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Rebellious
A love…
Controlled by guilt…
Contained by rules…
One summer will change everything.
No kissing.
No cuddling.
No blah, blah, blah.
He wrote the rules onto our skin—every ink stroke tragically smeared by the lines we’d crossed.
He claimed it was the only way we could be together—the only way we wouldn’t destroy our families.
But there was an exception to his rules—one he never saw coming.
All I needed was opportunity and a sunburn.
The girl who played by his rules is gone.
This girl… is not his “friend.”
Controlled by guilt…
Contained by rules…
One summer will change everything.
No kissing.
No cuddling.
No blah, blah, blah.
He wrote the rules onto our skin—every ink stroke tragically smeared by the lines we’d crossed.
He claimed it was the only way we could be together—the only way we wouldn’t destroy our families.
But there was an exception to his rules—one he never saw coming.
All I needed was opportunity and a sunburn.
The girl who played by his rules is gone.
This girl… is not his “friend.”
Hardcover
First published April 30, 2021
542 people are currently reading
2271 people want to read
About the author
Kristy Marie
29 books1,680 followersKristy Marie is an international bestselling author who loves writing temperamental heroes who fall hard for strong and witty heroines.
She enjoys harassing her three children and husband for all the hugs and will attempt to grow anything green. She also reads all things romance and can be caught being naughty by enjoying a chapter or two before her 9 p.m. bedtime.
When Kristy's not writing broody alphas or hugging babies, you can catch her in pajamas watching baseball and yelling at the TV. Go Braves!
She enjoys harassing her three children and husband for all the hugs and will attempt to grow anything green. She also reads all things romance and can be caught being naughty by enjoying a chapter or two before her 9 p.m. bedtime.
When Kristy's not writing broody alphas or hugging babies, you can catch her in pajamas watching baseball and yelling at the TV. Go Braves!
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 367 reviews
April 28, 2021
REBELLIOUS: Is a full length friends to lovers, romance book by new to me author 'Kristy Marie' Spoken in 'Dual Perspectives.' It does have carry on characters but it's easy enough to keep up and understand.
After seeing teasers and this cover popping up everywhere and not having read anything by this author before, I decided to take the plunge and OMFG I am so glad I did.
God these two did my head in, the push and pull, the rules, then the breaking of those rules, the angst nearly tipped me over the edge, raging at the author, thankful that I had a hard grip on my ipad or that bitch would've been thrown. But somewhere along the line I fell in love with them, like how could you not? The too and fro pulled me under each and every time, leaving me with a stupid grin on my face. These two were soul mates through and through, and you just couldn't help but fall under their spell. Oh and geez don't get me started on those swoony moments, because they zapped my cold heart to life!!
The connection between Bennett & Aspen was sublime which goes back many moons when he was born and she was immersing herself into his life even then until recent years where she'd push his buttons just to get a rise out of him, and a rise she did get. The giggles flowed ceaselessly. She was determined to shove those rules of his where the sun don't shine, though she did abide by them as such.
'𝙏𝙝𝙚 𝙧𝙪𝙡𝙚𝙨 𝙢𝙖𝙮 𝙠𝙚𝙚𝙥 𝙪𝙨 𝙨𝙚𝙥𝙖𝙧𝙖𝙩𝙚𝙙 𝙗𝙪𝙩 𝙤𝙪𝙧 𝙗𝙤𝙣𝙙 𝙝𝙖𝙨 𝙣𝙚𝙫𝙚𝙧 𝙝𝙖𝙙 𝙗𝙖𝙧𝙧𝙞𝙚𝙧𝙨.'
This author did an amazing job with this book, the feels just came at me out of nowhere and like a junky this was inhaled at record speeds. These are the books I crave, the ones that have you so twisted up, ones where the angst nearly sends you overboard, this book had everything all us angsty book lover hoes crave.
* Teaser used is off the authors facebook page *
September 30, 2021
Fuck You, Kristy Marie!!! How dare you make me cry like this?! My child was concerned about me! I probably won't breathe right for the rest of the night. Thank you very much!
The last 40 percent of the book is like one jab to the heart after another! If you've read the Commander in Briefs series, be prepared, because there's no way you won't FEEL this one!
The last 40 percent of the book is like one jab to the heart after another! If you've read the Commander in Briefs series, be prepared, because there's no way you won't FEEL this one!
May 4, 2021
SAFE SAFE SAFE AS FUCK
DUAL VIRGIN
FAITHFUL HERO
23 years old heroine
21 years old hero
Her love was fierce and I loved how in the end he thanked her for it. He was great too even though his concerns were kinda of dumb.
The whole rule thing was totally unrealistic, it turned the book a little silly, they don’t kiss, don’t touch each other sexually, don’t see each other naked.... but, they masturbate in front of each ocher with only the shower box glass separating them.
I wish there was a little more flashbacks, I love childhood to friends lovers when we get to see the love being built.
The author nailed the safety, there was never another woman, they never even seriously consider dating other people.
He pushes her away constantly for years and there is one time she goes to a fair and is on the kissing booth, he arrives a while later and maybe she kissed some guys before he was there but no mention. I didn’t mind it because there was not an issue and I don’t believe she let anyone kissed her. She truly loved him and sacrifice a lot to be with him.
They were each other firsts everything.
I loved the idea of them being each other’s soulmate, it really shows. Her name was his first word, his firsts steps were in her direction. Since he was a baby she would lie on her crib with him and they carried the habit of sleeping together until the present time.
I loved that she needs her but he also needs her, this is reciprocity when it comes to how they need each other.
Their parents were funny, it’s a shame their books especially her father’s is a unsafety disgusting mess. I will not mention they anymore cause I try to remove it from my memory.
I loved the epilogue, but I wanted a little more of flashbacks, the format is not really my favorite and was a little bit confusing sometimes. I also wanted more at the end, I understand the lack of groveling, but I wanted more of him going after her.
I love the things they would do to each other, he had diabetes so she is very careful of his health and tries her best to be sugar free whenever they are together. She measures his sugar levels, went to every appointment with him and gives him his insulin shot. When he went to college he would drive there every night so they could sleep together for two years until he went there too.
He does something I usually hate, he doesn’t let other guys get close to her, but she is not interest in someone else and neither is he. So I wasn’t bothered at all, because there isn’t any double standards here, actually he is the jealous one when she tried to prove a point when he told her they should date other people. As soon as he said it she went to another guy and asked him to give her a lift home, he went straight after her and took her home himself and scrubbed off the date other people rule forever. I loved these little jealous moments. She was a very liked heroine and I loved how she was always provoking him to bend his rules.
I loved the safety, I wish all childhood friends to lovers were written with standards like this one, they love each other, they may think it is not possible for them to be together, but this doesn’t mean “go fuck someone else”. They never consider other people, he was not willing to be with anyone else knowing she was there and he loved her, if he can’t have her, he truly didn’t think about being with anyone else, he would find exceptions for his rules to be with him in some way but never stray from his feelings.
There were some very beautiful lines.
“I’m a twenty-one-year-old virgin who saved himself for a woman he can never have. My brother calls it foolish. I call it not wanting anyone but her. No one can fill that need like Aspen would. Deep down, I know I would only be angry and utterly disappointed if it were anyone else.”
DUAL VIRGIN
FAITHFUL HERO
23 years old heroine
21 years old hero
Her love was fierce and I loved how in the end he thanked her for it. He was great too even though his concerns were kinda of dumb.
The whole rule thing was totally unrealistic, it turned the book a little silly, they don’t kiss, don’t touch each other sexually, don’t see each other naked.... but, they masturbate in front of each ocher with only the shower box glass separating them.
I wish there was a little more flashbacks, I love childhood to friends lovers when we get to see the love being built.
The author nailed the safety, there was never another woman, they never even seriously consider dating other people.
He pushes her away constantly for years and there is one time she goes to a fair and is on the kissing booth, he arrives a while later and maybe she kissed some guys before he was there but no mention. I didn’t mind it because there was not an issue and I don’t believe she let anyone kissed her. She truly loved him and sacrifice a lot to be with him.
They were each other firsts everything.
I loved the idea of them being each other’s soulmate, it really shows. Her name was his first word, his firsts steps were in her direction. Since he was a baby she would lie on her crib with him and they carried the habit of sleeping together until the present time.
I loved that she needs her but he also needs her, this is reciprocity when it comes to how they need each other.
Their parents were funny, it’s a shame their books especially her father’s is a unsafety disgusting mess. I will not mention they anymore cause I try to remove it from my memory.
I loved the epilogue, but I wanted a little more of flashbacks, the format is not really my favorite and was a little bit confusing sometimes. I also wanted more at the end, I understand the lack of groveling, but I wanted more of him going after her.
I love the things they would do to each other, he had diabetes so she is very careful of his health and tries her best to be sugar free whenever they are together. She measures his sugar levels, went to every appointment with him and gives him his insulin shot. When he went to college he would drive there every night so they could sleep together for two years until he went there too.
He does something I usually hate, he doesn’t let other guys get close to her, but she is not interest in someone else and neither is he. So I wasn’t bothered at all, because there isn’t any double standards here, actually he is the jealous one when she tried to prove a point when he told her they should date other people. As soon as he said it she went to another guy and asked him to give her a lift home, he went straight after her and took her home himself and scrubbed off the date other people rule forever. I loved these little jealous moments. She was a very liked heroine and I loved how she was always provoking him to bend his rules.
I loved the safety, I wish all childhood friends to lovers were written with standards like this one, they love each other, they may think it is not possible for them to be together, but this doesn’t mean “go fuck someone else”. They never consider other people, he was not willing to be with anyone else knowing she was there and he loved her, if he can’t have her, he truly didn’t think about being with anyone else, he would find exceptions for his rules to be with him in some way but never stray from his feelings.
There were some very beautiful lines.
“I’m a twenty-one-year-old virgin who saved himself for a woman he can never have. My brother calls it foolish. I call it not wanting anyone but her. No one can fill that need like Aspen would. Deep down, I know I would only be angry and utterly disappointed if it were anyone else.”
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 30, 2021
Oh, the sweet, sweet agony of angst! Rebellious is the love story of Aspen Von Bremen and Bennett Jameson and it pulls on those heart muscles like a beast! Throughout this book, I kept thinking of that quote from Tennyson: 'Tis better to have loved and lost, / Than never to have loved at all. Except for the most part, their love was a huge secret (although not really a secret to ANYONE) and we spent the majority of the book wondering 'will they or won't they?'
Fine. We knew they would and that it was a matter of when, but they worked that when like a stripper on a pole — smooth and tantalizing. Obviously I'm talking about a talented stripper.
So here's the deal... Aspen has loved Bennett since she was two years old and was handed his newborn body to hold. He's loved her just as long. But Bennett's an honorable guy. He's a guy that cares about his family, ALL of his family, and he doesn't want anything to mess up what they have going. So being Aspen's bestie will have to be enough. Almost kisses and slightly inappropriate touching aside, they've kept things platonic (if you don't count certain things that they do that you will discover when you read the book ), but Aspen's graduated and she's going to be leaving. Bennett's lifeline will soon be out of reach. When he finally caves to give them one summer of loving each other without rules... That's when things really start to get interesting... and messy.
While I'm not a big fan of new adult romances, Kristy Marie has this special way of writing them that draws me in and keeps me engaged. There's none of the usual whining or unnecessary drama. It's just straight heart, humor and feels.
I loved how she displayed the dynamic between Aspen and Bennett. He was the brooding, unapproachable hero who had a soft spot for his girl. She was the one constantly trying to break all of his rules and draw out the amazing guy she knew he was. She was trouble and he was trying to keep them out of it. She was temptation and he tried his best to resist. In the end, they were perfect for each other and no one who reads this story can deny that.
May 7, 2021
1.5 stars
dnf @70%
rip i can only blame myself for this 😭 this book is a spinoff to the MC's parents series. in the first book of their parents series, anniston and theo are a couple, with cade being the OM in their book, and then cade gets his own book with a different love interest.
then in this book, theo and anniston's daughter aspen (h) is in love with cade and his love interests son bennett (H). basically this book is an AU where anniston and cade got together since their children are carbon copies of them. legit same appearances and personalities. i didn't like cade in Commander so this was not an AU i ever needed, but i had to make sure i hated it and i do.
i was really hoping it would surprise me because i like this author a lot and i'm a sucker for childhood friends to lovers... i was also praying that the big reason they couldn't be together wasn't because their parents wouldn't like it because that's a v dumb reason for angst since they've been in love w each other since birth and everybody knows it, but alas it was so i had to put my clown face on again 🤡
there were things i did like:
→ aspens attentiveness to bennett's blood sugar (he has diabetes)
......i thought when i started this list i had more but 🤦🏽♀️ nvm
ultimately:
bennett is snooze fest wet blanket not hot why you so angry bro but i would very much appreciate ✨fenn's✨ romance pls pretty pls
dnf @70%
rip i can only blame myself for this 😭 this book is a spinoff to the MC's parents series. in the first book of their parents series, anniston and theo are a couple, with cade being the OM in their book, and then cade gets his own book with a different love interest.
then in this book, theo and anniston's daughter aspen (h) is in love with cade and his love interests son bennett (H). basically this book is an AU where anniston and cade got together since their children are carbon copies of them. legit same appearances and personalities. i didn't like cade in Commander so this was not an AU i ever needed, but i had to make sure i hated it and i do.
i was really hoping it would surprise me because i like this author a lot and i'm a sucker for childhood friends to lovers... i was also praying that the big reason they couldn't be together wasn't because their parents wouldn't like it because that's a v dumb reason for angst since they've been in love w each other since birth and everybody knows it, but alas it was so i had to put my clown face on again 🤡
there were things i did like:
→ aspens attentiveness to bennett's blood sugar (he has diabetes)
......i thought when i started this list i had more but 🤦🏽♀️ nvm
ultimately:
bennett is snooze fest wet blanket not hot why you so angry bro but i would very much appreciate ✨fenn's✨ romance pls pretty pls
May 4, 2021
Ugh...too much drama 🙄 that too unnecessarily!
There were so many points I hate in a book :
◾ Friends to lovers (I totally DON'T like that troope)
◾Way too drama.
◾The whole pretending game. When you pretend things which aren't true or don't even exist.
◾New adult romance. I generally steer clear from these immature kids who don't realise the meaning of love or who try to look overly mature by taking the worst decisions of their lives.
No doubt the chemistry was hot and there was alot of angst but it kinda felt fake when none of them were ready to own their feelings.
And starting was too slow. There were points were I was skipping pages just to be done with it which is NOT how a book should be read. I think that was my cue.
There were so many points I hate in a book :
◾ Friends to lovers (I totally DON'T like that troope)
◾Way too drama.
◾The whole pretending game. When you pretend things which aren't true or don't even exist.
◾New adult romance. I generally steer clear from these immature kids who don't realise the meaning of love or who try to look overly mature by taking the worst decisions of their lives.
No doubt the chemistry was hot and there was alot of angst but it kinda felt fake when none of them were ready to own their feelings.
And starting was too slow. There were points were I was skipping pages just to be done with it which is NOT how a book should be read. I think that was my cue.
November 12, 2022
Rebellious is funny. I have to agree with the reviewers here. But it is not my comedy type. The writing is not my cup of tea. Miss Marie is certainly talented writer. The back and forth between Bennett pushing away Aspen took too much focus.
And Miss Marie did not really show the reason why. This is frustrating part for me. I do like the chemistry between Aspen and Bennett. They cute together. Their dad is also hilarious.
Overall this is OK book.
3 stars
And Miss Marie did not really show the reason why. This is frustrating part for me. I do like the chemistry between Aspen and Bennett. They cute together. Their dad is also hilarious.
Overall this is OK book.
3 stars
March 10, 2021
FULL RTC!!! Kristy Marie...Tissues. Tissues, girl, you know how many I went through and I would gladly do it all over again!! Gah, it was one emotional feel after another!! 😭😭😭
------------------------------------------
I am going to preface this by saying, you are never going to be ready enough for this book. Consequently, I do not know if my review will do Rebellious and Kristy justice, but I am sure going to try. After having some time to think about this book (and re-read some spots), my sentiments and feelings are the same as when I first finished. Kristy Marie was flawless in the writing; consequently, why I needed tissues, which I am not the least bit sorry to admit. This is why I originally vocalized the following statement.
“Kristy Marie…Tissues. Tissues, girl, you know how many I went through and I would gladly do it all over again!! Gah, it was one emotional feel after another!! 😭😭😭”
I am not afraid to show my softer side here for a second. I cried. A lot. I joked about needing tissues, but I really did need them. From the first word of the Prologue to ‘The End’ where I could not click for more words. Kristy wrote her heart out and it shows.
Rebellious is about Aspen and Bennett who you would have seen in IOU. Taking it one step further back, Aspen and Bennett are a second-generation book from Commandeer in Brief (Theo and Ainsley’s daughter; Cade and Breck’s son). To say they are a chip off of the old blocks is putting it mildly. Bennett is a lot like Cade in his younger days, while Aspen is the perfect combination of her parents. The fun-loving trickster mentality of Theo is biting him in the butt with his daughter.
Since birth, Aspen and Bennett have had a unique relationship. Aspen is this ball of energy, while Bennett is the morose one. No matter what has been going on in their life, they not only have each other, but need each other. This need escalates as they get older, but where do these feelings fit in in a friendship relationship? As college rolls around, Aspen is awfully familiar with Bennett’s rules. Rules made to keep them from crossing a certain line.
Remember how I started out the prologue emotionally invested? Well, the last third of the book is 10x more powerful. It is an emotional punch to the heart and gut one right after another. When you think you cannot take anymore, you start reading a little faster and clicking faster. What is sad is you want to get to that next page as quick as you can, but you do not want it to end. I got to the last page and got upset all over again when I could not read anymore. I had to sit back and ruminate on all I had read, just to feel as if I was immersed in their world just a little while longer.
I have loved many of Kristy’s previous books, but this one tops them all (sorry, Cade, Tim, Hayes, Theo, you are all a close second). Rebellious is a perfect example that sometimes not all love is picture perfect. It can get messy, it can hit you in the solar plexus and hurt you, but if you have a strong foundation that ‘love’, no matter the form, can expand and flourish and encompass those affected. Rebellion is easily a top read of 2021 for me. Congratulations Kristy on a job well done!!
Releasing April 30th
------------------------------------------
I am going to preface this by saying, you are never going to be ready enough for this book. Consequently, I do not know if my review will do Rebellious and Kristy justice, but I am sure going to try. After having some time to think about this book (and re-read some spots), my sentiments and feelings are the same as when I first finished. Kristy Marie was flawless in the writing; consequently, why I needed tissues, which I am not the least bit sorry to admit. This is why I originally vocalized the following statement.
“Kristy Marie…Tissues. Tissues, girl, you know how many I went through and I would gladly do it all over again!! Gah, it was one emotional feel after another!! 😭😭😭”
I am not afraid to show my softer side here for a second. I cried. A lot. I joked about needing tissues, but I really did need them. From the first word of the Prologue to ‘The End’ where I could not click for more words. Kristy wrote her heart out and it shows.
Rebellious is about Aspen and Bennett who you would have seen in IOU. Taking it one step further back, Aspen and Bennett are a second-generation book from Commandeer in Brief (Theo and Ainsley’s daughter; Cade and Breck’s son). To say they are a chip off of the old blocks is putting it mildly. Bennett is a lot like Cade in his younger days, while Aspen is the perfect combination of her parents. The fun-loving trickster mentality of Theo is biting him in the butt with his daughter.
Since birth, Aspen and Bennett have had a unique relationship. Aspen is this ball of energy, while Bennett is the morose one. No matter what has been going on in their life, they not only have each other, but need each other. This need escalates as they get older, but where do these feelings fit in in a friendship relationship? As college rolls around, Aspen is awfully familiar with Bennett’s rules. Rules made to keep them from crossing a certain line.
Remember how I started out the prologue emotionally invested? Well, the last third of the book is 10x more powerful. It is an emotional punch to the heart and gut one right after another. When you think you cannot take anymore, you start reading a little faster and clicking faster. What is sad is you want to get to that next page as quick as you can, but you do not want it to end. I got to the last page and got upset all over again when I could not read anymore. I had to sit back and ruminate on all I had read, just to feel as if I was immersed in their world just a little while longer.
I have loved many of Kristy’s previous books, but this one tops them all (sorry, Cade, Tim, Hayes, Theo, you are all a close second). Rebellious is a perfect example that sometimes not all love is picture perfect. It can get messy, it can hit you in the solar plexus and hurt you, but if you have a strong foundation that ‘love’, no matter the form, can expand and flourish and encompass those affected. Rebellion is easily a top read of 2021 for me. Congratulations Kristy on a job well done!!
Releasing April 30th
April 30, 2021
*AVAILABLE NOW - KINDLEUNLIMITED & AUDIBLE*
NOTE: This is a second generation story. It CAN be read as a complete standalone. This is also one of those books where my review will never do it justice. JUST READ THIS BOOK.
5 Exceptions to the Rules STARS
What do you do when a book is over but you still click the kindle hoping more words appear? Nothing. Stare into space, wishing you could wipe it all and start again.
I didn’t realize how much I missed this crew of characters. The home and love Kristy Marie has created with this world and this group of fictional people is unlike few I have ever read. And while I know this is a fake world with made-up characters, it doesn’t change the love that is felt on each page. These characters epitomize the idea of family and home, and Kristy writes them in such a way that the reader can feel that love, acceptance, and forgiveness between them all, the familial and romantic. It radiates from each word and action. She also throws in a healthy does of hilarity and shenanigans to counteract the high angst of this one, and I devoured every single moment, word, and page of this book.
Rebellious follows Bennett and Aspen. Aspen is so much her father and mother - all his shenanigan-loving spirit and her heart and compassion. She has all their best parts. Bennett had that Jameson brood down pat, but his motivations throughout this book broke my heart and make him so lovable. I would have forgiven him anything. ANYTHING.
The angst in this book is high. I didn’t know if my heart could take it. It felt at times that she was putting it through a wood chipper. The heartbreak, the longing, the need they have for each other is a tangible entity that permeated each page, and it is what ultimately creates some of the most gut-wrenching scenes I’ve read in some time. The reasons for holding back broke my heart. Seeing how it breaks them to hold on but also refusing to let go is crippling. Kristy Marie has never made me hate and love a summer so much. And that marker? I swear I never loved and loathed and object in my life. I truly felt like I lived each moment with them, all the highs and lows.
Even though the lows hurt, the highs are worth it. Seeing Bennett and Aspen free, seeing the family of kids as well as adults come through time and again for each other, and seeing that HEA I didn’t even know I needed made my heart flutter. That ending. My heart almost burst out of my chest with glee. And all I could say at the end was more. Give me more please. I never want to leave this world or this family.
Rebellious is tied as my favorite Kristy Marie book (I won’t choose between Hayes and Bennett. I shall keep them both). It is a ride. It is a story filled with hurt and healing. It is one of the best books I’ve read of 2021. It’s a must read. Write that down in permanent marker.
Early ARC Copy
NOTE: This is a second generation story. It CAN be read as a complete standalone. This is also one of those books where my review will never do it justice. JUST READ THIS BOOK.
5 Exceptions to the Rules STARS
What do you do when a book is over but you still click the kindle hoping more words appear? Nothing. Stare into space, wishing you could wipe it all and start again.
I didn’t realize how much I missed this crew of characters. The home and love Kristy Marie has created with this world and this group of fictional people is unlike few I have ever read. And while I know this is a fake world with made-up characters, it doesn’t change the love that is felt on each page. These characters epitomize the idea of family and home, and Kristy writes them in such a way that the reader can feel that love, acceptance, and forgiveness between them all, the familial and romantic. It radiates from each word and action. She also throws in a healthy does of hilarity and shenanigans to counteract the high angst of this one, and I devoured every single moment, word, and page of this book.
Rebellious follows Bennett and Aspen. Aspen is so much her father and mother - all his shenanigan-loving spirit and her heart and compassion. She has all their best parts. Bennett had that Jameson brood down pat, but his motivations throughout this book broke my heart and make him so lovable. I would have forgiven him anything. ANYTHING.
The angst in this book is high. I didn’t know if my heart could take it. It felt at times that she was putting it through a wood chipper. The heartbreak, the longing, the need they have for each other is a tangible entity that permeated each page, and it is what ultimately creates some of the most gut-wrenching scenes I’ve read in some time. The reasons for holding back broke my heart. Seeing how it breaks them to hold on but also refusing to let go is crippling. Kristy Marie has never made me hate and love a summer so much. And that marker? I swear I never loved and loathed and object in my life. I truly felt like I lived each moment with them, all the highs and lows.
Even though the lows hurt, the highs are worth it. Seeing Bennett and Aspen free, seeing the family of kids as well as adults come through time and again for each other, and seeing that HEA I didn’t even know I needed made my heart flutter. That ending. My heart almost burst out of my chest with glee. And all I could say at the end was more. Give me more please. I never want to leave this world or this family.
Rebellious is tied as my favorite Kristy Marie book (I won’t choose between Hayes and Bennett. I shall keep them both). It is a ride. It is a story filled with hurt and healing. It is one of the best books I’ve read of 2021. It’s a must read. Write that down in permanent marker.
Early ARC Copy
April 24, 2021
They Didn’t Need Luck...Fate Was On Their Side
HILARIOUS ~ POIGNANT ~ FATED LOVE STORY
A beautiful, all-consuming love that spans a lifetime. You will be totally smitten with Aspen and Bennett. Her sass and his alpha male broodiness will capture you from the first page. Love that cannot be denied no matter how hard he tries. These two are the definition of soul mates.
She’s her father’s daughter and knows exactly what she wants. He’s moody and bound by his own code of loyalty and family. She fights him every step and he resists her at every turn...until he figures it out. The heart wants what it wants.
A true testament to a great story is thinking about it long after you turn the final page. This is one of those stories.
Bennett and Aspen will permanently hold a place in my heart. I loved their past because that is where their love began. I loved their present even more because their connection continued to grow and they accepted their fate. I loved their future the most because it meant forever.
My favorite crew has come full circle and now I get to love on their offspring as much as I adored the OG’s. Kristy brought us more unforgettably poignant moments, hilarious antics, and characters we’ll never want to let go. FIVE OUTSTANDING STARS!!!
HILARIOUS ~ POIGNANT ~ FATED LOVE STORY
A beautiful, all-consuming love that spans a lifetime. You will be totally smitten with Aspen and Bennett. Her sass and his alpha male broodiness will capture you from the first page. Love that cannot be denied no matter how hard he tries. These two are the definition of soul mates.
She’s her father’s daughter and knows exactly what she wants. He’s moody and bound by his own code of loyalty and family. She fights him every step and he resists her at every turn...until he figures it out. The heart wants what it wants.
A true testament to a great story is thinking about it long after you turn the final page. This is one of those stories.
Bennett and Aspen will permanently hold a place in my heart. I loved their past because that is where their love began. I loved their present even more because their connection continued to grow and they accepted their fate. I loved their future the most because it meant forever.
My favorite crew has come full circle and now I get to love on their offspring as much as I adored the OG’s. Kristy brought us more unforgettably poignant moments, hilarious antics, and characters we’ll never want to let go. FIVE OUTSTANDING STARS!!!
April 30, 2021
Rule number 1: read this book.
I’m sat here with tears streaming my down my face and my stomach hurting from laughing so much.
Rebellious is a top read of 2021. It bought all of the emotions and sucked me in from the very first page. I love books that bring out all the emotions and make me feel bipolar and Kristy Marie did that.
I have been dying to read Aspen and Bennett’s story. Their friendship had me curious in other books and I was so happy when Kristy announced she was writing their story. Their sexual chemistry and slow burn just about killed me off.
Seeing Theo as a dad was one of my favourite things ever. These characters have a special place in my heart and I never want to leave this world.
This best friends to lovers romance was everything and more. You are missing out if you don’t read it.
I’m sat here with tears streaming my down my face and my stomach hurting from laughing so much.
Rebellious is a top read of 2021. It bought all of the emotions and sucked me in from the very first page. I love books that bring out all the emotions and make me feel bipolar and Kristy Marie did that.
I have been dying to read Aspen and Bennett’s story. Their friendship had me curious in other books and I was so happy when Kristy announced she was writing their story. Their sexual chemistry and slow burn just about killed me off.
Seeing Theo as a dad was one of my favourite things ever. These characters have a special place in my heart and I never want to leave this world.
This best friends to lovers romance was everything and more. You are missing out if you don’t read it.
April 25, 2021
THIS BOOK!!!! 😍😍😍😍😍
So anyone who knows me, knows that I am a HUGE Kristy Marie fan. If I am going to rec a book, 9 out of 10 times, it will always be a KM book.
I have been DYING for this book for what feels like forever. Was I disappointed? FUCK NO!!!!
Rebellious was one those books that is SO FULL of emotion, that it almost becomes to much at times.
If you have read the Commander in Briefs series and Subscriber Wars (which I highly recommend doing before reading Rebellious), then you will completely understand what I mean.
Aspen and Bennett. MY HEART CANNOT TAKE THOSE TWO!!!!!!
They are not only best friend goals, but couple goals. I fell so madly in love with their story that I never wanted it to end!!!!!
Once again, Kristy Marie has wowed me with her talent for writing and creating such a beautiful story about two people who were the definition of fate. Their love was undeniable and always meant to be. Gahhhhhhh just thinking about it, brings a huge smile to my face. I absolutely loved it!!!!!!
So anyone who knows me, knows that I am a HUGE Kristy Marie fan. If I am going to rec a book, 9 out of 10 times, it will always be a KM book.
I have been DYING for this book for what feels like forever. Was I disappointed? FUCK NO!!!!
Rebellious was one those books that is SO FULL of emotion, that it almost becomes to much at times.
If you have read the Commander in Briefs series and Subscriber Wars (which I highly recommend doing before reading Rebellious), then you will completely understand what I mean.
Aspen and Bennett. MY HEART CANNOT TAKE THOSE TWO!!!!!!
They are not only best friend goals, but couple goals. I fell so madly in love with their story that I never wanted it to end!!!!!
Once again, Kristy Marie has wowed me with her talent for writing and creating such a beautiful story about two people who were the definition of fate. Their love was undeniable and always meant to be. Gahhhhhhh just thinking about it, brings a huge smile to my face. I absolutely loved it!!!!!!
May 6, 2021
I love childhood best friends to lovers but this didn’t worked for me from beginning. Rules were dumb and I didn't care about them as couple.
May 31, 2021
❝If a relationship like ours is once in a lifetime, then I want to remember what it felt like to love her, for once, without consequences.❞
𝗧𝗿𝗼𝗽𝗲𝘀: 𝘢𝘯𝘨𝘴𝘵𝘺 𝘤𝘩𝘪𝘭𝘥𝘩𝘰𝘰𝘥 𝘣𝘦𝘴𝘵 𝘧𝘳𝘪𝘦𝘯𝘥𝘴 𝘵𝘰 𝘭𝘰𝘷𝘦𝘳𝘴, 𝘴𝘰𝘶𝘭𝘮𝘢𝘵𝘦𝘴 (𝘓𝘐𝘛𝘌𝘙𝘈𝘓𝘓𝘠‼️)
Can you believe I signed up for this thinking it was going to be a light romcom? oh, how naive I was... but I happen to love heartbreaking romances and pain, so I ended up winning anyway because this was AMAZING.
Bennett and Aspen have had this special and unbreakable bond since forever. Everyone know that they love each other and are destined to be together; their parents, siblings, friends, etc., but Bennett is scared and has a lot to lose, so his only option is to keep Aspen at arm's length, always only as best friend, even if it's killing him. That's what the rules are for.
Aspen is done with Bennett's rules. It's her last summer with him, and she's more than ready to test his limits and end up breaking every rule that has kept them apart all these years. Just for one summer...
I don't know what was my favorite part of this book; the angst? the pull and push? Aspen tempting Bennett until he exploded? Their friendship that was above all? the sweet moments of their relationship? the found family trope? the epilogue?? Sorry but I can't pick just one, these characters really stole my heart 🥺
Rebellious is a standalone following Aspen Von Bremen and Bennett Jameson, second generation of Kristy's Commander in briefs series which I haven't read yet, but obviously I will after seeing this great family interact, from afar you can see that the found family trope here is heartbreakingly beautiful and hilarious.
ARC provided in exchange for an honest review.
-----------------------------------------------------------
🤡 --> me reading this thinking it was a light romcom
👸🏻 --> me winning anyway because I love a good angsty story!
ARC provided in exchange for an honest review.
February 17, 2021
Since the very first time that I discovered this author, I knew that there was something magical about her. There was just something so extraordinary about the way that she not only crafted a story but about how she created authentic and real characters. With each book, that she published, her writing style got better and better (not sure how that was possible because it was some of the best I had read) and her stories took on even more meaning. This book was a testament to that. I say it with every book but, this book, hands down is my favorite and the best that this author has ever written.
Aspen and Bennet made their first appearance in IOU and from that small scene, I knew I needed more. This continued in Subscriber Wars. However, nothing, and I mean nothing, could have prepared me for these one-of-a-kind characters. These characters were complex as well as dynamic. Their relationship is everything one should and shouldn't want. When I say that, I mean the love that they shared and also the hell they went through trying to keep those feelings away because in their minds(really Just Bennett's mind and Aspen agreed out of loyalty to Bennett) it was what needed to be done, even if that meant that they could never be.
There is a playfulness to these characters and their unusual relationship. There is no mistaking that these two are soul mates. Even with the established rules that Bennett creates, the love shines through. Even in humourous moments, I felt the angst and heartbreak of not being able to act on those feelings.
Aspen knew how to play the rules, which I can only imagine would be hard, when one's heart is on the line. She was her father's daughter, even with enough of her mother, Anniston in her, Theo managed to shine the brightest. She is resilient. quick with the witty comebacks, and stubbornness. I wanted to be her friend. She knew what and who she wanted and traversed the line of pushing Bennett out of his comfort zone as well as knew how to not cross it to have an adverse effect.
Bennett... Good sweet holiest of titfires. This beautiful gentle giant of a man. So much love and heart in him. He is grumpy and gruff, but he is also one of the best heroes that this author has ever created. His reasons for his selfless actions of creating rules in order to keep them protected just about broke my heart. I never questioned the love that he had for Aspen and visa versa. I even understand why he created the rules. Some scars run deep because the smallest of experiences shape the mind, especially, at a young age.
Together, these two were the stuff of legends. There is humor, there is depth, there is chemistry out the whazoo, and there is an abundance of love. Watching them try to stick to the rules while teetering on the edge of crossing a line kept me riveted to the pages of this book. There were a couple of scenes that were hands down the hottest that I have read (Just wait until you get to a certain shower scene or beach scene), and hands down had one, if not the BEST kiss I have ever read, and trust me when I say that I have read a lot of kisses so that says something.
The secondary characters were amazing. Some from the previous Commander books, and some with the second generation kids that will be getting books in the future. There were heartwarming moments that brought tears to my eyes, moments that explained the connection of not only the family but Aspen and Bennett in particular, and moments that foreshadowed some of what could possibly come in the future.
Again, I seem to have continued my tradition of rambling like a shiny squirrel when it comes to this author. My old literature professors would be shaking their heads at me... Basically, I could keep spewing all the amazing things about every aspect of this book and still not do it justice. This book is an example of why I read romance. It not only is an escape but gives the hidden message that love truly can conquer any obstacle if it was meant to be. And trust me when I say, Aspen and Bennett were meant to be. This book is going in my all-time favorites vault and most assuredly has made my best of 2021. Kudos to this author for, again, knocking this out of the park.
Aspen and Bennet made their first appearance in IOU and from that small scene, I knew I needed more. This continued in Subscriber Wars. However, nothing, and I mean nothing, could have prepared me for these one-of-a-kind characters. These characters were complex as well as dynamic. Their relationship is everything one should and shouldn't want. When I say that, I mean the love that they shared and also the hell they went through trying to keep those feelings away because in their minds(really Just Bennett's mind and Aspen agreed out of loyalty to Bennett) it was what needed to be done, even if that meant that they could never be.
There is a playfulness to these characters and their unusual relationship. There is no mistaking that these two are soul mates. Even with the established rules that Bennett creates, the love shines through. Even in humourous moments, I felt the angst and heartbreak of not being able to act on those feelings.
Aspen knew how to play the rules, which I can only imagine would be hard, when one's heart is on the line. She was her father's daughter, even with enough of her mother, Anniston in her, Theo managed to shine the brightest. She is resilient. quick with the witty comebacks, and stubbornness. I wanted to be her friend. She knew what and who she wanted and traversed the line of pushing Bennett out of his comfort zone as well as knew how to not cross it to have an adverse effect.
Bennett... Good sweet holiest of titfires. This beautiful gentle giant of a man. So much love and heart in him. He is grumpy and gruff, but he is also one of the best heroes that this author has ever created. His reasons for his selfless actions of creating rules in order to keep them protected just about broke my heart. I never questioned the love that he had for Aspen and visa versa. I even understand why he created the rules. Some scars run deep because the smallest of experiences shape the mind, especially, at a young age.
Together, these two were the stuff of legends. There is humor, there is depth, there is chemistry out the whazoo, and there is an abundance of love. Watching them try to stick to the rules while teetering on the edge of crossing a line kept me riveted to the pages of this book. There were a couple of scenes that were hands down the hottest that I have read (Just wait until you get to a certain shower scene or beach scene), and hands down had one, if not the BEST kiss I have ever read, and trust me when I say that I have read a lot of kisses so that says something.
The secondary characters were amazing. Some from the previous Commander books, and some with the second generation kids that will be getting books in the future. There were heartwarming moments that brought tears to my eyes, moments that explained the connection of not only the family but Aspen and Bennett in particular, and moments that foreshadowed some of what could possibly come in the future.
Again, I seem to have continued my tradition of rambling like a shiny squirrel when it comes to this author. My old literature professors would be shaking their heads at me... Basically, I could keep spewing all the amazing things about every aspect of this book and still not do it justice. This book is an example of why I read romance. It not only is an escape but gives the hidden message that love truly can conquer any obstacle if it was meant to be. And trust me when I say, Aspen and Bennett were meant to be. This book is going in my all-time favorites vault and most assuredly has made my best of 2021. Kudos to this author for, again, knocking this out of the park.
Read
May 6, 2021Nah this isn't for me. There's SO MUCH going on and yet nothing happening. Also since they're both already in love there's no like tension?? Nothing driving the plot forward since I already know what the end result will be.
Plus it's boring lmfaooo
Plus it's boring lmfaooo
May 7, 2021
What do you do when you've finished one of your most anticipated reads and your emotions are all over the place? K Marie has done it once again and made me laugh and cry, and want to move right in with this family who found each other by life's circumstances. This "family" is made up of several families chosen by friendship and camaraderie, not by blood. Their bond is one that remains to be rivaled by any other book world I have read, and the added younger generation has added even more passion, fun, laughs and love between them all and has started the Legacies series with a bang.
From the first scene that Aspen Von Bremen and Bennett Jameson hit the pages of IOU I was doing a standing ovation for these children of the beloved Theo & Anniston Von Bremen and Cade & Breck Jameson. Bennett & Aspen hold so many traits of their parents, yet each have their own unique qualities that make them their own. Bennett is the younger version of his broody dad, Cade; while Aspen is both competitive like her father and sassy like her mom. But what makes them so different is that both Bennett & Aspen wear their emotions on their sleeve. Whereas the older generation had walls and hard ridges to break down, this younger crew has been softened by witnessing their parents and family's love and compassion.
I LOVED every connection between Bennett & Aspen from the flashbacks to their childhood to teen years to every interaction in which Aspen loved pushing all of Bennett's buttons. Their love is one that is rare - it started from when they were too young to even understand it, and was fated from the start. Even though they are surrounded by loving and supportive parents, siblings and friends, these two navigate a rough road to each other because of Bennett's compulsive need to protect his father and their families' friendships. He is absolutely loyal to a fault, selfless, and OH SO swoony with his "yes sir" and southern boy charm. When he lets his guard down with Aspen, you will sigh and fan yourself over this possessive and passionate man. I loved every moment that they joked, ribbed each other, ganged up on their siblings, bonded with the other's parents - but especially when they let themselves just love the other without any "rules".
Aspen's determination combined with her feisty spirit, passionate heart, and unwavering love for Bennett all surge her forward to never give up hope for the man she loves. Every move she made, every joke she played on him and every rule of his that she followed (or broke) led her further down the path to a love that could break her heart. But she never gave up - she gave him her all, and I admired her for putting her heart on the line over and over again. I could FEEL her love for him through the pages and I shed many tears not only for her, but for Bennett as well.
K Marie combines her witty humor with an emotional storyline and beloved characters from CiB to create an unforgettable love story. Theo Von Bremen is a scene stealer more than once and I loved every second of him and Cade; and both Fenn VB and Drew Jameson have stories to tell that I am more than ready for!! I'm SO thankful that this author decided to write a 2nd generation for this CiB crew and cannot wait for what's to come! Well done once again K Marie!!
From the first scene that Aspen Von Bremen and Bennett Jameson hit the pages of IOU I was doing a standing ovation for these children of the beloved Theo & Anniston Von Bremen and Cade & Breck Jameson. Bennett & Aspen hold so many traits of their parents, yet each have their own unique qualities that make them their own. Bennett is the younger version of his broody dad, Cade; while Aspen is both competitive like her father and sassy like her mom. But what makes them so different is that both Bennett & Aspen wear their emotions on their sleeve. Whereas the older generation had walls and hard ridges to break down, this younger crew has been softened by witnessing their parents and family's love and compassion.
I LOVED every connection between Bennett & Aspen from the flashbacks to their childhood to teen years to every interaction in which Aspen loved pushing all of Bennett's buttons. Their love is one that is rare - it started from when they were too young to even understand it, and was fated from the start. Even though they are surrounded by loving and supportive parents, siblings and friends, these two navigate a rough road to each other because of Bennett's compulsive need to protect his father and their families' friendships. He is absolutely loyal to a fault, selfless, and OH SO swoony with his "yes sir" and southern boy charm. When he lets his guard down with Aspen, you will sigh and fan yourself over this possessive and passionate man. I loved every moment that they joked, ribbed each other, ganged up on their siblings, bonded with the other's parents - but especially when they let themselves just love the other without any "rules".
Aspen's determination combined with her feisty spirit, passionate heart, and unwavering love for Bennett all surge her forward to never give up hope for the man she loves. Every move she made, every joke she played on him and every rule of his that she followed (or broke) led her further down the path to a love that could break her heart. But she never gave up - she gave him her all, and I admired her for putting her heart on the line over and over again. I could FEEL her love for him through the pages and I shed many tears not only for her, but for Bennett as well.
K Marie combines her witty humor with an emotional storyline and beloved characters from CiB to create an unforgettable love story. Theo Von Bremen is a scene stealer more than once and I loved every second of him and Cade; and both Fenn VB and Drew Jameson have stories to tell that I am more than ready for!! I'm SO thankful that this author decided to write a 2nd generation for this CiB crew and cannot wait for what's to come! Well done once again K Marie!!
April 30, 2021
{I received a digital arc for an honest review]
Ahh where to start with Rebellious by Kristy Marie 💖I've been dying for Aspen and Bennett's book, and it did not disappoint.
"this is the last summer I'll get to spend with my best friend, I'm going to devour every second."
Aspen and Bennett have been inseparable since the day Bennett was born. As they got older their feelings grew from friendship to so much more. But Bennett believes if he were to give himself fully to Aspen it would destroy the relationship between their families. So he creates rules to their friendship in order to never cross that line. Aspen never gives up hope of a real future for them and takes whatever pieces of Bennet he'll allow her. During what could be their last summer together she convinces him to throw away the rules just this once. Taking the next step forever changes their relationship forever and they can't go back to how they were before.
"I'm not sorry," I tell him, cupping his cheek in my palm. "I'll never be sorry for loving you."
Ya'll the angst in this damn book! Bennett feels so much, and it hurts you to see him sacrifice his own happiness for his father's mental health. You might think it's far fetched, but he saw his father break down many times when he was young, and it imprinted on him and he doesn't want to ever be the cause of it. The love and relationship between him and Aspen is just everything. Maybe a little on the codependent side but it was still really sweet. Aspen from the moment Bennet was born took care of him and was there for him whenever he needed her. She helped him manage his diabetes, kept him from being grumpy and serious all the time, and it was fun to watch her push his buttons. When Aspen pushed the boundaries of Bennett's rules it was such great angst and when they throw out the rules the passion between them was intense and so much more than just sex.
"This is us: raw, desperate, and madly in love."
Rebellious can be read as a standalone but it is made a hundred times better if you have read the main couples parents books ( Commander & Gorgeous) because they are strong supporting characters to Aspen and Bennet and knowing their stories makes it that much more special when they are on page. While you're at it just read the entire Commander in Briefs series you won't regret it lol
Rebellious has definitely become one of my favorite Kristy Marie romances and I can't wait for Aspens brothers to get their own stories.
May 30, 2021
What an awkward reading experience this was for me. I read most of this book with a grimace on my face, I'm sure.
21-year-old Bennett Jameson, son of Cade and 23-year-old Aspen von Bremen, daughter of Theo
This poor boy is NOT ready for this heroine nor the big world out there:
He was never going to break the rules without his dad’s permission.
Only after his father gives him the go ahead (AT 87 %) does he decide to pursue a romantic relationship with Aspen. He is the ONLY one who labours under the delusion that their dads’ relationship will fall apart if he and Aspen give in to their attraction. His father confronts him (he doesn’t approach his father) about this: “Bennett!” He snaps. “I am a grown ass man. I do not need you worrying. Nothing will ever come between what’s important to me. If you love Aspen, then love her, son……”
He has a loving family but doesn’t think he can come to them to discuss how they would feel about him and the h being together.
His thought process (for lack of a better phrase) feels underdeveloped. One of the many examples:
“I stand. “Thank you, sir.”
“Where are you going?”
“To get what I want.”
My father rolls his eyes and yanks me back down onto the cushion. “What else do you want, Bennett?”
“What?”
He knocks his leg into mine. “What is your plan? If you go to Boston, you’ll have no job, no football career, and an “extra year of school that may or may not put you back on the field.”
I feel the muscles in my jaw go tight. “I thought you said to go after what I wanted.”
“I did, but you have to want more than just Aspen.” He cocks his head to the side, studying me. “Do you want to play pro football?”
I don’t hesitate. “More than anything.”
“So why transfer schools when you’re so close to declaring for the draft?”
Suddenly, this father-son heart to heart went down the proverbial toilet. “I can’t have both.”
“Why can’t you?”
He’s oblivious to the fact that everyone already knows how he and Aspen love each other. How odd.
He’s a Type 1 diabetic who has never learnt how to inject himself.
He comes across as miserable and awkward as he keeps resisting and rejecting her constant sexual advances – which is for most of the book. It felt to me like he’s not emotionally or mentally mature enough for the force that is Aspen. The age gap feels much bigger than the 2 years between them. There’s a scene where he gives in to her and she goes: “there’s my boy”. EWWWW…. GALACTIC CRINGE
I felt such relief when she finannly admits to herself that Bennett’s concerns, albeit silly, are very real to him.
Aspen loves Bennett and adores the ground he walks on. Strong-willed and stubborn.
I liked that she does the right thing and tries to move on with life without Bennett.
But the night before they get married, I was creeped out again:
“Call me kinky but we were doing it, at least once. I waited years, lying in this same bed, dreaming of Bennett being balls deep inside of me.”
I’m like so, bearing in mind that there’s a 2-year age gap between this slow starter boy and the supposedly more mature girl, at what age did her sexual obsession start?
I’ve read and enjoyed the “boy/girl-who-climbed-through-my-bedroom-window storyline. Done well, its cute and heart-warming but I don’t find this here.
But, in the end he’s happy so all is well in his world.
21-year-old Bennett Jameson, son of Cade and 23-year-old Aspen von Bremen, daughter of Theo
This poor boy is NOT ready for this heroine nor the big world out there:
He was never going to break the rules without his dad’s permission.
Only after his father gives him the go ahead (AT 87 %) does he decide to pursue a romantic relationship with Aspen. He is the ONLY one who labours under the delusion that their dads’ relationship will fall apart if he and Aspen give in to their attraction. His father confronts him (he doesn’t approach his father) about this: “Bennett!” He snaps. “I am a grown ass man. I do not need you worrying. Nothing will ever come between what’s important to me. If you love Aspen, then love her, son……”
He has a loving family but doesn’t think he can come to them to discuss how they would feel about him and the h being together.
His thought process (for lack of a better phrase) feels underdeveloped. One of the many examples:
“I stand. “Thank you, sir.”
“Where are you going?”
“To get what I want.”
My father rolls his eyes and yanks me back down onto the cushion. “What else do you want, Bennett?”
“What?”
He knocks his leg into mine. “What is your plan? If you go to Boston, you’ll have no job, no football career, and an “extra year of school that may or may not put you back on the field.”
I feel the muscles in my jaw go tight. “I thought you said to go after what I wanted.”
“I did, but you have to want more than just Aspen.” He cocks his head to the side, studying me. “Do you want to play pro football?”
I don’t hesitate. “More than anything.”
“So why transfer schools when you’re so close to declaring for the draft?”
Suddenly, this father-son heart to heart went down the proverbial toilet. “I can’t have both.”
“Why can’t you?”
He’s oblivious to the fact that everyone already knows how he and Aspen love each other. How odd.
He’s a Type 1 diabetic who has never learnt how to inject himself.
He comes across as miserable and awkward as he keeps resisting and rejecting her constant sexual advances – which is for most of the book. It felt to me like he’s not emotionally or mentally mature enough for the force that is Aspen. The age gap feels much bigger than the 2 years between them. There’s a scene where he gives in to her and she goes: “there’s my boy”. EWWWW…. GALACTIC CRINGE
I felt such relief when she finannly admits to herself that Bennett’s concerns, albeit silly, are very real to him.
Aspen loves Bennett and adores the ground he walks on. Strong-willed and stubborn.
I liked that she does the right thing and tries to move on with life without Bennett.
But the night before they get married, I was creeped out again:
“Call me kinky but we were doing it, at least once. I waited years, lying in this same bed, dreaming of Bennett being balls deep inside of me.”
I’m like so, bearing in mind that there’s a 2-year age gap between this slow starter boy and the supposedly more mature girl, at what age did her sexual obsession start?
I’ve read and enjoyed the “boy/girl-who-climbed-through-my-bedroom-window storyline. Done well, its cute and heart-warming but I don’t find this here.
But, in the end he’s happy so all is well in his world.
April 30, 2021
Beautiful Story! My Favorite Read of 2021!
Kristy Marie did a phenomenal job with Rebellious! So much so that I don't want this story to be over and I'm kind of sad it is.
This story is beautifully told. There is humor, there are tears, there's heartbreak and there is SO MUCH ANGST.
I laughed, I cried, I sobbed, and I laughed while I cried. But let me say the tears are worth it because this story is golden!
A definite 2021 favorite read and an all-time favorite!
For those that have read Kristy Marie's CIB series, we've seen Aspen as a baby and then Kristy Marie later released a snippet that peaked into the future and shared when Aspen first met Cade and Brecklyn's twins, Drew and Bennett.
Now we get to see how they fared.
Aspen is a mix of Theo and Anniston - sassy, blunt, full of sarcasm. Bennett is Cade all over again - grumpy and no-nonsense.
One step forward, two steps back. That's how it must seem to Aspen regarding Bennett.
The rules - some are simple, some are heartbreaking.
Let me just say, No Rules Bennett should come with a warning label! Grumpy Bennett was hot, but THIS Bennett is on a WHOLE OTHER LEVEL.
As a CIB fan, Theo and Cade as parents are everything! There was a point I didn't think these two would ever be able to tolerate each other's presence. Yet here we are with their kids' story. Seeing both of these as fathers make my heart warm. I think I would be happy to see the next generation and watch these two as grandparents! I will never get tired of these two!
There were certain scenes that broke me all over again but was also cathartic in a way.
You see, Kristy Marie gave us two characters from her CIB series that are polar opposites and, even though we may love one more than the other, we can't help but like them both. They are and will forever be linked to each other - whether they like it or not.
Usually, after we finish a book, everything fades to black and we assume they live happily ever after. We may get glimpses of them here and there but Kristy Marie pulled back those curtains for us CIB fans to give glimpses of their lives from the end of those prior books to the present day in Rebellious. That's something I've rarely seen done - if at all - and it's amazing. It's emotional, so make sure the tissues are close by, but it's so worth the tears.
Let's not forget the stories that haven't been told - Fenn and Drew specifically. I have a feeling there may be another emotional read waiting in the wings with at least one of these.
The story doesn't spell everything out in order but, like the memorable stories do, it will be explained throughout and take you on an emotional journey. In the end, the puzzle pieces will fit nicely.
Kristy Marie did a phenomenal job with Rebellious! So much so that I don't want this story to be over and I'm kind of sad it is.
This story is beautifully told. There is humor, there are tears, there's heartbreak and there is SO MUCH ANGST.
I laughed, I cried, I sobbed, and I laughed while I cried. But let me say the tears are worth it because this story is golden!
A definite 2021 favorite read and an all-time favorite!
For those that have read Kristy Marie's CIB series, we've seen Aspen as a baby and then Kristy Marie later released a snippet that peaked into the future and shared when Aspen first met Cade and Brecklyn's twins, Drew and Bennett.
Now we get to see how they fared.
Aspen is a mix of Theo and Anniston - sassy, blunt, full of sarcasm. Bennett is Cade all over again - grumpy and no-nonsense.
One step forward, two steps back. That's how it must seem to Aspen regarding Bennett.
The rules - some are simple, some are heartbreaking.
Let me just say, No Rules Bennett should come with a warning label! Grumpy Bennett was hot, but THIS Bennett is on a WHOLE OTHER LEVEL.
As a CIB fan, Theo and Cade as parents are everything! There was a point I didn't think these two would ever be able to tolerate each other's presence. Yet here we are with their kids' story. Seeing both of these as fathers make my heart warm. I think I would be happy to see the next generation and watch these two as grandparents! I will never get tired of these two!
There were certain scenes that broke me all over again but was also cathartic in a way.
You see, Kristy Marie gave us two characters from her CIB series that are polar opposites and, even though we may love one more than the other, we can't help but like them both. They are and will forever be linked to each other - whether they like it or not.
Usually, after we finish a book, everything fades to black and we assume they live happily ever after. We may get glimpses of them here and there but Kristy Marie pulled back those curtains for us CIB fans to give glimpses of their lives from the end of those prior books to the present day in Rebellious. That's something I've rarely seen done - if at all - and it's amazing. It's emotional, so make sure the tissues are close by, but it's so worth the tears.
Let's not forget the stories that haven't been told - Fenn and Drew specifically. I have a feeling there may be another emotional read waiting in the wings with at least one of these.
The story doesn't spell everything out in order but, like the memorable stories do, it will be explained throughout and take you on an emotional journey. In the end, the puzzle pieces will fit nicely.
May 3, 2021
SO GOOD
Truth? I passed on this book - HARD - the first, second, and possibly third time that I read the blurb. It's deceptively vague, and I had visions of every other problematic, friends with benefits, new adult "romance" that I've read in the last few years, and I was NOT interested. Then a book buddy mentioned that both characters still have their v-cards... and that blurb suddenly took on a whole different meaning. This is so very different than what I expected, so very different than any other new adult romance that I have read, and so very entrancing. Once I settled into the story, I was IN, and there was no stopping my love for this couple.
The story follows Bennett, a college student (21) who has loved Aspen (23) since the day he was born. Their love has evolved over the years, but it has never wavered. And while their bond has the makings of an epic love story, it has started to feel more like a tragedy. Complicated family dynamics made Bennett wary of officially crossing the line from friends to lovers, so he set rules to their relationship years ago. But Aspen has held onto the hope of more for years, and now she's reached her breaking point. The reality that he could really, truly lose Aspen has made Bennett a desperate man, and he knows that it's time to give in or give her up.
While I typically shy away from childhood friends to lovers romance because there always seems to be OW/OM drama and eye-rolling teenage angst, these two are so obviously in love with each other that there was nothing and no one that would come between them. I absolutely LOVED their bond; it is rock solid in some ways, yet ready to break in others. The tension is palpable from start to finish, as is the genuine connection. I get why the blurb is so deceptive now: this love story is unlike any other that I have read. It's sweet, sexy, angsty, and unexpected. Bennett is the only thing standing in the way of this happily ever after, and that was seriously frustrating at times. I felt for both characters throughout, and their journey to forever is all kinds of messy. It's also completely devourable, and I found myself eagerly anticipating what would happen next. Bennett and Aspen's love story gave me butterflies, made me want to scream - and it had me hooked the whole way through.
Truth? I passed on this book - HARD - the first, second, and possibly third time that I read the blurb. It's deceptively vague, and I had visions of every other problematic, friends with benefits, new adult "romance" that I've read in the last few years, and I was NOT interested. Then a book buddy mentioned that both characters still have their v-cards... and that blurb suddenly took on a whole different meaning. This is so very different than what I expected, so very different than any other new adult romance that I have read, and so very entrancing. Once I settled into the story, I was IN, and there was no stopping my love for this couple.
The story follows Bennett, a college student (21) who has loved Aspen (23) since the day he was born. Their love has evolved over the years, but it has never wavered. And while their bond has the makings of an epic love story, it has started to feel more like a tragedy. Complicated family dynamics made Bennett wary of officially crossing the line from friends to lovers, so he set rules to their relationship years ago. But Aspen has held onto the hope of more for years, and now she's reached her breaking point. The reality that he could really, truly lose Aspen has made Bennett a desperate man, and he knows that it's time to give in or give her up.
While I typically shy away from childhood friends to lovers romance because there always seems to be OW/OM drama and eye-rolling teenage angst, these two are so obviously in love with each other that there was nothing and no one that would come between them. I absolutely LOVED their bond; it is rock solid in some ways, yet ready to break in others. The tension is palpable from start to finish, as is the genuine connection. I get why the blurb is so deceptive now: this love story is unlike any other that I have read. It's sweet, sexy, angsty, and unexpected. Bennett is the only thing standing in the way of this happily ever after, and that was seriously frustrating at times. I felt for both characters throughout, and their journey to forever is all kinds of messy. It's also completely devourable, and I found myself eagerly anticipating what would happen next. Bennett and Aspen's love story gave me butterflies, made me want to scream - and it had me hooked the whole way through.
May 27, 2021
This was cute, I enjoyed it. Usually in friends to lovers books, there's always miscommunication with one thinking the other doesn't love them the same but in this, there really was no reason for the 2 MC's not to be together. They were in love with each other, they both knew it, it wasn't a secret how they felt for each other and everyone in the family knew. So the angst and conflict was really not needed when you think about it.
I also feel like the characters should have been younger in the book, maybe like 18-19. The way they acted were not like typical 23year olds in my opinion. I feel like the story probably would've worked better if everything happened at 18 and then the time spent apart had them coming back at 23 when they actually had time to discover themselves without needing each other. Instead, they spent like a day apart and all of a sudden she has her own sports agency and he's realized the fathers had no issues when them being together only 24hrs after separating. I needed more groveling and growth. Overall though, still enjoyed it.
I also feel like the characters should have been younger in the book, maybe like 18-19. The way they acted were not like typical 23year olds in my opinion. I feel like the story probably would've worked better if everything happened at 18 and then the time spent apart had them coming back at 23 when they actually had time to discover themselves without needing each other. Instead, they spent like a day apart and all of a sudden she has her own sports agency and he's realized the fathers had no issues when them being together only 24hrs after separating. I needed more groveling and growth. Overall though, still enjoyed it.
May 5, 2021
***5 "Beautifully tragic!!!" stars***
OUT NOW!!!
"This is our life.
No touching.
No nakedness.
No kissing.
No loving each other."
I have loved everything that I've read by Kristy, but I believe that in here, she outstand herself...
Kristy has a unique way to tell her stories!!!! She is making you giggle, while she is breaking you and this is an amazing ability of hers...
The truth is that I was waiting Aspen and Bennett's turn like a mad woman since the first moment that I met them in IOU and I was anticipating their story so much. And Kristy Marie delivered an ostensibly simple story but with so much depth in it!!!
"Who is Aspen Von Bremen without Bennett Jameson?"
Aspen and Bennett had love each other from the first moment they laid eyes on each other and I don't exaggerate when I'm telling that that was when they were born, at least since Bennett was born... From that moment they were inseparable and while they were growing up, their love was getting stronger and stronger.
But there was a problem. They never had to act upon their feelings.
And for that reason, Bennett had put a large number of rules between them in order to stay away from each other on the romance part...
Aspen had to accept these said rules, but not without giving Bennett hell and rile him up every chance she got.
"No rule will ever keep me from loving him more than I already do. But for him... No matter how much he loves me, he'll never break his rules."
At the moment, they are in a pivotal point on their lives and things are starting to change between them...
So, they are deciding on a summer without rules. But how well this will work out for both of them when their feelings instead of satiated are becoming an inferno ready to burn everything with its lava???
Will their love survive or it will burn everything around them and it will destroy their family???
"Don't give me hope and take it away.. I can handle the rules. I can handle the moods, but the hope... Don't give me hope."
I loved Aspen and Bennett so much... Their connection were out of this world!!! They were meant to be and it was so hard to witness their struggles to stay away from each other.
My heart was breaking for them, but at the same time, i couldn't keep my giggles down, cause the way that Aspen was provoking Bennett all the time was making me laugh uncontrollably and i believe that this is the greatest ability of this author. To make you laugh when you wanted to cry.
"One day is not enough. I want a lifetime."
"Aspen Von Bremen deserves the world, and I'm a failure for not giving it to her."
Honestly, I don't know what more to say about this book other than it was an amazing story and I would recommended wholeheartedly to everyone. This was a story of friendship, family and love in the nth degree.
The bonds in here were so tied, and I don't mean only Bennett and Aspen who had the most strong and amazing bond, but for their parents, their brothers and everyone that is consisting this kind of family that is not bound only by bond.
If you haven't read anything from Kristy Marie yet, this is definitely one author that deserves your attention!!!
"A love like yours comes once in a lifetime."
**I received an ARC for the exchange of an honest review**
OUT NOW!!!
"This is our life.
No touching.
No nakedness.
No kissing.
No loving each other."
I have loved everything that I've read by Kristy, but I believe that in here, she outstand herself...
Kristy has a unique way to tell her stories!!!! She is making you giggle, while she is breaking you and this is an amazing ability of hers...
The truth is that I was waiting Aspen and Bennett's turn like a mad woman since the first moment that I met them in IOU and I was anticipating their story so much. And Kristy Marie delivered an ostensibly simple story but with so much depth in it!!!
"Who is Aspen Von Bremen without Bennett Jameson?"
Aspen and Bennett had love each other from the first moment they laid eyes on each other and I don't exaggerate when I'm telling that that was when they were born, at least since Bennett was born... From that moment they were inseparable and while they were growing up, their love was getting stronger and stronger.
But there was a problem. They never had to act upon their feelings.
And for that reason, Bennett had put a large number of rules between them in order to stay away from each other on the romance part...
Aspen had to accept these said rules, but not without giving Bennett hell and rile him up every chance she got.
"No rule will ever keep me from loving him more than I already do. But for him... No matter how much he loves me, he'll never break his rules."
At the moment, they are in a pivotal point on their lives and things are starting to change between them...
So, they are deciding on a summer without rules. But how well this will work out for both of them when their feelings instead of satiated are becoming an inferno ready to burn everything with its lava???
Will their love survive or it will burn everything around them and it will destroy their family???
"Don't give me hope and take it away.. I can handle the rules. I can handle the moods, but the hope... Don't give me hope."
I loved Aspen and Bennett so much... Their connection were out of this world!!! They were meant to be and it was so hard to witness their struggles to stay away from each other.
My heart was breaking for them, but at the same time, i couldn't keep my giggles down, cause the way that Aspen was provoking Bennett all the time was making me laugh uncontrollably and i believe that this is the greatest ability of this author. To make you laugh when you wanted to cry.
"One day is not enough. I want a lifetime."
"Aspen Von Bremen deserves the world, and I'm a failure for not giving it to her."
Honestly, I don't know what more to say about this book other than it was an amazing story and I would recommended wholeheartedly to everyone. This was a story of friendship, family and love in the nth degree.
The bonds in here were so tied, and I don't mean only Bennett and Aspen who had the most strong and amazing bond, but for their parents, their brothers and everyone that is consisting this kind of family that is not bound only by bond.
If you haven't read anything from Kristy Marie yet, this is definitely one author that deserves your attention!!!
"A love like yours comes once in a lifetime."
**I received an ARC for the exchange of an honest review**
March 5, 2021
You think you are ready for Rebellious.
You think you are so ready for Bennett and
Aspen.
Newsflash : You are not.
Because I was not ready for this onslaught of angst.
Because I was not ready for Kristy Marie killing me with the sweetest slow burn and cruelest emotional torture.
I was not ready for the adorable nuclear bomb names Aspen. With her beautiful heart. With her soul's bright light. With her endless unconditional love for Bennett. For seeing her in the strongest yet most vulnerable state. I was not ready to fall in love with her instantly, irrevocably and for forever.
I was not ready for this amazing boy called Bennett. Who carries the pain of his own and the burden of everyone he loves on his shoulder. Who loves too deep and too hard. Who is ready to get wrecked and broken for love and friendship. Who is the perfect juxtaposition of loyal, scared, protective and just tragically perfect.
Rebellious was a brilliantly heartbreaking and healing tale by Kristy Marie. The swooniest moments giving me goosebumps and butterflies in stomach. The slow burn of sizzling hot chemistry driving me crazy. And pages after pages of raw, infuriating, inspiring and agonising feels. Bennett and Aspen have a magical story indeed. Written in stars. The kind all of us dream of. The best friendship. The worst heartache. And the most well deserved and epic happily ever after.
PS : THEO AND CADE'S BROMANCE IS THE MOST EPIC THING EVER.
***Beta Read.***
You think you are so ready for Bennett and
Aspen.
Newsflash : You are not.
Because I was not ready for this onslaught of angst.
Because I was not ready for Kristy Marie killing me with the sweetest slow burn and cruelest emotional torture.
I was not ready for the adorable nuclear bomb names Aspen. With her beautiful heart. With her soul's bright light. With her endless unconditional love for Bennett. For seeing her in the strongest yet most vulnerable state. I was not ready to fall in love with her instantly, irrevocably and for forever.
I was not ready for this amazing boy called Bennett. Who carries the pain of his own and the burden of everyone he loves on his shoulder. Who loves too deep and too hard. Who is ready to get wrecked and broken for love and friendship. Who is the perfect juxtaposition of loyal, scared, protective and just tragically perfect.
Rebellious was a brilliantly heartbreaking and healing tale by Kristy Marie. The swooniest moments giving me goosebumps and butterflies in stomach. The slow burn of sizzling hot chemistry driving me crazy. And pages after pages of raw, infuriating, inspiring and agonising feels. Bennett and Aspen have a magical story indeed. Written in stars. The kind all of us dream of. The best friendship. The worst heartache. And the most well deserved and epic happily ever after.
PS : THEO AND CADE'S BROMANCE IS THE MOST EPIC THING EVER.
***Beta Read.***
Read
February 20, 2021Editing Client
Aspen & Bennett's story is EVERYTHING! It's an amazing read...perfect
Aspen & Bennett's story is EVERYTHING! It's an amazing read...perfect
November 1, 2021
4.5 stars
I don't know what to say.... This book is perfect. I love Aspen, I love Bennett, I love their brothers and all the family cameos.
Aspen has so much from her father Theo as she has from her mother Anniston. Her character is a perfect combination of both.
Bennett is Cade 2.0
You can't help falling for both. Their banter, the tention,... everything is perfectly drafted and played out. I had so much fun reading this book, it was right what I needed.
The only thing that prevents me from giving 5 stars is that the end felt a little rushed to me. That 3 months were skipped. IMO this would have been a possibility to give the characters room to grow and I would have loved to see that.
This story was everything I expected it to be and Kristy Marie delivered a perfect home run!
I don't know what to say.... This book is perfect. I love Aspen, I love Bennett, I love their brothers and all the family cameos.
Aspen has so much from her father Theo as she has from her mother Anniston. Her character is a perfect combination of both.
Bennett is Cade 2.0
You can't help falling for both. Their banter, the tention,... everything is perfectly drafted and played out. I had so much fun reading this book, it was right what I needed.
The only thing that prevents me from giving 5 stars is that the end felt a little rushed to me. That 3 months were skipped. IMO this would have been a possibility to give the characters room to grow and I would have loved to see that.
This story was everything I expected it to be and Kristy Marie delivered a perfect home run!
April 17, 2021
Did I stay awake till 3 AM to finish this baby? Yes. Yes I did.
Did I also cry like a baby reading it? Yes. Yes I did. And I'm not ashamed to admit it.
The prologue made me cry. And it only got better from there. With The Commander Kristy Marie forever cemented herself as one of my favorite authors. And all her books are a must read. She also by some undeniable logic keeps outdoing herself by each book she writes. And I love every single word of it.
Rebellious is now officially the best one she's written. At least until the next one comes out. No words can express how, not just amazing, but powerful this story is. The depth of friendship and the bond of love. And it's deeply woven through every single page. It will make you cry and then it will make you cry some more. Tears of sadness and tears of joy. A roller-coaster of emotions with tears as the outcome. And I can't recommend it enough. This book will wreck you and then put you back together. And you'll love every single second of it. You won't be able to put it down. And that's really the best endorsement I can give it. A 5* read from cover to cover. So do yourself a favor and pick this baby up. You won't regret it. I sure know I didn't
Did I also cry like a baby reading it? Yes. Yes I did. And I'm not ashamed to admit it.
The prologue made me cry. And it only got better from there. With The Commander Kristy Marie forever cemented herself as one of my favorite authors. And all her books are a must read. She also by some undeniable logic keeps outdoing herself by each book she writes. And I love every single word of it.
Rebellious is now officially the best one she's written. At least until the next one comes out. No words can express how, not just amazing, but powerful this story is. The depth of friendship and the bond of love. And it's deeply woven through every single page. It will make you cry and then it will make you cry some more. Tears of sadness and tears of joy. A roller-coaster of emotions with tears as the outcome. And I can't recommend it enough. This book will wreck you and then put you back together. And you'll love every single second of it. You won't be able to put it down. And that's really the best endorsement I can give it. A 5* read from cover to cover. So do yourself a favor and pick this baby up. You won't regret it. I sure know I didn't
March 30, 2021
My very first Kristy Marie book was IOU. I read it, loved it, and forced Kristy into being my friend because her writing is everything my romance junkie heart loves. In IOU you very very briefly meet Aspen and Bennett from Rebellious and I was like "Oh my god I need their story ASAP". They I went on what any good romance lover does and binged ALL of Kristy's books and got to know the first gen of the CIB and was even more like "I NEED THEIR BOOK! I NEED THEIR BOOK! I NEED THEIR BOOK!"
So what happened when I finally got to read their book? Well I devoured it in one sitting and I'm not even sorry for letting my kids watch all the cartoons they wanted to do so or the coffee I needed to drink the next day.
This is forbidden friends-to-lovers, sexual tension, angsty perfection. I honestly can't convey how much I love this book. A TOP READ OF 2021 FOR ME!!!
So what happened when I finally got to read their book? Well I devoured it in one sitting and I'm not even sorry for letting my kids watch all the cartoons they wanted to do so or the coffee I needed to drink the next day.
This is forbidden friends-to-lovers, sexual tension, angsty perfection. I honestly can't convey how much I love this book. A TOP READ OF 2021 FOR ME!!!
April 22, 2021
Loved this book! I loved it so much I neglected my job and finished it in one day!
Kristy did an amazing job writing Aspen and Bennett’s story! The angst and steamy scenes are 🔥. This book will give you all the feels and make you wish you had a childhood best friend turn sexy lover! 💜
“He’s giving me twenty-four hours. I don’t intend to waste it with his hollow excuses and distractions. I want him ravenous—so much that he might kill both of us when he finally takes his first bite.”
This is a 2021 must read!
Kristy did an amazing job writing Aspen and Bennett’s story! The angst and steamy scenes are 🔥. This book will give you all the feels and make you wish you had a childhood best friend turn sexy lover! 💜
“He’s giving me twenty-four hours. I don’t intend to waste it with his hollow excuses and distractions. I want him ravenous—so much that he might kill both of us when he finally takes his first bite.”
This is a 2021 must read!
April 22, 2021
Any fan of the Commander in Briefs series will know how special this book is. As soon as I seen it was coming I was desperate for Bennet and Aspen's journey because I knew no matter how turbulent their journey would be, it would be worth it, because it's them.
A love that spans a lifetime. The kind that's so all consuming and raw. Both beautiful and torturous. They made me feel right down to my bones. If ever there was two characters meant for eachother, two halfs to one soul... it's Bennet and Aspen.
Bennet is his fathers son. There is no doubt about that, honestly it was like deja vu in some ways because they are so similar in personality despite their life experiences being so different. Bennet the brood had my love fast despite the fact I wanted to throttle him in frustration. His rules stem from deep rooted fear that in his mind justifies his actions despite the hurt is causes him and Aspen. I get why and respect him for his need to protect everyone he loves. He's hard but softens to her. He's sweet and thoughtful and above all else he loves Aspen like he loves to breath, freely and like his life depends on it.
Aspen, a perfect mixture of her mom and dad she is trouble with a capital T and pushes boundaries on the daily. I loved her. She took me back to Theo and Anniston days and I was living for it. She's fiesty and fierce and despite her playful nature.. she protective of Bennet. I love that she wasn't blind to her situation or the possible out comes. I adore that she pushed even when she knew she shouldn't because he needed that despite his fear. Her love for Bennet has been always been constant. She cracked me up with her teasing and cheeky sneaky shenanigans. She's all or nothing like her dad but she sees below the surface and understands like her mom. I loved her and I really loved her love for Bennet.
Their love just had me melting into a puddle of mush in the couch. It wasn't easy for them... both of them are fighting unseen demons and it truly took an army for them to make it work. The bond they have is tangible. The connection is second nature just like breathing, walking and talking to them. Without eachother they are nothing, not because they aren't enough on their own but because they quite literally are two halfs to one whole soul. She bring him light and keeps him safe. He protects her, even from herself. I adore all the books this author has written, especially Commander.. it was my favourite. But... Aspen and Bennet stole my soul right out of my body. These two character have history, they have this unbreakable connection that is felt through the pages. The love, the laugher and the bickering and banter all just felt so natural and real. Not once when reading this did it feel like I was reading a fictional story. These characters had to grow and evolve to become what they were always destined to be. It wasn't all pretty and it wasn't all sweet. It was raw and at times heartbreakingly brutal as much as it was breathtakingly beautiful and just. I cried rivers in sadness and from sheer happiness and relief. I laughed, ranted and raved and put the world to rights whilst reading their story all the while not taking a second to stop reading because they just had me hooked. It was worth it, every damn minute.
Now I would be doing a disservice to my favourite OG's if I didn't mention them. The side characters are epic!. I mean of course they are with the likes of Theo, Ans, Cade and Beck popping in. The easy banter and bickering, the sweet friendship forged through drama and all kinds of outrageousness.. that kind of chemistry is like magic on the pages. It felt like I was reading home. I'm all for team #Thade. Not only do we get old faces, we also get the wonderful new kids on the block in the form of two meddling drunk brothers and friends. Lord I was in my oils loving all the personalities and their crazy shenanigans.
This is second generation to the Commanders in Briefs series but can be read as a standalone. I do not recommend it. Not because I'm being biased but because to truly appreciate the relationship between all the characters you have to read the foundation in which they were built from. I promise you it's worth it. This story ripped me apart and pieced me back together again. I don't want to say it's super angsty because I don't think it is but it is definitely very emotionally driven and impactful. There is no unnecessary drama or triggers here. There's is no fluffing. It's just phenomenal character development and a story with so much depth it will leave you feeling it days after.
Kristy had me all kinds of fucked up in my feels and I regret nothing about the book hangover I have. It was worth it.
A love that spans a lifetime. The kind that's so all consuming and raw. Both beautiful and torturous. They made me feel right down to my bones. If ever there was two characters meant for eachother, two halfs to one soul... it's Bennet and Aspen.
Bennet is his fathers son. There is no doubt about that, honestly it was like deja vu in some ways because they are so similar in personality despite their life experiences being so different. Bennet the brood had my love fast despite the fact I wanted to throttle him in frustration. His rules stem from deep rooted fear that in his mind justifies his actions despite the hurt is causes him and Aspen. I get why and respect him for his need to protect everyone he loves. He's hard but softens to her. He's sweet and thoughtful and above all else he loves Aspen like he loves to breath, freely and like his life depends on it.
Aspen, a perfect mixture of her mom and dad she is trouble with a capital T and pushes boundaries on the daily. I loved her. She took me back to Theo and Anniston days and I was living for it. She's fiesty and fierce and despite her playful nature.. she protective of Bennet. I love that she wasn't blind to her situation or the possible out comes. I adore that she pushed even when she knew she shouldn't because he needed that despite his fear. Her love for Bennet has been always been constant. She cracked me up with her teasing and cheeky sneaky shenanigans. She's all or nothing like her dad but she sees below the surface and understands like her mom. I loved her and I really loved her love for Bennet.
Their love just had me melting into a puddle of mush in the couch. It wasn't easy for them... both of them are fighting unseen demons and it truly took an army for them to make it work. The bond they have is tangible. The connection is second nature just like breathing, walking and talking to them. Without eachother they are nothing, not because they aren't enough on their own but because they quite literally are two halfs to one whole soul. She bring him light and keeps him safe. He protects her, even from herself. I adore all the books this author has written, especially Commander.. it was my favourite. But... Aspen and Bennet stole my soul right out of my body. These two character have history, they have this unbreakable connection that is felt through the pages. The love, the laugher and the bickering and banter all just felt so natural and real. Not once when reading this did it feel like I was reading a fictional story. These characters had to grow and evolve to become what they were always destined to be. It wasn't all pretty and it wasn't all sweet. It was raw and at times heartbreakingly brutal as much as it was breathtakingly beautiful and just. I cried rivers in sadness and from sheer happiness and relief. I laughed, ranted and raved and put the world to rights whilst reading their story all the while not taking a second to stop reading because they just had me hooked. It was worth it, every damn minute.
Now I would be doing a disservice to my favourite OG's if I didn't mention them. The side characters are epic!. I mean of course they are with the likes of Theo, Ans, Cade and Beck popping in. The easy banter and bickering, the sweet friendship forged through drama and all kinds of outrageousness.. that kind of chemistry is like magic on the pages. It felt like I was reading home. I'm all for team #Thade. Not only do we get old faces, we also get the wonderful new kids on the block in the form of two meddling drunk brothers and friends. Lord I was in my oils loving all the personalities and their crazy shenanigans.
This is second generation to the Commanders in Briefs series but can be read as a standalone. I do not recommend it. Not because I'm being biased but because to truly appreciate the relationship between all the characters you have to read the foundation in which they were built from. I promise you it's worth it. This story ripped me apart and pieced me back together again. I don't want to say it's super angsty because I don't think it is but it is definitely very emotionally driven and impactful. There is no unnecessary drama or triggers here. There's is no fluffing. It's just phenomenal character development and a story with so much depth it will leave you feeling it days after.
Kristy had me all kinds of fucked up in my feels and I regret nothing about the book hangover I have. It was worth it.
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