one of theirs, as well as the family who took care of her when she was younger. It tells the struggles of leaving a rocky, abusive relationship and trying to trust people again. Shelby has to learn to be on her own and value herself again. I enjoyed seeing her and Carter on the journey to trusting each other again and building that friendship back that they had so long ago. Brie Paisley wrote this story well. It even had alternating point of views, which I enjoyed. I liked seeing how they both handled these situations and all that life had thrown at them.
**Read and reviewed by FMR Book Grind**
July 18, 2016
****I received an advance copy in exchange for a honest review ****
What a great read for a second chance romance. Brie wrote a wonderful tale of "if you love something, let it go, if it comes back it yours to keep". I couldn't put the book down. From the first pages you are pulled in to the story of Shelby and Carter. Shelby and Carter story was so well written that you can't help but fall in love with them and their story.
Shelby has been through a lot in her life from her childhood to adult life. Her one constant is Carter. Until he broke her heart. Shelby returns back to her hometown to start over, the one place she feels safe, (with Annie and William)however she doesn't want to bump into Carter. Carter is has had his own struggles in the relationship department because his heart belonged to one person. Carter is floored when he finds out Shelby is back and has been for a while. Carter has a chance to right his wrong and will stop at nothing to make sure he has his forever. Through ups and downs, Carter and Shelby show the readers through their eyes that it is worth it in the end.
Brie Paisley write beautifully. She is expressive with her words and creates a story that a reader can picture in their minds. Her characters are developed that you never want their story to end. I can not wait for more stories in regards to the Harlow Brothers.
What a great read for a second chance romance. Brie wrote a wonderful tale of "if you love something, let it go, if it comes back it yours to keep". I couldn't put the book down. From the first pages you are pulled in to the story of Shelby and Carter. Shelby and Carter story was so well written that you can't help but fall in love with them and their story.
Shelby has been through a lot in her life from her childhood to adult life. Her one constant is Carter. Until he broke her heart. Shelby returns back to her hometown to start over, the one place she feels safe, (with Annie and William)however she doesn't want to bump into Carter. Carter is has had his own struggles in the relationship department because his heart belonged to one person. Carter is floored when he finds out Shelby is back and has been for a while. Carter has a chance to right his wrong and will stop at nothing to make sure he has his forever. Through ups and downs, Carter and Shelby show the readers through their eyes that it is worth it in the end.
Brie Paisley write beautifully. She is expressive with her words and creates a story that a reader can picture in their minds. Her characters are developed that you never want their story to end. I can not wait for more stories in regards to the Harlow Brothers.
July 22, 2016
Carter and Shelby closer than most but not even begin in love could help them when Carter pushes her away but life has a funny way of coming full circle and when it does love has a way of healing even the deepest of wounds. This book is about second chances and healing. It’s about forgiveness and finally finding peace with yourself. I feel in love with the characters in this story. I feel in love with their story because reading it I was so drawn into it that when I was done I needed more of it. Brie writes Carter and Shelby’s story with so much passion that you will get lost in their story of coming back together.
Sometimes love is not always but sometimes it only one moment, one heartbeat, one town away. I think what makes Shelby and Carter's story great is that they have a real chemistry that is not forced but something that just connects. The love that these two share and the way they connect is so real and can get very hot. This story has become one of my favorites just because it is just so much than you would think it was.
All I can say is that this is a must read, it has definitely made my top 10 books of this year. If you enjoy Brie’s books then you will enjoy this story. I have definitely become a Paisley fan because her books will leave you wanting more before you're even done .
review by Lindsey
Sometimes love is not always but sometimes it only one moment, one heartbeat, one town away. I think what makes Shelby and Carter's story great is that they have a real chemistry that is not forced but something that just connects. The love that these two share and the way they connect is so real and can get very hot. This story has become one of my favorites just because it is just so much than you would think it was.
All I can say is that this is a must read, it has definitely made my top 10 books of this year. If you enjoy Brie’s books then you will enjoy this story. I have definitely become a Paisley fan because her books will leave you wanting more before you're even done .
review by Lindsey
August 22, 2016
A good start to a new series.
This is my first book with this author. While I found Carter to be a well written and interesting book, and don't get me wrong, I enjoyed it immensely (I'll definitely continue with the series) I felt that some of the characters didn't seem to "fit their age" as well as I would have expected. Shelby seemed more like someone in their late teens/early 20's and lacked the maturity a 32/34 year old woman should have had regardless to her pain and suffering. She wasn't believable enough and could have stood with more of a backbone. ... a little more substance. And Bethany, once her motives were revealed, was completely dropped out of the book... again, not that realistic under the circumstances. And as for the rest of the Harlow boys... And ok foundation. Nothing truly that spectacular. I know this is coming across a bit harsh, but for me, it just missed the mark...Overall I would have liked a few more of the loose ends tidied up bit more. Or if they're going to be addressed in future books, some reference alluding to that so you don't feel like the situation ended so abruptly. I know this review has come across quite harsh, but this book does gives you just enough interest that you want to buy the next to see the growth of these characters. It has potential... a good start to a new series.
This is my first book with this author. While I found Carter to be a well written and interesting book, and don't get me wrong, I enjoyed it immensely (I'll definitely continue with the series) I felt that some of the characters didn't seem to "fit their age" as well as I would have expected. Shelby seemed more like someone in their late teens/early 20's and lacked the maturity a 32/34 year old woman should have had regardless to her pain and suffering. She wasn't believable enough and could have stood with more of a backbone. ... a little more substance. And Bethany, once her motives were revealed, was completely dropped out of the book... again, not that realistic under the circumstances. And as for the rest of the Harlow boys... And ok foundation. Nothing truly that spectacular. I know this is coming across a bit harsh, but for me, it just missed the mark...Overall I would have liked a few more of the loose ends tidied up bit more. Or if they're going to be addressed in future books, some reference alluding to that so you don't feel like the situation ended so abruptly. I know this review has come across quite harsh, but this book does gives you just enough interest that you want to buy the next to see the growth of these characters. It has potential... a good start to a new series.
July 29, 2016
So of course the cover had me interested and then the synop had me hooked - BT as the long lost childhood bestie/1st love !! Yes there were some pretty great visuals going on with this read. I am a sucker for BT and a sucker for this storyline.
There were a couple twists and some drama , a bit angsty and I will say Carter was a fave of mine - Shelby on the other hand - she rubbed me the wrong way. I felt for her and could relate to her troubles BUT I hated how she came home and hid. I know she was timid and unsure about how to face Carter but when they did come face to face I was kind of left wanting more of a reaction/interaction. Having said that - I devoured the book and I look forward to getting the stories of the rest of the bros !! They all seem to have something to say AND I know we will get to catch up with Carter and Shelby along the way so it is a WIN WIN !!
This was my first book by this author and I enjoyed it very much and as I mentioned I do look forward to more from the Harlow boys !!
There were a couple twists and some drama , a bit angsty and I will say Carter was a fave of mine - Shelby on the other hand - she rubbed me the wrong way. I felt for her and could relate to her troubles BUT I hated how she came home and hid. I know she was timid and unsure about how to face Carter but when they did come face to face I was kind of left wanting more of a reaction/interaction. Having said that - I devoured the book and I look forward to getting the stories of the rest of the bros !! They all seem to have something to say AND I know we will get to catch up with Carter and Shelby along the way so it is a WIN WIN !!
This was my first book by this author and I enjoyed it very much and as I mentioned I do look forward to more from the Harlow boys !!
July 15, 2016
If you love second chance romances, then this one is for you. A beautiful story of two people who were always meant to be together.
One stupid mistake. One massive regret. Carter realizes he's done wrong by Shelby, but will he ever be able to get her back? To make her see that she's the only one he wants?
Shelby did the only thing she thought was right and ran from the one man that she would always love. Now that life has dealt her a blow, she makes her way back home. Back to the place she ran from all those years ago.
They grew up together, they fell in love, but nothing is easy when it comes to that little four letter word. These two lost souls have a long road ahead to find their way back to each other. The emotions that Brie has woven on these pages is beautiful, it tugs at your heart and it makes you want them to finally find their way 'home'.
Loved this story and can't wait for the next book in this series.
One stupid mistake. One massive regret. Carter realizes he's done wrong by Shelby, but will he ever be able to get her back? To make her see that she's the only one he wants?
Shelby did the only thing she thought was right and ran from the one man that she would always love. Now that life has dealt her a blow, she makes her way back home. Back to the place she ran from all those years ago.
They grew up together, they fell in love, but nothing is easy when it comes to that little four letter word. These two lost souls have a long road ahead to find their way back to each other. The emotions that Brie has woven on these pages is beautiful, it tugs at your heart and it makes you want them to finally find their way 'home'.
Loved this story and can't wait for the next book in this series.
September 29, 2017
I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Carla's Three Star Review
Carter is the first book in The Harlow Brother's series, and it is Carter and Shelby's story.
I am a huge fan of second chance romance, so I was super excited to read this book, Unfortunately, it fell a little flat for me.
Carter and Shelby were both in their thirties, and one would think in that time, these two would have experienced life and grown into mature adults. However, that wasn't the case for Shelby. While I felt sorry for all she had to go through, she really behaved more like a teenager than a grown woman. Now, Carter was a different story. I really liked him, and his family was great..especially of all his hot brothers! My favorite was Caden! He really cracked me up! I look forward to reading more about him in future books.
Overall, this was an okay read for me.
Carla's Three Star Review
Carter is the first book in The Harlow Brother's series, and it is Carter and Shelby's story.
I am a huge fan of second chance romance, so I was super excited to read this book, Unfortunately, it fell a little flat for me.
Carter and Shelby were both in their thirties, and one would think in that time, these two would have experienced life and grown into mature adults. However, that wasn't the case for Shelby. While I felt sorry for all she had to go through, she really behaved more like a teenager than a grown woman. Now, Carter was a different story. I really liked him, and his family was great..especially of all his hot brothers! My favorite was Caden! He really cracked me up! I look forward to reading more about him in future books.
Overall, this was an okay read for me.
November 5, 2017
I can't say that this book was bad but it wasn't awe consuming good either. For most of the book, it was about them having regrets for the past. Yes, we get it but get on with the story already. I felt for Shelby and what she endured. From the way she acted at the beginning of the book about her ex, you would think he was a mafia don or a crazed stalking psycho coming after her but he never showed up in the book so you have to wonder way she felt that way at the beginning. I also wanted to know how in the world Carter thought that if he broke Shelby's heart that some how she would still be part of his life. Especially when he waited for two years to see her and somehow thought she wouldn't have moved on since that is what he wanted because he used that as an excuse to break up with her. Noticed I went around in a circle. That is how I felt about this book. So many inconsistencies and just going around in a circle. For being a short read, it just felt too long and drawn out.
October 29, 2019
I really hate giving negative reviews, but I was really bored reading this book, 30% in I felt like giving up, 50% still felt the same, but even more bored...but I was determined to make the end goal.
The characters Carter & Shelby are given a second shot at a new life together.
Carter pushed her out of his life 13 years ago, leading him on his own path of destruction without the love of his life by his side.
Shelby ran to another state and straight into the arms of an abusive A-hole, putting her into a life worse than her childhood, which wasn't a very pretty one.
Now back in her hometown, she's trying to get over her past and her Carter issues, but lord is it a very very slow progress.
Both Characters are in their early 30s but for two people that have had previous relationships and educated they certainly don't act that way.
The characters Carter & Shelby are given a second shot at a new life together.
Carter pushed her out of his life 13 years ago, leading him on his own path of destruction without the love of his life by his side.
Shelby ran to another state and straight into the arms of an abusive A-hole, putting her into a life worse than her childhood, which wasn't a very pretty one.
Now back in her hometown, she's trying to get over her past and her Carter issues, but lord is it a very very slow progress.
Both Characters are in their early 30s but for two people that have had previous relationships and educated they certainly don't act that way.
July 18, 2016
As a fan of Brie Paisley’s from the very beginning, I must say that Carter is truly her best book yet. The down home, realistic love story will suck you inside its pages. Shelby and Carter could literally be your best friends, neighbors, or really anyone in your life. The story holds a bit of truth with the underlying theme of not all love that lies is the past is truly dead and gone. Sometimes it takes an apology or in this case, a second chance to realize just what type of relationship they really have. I could gush over and over about how much I loved this book, but so many reviewers have already summed up my thoughts. Carter is an amazing, heart-wrenching read that only showcases how well Brie can tell a story and I greatly look forward to the next books in this series.
September 25, 2018
I love the Harlow brothers! I found it very hard to put down. I loved Carter and Shelby's story! Carter and Shelby were childhood friends and eventually fell in love. They were so happy together, until Carter makes a mistake that tears them apart and sends Shelby running. Now years later Shelby is back, ready to start a new life and put her past behind her. Carter never stopped thinking of Shelby, and has always regretted his mistake. Can Shelby forgive Carter for his part in her leaving? Can she open up about her past, so she can put it behind her and move on with her life? Will Carter and Shelby be able to rekindle their relationship? Or are Shelby's walls too high around her heart? I loved this book and can't wait to read more about the Harlow brothers!
July 22, 2016
Received for an honest opinion.
I love the concept for Carter, best friends who become lovers who are torn apart only to meet again, it's probably as close to a modern fairytale as we'll ever get.
I immediately felt for Shelby but never hated Carter. I loved his family, even if all the C names was a bit confusing. I felt it was a bit strange that Carter was angry at Shelby when he was the one to break them initially but I also understand his anger. Carter was an unusual book in that your anger is never directed at either of the main characters even when they're being annoying! I genuinely liked Carter and am interested to see which of the brothers will get a book next. I'd love either Cason or Clark but I have a feeling it might be Caden, either way, I'll be waiting and reading.
I love the concept for Carter, best friends who become lovers who are torn apart only to meet again, it's probably as close to a modern fairytale as we'll ever get.
I immediately felt for Shelby but never hated Carter. I loved his family, even if all the C names was a bit confusing. I felt it was a bit strange that Carter was angry at Shelby when he was the one to break them initially but I also understand his anger. Carter was an unusual book in that your anger is never directed at either of the main characters even when they're being annoying! I genuinely liked Carter and am interested to see which of the brothers will get a book next. I'd love either Cason or Clark but I have a feeling it might be Caden, either way, I'll be waiting and reading.
October 31, 2017
I'm not into giving spoilers, so you shouldn't find any in here.
This book was difficult for me. It wasn't bad. It had a good idea behind it but it didn't really give you a lot. There wasn't a whole lot of character development and it moved kind of fast. There were a lot of long time skips that could have added to the story if they were filled out a little more. There were just a lot of blanks left in this story and some serious immaturity and emotional issues that were never properly dealt with. They just kind of disappeared without any real explanation.
Like I said, good in theory but lacking in execution.
This book was difficult for me. It wasn't bad. It had a good idea behind it but it didn't really give you a lot. There wasn't a whole lot of character development and it moved kind of fast. There were a lot of long time skips that could have added to the story if they were filled out a little more. There were just a lot of blanks left in this story and some serious immaturity and emotional issues that were never properly dealt with. They just kind of disappeared without any real explanation.
Like I said, good in theory but lacking in execution.
July 9, 2016
What a great book! Reminds you how special "home" is and how special your first love is. Shelby returns home to start over again. What will she do when she has to face those she left behind 13 yrs ago? Will they welcome her with open arms? Will her past keep her from a future? Is Carter worth a second chance? I absolutely loved the characters. Such a realistic story. Lots of laughter and tears. The twins keep you cracking up. Family keeps you grounded. True love story happening right before your eyes. Great story, great characters and well written. Highly recommend you one click this.
July 28, 2016
I received this for an honest review I have to say that I really enjoyed this second chance romance for this starter for this series..
Brie is a newer author to me and I found myself pulled right into this story. I just Loved Carter and Shelbys story. This is one of those books that I just couldn't put down and found an instant place in my book lover/second chance romance loving heart..
I truly can not wait to read more from this series and to see where the author takes us in the next book!!!!
Brie is a newer author to me and I found myself pulled right into this story. I just Loved Carter and Shelbys story. This is one of those books that I just couldn't put down and found an instant place in my book lover/second chance romance loving heart..
I truly can not wait to read more from this series and to see where the author takes us in the next book!!!!
July 12, 2016
ok let's be honest the cover sold me, but holy crap. The story and characters are amazing. Shelby is coming back home to start over, but coming back to where her heart was first broken by the one that could save her or break her. Carter has never forgot Shelby, yeah he's tried but none comes close, now he's found out she's back but can he convince her that he's always wanted her and still does, no matter her past. I truly loved this book. very well written, couldn't put it down.
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