From USA Today bestselling author Grahame Claire comes the story of a real estate tycoon at risk of losing his empire and the woman who just might save him.
I have it all.
As a titan of New York City real estate, there’s nothing out of my reach.
Money. Power. Success.
The rise to the top wasn’t easy, but I’ve overcome every obstacle in my way. Including the biggest one.
Then I met her.
She isn’t afraid to put me in my place. Doesn’t tip toe around me because of who I am.
And she’s there to witness the most humiliating moment of my life.
The thing about being on top is there’s a lot further to fall.
Someone wants to see me lose everything.
And they just may get their wish.
Because I can’t focus on anything except my sister’s best friend.
Grahame Claire is a USA Today bestselling author of Contemporary Romance.
A writer. A blogger. United by our love of stories and all things romance. There was definitely some insta-love. Hello? Books involved. A little courting. A lot of writing. The result...Grahame Claire.
Soulmates.
Unashamed of our multiple book boyfriends. Especially the ones that rooted in our heads and wouldn’t leave us alone. Don’t worry. We’ll share.
Once again, Grahame Claire gives us an emotional and addicting story with Rise. After finishing this one all I could think about is how badly I need the second book!
Lincoln peaked my interest in his brother’s duet (Crash/Burn) and I was excited to get his story. Lincoln is a businessman and has a standoffish demeanor unless it’s with his family. He doesn’t let anyone get to him… except for Lexie.
Lexie owns her own business making dog food and takes care of her brother, Eric. I loved the banter between Lexie and Lincoln and I couldn’t get over how sweet Lincoln was with Eric. It melted my heart. There was such a build up between Lincoln and Lexie and I can’t wait to see where it goes in the next book.
This book had an ending that left me craving so much more. I don’t know what direction Claire will take this story, but I can’t wait to find out! Highly recommend this one if you’re looking for a captivating story with an amazing family dynamic!
I have wanted Lincoln's story since Crash & Burn ended. He was just so closed off and mysterious. I couldn't wait to get to know what made him tick. I loved Lincoln just like I thought I would. I also really loved Eric he stole the show for me. The relationship between Lincoln and Eric was so cute and heart melting. Lexie was a bit harder for me to warm up too. I could understand were she came from but at times I felt she was too judgy and a bit harsh on Lincoln.
I need to say that I hated and I do mean hated both Lincoln and Lexie's fathers. Other than the fathers I loved the close family inactions. The plot for the most part was really good, though I really needed more romance. This book was a total slow burn, just a bit too slow for me which is why I gave it a 4 star rating instead of 5. The ending of this book. OMG why do you do this too me Grahame Claire?????
I was so curious with Lincoln's story. The Rise duetdoes not disappoint. Miss Claire certainly knows how to write her story.
I am not a fan of a dog. Miss Claire once again, rubs my soft spot with pets. Especially Muffy whose obedience is un parallel. I do like Lincoln. He is certainly that perfect type of dominant hero. Ellie is also a heroine with a back bone. She certainly can hold her ground.
Rise is the first book in the Rise & Fall duet but we previously met these characters in the Crash & Burn duet. Lincoln was kind of a mystery in the previous books and I honestly wasn't sure what I would think of him as a main character. But I was certainly interested in finding out and I actually ended up really liking him.
We got to learn a lot more about Lincoln in this book and there were many surprising moments with how sweet he turned out to be. Which then had me loving Lexie when she didn't give in to his charm right away and made him work for it. They had so many cute moments with their banter back and forth and the playful way they interacted. I also adored Eric, Lexie's brother, and I think he won my heart the most.
That cliffhanger though! So not nice, I need to find out what happens right away. Overall, this was a great story and I definitely recommend reading it.
ARC kindly provided in exchange for an honest review.
I loved the chemistry between Lexie and Lincoln. I am eager for more of their story. Rise by Grahame Claire is an MUST read that will join the ranks of the BIBLIO-ELITE!!!
(audiobook) Talk about starting in medias res. Sure, the characters were known from the previous duet in the series–which I didn’t read–but the beginning of this story is still quite brutal. Mostly because, as we don’t know who those characters are, I wasn’t feeling involved in what was happening. The significance of what Lexie was doing for Lincoln, the appearance of Lincoln’s father, even the ‘very special day’ of Lincoln’s brother that is being ruin, it didn’t make any sense. For me. For the same reason, when the scene is over, and the threat gone, I wasn’t relieved. I was just wondering what had exactly happened.
With that said, I didn’t stay remote for long. Explanations are given about who those characters are, how they are connected and what the relationship status is between all of them. It wasn’t an info dump at all, with them offered through scenes that also helped the story progress. We soon get the story behind Lexie taking care of her older brother, the tenuous relationship between Lincoln and his siblings, and their father–and some of the why–and a short rundown on the previous duet.
I don’t know what to think of Lexie and Lincoln’s relationship. They first barely know each other, but don’t really appreciate each other. There’s even some blatant hostility–for reasons unclear, though I suspect it’s just their way of denying any attraction. Then Lincoln starts showing his softer underbelly, and is actually generous and thoughtful with Lexie and her brother. And just like that, after a single meaningful conversation where they exchange some rather personal information, they’re boyfriend and girlfriend. It’s a slow burn though, so don’t expect any sexy time.
But I quite liked the characters’ arcs. On one hand, you see Lincoln on the verge of losing everything, and yet not doing much about it. It puzzled me, to be honest. But at the same time, the situation he’s in forces him to re-evaluate his relationship with the people around him. On the other hand, Lexie is trying to stay afloat, working hard with her brother to make a living, until the very end of the book and its cliffhanger that put her whole life as she knows it in jeopardy.
The narration helped with me getting involved. Both narrators know pretty well how to express deep emotions. Some more angry moments for Lexie and some coldness at times for Lincoln show the range of the narrators’ talent.
Quickie
- Series: Shaken #3 (first book in a duet, ends on a cliffhanger) - Hashtags: #billionaire romance #opposites attract #enemies to lovers #sister’s best friend #dogs - Triggers: parental neglect and psychological abuse, disability - Main couple: Lexie Logan & Lincoln Hollingsworth - Hotness: 1/5 (nothing happens) - Romance: 3/5 - + I loved the slow shift from enemies to couple - – I agree with Lincoln’s family, he doesn’t seem much concerned about the situation
Okay, I’m gonna be honest. This book was slow paced (especially when compared to “CRASH” but I would be lying if I said I didn’t enjoy it. After meeting Lincoln in the first book, I highly anticipated reading his story. He’s a stoic, determined, straightforward, no-nonsense kinda guy, not to mention he has skeletons in his closet that he wants to keep hidden. But it is literally impossible not to love him.
He’s selfless, considerate and fiercely loyal to those he cares about. I loved how he treated his siblings,he would literally do anything to see them happy, even at the cost of his own happiness. It was so cute how he interacted with Muffy (the dog). But most outstanding was how he treated Eric, Lexie’s brother and this resulted in them have such a sweet friendship (which is what ultimately won over Lexie). Lincoln’s a man of few words but when he did speak he was genuine and honest.
Lexie was a little harder to love especially when she was so judgmental initially. Anyway, she did grow on me after a while. She was definitely no damsel in distress and could take care of herself. The love she had for her brother warmed my heart and their relationship was sweet (loved how they always wore matching clothes). While she and Lincoln didn’t start off on the right foot, I enjoyed how their serendipitous meetings allowed them to slowly get to know each other and progressively open up to one another.
As Lincoln & Lexie both began to slowly let down their walls to explore their growing feelings for each other the *poop* hit the fan and we’re left wondering what their future holds. Their relationship still has a lot of room to grow but I look forward to seeing how that develops in the 2nd book “FALL”.
Rise, the first book of Rise & Fall Duet by Graham Claire was mix of a lot of interesting things. A billionaire closed off hero. A feisty heroine with issues and troubles. And the beginning of their unpredictable journey that brings slow burn, chemistry and suspense.
Lincoln Hollingsworth has carefully crafted his life and real estate business over years. And now it's crumbling because of some serious legal issues. He cannot let his demanding and controlling and cold father to take away something precious. And Lexie Logan is the last complication he needs. This sassy and so different woman hates his gut but he cannot stop intruding in her life as she quiets the chaos.
So I was a bit lost initially. From the first chapter, it was very clear that Lexie hates Lincoln, her best Friend's brother. But I couldn't figure out why. There was no mention of their previous encounters and I felt like I am picking out from middle of the story. I didn't find Lincoln's behaviour too arrogant or obnoxious. He is typical alpha billionaire who works and keeps his issues close to his chest. He is confident and a bit cold but he was always courteous and cautious and didn't hurt Lexie intentionally. In fact my heart swooned the way he treated her specially abled brother Eric with so much heart. Honestly Eric is my favourite. He is such a straight nice colourful and beautiful soul! Lexie has a lot on her plate. Their dog food business is just taking off and she is always worried about happiness and safety of Eric. And I couldn't love her fully as I felt she was being too hard and judgemental on Lincoln. I feel if I read the duet before it featuring Lincoln's brother Teague..may be I would have better understanding of why Lexie so adamantly feel negative about Lincoln. They have chemistry for sure. The emotional connection was just not there. Everytime there was a spark something will happen to block it. And it's like..the slowest of slow burn. It was pretty much Lincoln trying constantly and Lexie pushing him. The story has an edgy and suspenseful side too. And it will be interesting to see.
Rise- Duet-enemies to lovers- hot- emotional All the feels! 😍😍😍
I enjoyed this book very much! Besides reading old favs characters, this story was full of everything I love reading! Definitely one of my favorites this year! Great escape from reality ♥️♥️♥️ Lincoln and Lexie are the perfect mix. I like how independent she is, and Lincoln is just perfection walking around LOL I cannot wait for part 2 and see how everything ends! I highly recommend this book! Go grab your copy
These duets are so good. Everyone has such interesting stories.
I was curious about the broody Lincoln. Now we have his story and he’s being linked to his sister's best friend Lexie!
Lincoln is an extremely hard worker and carries the world on his shoulder, always concerned and protective of his siblings trying his best to keep them away from their cruel dad. He has found himself in a mess, he doesn’t even know when or how it started. He’s trying his best to work through it, in the meantime, Lexie is running her business with her brother and they both seem to have it all put together until an unexpected invite from Eric and Lincoln realizes these two are busier than what they led on. He loves their company and they’re starting to chip away at his private life. But Lexie also has an unexpected visitor and her world is starting to turn upside down.
Rise ends in a cliffhanger! Can’t wait for the conclusion the suspense and chemistry are so good.
I was obviously a fanatic about dogs, women who drove VW buses and guys who wore outrageously colored bow ties that matched their sisters' clothes.
I wish I could give more than five stars to this duet 🙈This is an enemies story for a lover , fast, funny, witty, romantic, it's everything a good book to turn the pages should be. The characters are bright and well-developed, the plot is captivating and interesting. Lincoln is... YUM, forget about all your previous book boyfriend, Lincoln is in a league of his own. Lexie💆🏻♀ is a fantastic character, she is what we all want to be at heart. She is strong and independent. I really liked all the secondary characters, Eric is a special kid and full of motivational thoughts, I loved the interaction between Lincoln. I had a big smile on my face when I finished.
Brilliantly fabulous!!! Oh my what a fabulous book! Grahame Claire are wonderful storytellers and they just get better and better and this book was so much and more. Lincoln is the strong silent type that can frustrate you one minute and in the next you want to hug him. Lexie is a strong wonderful woman who you just want to help and these 2 have such a wonderful chemistry but the scene stealer is Eric! Eric is absolutely divine and he leaps from the pages and I want one of his wonderful hugs. This is book one of the next duet in this wonderful series and omg I need book 2 stat!! I couldn’t put this book down and I was riveted waiting to read what was going to happen next. Simply wonderful ladies!! I received this book as an arc for my honest opinion but you seriously need to read this book.
One of my new favorites! Grahame Claire never lets me down and this new duet is no different! Lincoln is a cold rich business tycoon with a soft spot for Lexie and her brother Eric, the dream team that owns a gourmet dog food business. This book jumps right into the ending of the Crash & Burn duet so we get to see some of our old favorites too! Eric has down syndrome and I think the way that Grahame Claire portrayed his character was WONDERFUL. A lot of the times, authors don't do great disability rep but Grahame Claire is not one of those authors and it was lovely. Lexie was a strong independent woman with unconditional love for those around her. I loved getting to see Lincoln loosen up around the sibling pair and I can't wait to see where the story goes in the next book!
I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Really enjoyed this exciting journey from beginning to end. Highly entertaining, action packed and emotionally thrilling adventure filled with engaging charters, witty banter, heart racing twists and exciting turns.
I couldn’t get enough of seeing the sweetness and kindness that Lincoln put out when I thought me would be the total opposite, it made him and this story all the better for it and I can’t wait for the next one
An older, protective brother being falsely accused of securities fraud and tax evasion.
Lincoln, a tragedy raised. Removed and distanced from people around him except Beau and Teague his younger sister and brother. He also puts himself between their father and his siblings in order to keep them happy. But it doesn't work out well no matter how hard he trys. Their father is very rich, wields a lot of power, is a tyrant and dictator with his children. He likes to keep short leashes on them and gets into their lives making them steer clear of him except for Lincoln and they care very little for him. The problems that Lincoln is having I wouldn't be surprised if Samuel Hollingsworth their father didn't have his hands in Lincoln's legal problems. Especially now that Lincoln has new friends. Lexie and Eric who is autistic but very smart. They have a business that they make very natural and healthy dog food and treats to sell to clients and for the greyhounds that Pepper, Teague and Miss Adeline take care of at an apartment that Daniel and Vivian made available to them after their other building was torched. It's hilarious seeing the relationship that Lincoln has with Eric as well as his sister Lexie since they are a package deal. Plus one of the greyhounds, Muffy, has adopted Lincoln. Lincoln has the company's attorneys investigating and Zegas is even questioning him about his father. Then there is Lincoln's best friend Daniel is also helping him out. He has a lot of good people on his side. Hopefully they find out who is behind all the false accusations against Lincoln. Meanwhile through Lincoln's legal issues, Lexie is having to deal with her and Eric's father being released from prison. Also not a good man and he berates Eric which Lexie can't handle. She has to look over her shoulder to check if he is following them. So she is panicking with the problems he is going to cause her. Awaiting for her is children's protective services and the police to arrest her for slapping her father when he pinned them down. Luckily for them Lincoln is present when they show up and take Eric from her and put her in handcuffs. Now we wait for the next book to find out what the great Grahame Claire writes to complete the Duet of Rise and Fall. Grahame's books keep getting better and better that they are funny, intriguing, full of family love and great characters, as well as interwoven,then there is danger and all those evil people. It keeps the investigator in me going trying to figure out who's to blame, what their reasoning is behind the hardship being experienced by all the characters. As soon as I received the ARC of Rise, I had to read it and was saddened with coming to the end of this book with the cliff hanger. But I am patiently awaiting for the Fall ARC to be sent out when the time comes. You have to buy this book and the next of the duet. You won't regret it. I love love LOVE these books. Thank you Grahame Claire for your fantastic books.
I received an ARC of this book and also purchased it and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
This is the first time I’ve read a book by Grahame Claire, and I’m hooked!! Rise was such an unexpected surprise, full of suspense not to mention many twists and turns. I loved the characters of Lexie and her adorable brother Eric, with Down’s Syndrome. They just pulled the whole book together.
Lincoln is the oldest of the three Hollingsworth sibling. He had a younger brother, Teague and a sister, Beau. He had also built a real estate empire working along side his dad. He spent most of his time working and looking out for his brother and sister that he really and really kind of kept to himself outside that. But on this evening Lincoln find himself in a bit of trouble with law enforcement. And while he has no idea what it’s about, he has someone itching to haul him into jail.
Lexie Logan to the rescue!! Playing a game of “where’s my keys”, her van has blocked the law enforcement vehicle. That is until Lincoln’s dad happens along and the whole thing goes away… at least for now. Now here is the thing about Lexie, she and Beau have been friends for years and though she knows Lincoln, she has never liked him. He’s arrogant, he’s cold and there is no place in her life for him. But she had help save hm from arrest and that was something.
Yet it is her brother, Eric’s reaction to Lincoln and seemed to put a little nick into Lexi’s armor. And after this night is seemed like Lincoln began turning up everywhere they went. The friendship that was developing between Eric and Lincoln was the coolest. The innocence which Eric saw the world through brough a realization to Lincoln that there was more to life than being the workaholic he was. That maybe he wanted a piece of that.
Not only that but Lincoln saw how close Lexie and Eric were, how they worked as a well-oiled team doing everything together. The more time that he was around them his respect for Lexie grew. The more Lincoln became involved with Lexi and her brother, the more protective he was of them too. And when Eric invited by Lincoln go home with them to have strawberry ice cream. ~sigh~ Let’s just say that it’s only a matter of time before the sparks start flying!!
But would this lead to more than friends?
Hold on to your seats folks as Rise ends in a cliffy!! And I for one, can hardly wait to read Fall!!!
Rise is the first book in the new Duet of Rise and Fall by Grahame Claire. We met Lincoln Hollingsworth in Grahame’s last series, Crash and Burn. Lincoln is the older brother of Teague and Beau. He’s a successful real estate developer and runs the family business although his Father pulls the strings. The Hollingsworth children have not had it easy. Although the family is very rich, there was major tragedy in their lives. Their mother was murdered and his brother Teague witnessed it. Lincoln, being the older brother has always looked out for and protected them, especially from a their unfeeling, closed off, demanding father. What they don’t know is that Lincoln witnessed the murder too. This has only made him more determined than ever to protect them. His brother Teague and his fiancé Pepper are celebrating their engagement when the celebration is interrupted by a federal agent arresting Lincoln for security and exchange fraud! Lincoln is the straightest arrow ever and has no idea why this is happening! As he’s being put in the car, his father’s limo pulls up, and with a veiled threat to the agent, persuades him to uncuff and let his son go. He gets back in his car and leaves without saying a word to his children. Witnessing this is Lexi and her brother Eric. Lexi and Lincoln are not each other’s favorite people! They rub sparks of each other whenever they meet. Eric is Lexi’s special needs brother, who she adores. They work with Pepper and Miss Adeline at their puppy rescue, supplying them with their home made puppy treats and food. This book is wonderful Lincoln and Lexi have things from their past that are affecting them. Lincoln with burden he’s carrying as protector and trying to figure out who Or what is setting him up. Then there is Lexi with a father in prison who gets out and causes major problems! I love the push and pull between the two. I could not put it down! I am dying for the second book, as this one left me yelling!
"It's decided. My version of hello is the best." That, it was my dear Lincoln. That, IT WAS!! 🤣😍❤🔥
Miss Grahame, WHERE HAVE YOU BEEN ALL MY LIFE?!! WHY am I only NOW finding out about your books?! I feel like I've been robbed of so much fun and emotional wreckage at once! 🤣💔 I swear I'm literally consumed by this series and I'm not half sorry about it! ❤❤❤ the characters were so well developed and the suspense is unending! The writing style and narration got me at the first line 🔥
Lincoln was a man of few words, which might partially be what made me fall for him harder 🤣❤ he did not waste time on empty words or promises. His intentions and emotions were portrayed by his actions. And let me tell you, that man's a keeper! I'm a SUCKER for the grumpy/sunshine trope, and BOY does this grump hold the key to my heart in his hands 😭❤ he sacrificed so much to allow his siblings some semblance of freedom and happiness that he forgot how to LIVE himself! 💔 I could keep on raving about him for hours, but you'd need to read his book to be able to understand the beauty that is his character 🥹❤
Lexie was a fighter, and a SURVIVOR! She got custody of her mentally disabled older brother at the tender age of 19 😭 like how can you expect a 19 year old to know how to handle such a big responsibility? And yet she DID! She took care of Eric and provided him with the love both were deprived of growing up ❤ it always breaks me to read about such amazing people not receiving affection during their childhood 💔 I didn't like how prejudgmental she was towards Lincoln before getting to know him properly, and she found out she had it all wrong. I partially understood why she was so unyielding when it came to trust, but Lincoln truly didn't deserve the snarky comments she threw his way 😞
I need to get to Fall because that Rise ending has me on tenterhooks!! 😱😭💔
Rise is part of this duet from a fantastic author duo who always delivers a good time. Rise picks up immediately from the ending of the Crash & Burn duet so we get to find out what happens after that cliffhanger ending. This duet is a must-read for anyone who loves a lot of heart, a dash of danger and plenty of steamy scenes.
Lincoln is the strong, silent, martyr type who is always putting himself between his siblings and their overbearing, not to mention twisted, father. So when he is investigated by the feds for securities fraud and tax evasion he must actually let others help him for a change rather than shouldering the responsibilities himself. When he meets, strong-willed, headstrong Lexie he finds himself inexplicably drawn to her. It's definitely a slow burn, but it's a scorching flame. Meanwhile through Lincoln's legal issues, Lexie is dealing with her verbally abusive father's release from prison. She is constantly looking over her shoulder for his looking presence while panicking over the problems he is most definitely going to cause her and her brother Eric. Thankfully Lincoln is there to add increased protection for them both.
As this is book one of the duet, it is not a standalone and you must have read the Crash & Burn duet in order to understand Rise. And yes, this book does end on a cliffhanger, but this author duo is usually pretty quick to release a conclusion so the wait won't be long I'm sure. In the meantime, I highly recommended you pick up your copy of Rise today.
I received a copy of this book for the purpose of a review.
Rise Rise & Fall Duet, Book 1 By: Grahame Claire Narrated by: Joe Arden, Maxine Mitchell
Once again, I am caught up in the Hollingsworth family, and this time it's Lincoln. He is a tough nut to crack. All about business and making money, he has no time for anything else, except family. Through Beau, he has met Lexi, and she has caught his eye. Her autistic brother Eric is a sweetheart, having a keen sense of knowing someone and their needs and not afraid to let them know it! Lexi and Eric are a team in themselves, together building their lives around their up and coming dog food business. Linc just can't stay away from these two, they have wormed their way into his heart. But someone is messing with both their lives. Is it the same person? Is it completely separate? And with all the craziness surrounding them, what will become of Eric? I am thoroughly invested in this book. Eric has stolen my heart and I adore him. His brute honesty is refreshing. Lexi is so responsible, it's hard for her to let go of her heart when surviving and keeping Eric happy is her main concern. And Lincoln, oh Lincoln. He is in deep now and I can't wait to see who is at the bottom of his problems. This is when I load up the second book to find out!
Maxine Mitchell and Joe Arden are our storytellers for this one, bringing back our favorites from the first duet in the trilogy of duets that are the Hollingsworths. It's always a fun listen when we feel like we are part of the family and Mitchell and Arden are consistent with their voices making us feel as if we have come home. I look forward to part 2 of this listen.
Lincoln Hollingsworth is a businessman who is dealing with some legal issues, which throughout history are revealing clues of what happened. He is different from the main characters we commonly read, far from being arrogant and self-centered, he is a man who takes care of his beloved ones. He does everything to provide a good life to his siblings Beau and Teagan. He also has the friendship of Eric, a boy with Down syndrome who adores him and gives him his unconditional support above all things. Instead Lexie, Eric's sister seems to hate Lincoln and he does not understand why. Despite not tolerating him, she seems to be inevitably attracted to him. They are forced to spend time together by Eric, so Lincoln tries to make peace with Lexie while she surrenders to his charms.
Rise is a book with a great message, because it places a lot of value on family and friendship. Both protagonists do everything to protect their siblings. I loved Eric's character because he is so gentle, kind, authentic, noble and innocent, there are very few books that include characters with his condition and here I loved the way in which the author developed it. So also his relationship with both his sister and Lincoln. This is the first of a duet, so I must warn that it ended on cliffhanger and we will have to wait a while to know the outcome of this story.
Lincoln is an uptight, meticulous, controlling, workaholic. He has no time for anything other than work and helping his siblings. Lexie is a hard worker, who also has no time for anything other than work and taking care of her older sibling Eric, who has down syndrome. Together they run a successful fresh dog food company. (If you read Crash/Burn then you saw a little of how much they care about their business and helping others).
These two enjoy nothing more than riling each other up, while they appear to be opposites, both care deeply for their siblings and hard-working as all get out. You can guess what happens as these 2 spend more and more time together... yep, sparks start flying.
But there's much more to this story (if you've read any other of their books, you would have guessed that). Lincoln is fighting a battle to keep the feds from barking up the wrong tree, and Lexie is fighting some demons that have come out from years ago. Without giving spoilers, there's obviously mystery in this. This was much better than the last 2 part book, and can't wait for Fall to come out!
*If you didn't already know, this is a cliffhanger, if that is not your jam, the wait for Fall to come out before devouring this one.*
I received an advanced copy of this book, and am leaving an honest unbiased review.
This would have been a four star review if not for the fact that, instead of being a stand-alone duet within a larger world, I think that this duet feeds directly off duet set one (Crash and Burn). The whole first chapter confused me and it might not have if I’d read the previous two books. Maybe? That kinda bugs me. Otherwise, it’s an interesting story, but I just never connected to Lexi. In spite of the fact that she’s a fantastic sister and is doing everything she can to make a successful, safe and loving life for herself and her brother, Eric, she left me cold. Is she extremely harsh and judgmental of Lincoln because of something that happens in the books beforehand…or did she just make a snap call on his personality and now can’t walk it back? I mean, yeah…he’s grumpy and standoffish, but give the guy a chance! He really is wonderful with Eric, even if he is a bit stiff. Eric was my favorite character. He’s sweet, smart and totally appealing. He smooths out Lexi’s rough edges, enough so you are willing to give her a chance in the second book. The story was interesting and I look forward to seeing what happens next, but the execution of the book threw me off course and I’m still having a hard time correcting that sense of being off balance.
Rise by Grahame Claire is book 1 in the Rise & Fall Duet, so I knew going in there was going to be a cliffhanger. Rise picks up pretty much where Burn left off, but we get Lincoln's story this time. Lincoln is Teague's brother. Lincoln, a wealthy businessman tycoon, comes off as being a bit broody and grumpy, as the story progresses and more of his layers are revealed, you learn that he develops the sweetest soft spot for Lexie. Lexie is friends with Lincoln's sister Beau and runs a gourmet dog food business with her brother, Eric. Eric has Down syndrome, and the way Claire portrays Eric is endearing. As the story progresses more about Lexie's past drama with her parents is revealed, and Lincoln can't seem to stay away. As these two spend more time together their attraction only grows stronger! Then holy cliffhanger! I am ready for Fall now!
This audiobook is narrated by Joe Arden and Maxine Mitchell, and these two are just the perfect narrator pairing for Lincoln and Lexie. Joe is completely swoon-worthy in his narration of Lincoln making you fall even more in love with his character and his willingness to provide and take care of Lexie and Eric. Maxine Mitchell portrays determined and loyal Lexie brilliantly. You can just feel Lexie's love and admiration for her brother in Maxine's performance!
Rise is the story of Lexie and Lincoln and what a story it is. Lincoln is the brother of Teague and Beau. He is stoic and takes his siblings happiness completely on his shoulders. He's in control, all the time, until he isn't. Lexie has a gourmet dog food business with her brother Eric, who us the shining star if the story. Lexie also takes her brother's happiness very seriously I loved Eric's view of the world and how simple things could be if we let it. The story is about navigating life and all the ups and downs the best way we can. Things are happening to these two and someone(s) are pulling the strings. I'm not sure how the trouble these two are in is connected or if it even is, but there are some major trials coming their way. I loved the characters so much. The writing is awesome and I was glued to my screen. I can't wait to see how it all comes together and for these characters to get their HEA. There is a big cliffhanger so be warned. It will be worth it I'm sure. I was given the opportunity to read a copy of this book.
Wow! Not what I expected for oldest Hollingsworth sibling Lincoln as the story begins in Rise after meeting him in the previous books. The story pulls you in from the start as it seems that trouble follows the Hollingsworth brothers. And Lexie Logan is the perfect foil for the stoic rock Lincoln in her outlook of simply enjoying moments.
A loving caring sister Lexie works hard to take care of her brother Eric while trying to get by everyday and grow their business. But keeping her past in the past seems to be hard especially as she tries to avoid having Lincoln around. But what you see on the outside isn't all it's cracked up to be for her. With Teague & Miss Adeline helping to throw Lincoln and Lexie together with the excuse of Grey Paws while they try to avoid each other and try to keep their secrets hidden. Between Lexie's terrible parents and some unknown force looking to lock up Lincoln there's so many angles at play. Getting to the end for some relief/resolution just has me ready for the next part. I received an ARC for a voluntary and honest review.
This is the 3rd book of the Shaken series and it is about Lincoln. Lincoln Hollingsworth is man focused on his career and his siblings Teague and Beau. Lexi just happens to be Beau’s best friend but she has never cared for Lincoln but when Lincoln finds himself in a mess, she puts those feelings aside and help him out of a sticky situation. Lexi and Lincoln have one thing in common and that is they love their siblings and will do whatever to protect them. Eric is down syndrome brother who just brings this story together. He is a dear and seems to strike a friendship with Lincoln which in return brings him and Lexi a little closer and soon the sparks will fly. This book is one you won’t put down. Packed with lots of mystery and feelings. We see the love that both Lincoln and Lexi have for their family and it is beautiful. It will end in before you even realize and yes, it’s a cliffhanger but it’s so worth the time. Grahame Claire have yet another hit on their hands with this Shaken series.
Exciting This is definitely my favorite book in this series at the moment. My only regret is the cliffhanger which is very well placed and leaves us at a strategic point in the lives of Lexie, Lincoln and Eric, both financially and emotionally. This story is very well written and I loved the characters. Lincoln who is grumpy, closed, narrow-minded capitalist, while siblings Lexie and Eric are open, selfless whenever they can, despite a difficult past. I also really liked the insight that Lincoln's character takes on his own values, the questions about the families he moved out of his buildings that he never asked himself about, about his life, his needs. The story also features some twists and turns of humor. I impatiently await the continuation of the story of this unlikely couple that Lexie and Lincoln form and whom even them do not understand. I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book
Although Lincoln may come across as cold and detached when you see the relationship he has with his siblings you soon realize that he is anything but. He is a successful businessman who has focused on his careers but now that is being threatened and he doesn’t know by who or why.
Lexi knows Lincoln as he is her best friend’s brother, but their relationship appears more antagonistic than friendly. She and her brother Eric, who is special needs, have created a company that specials in treats for pets, and they are each other’s world.
Both of them have a lot going in their lives between their family and their careers so they aren’t looking for love or a relationship, but they are drawn to each other in spite of themselves. Although their personalities are very different, they find a balance in each other but after the cliff-hanger we are left wondering what the future holds for Lincoln, Lexi and Eric.