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The False Starts #2
For What It's Worth
From the author of FOR CRYING OUT LOUD comes a steamy romantic comedy about what happens when you're stuck on a road trip with a blast from the past.
Carter Kennedy is on heartbreak island. There’s a girl he can’t get over, so it’s time to get under someone else.
Enter Sydney Buyer. She’s the perfect woman for the job. She’s funny and sexy, but instead of relief, all he's left with is a black eye and a bruised ego to match.
But it's not all bad. Riding on a high when a video of his singing goes viral, Carter swears off women and focuses on his career until Sydney waltzes back into his life and into his car, a year later for a road trip.
Fiercely independent, Sydney has built walls around her heart for a reason. The last thing she needs is to be stuck for a week with this charming and devastatingly handsome rockstar in the making.
But the more time they spend together, the stronger Carter's resolve to win Sydney over becomes.
Will Sydney be able to let her guards down to let him in? Or will her past catch up with her and destroy everything they've built?
If you’re a fan of Tessa Bailey and Meghan Quinn, this book is for you!
Carter Kennedy is on heartbreak island. There’s a girl he can’t get over, so it’s time to get under someone else.
Enter Sydney Buyer. She’s the perfect woman for the job. She’s funny and sexy, but instead of relief, all he's left with is a black eye and a bruised ego to match.
But it's not all bad. Riding on a high when a video of his singing goes viral, Carter swears off women and focuses on his career until Sydney waltzes back into his life and into his car, a year later for a road trip.
Fiercely independent, Sydney has built walls around her heart for a reason. The last thing she needs is to be stuck for a week with this charming and devastatingly handsome rockstar in the making.
But the more time they spend together, the stronger Carter's resolve to win Sydney over becomes.
Will Sydney be able to let her guards down to let him in? Or will her past catch up with her and destroy everything they've built?
If you’re a fan of Tessa Bailey and Meghan Quinn, this book is for you!
ebook
Published December 6, 2021
40 people are currently reading
636 people want to read
About the author
J. Preston
13 books171 followersJ. Preston(Jo Preston) writes fun and sexy romance books.
She lives with her husband, son and a dog (that doubles as a teddy bear) in the UK, where she wraps up in warm clothes and hang out under umbrellas, dreaming of warm destinations.
When she's not writing, she enjoys a glass of wine (or two) with a good book or a favourite Netflix show and coming up with terms like #SmutCom.
She lives with her husband, son and a dog (that doubles as a teddy bear) in the UK, where she wraps up in warm clothes and hang out under umbrellas, dreaming of warm destinations.
When she's not writing, she enjoys a glass of wine (or two) with a good book or a favourite Netflix show and coming up with terms like #SmutCom.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 41 reviews
August 27, 2022
This is a personal record for me. I read this book in under 12 hours. I'm a stay at home mom of 3 kiddos. That means it's almost 1 am right now. But. It's. That. Good.
I appreciate and like the fact that the narrator changes and that it's written in the first person perspective. It helps to imagine the characters personal perspectives so much more.
I had very real tears in my eyes from laughing, starting at the prologue. It's all here. The macho singer guy that has had his fair share of "experience", the girl who has some trust issues, the crazy aunt who pretends to be deaf just for entertainment and keeps pot candy leftover from her book club, the cute little fuzz-ball squirrel named Gizmo, and a sinister character who cannot be trusted. It's the best fun, relaxing read that you can read for fun.
I love that the author includes a Spotify 🎶 playlist for her book. Her characters always find a way to include music to help strengthen the mood. I love it.
Some of my favorite parts are when Carter is 'attacked' by a squirrel. Think Clark Griswold in Christmas Vacation when the squirrel is in the tree... 🐿️
"I still swear by the fact that it attacked me. The thing came out of nowhere, sauntering in my direction like a furry pimp, so naturally, I ran in the opposite direction...I wasn't going to be it's next meal." Ironically the next chapter is titled "No Shitting In The House". I feel like that's on the top 10 rules in my house with my 3 kiddos. The little munchkins...
When Aunt Bertie is talking about her pot candy at book club, discussing a certain yummy book character.
"Let me just tell you, talking about Mr. Grey takes on a whole new meaning when you start hearing colors."
This book is so dang cute and spicy, it needed two epilogues!!! 🌶️🌶️🌶️
And...has everyone taken a guess as to when Edward 🍞 will go green? I hope that is addressed in the next book. 😉
Trigger warning. If you're afraid of reading a few cuss words, this may not be the best book option for you. "Fucketyfuck with a fuckaduck on top!" There. Now you can read it.
I'm just a #SmutCom diehard fan. J. Preston, you keep doing your thing as an author, and I'll keep doing my thing as your reader. 💯 Love your stuff!!!
Thank you to the author for her kindness in letting me read an advanced copy of For What It's Worth.
I appreciate and like the fact that the narrator changes and that it's written in the first person perspective. It helps to imagine the characters personal perspectives so much more.
I had very real tears in my eyes from laughing, starting at the prologue. It's all here. The macho singer guy that has had his fair share of "experience", the girl who has some trust issues, the crazy aunt who pretends to be deaf just for entertainment and keeps pot candy leftover from her book club, the cute little fuzz-ball squirrel named Gizmo, and a sinister character who cannot be trusted. It's the best fun, relaxing read that you can read for fun.
I love that the author includes a Spotify 🎶 playlist for her book. Her characters always find a way to include music to help strengthen the mood. I love it.
Some of my favorite parts are when Carter is 'attacked' by a squirrel. Think Clark Griswold in Christmas Vacation when the squirrel is in the tree... 🐿️
"I still swear by the fact that it attacked me. The thing came out of nowhere, sauntering in my direction like a furry pimp, so naturally, I ran in the opposite direction...I wasn't going to be it's next meal." Ironically the next chapter is titled "No Shitting In The House". I feel like that's on the top 10 rules in my house with my 3 kiddos. The little munchkins...
When Aunt Bertie is talking about her pot candy at book club, discussing a certain yummy book character.
"Let me just tell you, talking about Mr. Grey takes on a whole new meaning when you start hearing colors."
This book is so dang cute and spicy, it needed two epilogues!!! 🌶️🌶️🌶️
And...has everyone taken a guess as to when Edward 🍞 will go green? I hope that is addressed in the next book. 😉
Trigger warning. If you're afraid of reading a few cuss words, this may not be the best book option for you. "Fucketyfuck with a fuckaduck on top!" There. Now you can read it.
I'm just a #SmutCom diehard fan. J. Preston, you keep doing your thing as an author, and I'll keep doing my thing as your reader. 💯 Love your stuff!!!
Thank you to the author for her kindness in letting me read an advanced copy of For What It's Worth.
December 3, 2021
This is book two in the False Start Series and although they read perfectly as stand alones, I’m in love with Carter Kennedy since book one! He’s a 21yo tall, dark and handsome Casanova who has a crush on his best friend. The problem is that Jenny (the best friend) is in love with someone else.
It’s Christmas and Carter is feeling down, he decides to go out and meets a gorgeous model. Their attraction is enough to grant them a one night stand, except she falls asleep when his all over her 🤣🤦🏻♀️
Fast forward one year and Carter finds himself becoming a rising star after Jenny posted a video of him singing on YouTube. He’s heading home for the holidays but planned a few stops on the way to do some soul searching and a few gigs as well. A friend asks him to give one of her friends a ride, since they both are going to LA and he accepts. Oh holy surprise, the traveling partner is no other than Sydney (the model that fell asleep on him!). They embark on this road trip not really knowing what’s going to happen between them but their chemistry is epic! Will they be able to go beyond the road trip and get a HEA?
I need to praise Jo here because she did justice to Carter in this book. He’s the perfect example of an Alpha-Cinnabon hero (sweet and hot and funny and smart and dominant where it counts, the whole package!) and I adore him! When he feels this deep connection with Sydney he goes all out to show her he’s being real with her, that she can trust him. Sydney had a very rough upbringing and she’s very guarded but Carter with his charm, good looks and sultry voice will try his best to win her over.
This book is a rom-com or smut-com ask Jo perfectly describes her books. I laughed and laughed at Carter’s silly antics but also we got more from aunt Bertie in this book. That lady is hilarious! Always being the perfect buffer when the situation starts getting out of hand.
We also got a glimpse from the group of friends and Carter’s family, who embrace Sydney with open arms. Something she desperately needed.
All in all, I absolutely love this book! It’s funny, it’s cute, has a little bit of mystery and a whole lot of heart. It’s a perfect holiday book and I highly recommend it.
It’s Christmas and Carter is feeling down, he decides to go out and meets a gorgeous model. Their attraction is enough to grant them a one night stand, except she falls asleep when his all over her 🤣🤦🏻♀️
Fast forward one year and Carter finds himself becoming a rising star after Jenny posted a video of him singing on YouTube. He’s heading home for the holidays but planned a few stops on the way to do some soul searching and a few gigs as well. A friend asks him to give one of her friends a ride, since they both are going to LA and he accepts. Oh holy surprise, the traveling partner is no other than Sydney (the model that fell asleep on him!). They embark on this road trip not really knowing what’s going to happen between them but their chemistry is epic! Will they be able to go beyond the road trip and get a HEA?
I need to praise Jo here because she did justice to Carter in this book. He’s the perfect example of an Alpha-Cinnabon hero (sweet and hot and funny and smart and dominant where it counts, the whole package!) and I adore him! When he feels this deep connection with Sydney he goes all out to show her he’s being real with her, that she can trust him. Sydney had a very rough upbringing and she’s very guarded but Carter with his charm, good looks and sultry voice will try his best to win her over.
This book is a rom-com or smut-com ask Jo perfectly describes her books. I laughed and laughed at Carter’s silly antics but also we got more from aunt Bertie in this book. That lady is hilarious! Always being the perfect buffer when the situation starts getting out of hand.
We also got a glimpse from the group of friends and Carter’s family, who embrace Sydney with open arms. Something she desperately needed.
All in all, I absolutely love this book! It’s funny, it’s cute, has a little bit of mystery and a whole lot of heart. It’s a perfect holiday book and I highly recommend it.
December 6, 2021
In short: Overnight rock sensation Carter
Is attempting to move on from being in love with his best friend. After an “almost” one night stand he focuses on his career. A year later, at Christmas time, Sydney (the almost one night stand) waltzes back into his life, and his car, for a road trip.
What to expect:
🎸Second chance romance
🎸Lots of laughs
🎸Steamy & unquestionable connection
🎸Epic road trip
My thoughts: I loved everything about this book! A Christmas time road trip that’s funny, smutty and full of heart. I love these character from Carter and Sydney to the friends group to crazy Aunt Bertie. And can we talk about the squirrel? 🐿😂 This book just had me smiling the whole time.
Is attempting to move on from being in love with his best friend. After an “almost” one night stand he focuses on his career. A year later, at Christmas time, Sydney (the almost one night stand) waltzes back into his life, and his car, for a road trip.
What to expect:
🎸Second chance romance
🎸Lots of laughs
🎸Steamy & unquestionable connection
🎸Epic road trip
My thoughts: I loved everything about this book! A Christmas time road trip that’s funny, smutty and full of heart. I love these character from Carter and Sydney to the friends group to crazy Aunt Bertie. And can we talk about the squirrel? 🐿😂 This book just had me smiling the whole time.
December 5, 2021
In love with Carter K oh yes I am!
He was cocky, silly and charming in book 1- 'For Crying Out Loud'. In 'For What It's Worth' he is all that plus more! Talented, funny, wonderful & patient.
He's quick to swoon for Sydney, whom he had a sleepy encounter with some 12 months prior, when she arrives to hitch a ride across the US.
And Syd. (sorry Im Aussie we shorten everything lol)
A guarded Sydney has plenty of walls up. Its safe like that. No one to hurt her or do her harm. Carter, with patience and understanding, blitz's through them all.
They seem to be falling in love from the get go but with different things holding them back the story takes you through a slow highly combustible burn first.
A cute squirrel that falls for Carter mid point has the story lifting to another wonderful place TheN we get to meet the parents, auntie (don't touch a sweet) and sister whom are wonderful in their own right!
I did miss the interaction of the characters from first novel in this story but Carter more than made up for it with how awesome he was!
He was cocky, silly and charming in book 1- 'For Crying Out Loud'. In 'For What It's Worth' he is all that plus more! Talented, funny, wonderful & patient.
He's quick to swoon for Sydney, whom he had a sleepy encounter with some 12 months prior, when she arrives to hitch a ride across the US.
And Syd. (sorry Im Aussie we shorten everything lol)
A guarded Sydney has plenty of walls up. Its safe like that. No one to hurt her or do her harm. Carter, with patience and understanding, blitz's through them all.
They seem to be falling in love from the get go but with different things holding them back the story takes you through a slow highly combustible burn first.
A cute squirrel that falls for Carter mid point has the story lifting to another wonderful place TheN we get to meet the parents, auntie (don't touch a sweet) and sister whom are wonderful in their own right!
I did miss the interaction of the characters from first novel in this story but Carter more than made up for it with how awesome he was!
December 4, 2021
Can I tell you a secret? I LOVE Carter Kennedy. I fell in love with him and his cocky but charming ways in For Crying Out Loud, but getting to know his sweet and loving heart in this book made me swoon. Carter is caring, unafraid, and patient. He doesn't hold himself back from falling for Sydney practically the second she's in his car. And then there's Sydney, more guarded and not as trusting with plenty of walls up to keep her safe. Until Carter bulldozes through all of them. This story is a fun combination of both slow burn and insta love. Feelings creep in quickly for both characters, even if they aren't so easy to admit. I loved all the fun, sexy, swoony, and emotional moments in this story. Add in a docile squirrel and a hard of hearing (or is she?!) great aunt and you're in for an absolutely glorious ride. A different vibe from For Crying Out Loud but yet the perfect follow up. I'm already excited for the next book!
December 5, 2021
Rock star, road trip, snowy holiday, angsty romantic banter! Looking for a slow, but smutty rom com? Do you want to read about a cinnamon roll who falls head over heels over his love interest? If you answered yes this is for you.
Did I mention it’s cute funny and the sexual tension has you wanting to jump into snow. Well you’ll laugh out loud at their antics and even want to smack some sense into these two. Also for some reason I kept thinking about dug from up “squirrel”. You’ll get the gist as to why I mentioned that. Get ready to fall in love with Sydney who’s well guarded and Hey Mr. Carter who just wants to be loved. A perfect cozy read while by the fire.
December 7, 2021
Carter & Sydney weren't meant to get together, especially if their first encounter had anything to say about it. Both bringing their complicated pasts and issues, their reunion a year later throws these two on a journey neither would have anticipated. What starts as an unexpected rideshare quickly turns into a hot and steamy hook-up with a log cabin, a crazed squirrel and getting high surrounded by his crazy relatives at Christmas. This story does not lack a unique vibe and some pretty unusual circumstances but we fall for these two as fast as they fall for each other.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
May 10, 2023
Oh. My. Gosh. This book was freaking incredible!!! Carter. Ever since “For Crying Out Loud,” I’ve loved Carter Kennedy, and I’ve been hoping he’d get his own happily ever after. This book didn’t disappoint! Carter is such a sweetheart, a lovable nice guy hero with a heart of gold. Sydney. I feel so bad for her because she had a truly awful childhood, but she got herself out, rose up, and made something of herself once she was old enough. That took courage, and I respect her for it. She’s also super smart, snarky, and kind, and I love that about her. I highly recommend this book to any steamy romcom lover!!!
November 29, 2021
I loved FCOL so much I read it in one sitting and FWIW was no different.
Except it has a lot more steam, and since I like my books steamy, well you know it, I'm in love. I'm also a s*cker for a forced cohabitation trope, so FWIW really made me a happy reader.
Just like the first book, it's super funny, super cute, and I got really worried a bunch of times. To make a long story short, it made me feel all the feels, and if that isn't the definition of a good book, I don't know what it!
So well done, J! And everyone who hasn't read it, what are you waiting for?
Except it has a lot more steam, and since I like my books steamy, well you know it, I'm in love. I'm also a s*cker for a forced cohabitation trope, so FWIW really made me a happy reader.
Just like the first book, it's super funny, super cute, and I got really worried a bunch of times. To make a long story short, it made me feel all the feels, and if that isn't the definition of a good book, I don't know what it!
So well done, J! And everyone who hasn't read it, what are you waiting for?
December 7, 2021
loved it !!! love this series !!! love Carter and Sydney... this is their story... a fast paced fun road trip !!! Carter and Sydney meet a year ago ... and it did not go well... now.. a friend is asking Carter to take a friend to LA... since he is going that way anyway... surprise... it's Sydney !!! can they even get along ? or will Carter break down Sydney's walls to let love in ? what a sweet story !!!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
December 4, 2021
Carter and Sydney are so hot! I absolutely loved their chemistry and swooned with Carter’s songs. This story made me laugh out loud and fan my face. There was so much laughter and plenty of steam. Carter and Sydney take off on a road trip both looking to find themselves. Ultimately they find each other and realize that they are stronger than ever when they are together. Take the ride with Carter and Sydney while they take a chance on love.
December 6, 2021
Carter and Sydney . . .
Carter Kennedy is a really nice guy, but he wants someone special in his life. So when a friend asks him to give someone a ride to LA since they both are headed there, he agrees. Sydney Buyer is the friend, and Carter had met her briefly before about a year ago.
Carter and Sydney start their road trip and, along the way, seem to find each other. Are they ready to take a chance on love? Will the sweet, caring Carter bring down some of those walls she has built up around her heart? Has their road trip given them a chance to build up trust to give love a try?
Carter Kennedy is a really nice guy, but he wants someone special in his life. So when a friend asks him to give someone a ride to LA since they both are headed there, he agrees. Sydney Buyer is the friend, and Carter had met her briefly before about a year ago.
Carter and Sydney start their road trip and, along the way, seem to find each other. Are they ready to take a chance on love? Will the sweet, caring Carter bring down some of those walls she has built up around her heart? Has their road trip given them a chance to build up trust to give love a try?
November 18, 2021
They met by chance 1 year ago and they almost make sex but she felt asleep . One year later he decides to go on a road trip while singing in some cities along the road and a friend ask him to take with him her friend . He accepts but the next day when he see her he is actually happy . They both haven 't had sex for a year and the heat between them is on . As they spent time together they come closer and closer .
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
November 27, 2021
Carter's book was everything we wanted AND MORE!
I fell in love with these characters and this world from the first page of FCOL and I couldn't wait to dive into Carter's story!
It had me laughing so hard which I knew it would because come on Carter is just a Class A Joker 😍
We pick up where the last book left off, our poor Casanova is still pining after Jenny, but after an almost one night stand with a complete stranger and a little bit of a nudge in the right direction a year later, Carter finally finds his love 😍
Sydney is a tough nut to crack, her walls are a million miles high and with bloody good reason too! But if anyone can barrel their way through those walls it's going to be our Carter 😍
I've never wanted to bash two character's heads together as much as I did with these two! They were constantly on the same page but didn't even realise it!
I loved the whole story for this book, the road trip fun, the steamy scenes, the laugh out loud easy reading was just perfect!
It was much different to FCOL but with both stories they were perfect for the characters!
I can't wait for book 3 now after that sneak peek!
I fell in love with these characters and this world from the first page of FCOL and I couldn't wait to dive into Carter's story!
It had me laughing so hard which I knew it would because come on Carter is just a Class A Joker 😍
We pick up where the last book left off, our poor Casanova is still pining after Jenny, but after an almost one night stand with a complete stranger and a little bit of a nudge in the right direction a year later, Carter finally finds his love 😍
Sydney is a tough nut to crack, her walls are a million miles high and with bloody good reason too! But if anyone can barrel their way through those walls it's going to be our Carter 😍
I've never wanted to bash two character's heads together as much as I did with these two! They were constantly on the same page but didn't even realise it!
I loved the whole story for this book, the road trip fun, the steamy scenes, the laugh out loud easy reading was just perfect!
It was much different to FCOL but with both stories they were perfect for the characters!
I can't wait for book 3 now after that sneak peek!
December 6, 2021
I fell in love with Carter in For Crying Out Loud and was excited that For What It’s Worth gave him his own book!
It was nice to see the softer side of Carter and to see him moving on from being in love with his best friend.
Sydney ended up with an unplanned partner on a trip to LA, stuck in a car with the man she had almost-sex with a year ago. Sparks fly as they find out that their chemistry didn’t end with the drunken night the year before.
It was nice to see the softer side of Carter and to see him moving on from being in love with his best friend.
Sydney ended up with an unplanned partner on a trip to LA, stuck in a car with the man she had almost-sex with a year ago. Sparks fly as they find out that their chemistry didn’t end with the drunken night the year before.
December 6, 2021
This book is a romantic Comedy. Carter and Sidney have a love and hate relationship. They start off on a bad term but along the way they got alone just fine even melting someone's heart . Well if you want to know what happened to the story you had to find out.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
December 12, 2021
Hilarious Road trip rom-com. The chemistry between Carter and Sydney is sizzling! While both had plans for soul searching road trips, neither expected they would end up taking the trip together. Life just had other plans. A great refreshing story that I found I couldn’t put down, too bad life got in the way of my reading this in one sitting!
November 26, 2021
Carter is a aspiring musician, Sydney wants as far from the limelight as she can get. When they set out on a week long road-trip neither one was expecting anything serious. But as his open mic gigs take off, Sydney wants to pull away. She has reasons and a past, keeping her from seeing any future with Carter.
December 10, 2021
A hugely enjoyable book with sweet sass and a fab extended family. J. Preston writes in a style that sucks you in and keeps you enthralled until the end.
December 8, 2021
This is Carter & Sydney's story.
They embark on a road trip together.
This book has fun times with interesting characters and will leave you laughing more often than not.
Great story.
Pick up the first book, too!!
They embark on a road trip together.
This book has fun times with interesting characters and will leave you laughing more often than not.
Great story.
Pick up the first book, too!!
April 11, 2022
Finally I got to read the second book in the False Starts series. I've been waiting very impatiently for Carter Kennedy's story and I was not disappointed! I liked this more serious version of Carter. Where he was the jokester in For Crying Out Loud, that role belongs firmly to Aunt Bertie in For What It's Worth. She's amazing and I was cackling more than once and if I had been drinking anything it would definitely have come out of my nose! I love the depiction of Carter's family and how they welcomed and embraced Sydney. I really hope quirky and weird families like that one exists in real life.
I would have liked a bit more backstory on the villain and for said person to have a more pronounced presence throughout the book.
Also, what's with the squirrel?!
I would have liked a bit more backstory on the villain and for said person to have a more pronounced presence throughout the book.
Also, what's with the squirrel?!
November 19, 2021
Carter Kennedy has been in love with his best friend forever, or what feels like forever. That is until she falls in love with their other best friend. Enter that stage of grief when a one-night stand is the best you can give to someone because you feel like there will never be anyone that you will love like you loved them. With that chance meeting with Sydney, they almost make it, but Sydney falls asleep. A year later, Carter is getting ready to go on the road to sing and another friend asks if he can bring a friend to LA where the tour starts as her car broke down. He accepts and when the friend shows up, he is happy to see Sydney. These two have some serious chemistry but never got to act on it. Will they this time? As Carter needs some help on the tour Sydney goes along. While they are together the sparks continue to fly and what started off as a one-night stand a year ago, turns into friendship and into one of the most beautiful relationships. Problems are there, can they get around them to make this all work out in the end? Better yet, is this what Carter needs to see love is out there?
I absolutely loved this book. I was laughing and crying, but I always felt the connection that these characters all have for each other. The friend group was all amazing and you could see how they had each other’s backs all the time. Carter was great trying to get through the ups and downs of being an upcoming singer/rockstar. You could see how nervous he was and as you read it you can feel that nervous energy. Sydney may seem so strong, but her vulnerabilities did shine through. I appreciated seeing her as she was. Carter’s family was so funny. Aunt Bertie, man that lady had me cracking up. This was such a fun read.
I absolutely loved this book. I was laughing and crying, but I always felt the connection that these characters all have for each other. The friend group was all amazing and you could see how they had each other’s backs all the time. Carter was great trying to get through the ups and downs of being an upcoming singer/rockstar. You could see how nervous he was and as you read it you can feel that nervous energy. Sydney may seem so strong, but her vulnerabilities did shine through. I appreciated seeing her as she was. Carter’s family was so funny. Aunt Bertie, man that lady had me cracking up. This was such a fun read.
July 28, 2023
My Rating: ⭐⭐ .5
Oh man, I just did not like this one. I didn't like the pacing, didn't care for the characters, the steam turned me right off. Carter just felt ick. I don't know. He really just bothered me for some reason. Like he did some really sweet things in this book but like.. it just felt too much like we were trying to write the perfect man and it just doesn't feel realistic. People are flawed. Also Sydney made me so frustrated.
The other thing that bothered me was the pacing. Too insta-love for my own tastes that the middle felt quite boring. The "action" came towards the end but it felt almost thrown in last minute when I feel like that could've been added sooner or more drawn out so as to build some suspense and drama.
All that to say that I have to give mad props for the inclusion of music and the accompanying playlist. I know this isn't exactly new, but I'd say still there are relatively few authors I've seen that have playlists included in their books, but I've never seen the direct QR Code to take you right to the playlist. I think that was really smart and unique. This worked especially well as there's a lot of nods to the songs in the playlist, and the fact that Carter is a musician. While not all of the playlist might've been to my taste, I thought it was a brilliant use of that. So mad props to you, Jo Preston!
There's most certainly an audience for this book, this one just wasn't for me. Maybe I'll give one of her other books a try.
Oh man, I just did not like this one. I didn't like the pacing, didn't care for the characters, the steam turned me right off. Carter just felt ick. I don't know. He really just bothered me for some reason. Like he did some really sweet things in this book but like.. it just felt too much like we were trying to write the perfect man and it just doesn't feel realistic. People are flawed. Also Sydney made me so frustrated.
The other thing that bothered me was the pacing. Too insta-love for my own tastes that the middle felt quite boring. The "action" came towards the end but it felt almost thrown in last minute when I feel like that could've been added sooner or more drawn out so as to build some suspense and drama.
All that to say that I have to give mad props for the inclusion of music and the accompanying playlist. I know this isn't exactly new, but I'd say still there are relatively few authors I've seen that have playlists included in their books, but I've never seen the direct QR Code to take you right to the playlist. I think that was really smart and unique. This worked especially well as there's a lot of nods to the songs in the playlist, and the fact that Carter is a musician. While not all of the playlist might've been to my taste, I thought it was a brilliant use of that. So mad props to you, Jo Preston!
There's most certainly an audience for this book, this one just wasn't for me. Maybe I'll give one of her other books a try.
December 16, 2021
This is Carter's story. I liked him when he was introduced in For Crying Out Loud. He was the funny, loveable perfect guy friend. Then I read this and swoon, sexy, hot, attentive, passionate and so much more. I loved Carter and Sydney's story. First you start with Carter trying to drown his sorrows when he realizes he is in love with his best friend Jenny who is in love with his other best friend and tries to hook up with Maya's friend Sydney but they were both so drunk by the time they got their clothes off Sydney falls asleep and then disappears the next morning. A year later Carter decides he is going to take a road trip and hit open Mic nights, but before he leaves Maya asks if her friend who's car broke down could join him and to his delight it turns out to be Sydney. Sydney hasn't had a real good life growing up and has had some issues with trust and commitment but there is a strong connection between these two. Great Story and enjoyable character, especially the return of my favorite Aunt Bertie.
I received an ARC and volunteered to leave a review.
I received an ARC and volunteered to leave a review.
December 8, 2021
Sydney and Carter almost had a one-night stand a year ago. But someone fell asleep, and then disappeared. Now she needs a ride home to LA, and he's headed there, with some detours. He falls for her right away - she's not so sure about trusting a relationship. I had an email from another author, who had read this book and said that it was hilarious. They were absolutely right about that. I loved everything single thing about this book... Their nicknames for each other (Rockstar and Sunshine)... Gizmo, the wild but tame-ish squirrel they "adopted".. Carter's crazy family... The chapter titles (Cutasaurus, Good Luck Corky). Watching Carter break down Syd's walls, and worm his way into her heart. I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
September 13, 2023
•b o o k r e v i e w• (3.5 stars)
Bottom line, the book was cute just wasn’t really for me. Felt very….. teenager for being about grown adults lol.
The entire book felt like I was reading two peoples journal entries, they were speaking to the reader directly and that just really didn’t vibe with me lmao.
A lot of inconsistencies as well… Biggest one being that the entire plot was based on Sydney riding with Carter because she couldn’t afford $100 for a tow truck when her car broke down, but then later can afford to pay for her apartment for 6 months without working??? Says she has plenty saved up… why wouldn’t you just pay for a tow truck? 😅
All in all, it was a cute story. But it was written like a teen romance not an adult romance. I will say the spice was pretty good, though.
Bottom line, the book was cute just wasn’t really for me. Felt very….. teenager for being about grown adults lol.
The entire book felt like I was reading two peoples journal entries, they were speaking to the reader directly and that just really didn’t vibe with me lmao.
A lot of inconsistencies as well… Biggest one being that the entire plot was based on Sydney riding with Carter because she couldn’t afford $100 for a tow truck when her car broke down, but then later can afford to pay for her apartment for 6 months without working??? Says she has plenty saved up… why wouldn’t you just pay for a tow truck? 😅
All in all, it was a cute story. But it was written like a teen romance not an adult romance. I will say the spice was pretty good, though.
December 16, 2021
This was the first book I have had the chance to read by this author and it was so witty, fun, steamy, and an amazing read that I now have to go read the first book with Carter. I adore Carter and his fun spontaneous attitude. He can be kind, thoughtful, and an extremely sweet book boyfriend. He also happens to be a sexy, up and coming musician. Sophia is a beautiful ex-model with a troubled past who is trying to stay away from the limelight. She feels they can have no future with his future sure to be in the limelight. This is such a witty, humorous, lovely steamy romance. I can't wait to read the first book where Carter is introduced and any future books this author writes!
July 8, 2023
2.5/5 stars rounded up.
This book was an incredibly easy read and easy to follow. The writing style was okay and it was obviously very character-centric and not plot based. Carter was a sweetheart and I was rooting for him from the first page. Sydney was a bit more complicated, and while I didn’t love her or see the appeal that carter did, I could at least appreciate that some of her apprehension was explained due to her past.
For What It’s Worth was a very middle-of-the-road story for me. I didn’t dislike it, nor did I love it. It was a cute, easy read and I did enjoy the spice in this book. There was one scene in particular I wasn’t expecting.
This book was an incredibly easy read and easy to follow. The writing style was okay and it was obviously very character-centric and not plot based. Carter was a sweetheart and I was rooting for him from the first page. Sydney was a bit more complicated, and while I didn’t love her or see the appeal that carter did, I could at least appreciate that some of her apprehension was explained due to her past.
For What It’s Worth was a very middle-of-the-road story for me. I didn’t dislike it, nor did I love it. It was a cute, easy read and I did enjoy the spice in this book. There was one scene in particular I wasn’t expecting.
August 12, 2024
Rating: 10/10⭐️
Spice: 7/10🌶️
Kindle Unlimited: ✅
Trope’s:
👀Alleyway Funny Business
🐈⬛Black Cat FMC
📚College Romance
💕Found Family
🎄Holiday Romance
🛏️One Bed
1️⃣One Night Stand
🛤️Opposite Sides Of The Track
🤭Reformed Playboy
🛣️Roadtrip
🎸Rockstar Romance
👥Strangers To Lovers
Favorite Character:
🏂Carter Kennedy
Read If You Like:
•What A Girl Wants
•Dirty Grandpa
•Angus, Thongs, & Perfect Snogging
Yet another cute, funny, adorable book! The characters seemed a bit more grown up, but I just could not stand the FMC in this book. She drove me up a wall.
Carter? ADORED him! 😍 Literally loved him from the first time we met him in book one. 🫶🏻 He has my heart! I just wish he had a better significant other. He had so much growth in this book, and I felt like Sydney just wasn’t on his level.
I loved the peaks of Jenny and Aiden we saw! Part of the reason I love series so much is because of the cameo’s we get from previous books characters and couple’s. I went straight to book three, and will report back!
Spice: 7/10🌶️
Kindle Unlimited: ✅
Trope’s:
👀Alleyway Funny Business
🐈⬛Black Cat FMC
📚College Romance
💕Found Family
🎄Holiday Romance
🛏️One Bed
1️⃣One Night Stand
🛤️Opposite Sides Of The Track
🤭Reformed Playboy
🛣️Roadtrip
🎸Rockstar Romance
👥Strangers To Lovers
Favorite Character:
🏂Carter Kennedy
Read If You Like:
•What A Girl Wants
•Dirty Grandpa
•Angus, Thongs, & Perfect Snogging
Yet another cute, funny, adorable book! The characters seemed a bit more grown up, but I just could not stand the FMC in this book. She drove me up a wall.
Carter? ADORED him! 😍 Literally loved him from the first time we met him in book one. 🫶🏻 He has my heart! I just wish he had a better significant other. He had so much growth in this book, and I felt like Sydney just wasn’t on his level.
I loved the peaks of Jenny and Aiden we saw! Part of the reason I love series so much is because of the cameo’s we get from previous books characters and couple’s. I went straight to book three, and will report back!
March 16, 2023
For What It's Worth is a year after For Crying Out Loud. Carter, is starting on a journey of self-discovery, promoting his music, when a friend of a friend Sydney comes along for the ride.
We know Carter from FCOL, and we know that he was in love with Jenny, his best friend, who is in love with his other best friend. However; we see how Carter grows from that, and takes the gift Jenny gave him (Promoting his singing online) and rolls with it. The growth of Carter is amazing not only as an individual but also as a singer songwriter.
Sydney is friends with Hailey (who we also learned about in FCOL). This is Sydney first appearance, watching as she grows from her past is amazing, Yes, we are only along for a short period of time, but how she lets her walls down and lets them in so she can recover is amazing.
I truly enjoyed this story. There was so much passion, comic relief, growth between the two MC as well as Carters family that it was hard to put down. I always wanted to find out what was happening next. And yes I know she is not a main character, but Aunt Berta can we all have one of her. He appearance again in this story provided a much comic relief during some tense moments. I also loved how we got to know her a little bit better and cannot wait to see if she makes an appearance, it the next book.
We know Carter from FCOL, and we know that he was in love with Jenny, his best friend, who is in love with his other best friend. However; we see how Carter grows from that, and takes the gift Jenny gave him (Promoting his singing online) and rolls with it. The growth of Carter is amazing not only as an individual but also as a singer songwriter.
Sydney is friends with Hailey (who we also learned about in FCOL). This is Sydney first appearance, watching as she grows from her past is amazing, Yes, we are only along for a short period of time, but how she lets her walls down and lets them in so she can recover is amazing.
I truly enjoyed this story. There was so much passion, comic relief, growth between the two MC as well as Carters family that it was hard to put down. I always wanted to find out what was happening next. And yes I know she is not a main character, but Aunt Berta can we all have one of her. He appearance again in this story provided a much comic relief during some tense moments. I also loved how we got to know her a little bit better and cannot wait to see if she makes an appearance, it the next book.
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