Freya Morgan thought it was a great idea to hire the bad boy on campus to beat up her douchebag ex-boyfriend after he cheated and treated her like crap. Fast forward a few months, and nothing she’s done has helped her get over the scars left behind by her ex. Not the paid beating, not the string of sucky dates, nothing.
Dean Collins is in trouble, and it’s all Freya’s fault. After all, she started the trend of all the ladies on campus paying him to do their dirty work. But now, two of the boys he was hired to beat up are dead, and he’s the only connection.
When Freya agrees to help him find the real killer, she discovers that this bad boy isn’t so bad, after all. And getting involved with him means more than finding a killer, it means potentially losing her life…and her heart.
Mary Frame writes romantic comedies with quirky characters, steamy moments, and banter that will make you blush and snort-laugh at the same time. She’s a full time mom with a full time job and has no idea how she manages to write novels, but it probably helps that she's a dedicated introvert. She doesn't enjoy writing about herself in third person, but she does enjoy reading, writing, dancing, and damaging the ear drums of her co-workers when she randomly decides to sing to them.
She LOVES hearing from readers and will not only respond but likely begin stalking them while tossing out hearts and flowers and rainbows! If that doesn't creep you out, e-mail her at: maryframeauthor@gmail.com
What can I say about Freya's story? I hope that you laugh. This isn't a brilliant mystery (or a brilliant ANYTHING), but I hope you find it funny and receive some joy from reading :)
I also really want to thank EVERYONE who read both this book and/or Imperfect Chemistry, and for all of the wonderful reviews. I feel extraordinarily blessed that there are so many of you who enjoyed the quirkiness of these characters. I probably shouldn't admit this, but I often agree with the criticism and points that reviewers have made for parts of these stories that aren't as strong as they maybe could have been. This has been quite a journey for me, and I cannot wait to grow as a writer and hopefully you all will stay with me along the way!
Much love to you all! <3
Mary
***
The title has changed! Imperfectly Legal (which, I decided--after much hand wringing and forehead slapping--sounded too much like "barely legal"), is now Imperfectly Criminal. Thank you to everyone who voted for a new name on my blog and gave me wonderful suggestions.
I've nearly finished editing Freya's story, and I'm sending off to beta readers shortly. After I edit again based on feedback and send it to my editor, it will be ready for publication. I can't wait for you guys to see the cover! It's amazing!
***Update 11/3/14***
Imperfectly Criminal is now available for pre-order at Amazon and Smashwords! :)
I have a book hangover. I woke up early and read a chapter and then oopps finished the whole wonderful thing.
I was mad when I saw this second book in the Imperfect Series was out and I had even known! I fixed that right away. I am now on Mary Frame's mailing list. This sadness will not happen again.
I love Freya. She is funny and likes herself so much. She is young and filled with bravado and quick judgements but also smart and kind.
I love Dean. He is sweet and smart and tough. He isn't a man whore! Yea! His side businesses are a bit fantasical but whatever.
Small quibbles: They are barely in college. I mean they are there but it has no real impct on the plot. Frey needs thearpy and should have been encourged to get it for her trauma. Dean could use some too.
Overall, the book is fun with great banter, falling into friends and then lovers, wonderful secondary characters, a murder mystery which adds real zest to the story even if things get a bit silly and rushed, and I love story I can believe in.
How the heck did I forget putting our review for this book? :/
This convo review can be seen on our blog.
A MIDNIGHT FAIRY AND ROCK CHICK FAIRY CONVO REVIEW
Let's get straight to the point, did you enjoy this book?
RockChickF: Of course yes!!!!
MidnightF: I absolutely did!
Tell us what you love about the book.
RockChickF: I love the cuteness of it all. *happysigh* The premise is adorable and the characters are both just sooooo MFEO (made for each other) haha! :)
MidnightF: The humor! The first chapter made me laugh and I was hooked from then on. I second RockChickF about the main characters, they are so perfect for each other!
What can you say about the main characters in this book?
RockChickF: Freya is patterned from modern women. I like how she thinks and I like her attitude. Her reaction to things, especially that big complication is so realistic. I think many readers would like her. On the other hand, Dean (ahem, Winchester? ;p) is a very likable guy. It's not just because he's hot and all that.. he's also very responsible and he's loyal. I like that. I also like that he has found his humor again when Freya came into the picture. I guess it's safe to say again that THEY ARE MFEO. hahahaha! I swear!!!
MidnightF: Freya is funny and such a refreshing character. I like how she makes humor in any situation she's in and her love for food. =) Dean is a sweet guy despite how people perceive perceive him. He is more than a guy who beats up people for money. Behind his bad-ass facade is a responsible and loving son and a brother. Dean and Freya balance each other, Freya brings the fun and laughter while Dean brings the feeling of security in their relationship. I just love them together!
Any thoughts about the story line and the writing style?
RockChickF: Um. None. I don't know about you, but I don't really go deep into the "writing style"... The story line though? PERFECT. So, none. I've got nothing to say. Haha!
MidnightF: I think it was beautifully written and I loved how Ms. Frame added some crime and suspense in the story. It was a perfect blend of sweet romance, humor and mystery. I'm excited to read more of Mary Frame's works. =)
Did Imperfectly Criminal meet your expectations?
RockChickF: SURPASSED. 120 %.
MidnightF: YES! After reading the preview of Imperfectly Criminal from the last book, I knew I'm going to love Freya and Dean's story, and I was right! Imperfectly Criminal is an awesome read.
What is your least favorite part in the book?
RockChickF: The "oh-man-he's-going-to-jail" scene. :( Who would like that? :(
MidnightF: I second RockChickF, I didn't like that scene too, poor Dean. I also have to add the scene where Freya was drugged, that was scary!
Are you looking forward to read the next book?
RockChickF: YES. OF COURSE.
MidnightF: Absolutely! I wanna know whose story it would be about... Ms. Frame if you are reading this, please give us a clue!
Your rating and why?
RockChickF: 5 Fairy Wings because this book made me smile lots. It's that book that you'd feel thankful for because it made your day. I recommend this to everyone who just want to have a good time reading. :)
MidnightF: 5 Fairy Wings! Imperfectly Criminal is such a good read, it will make you laugh and fall in love with the characters. I highly recommend this book to those who love rom-com movies and sweet romance novels.
Freya Morgan thought it was a great idea to hire the bad boy on campus to beat up her douchebag ex-boyfriend after he cheated and treated her like crap. Fast forward a few months, and nothing she’s done has helped her get over the scars left behind by her ex. Not the paid beating, not the string of sucky dates, nothing.
Dean Collins is in trouble, and it’s all Freya’s fault. After all, she started the trend of all the ladies on campus paying him to do their dirty work. But now, two of the boys he was hired to beat up are dead, and he’s the only connection.
When Freya agrees to help him find the real killer, she discovers that this bad boy isn’t so bad, after all. And getting involved with him means more than finding a killer, it means potentially losing her life…and her heart.
Great read! Great story! Great characters!
This was a fun, and fast read! The author did touch on some serious topics that affected her characters, and she did it tastefully.
These topics just made her characters more real, believable, and likable. Wonderfully done!
Yay! I'm so happy when I find a new indie author that I can connect to!
This author's sense of humor, writing voice, and colorful smart characters make me want to stalk..um.. read all her work.
I'm so looking forward to reading more work from this author. Keep up the great work Ms. Frame!
I honestly loved this one way better than Imperfect Chemistry, mostly because of he chemistry between Freya and Dean! Their relationship (or more to the point, their interactions) are on point and basically the sassiest conversations you would have ever!
I can't wait to see what other gems this author doles out for us!
I definitely liked it as much as the previous book. I mean who does not like a hunky Thor-look-alike guy with a soft side protecting you? And I simply loved Freya in the first book that as soon as I finished the first book I went ahead and bought the kindle version cuz I just couldn't wait for the book to arrive and boy I was not disappointed in it.
The story was just like I expected just enough romance and a bit more drama than the first one, yet still a perfect blend. This author definitely falls under my fav authors now.
The female MC, Freya Morgan was the definition of being a hot mess and a hoot. Like the male MC Dean Collins said, you never know what she's going to say or do. The backstory of a murder was odd, but then again, this whole series is based on being odd and different. Overall it was a fun and quick read.
After reading imperfect chemistry and now this one, I'd say Mary Frame's heroine's are weird. But I love them.
Freya was not as weird as Lucy was. However, she's totally not your usual contemporary heroine either. I guess what actually pulled me into Mary Frame's writing was her character. I love her the first time I read about her in the first book and knowing her better in this book made me love her more. And the fact that she eats like she does made her more endearing to me.
The book was a well written combination of mystery, humor and romance. The suspense and mystery was not as intense as the mystery romance I always read but considering the characters, I think it fit well enough into the story. I got thrilled and think along the characters as they work on solving the mystery. And man! The romance between Freya and Dean was very well played. I like how the author built up the sexual tensions between the two of them and played well into the plot.
The characterizations and family background was woven well in the story too. I love both Dean's mom and Freya's mom. They are very unique in their own ways and very supportive to the two of them it touch my heart. There's also humor that made the story more alive and fun to read. It was nice to see Lucy and Jensen back and see them getting stronger together.
If you love mystery, romance and humor, I strongly recommend this one. You'll have a great time.
This was super cute! I loved Dean and Freya's relationship! It was just adorable.
I was interested in Freya from the first book and I just knew I was going to love her. Dean was the perfect hero as well. He's a total sweetheart, even though he's supposed to be the campus "bad boy." The way he took care of his family and Freya was so swoon worthy.
One thing I didn't like from the first book was the totally random break up at the end and I'm so glad there wasn't one here! Overall, I highly suggest this if you're in the mood for a cutesy YA-ish romance with likable leads! :)
Welp, as much as I liked the characters, especially the heroine, this was really boring. I skimmed over the last quarter of it.
------------------ POV: 1st person (dual) story: 2 writing: 3 heroine: Freya, 21y, pre-law student. 4 stars. She was a fun heroine. hero: Dean, early 20s, college student. 3 stars. I liked him, but his characters wasn't really much developed. secondary characters: 3 couple/romance: 2.5 instalove? No. steam: Low. angst: Moderate. enjoyment: 2 ending:
What a sweet story! I really like the characters in this series and I love the little quotes in the beginning of every chapter. This book made me smile:)
First, her name, everyone wants a unique name in their story so they can stand out. Well, MF nailed it with this one. She is super sarcastic and kinda awkward in her own way. Now to the hard stuff. This book deals with sexual assault. I could identify with her feelings of confusion. It’s hard to explain really because everyone’s experience is different. I really liked how it didn’t overshadow her life, how she clearly struggled but didn’t let it consume her. And how MF was able to write it like that without it losing its potency was fucking awesome to me. Freya acted exactly as I did. And I loved her all the more for it.
Another thing I really liked was how Freya never came out and said the word. I know that sounds weird but we don’t need to see it or hear it to know what it is and what she was referring to. And while some people may think it’s a bit of a cop out to not address it by its name, I myself was comforted by that very fact. I mean, yeah, obviously Freya is never going to forget it but it didn’t rule her life ya know? This may be coming out all wrong, it’s hard to really explain. Okay, I’m just gonna move on cause I‘ll just keep going in circles if I don’t.
I floved Dean! He was so….awesome and caring and funny! I loved how he took care of his family and didn’t make a big deal out of it. I loved how he wasn’t too proud to do any of the dirty work himself. But most of all, I loved how he responded to Freya. He was hard and soft, vulnerable and strong. It was the best of both worlds for me.
And their chemistry! Hot Damn! ::raise hand:: I’ll take a helping of flirty banter with a side of sensual kissing scenes please? Ding! *Order up*
I freaking loved Freya and Dean!! And I love this series--I think what I love most is how when the couples finally decide to be together, they have a conversation and they actively decide it, they go on dates, they get nervous...it's so normal and I love it because I seem to be reading a lot of NA where authors are trying to make their novels different but sometimes the plot becomes ridiculous in the process. So I really appreciated some normalcy. That being said...
There were definitely some parts of this novel that were not normal and kind of ridiculous. And when I say some, I really mean one. The entire murder "mystery". I wasn't a fan of it, it wasn't bad necessarily, just not my cuppa. Obviously I didn't thing it took away from the story. The romance and the characters were so incredible that this was easy to overlook.
Achei que a autora não decepcionou. Criou seu próprio estilo de humor, cheio de referências, que eu adorei. A história me manteve entretida da primeira página até a última, que também foi sensacional.
A mocinha tem um senso de humor divertidíssimo e é o tipo de amiga que todo mundo merece ter. Aquela bem doidinha, engraçada, inteligente, divertida e com um coração enorme.
E o mocinho é um fofo também. O tipo perfeito que conquista qualquer mulher com seu jeitinho doce.
Gostei muito da história e de como foi narrado. Apesar do humor, a autora também aborda temas como abuso em relacionamento e efeito do uso de drogas. E ainda tem o toque de mistério, afinal, quem está matando os homens na cidade???
Recomendo!!
*Ficarei de olho nos próximos trabalhos da autora.
She's done it again. I laughed out loud while reading the 2nd installment of Frame's Imperfect series. Not gonna lie, I will read this one again because it's good, not-so-clean, smexy fun!
Her characters are real--their flaws are artful, their comedic timing more so. And heeeeello sexy scenes! Seriously though, the smut is not really smut. It's steamy without being trashy, if that makes sense ;)
Oh, and don't forget the plot! A lot of cute romances don't actually boast silly things like that, but Frame gives the whole package. There's even a pretty bow on top!
Once again a very sweet romance, but I can't help notice how Freya seems to have been retconned from book 1 - it feels like the author tried to make her seem less sexually experienced than she appeared to be in the first book, possible to justify her status as a rape survivor? I hope not, but I can't figure out what other motivation there would be for that. But Lucy has also suddenly been transformed from a microbiologist to a psychotherapist, so who knows what was going on there.
4.5 stars. A wonderful book that took me by surprise. Delightful leading characters, witty banter and even a murder mystery thrown in. Wonderfully written, I think this is the first book in a long time I read that had no typos or misspelled words at all.
Amazing! A MIDNIGHT FAIRY AND ROCK CHICK FAIRY CONVO REVIEW
Let's get straight to the point, did you enjoy this book?
RockChickF: Of course yes!!!!
MidnightF: I absolutely did!
Tell us what you love about the book.
RockChickF: I love the cuteness of it all. *happysigh* The premise is adorable and the characters are both just sooooo MFEO (made for each other) haha! :)
MidnightF: The humor! The first chapter made me laugh and I was hooked from then on. I second RockChickF about the main characters, they are so perfect for each other!
What can you say about the main characters in this book?
RockChickF: Freya is patterned from modern women. I like how she thinks and I like her attitude. Her reaction to things, especially that big complication is so realistic. I think many readers would like her. On the other hand, Dean (ahem, Winchester? ;p) is a very likable guy. It's not just because he's hot and all that.. he's also very responsible and he's loyal. I like that. I also like that he has found his humor again when Freya came into the picture. I guess it's safe to say again that THEY ARE MFEO. hahahaha! I swear!!!
MidnightF: Freya is funny and such a refreshing character. I like how she makes humor in any situation she's in and her love for food. =) Dean is a sweet guy despite how people perceive perceive him. He is more than a guy who beats up people for money. Behind his bad-ass facade is a responsible and loving son and a brother. Dean and Freya balance each other, Freya brings the fun and laughter while Dean brings the feeling of security in their relationship. I just love them together!
Any thoughts about the story line and the writing style?
RockChickF: Um. None. I don't know about you, but I don't really go deep into the "writing style"... The story line though? PERFECT. So, none. I've got nothing to say. Haha!
MidnightF: I think it was beautifully written and I loved how Ms. Frame added some crime and suspense in the story. It was a perfect blend of sweet romance, humor and mystery. I'm excited to read more of Mary Frame's works. =)
Did Imperfectly Criminal meet your expectations?
RockChickF: SURPASSED. 120 %.
MidnightF: YES! After reading the preview of Imperfectly Criminal from the last book, I knew I'm going to love Freya and Dean's story, and I was right! Imperfectly Criminal is an awesome read.
What is your least favorite part in the book?
RockChickF: The "oh-man-he's-going-to-jail" scene. :( Who would like that? :(
MidnightF: I second RockChickF, I didn't like that scene too, poor Dean. I also have to add the scene where Freya was drugged, that was scary!
Are you looking forward to read the next book?
RockChickF: YES. OF COURSE.
MidnightF: Absolutely! I wanna know whose story it would be about... Ms. Frame if you are reading this, please give us a clue!
Your rating and why?
RockChickF: 5 Fairy Wings because this book made me smile lots. It's that book that you'd feel thankful for because it made your day. I recommend this to everyone who just want to have a good time reading. :)
MidnightF: 5 Fairy Wings! Imperfectly Criminal is such a good read, it will make you laugh and fall in love with the characters. I highly recommend this book to those who love rom-com movies and sweet romance novels.
After the first book in this series, I was actually rather surprised by this story! I thought it was much better than the first book, had more humor and a bit more suspense in it. I loved Freya and Dean together, thought that they were perfectly balanced for each other. One thing I didn't care for was how their college work seemed to be ignored in favor of dealing with the mystery that was going on. All things considered, this was a rather cute read, and I'm looking forward to the next book in the series.
Law student Freya Morgan thought it would be a good idea to hire Dean, the local bad boy on campus, to rough up her ex-boyfriend after he abused and cheated on her. She thought it would make her feel better. But several months go by, and Freya is no closer to feeling safe around men.
Dean thought it would be easy money. Rough up the ex-boyfriend, get some cash, and go on with life. But when word spreads that he's now a bad boy for hire, Dean is bombarded with requests from women to do their dirty work.
All is going well, until two of the guys he was hired to rough up are found dead, and Dean is the only connection. Desperate and unsure of where else to turn, Dean asks Freya to help him prove his innocence.
With the real killer on the loose, and the gradual discovery that this bad boy really isn't that bad after all, Freya wonders if Dean is worth putting her reputation (and her heart) on the line for.
This is the second book in Mary Frame's "Imperfect" series and I could hardly put it down. I laughed, I cried, and marvelled at how Frame managed to create a romantic whodunnit story that was both funny and heartfelt. Freya is eccentric and fun, exactly my brand of crazy. And Dean, was well, so completely lovely. He's my new book boyfriend. Mary Frame, please keep writing!
Freya Morgan is a sassy law student who has recently broken up with her douche of an ex boyfriend. Dean Collins is the guy she hired to beat the crap out of him. When Dean gets into some trouble with the law, aka being accused of murder, he has to trust in Freya to help him out.
First off I love Freya and Dean. I felt like they completed each other. She is bubbly and fun, but had gone through a traumatic experiment. He is a bit brooding and had a hard home life growing up. They just mesh really well together.
I will say my hopes were a little high, after reading Imperfect Chemistry. I absolutely loved that book and I was hoping to have the same reaction for Imperfectly Criminal. I wanted there to be more detail and a little more story. I just felt in some areas it fell short.
However, I still am obsessed with Mary Frame, so I plan on reading everything she writes. ;)
I received this book in exchange of an honest review
First of all, I'd like to thank the author for sending me a copy of her second book. I really loved Imperfect Chemistry. Her second book wasn't a disappointment at all.
Just like Imperfect Chemistry, Imperfectly Criminal was also funny. It's actually more funny than the first book. I'm so glad I wasn't reading it while I was in a public place or else they might think that I'm crazy!! What I loved the most is how not effed up Dean is. He's hot and all that, but he isn't like your typical alpha male. He's pretty smart and funny too. I'd definitely include him in my Book Boyfriend list!! Freya and Dean are a perfect match!! Freya reminds me a lot of Lucy. She's like the non-nerdy/scientific version of Lucy.
But I was hoping for a more thrilling scene (where they finally meet the killer and all that). Overall, I really loved this book and enjoyed it. It was so entertaining that I'd probably read it again!!
Sassy, funny heroine. Good guy with a little bad boy flavor. Intrigue. Mystery. Murder. I'm telling you, this book has it all!
Freya is one of my favorite heroines ever - she's someone you root for wholeheartedly. Dean is a "bad boy" that you could definitely take home to Mama! I love him especially because he's not tortured or "dark" - he's a great guy who just has some real life stuff to deal with.
I love the dual POV because I always find it interesting to look into the main characters heads.
This book has some truly hysterically funny moments, some poignant moments, some scary moments, some sweetly tender moments, and some steamy moments - it really does have everything. I enjoyed every word of this book. There's an interesting twist at the end that I honestly did not see coming, which definitely added in a "WHAT?!" moment which I loved!
**I had the privilege of beta reading this book for the author - I truly truly did enjoy every word**
With just two books, Mary Frame has become my favourite chick lit author. The imperfect series is funny, romantic, sexy and feministic. Yes, you read right. Freya (and Lucy) are really strong, complicated and real characters. And while this book is a love story, it's amazing how Freya insists that she does not need to be defined by a man.
Great work! Also for once, I truly enjoyed switching points of view. Loved reading Freya's and Dean's points of view.
This was the funniest, sweetest, most intriguing who done it I've read in a very long time. The characters aren't just likeable, they are loveable. The plot was totally engaging from page one. The writing was funny laugh out loud hilarious. The story clipped along and kept you hooked with the mystery and the romance. Honestly you can't go wrong with this one.
Loved this one as much as the first one in the series. Freya is an awesome character, and her hilarity has more to it than meets the eye. And Dean (Mob guy/Thor) has secrets of his own and is totally swoon-worthy. Great to see Lucy and Jensen again too. Read this one and Imperfect Chemistry over the past 3 days and am now suffering from a massive book hangover and all the feels. Highly recommend.
Mary Frame does it again - a perfect mix of creative storyline and quirky characters. Freya is wonderful - witty and fun. Her quick retorts had me laughing out loud on several occasions. Dean is hot, yet refreshingly emotionally stable for a guy of his reputation. I loved the glimpses of Lucy and Jensen too. Great, fun read.
I liked this story very much. It was funny, light and sensitive. Main characters are such a great couple, I was really into them, I liked the way this story was told, from both POV. I have to say that there is something special about this couple, they are charming and I like the way they treat each other: with sense of humor, with sincerety, with kindness and passion.
This was a great book .I enjoyed it very much. Freya was nothing like I thought she would be. I felt bad for Dean though. He went through lot in this book. So did Freya so it was nice that they were there for each other. I think they make such a great couple and I'm happy that everything worked out for them in the end.