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Blue Beech #6
Just Friends
From USA Today and Wall Street Journal bestselling author Charity Ferrell comes an angsty, un-put-downable friends to lovers romance!
The first time we spoke he tried to bribe me, and I called his bluff.
That became friendship … then first loves.
I steal his heart.
He steals mine.
But we keep that our secret, hidden in fear of ruining our friendship.
Until one night, we cross a line.
I have secrets I never want him to know.
But he won’t allow me to push him away.
He’s ready to become more than friends, but will that change when he learns what I’ve done?
The first time we spoke he tried to bribe me, and I called his bluff.
That became friendship … then first loves.
I steal his heart.
He steals mine.
But we keep that our secret, hidden in fear of ruining our friendship.
Until one night, we cross a line.
I have secrets I never want him to know.
But he won’t allow me to push him away.
He’s ready to become more than friends, but will that change when he learns what I’ve done?
284 pages, Paperback
First published February 6, 2020
574 people are currently reading
11226 people want to read
About the author
Charity Ferrell
49 books3,156 followersCharity Ferrell is a Wall Street Journal, USA Today, #1 Amazon, and #1 Apple bestselling author.
She resides in Indianapolis, Indiana. When she’s not writing, she’s hanging out with her dog, on a Starbucks run, shopping online, or spending time with her family.
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WEBSITE: http://charityferrell.com
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INSTAGRAM: @charityferrell
She resides in Indianapolis, Indiana. When she’s not writing, she’s hanging out with her dog, on a Starbucks run, shopping online, or spending time with her family.
JOIN MY NL: https://bit.ly/2YHF7im
JOIN MY READER GROUP: https://bit.ly/31ugXIY
WEBSITE: http://charityferrell.com
FOLLOW ME ON:
TIK TOK: https://www.tiktok.com/@charityferrell
FACEBOOK: www.facebook.com/authorcharityferrell
INSTAGRAM: @charityferrell
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 552 reviews
June 11, 2021
1 star. ⭐
The starting was good, although a little cliche. Good girl and bad boy meet, and the bad boy asks the good girl to help him with his assignments. They gradually become friends, and then the girl asks him to take her virginity and vows nothing will come between their friendship. But we all know that never happens tsktsk. Feelings enter and they become possessive of each other. The manwhore hero doesn't want to be her boyfriend, but doesn't want any guy to become her boyfriend either.
Up until this point, I was actually enjoying it especially the jealousy. I'm a sucker for jealous heroes. And then the heroine decides she had wasted enough time waiting for the hero to come around, and now she was going to date somebody else. Which was also great, fabulous. She is not a doormat. I loved that.
But the guy she began seeing turned out to be abusive. And the reason she didn't leave him was because she couldn't see the hero fucking somebody else. So, she thought it was better to be in a abusive relationship than seeing the hero with someone else. What absolutely made me loose my mind was, she even married that abusive guy after a month of dating in Vegas. Why? Because she still loved the hero, and she knew there was no way he was loving her back. So, she married that abusive guy.
Anyways, still I continued reading. But I just couldn't tolerate her anymore. She was still married to her abusive husband, and was fucking the hero at the same time. She never uttered a word to the hero about her marriage. At the end of the book, I just hated both the characters. It just I found both of them very juvenile and immature. I can stand cliches, but not stupid characters.
The starting was good, although a little cliche. Good girl and bad boy meet, and the bad boy asks the good girl to help him with his assignments. They gradually become friends, and then the girl asks him to take her virginity and vows nothing will come between their friendship. But we all know that never happens tsktsk. Feelings enter and they become possessive of each other. The manwhore hero doesn't want to be her boyfriend, but doesn't want any guy to become her boyfriend either.
Up until this point, I was actually enjoying it especially the jealousy. I'm a sucker for jealous heroes. And then the heroine decides she had wasted enough time waiting for the hero to come around, and now she was going to date somebody else. Which was also great, fabulous. She is not a doormat. I loved that.
But the guy she began seeing turned out to be abusive. And the reason she didn't leave him was because she couldn't see the hero fucking somebody else. So, she thought it was better to be in a abusive relationship than seeing the hero with someone else. What absolutely made me loose my mind was, she even married that abusive guy after a month of dating in Vegas. Why? Because she still loved the hero, and she knew there was no way he was loving her back. So, she married that abusive guy.
Anyways, still I continued reading. But I just couldn't tolerate her anymore. She was still married to her abusive husband, and was fucking the hero at the same time. She never uttered a word to the hero about her marriage. At the end of the book, I just hated both the characters. It just I found both of them very juvenile and immature. I can stand cliches, but not stupid characters.
February 9, 2020
I’m a dude who doesn’t want to get in her panties. She’s a chick who doesn’t want to bang me. There are no expectations between us.
If you like best friends to lovers, fake relationship turned real, and secret twists, then you will enjoy Just Friends. I’m personally a sucker for the best friends to lovers trope so I knew I’d love Rex & Carolina. They spend a lot of time avoiding how they feel, because they are scared to “ruin the friendship” but you can just tell they would be PERFECTION together! Then tension is intense, the banter is fun, the story flow is good, the characters are likable, and this was just a good read.
https://instagram.com/p/B8OwruZAmt8/
^reader edit on IG!
Available now!
ARC*
If you like best friends to lovers, fake relationship turned real, and secret twists, then you will enjoy Just Friends. I’m personally a sucker for the best friends to lovers trope so I knew I’d love Rex & Carolina. They spend a lot of time avoiding how they feel, because they are scared to “ruin the friendship” but you can just tell they would be PERFECTION together! Then tension is intense, the banter is fun, the story flow is good, the characters are likable, and this was just a good read.
https://instagram.com/p/B8OwruZAmt8/
^reader edit on IG!
Available now!
ARC*
October 22, 2024
dnf @ 52%
whoever said this was fun needs to get some standards. I've never read anything as infuriating as this and I refuse to put myself through more of it.
the premise at the start was super fun, I was so excited and it seemed like an amazing fucking story.
you know what happened? I opened my eyes at 6%.
there are so many issues:
1) The characters are unbelievably annoying.
2) The characters ironically have NO character.
3) There is no conflict except "Rex doesn't believe in successful relationships because of his parents." So, what is the underlying issue with this conflict? Rex has a sister who is in a happy relationship and has made it work. Of course, childhood trauma and whatnot can leave a lasting impact, however, it's just unbelievably annoying to have this huge contradiction.
4) Something is going on with Carolina; however, even though we can read her point of view, we are given NO explanation. Why am I supposed to feel sad that she's left all her friends and dropped out of college? What made her do that? Why have I read 40% of this book and still have no insight what so ever??
5) The supporting characters are abysmal. You go to your cousin's wedding and everyone cares more about you and your fake boyfriend than the girl getting married? Why is the cousin also so focused on Carolina, when she, shockingly, has her own life? I understand wanting to make the main characters more likable by making everyone else insufferable, but maybe, JUST MAYBE, make them seem like actual human beings. Yes, there are jealous people, yes, family CAN be overwhelmingly annoying... BUT WHAT IS THIS?
6) The writing - bad
7) The smut is ew. no. :)
8) Carolina's father is a pastor and that could've been such an interesting conflict point, however, we're dropped into the main story once Carolina is already close with Rex and he has "ruined" her. Where's the conflict? Why are we robbed of an opportunity to read something with actual depth, instead we are given shallow garbage.
I wouldn't even recommend this to my worst enemy.
whoever said this was fun needs to get some standards. I've never read anything as infuriating as this and I refuse to put myself through more of it.
the premise at the start was super fun, I was so excited and it seemed like an amazing fucking story.
you know what happened? I opened my eyes at 6%.
there are so many issues:
1) The characters are unbelievably annoying.
2) The characters ironically have NO character.
3) There is no conflict except "Rex doesn't believe in successful relationships because of his parents." So, what is the underlying issue with this conflict? Rex has a sister who is in a happy relationship and has made it work. Of course, childhood trauma and whatnot can leave a lasting impact, however, it's just unbelievably annoying to have this huge contradiction.
4) Something is going on with Carolina; however, even though we can read her point of view, we are given NO explanation. Why am I supposed to feel sad that she's left all her friends and dropped out of college? What made her do that? Why have I read 40% of this book and still have no insight what so ever??
5) The supporting characters are abysmal. You go to your cousin's wedding and everyone cares more about you and your fake boyfriend than the girl getting married? Why is the cousin also so focused on Carolina, when she, shockingly, has her own life? I understand wanting to make the main characters more likable by making everyone else insufferable, but maybe, JUST MAYBE, make them seem like actual human beings. Yes, there are jealous people, yes, family CAN be overwhelmingly annoying... BUT WHAT IS THIS?
6) The writing - bad
7) The smut is ew. no. :)
8) Carolina's father is a pastor and that could've been such an interesting conflict point, however, we're dropped into the main story once Carolina is already close with Rex and he has "ruined" her. Where's the conflict? Why are we robbed of an opportunity to read something with actual depth, instead we are given shallow garbage.
I wouldn't even recommend this to my worst enemy.
February 2, 2020
I love a good friends to lovers, and this one did not disappoint. Carolina and Rex have been best buddies since high-school. They did everything together and always had a mutual admiration and respect for one another.
Despite their intense connection, they always kept their relationship platonic. They were always each other's rock and were always scared to cross that line from friendship to something more.
I loved the connection they both had, and their banter was delightful. Carolina (or Lina) was always the overachiever and Rex was always the laid-back jock, so they really brought the best out of one another and I loved to read about their story.
However, before they realize that they are meant for more, Carolina is roped into an abusive age-gap relationship. So beware if that is a trigger for you.
Despite this one heavy subject, this book is very sweet and an easy true best-friends-to-lovers tale.
I'm definitely going to read more from Charity Ferrell.
Thank you Wildfire Marketing Solutions and Charity Ferrell for sending me an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Despite their intense connection, they always kept their relationship platonic. They were always each other's rock and were always scared to cross that line from friendship to something more.
I loved the connection they both had, and their banter was delightful. Carolina (or Lina) was always the overachiever and Rex was always the laid-back jock, so they really brought the best out of one another and I loved to read about their story.
However, before they realize that they are meant for more, Carolina is roped into an abusive age-gap relationship. So beware if that is a trigger for you.
Despite this one heavy subject, this book is very sweet and an easy true best-friends-to-lovers tale.
I'm definitely going to read more from Charity Ferrell.
Thank you Wildfire Marketing Solutions and Charity Ferrell for sending me an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
February 7, 2020
4/5 Stars 🌟
Since sparking an unlikely friendship in high school Rex and Carolina soon become each others everything. Over the years being best friends came naturally to these two and even though their feelings seemed to grow for each other and everyone around them could see how well they fit they still maintained that friendship as neither one wanted to risk losing the other by giving into their feelings and strong attraction. Eventually their chemistry and pull towards each other can no longer be ignored so slowly their friendship lines blur but one of them is holding on to a secret that could ruin everything
I thoroughly enjoyed this story. It was sweet, funny, intriguing, super easy to read and kept me guessing at times. The chemistry and love between Rex and Carolina felt so genuine. I loved watching Carolina grow into her own and fight for what she wants. She was kind, strong and compassionate. Rex was such an amazing character he was loyal and protective over Carolina without being over bearing and always managed to put her first. He was such a sweetheart and watching him break down some his own walls and let go of his insecurities while giving into what he wants was beautiful to watch
If you love a good friends to lovers new adult romance then this book is definitely for you
《I was provided with an arc in exchange for my honest opinion and review》
Since sparking an unlikely friendship in high school Rex and Carolina soon become each others everything. Over the years being best friends came naturally to these two and even though their feelings seemed to grow for each other and everyone around them could see how well they fit they still maintained that friendship as neither one wanted to risk losing the other by giving into their feelings and strong attraction. Eventually their chemistry and pull towards each other can no longer be ignored so slowly their friendship lines blur but one of them is holding on to a secret that could ruin everything
I thoroughly enjoyed this story. It was sweet, funny, intriguing, super easy to read and kept me guessing at times. The chemistry and love between Rex and Carolina felt so genuine. I loved watching Carolina grow into her own and fight for what she wants. She was kind, strong and compassionate. Rex was such an amazing character he was loyal and protective over Carolina without being over bearing and always managed to put her first. He was such a sweetheart and watching him break down some his own walls and let go of his insecurities while giving into what he wants was beautiful to watch
If you love a good friends to lovers new adult romance then this book is definitely for you
《I was provided with an arc in exchange for my honest opinion and review》
August 9, 2023
I didn't plan to read more books from this series, since it was just a sudden idea to read books by authors on tik-tok, so naturally, I picked the bestfriends to lovers one, which happened to be the last one.
Spoiler alert: I've read all of them backwards, except for the first one, because that is about an actress and her bodyguard, and I don't care about famous people.
Well, reading a series backwards is an experience on it's own. Even though they could be read as standalones, the prevoius couples were already together and there were things I should have known, but it didn't ruin my enjoyment at all.
What ruined my enjoyment, was the overprotectiveness of the guy at the beginning and that halfway through the girl left uni and we knew something happened there, but she didn't tell anything about it, even when we were in her pov. Keeping the reader in the dark when you know, I know, everyone knows something happened is just utterly frustrating. Also, it was something totally different and so random, like a thriller subplot was woved into this romance.
And y'all know how much I despise epilogues with kids X years later. And this time it wasn't even just them. It was all three books's couples with all of their kids. Like give me a gun.
But the romance part was actually okay, I enjoyed it most of the time. If it was so bad, I wouldn't have read the rest of series.
Spoiler alert: I've read all of them backwards, except for the first one, because that is about an actress and her bodyguard, and I don't care about famous people.
Well, reading a series backwards is an experience on it's own. Even though they could be read as standalones, the prevoius couples were already together and there were things I should have known, but it didn't ruin my enjoyment at all.
What ruined my enjoyment, was the overprotectiveness of the guy at the beginning and that halfway through the girl left uni and we knew something happened there, but she didn't tell anything about it, even when we were in her pov. Keeping the reader in the dark when you know, I know, everyone knows something happened is just utterly frustrating. Also, it was something totally different and so random, like a thriller subplot was woved into this romance.
And y'all know how much I despise epilogues with kids X years later. And this time it wasn't even just them. It was all three books's couples with all of their kids. Like give me a gun.
But the romance part was actually okay, I enjoyed it most of the time. If it was so bad, I wouldn't have read the rest of series.
February 12, 2020
‘Rex Lane will take over my life. He’ll steal my heart. I’ll steal his. Only we won’t know what to do with what we’ve taken.’
Just Friends is the sixth book in the Blue Beech Series and our first introduction to the people of Blue Beech, Iowa where we meet Carolina Adams , the preachers daughter, and Rex Lane, the mayors son, whose family is the most affluent in their small town. A slow burn friends to lovers.
Each from different backgrounds and as different as chalk and cheese – he’s the popular, cocky laid back guy, she’s the studious good girl, and despite initially loathing him, Carolina thaws and a both form a friendship in High School that would intensify as the years progressed.
‘It’s no party, being in love with your best friend, let me tell you.’
Maybe it was the fact that Carolina didn’t take his shit, but something drew Rex to approach her as when we meet them in High School with Rex approaching Carolina to do his Shakespeare homework. Annoyance soon turns into friendship and attraction, with each harbouring secret feelings and not wanting to ruin their friendship by bringing sex into the equation. Besides, Rex isn’t a relationship kind of guy, he’s too afraid of being in a relationship that morphs into the one his parents share, whilst Carolina is a true romantic believing in everlasting happy love.
‘I love Carolina Adams, and there’s nothing I can do about it because I wouldn’t survive losing her.’
We follow them from High School through to college, through hook ups and confrontations willing them to express how they feel, can a romantic girl change an anti-relationship guy into taking a chance?
'I’m not a fan of relationships. I’m not a fan of getting my heart broken. Friends it is with us.’
We really enjoyed our first read by Charity Ferrell and will be lining up to read more from this author. Just Friends was a sweet and sexy friends to lovers story with a twist we didn’t see coming! Talk about a side swipe! You got us good Charity Ferrell! We loved getting to know Rex and Carolina, and like Rex we were dying to see Carolina’s secret unfold. The epilogue was wonderful and made us want to acquaint ourselves with the other characters in Blue Beech from previous books.
Available to purchase below
Amazon US
Amazon UK
Come and say hi, at:
✲ TotallyBookedBlog
✲ TBB on Facebook
✲ TBB on Instagram
✲ TBB on Twitter
✲ TBB on Pinterest
February 8, 2020
I think it’s pretty obvious to anyone who follows me on IG that I ADORE this series. Charity was an author I accidentally discovered one day while trawling Amazon, and from that very first book I was absolutely hooked. I have been so looking forward to Rex and Carolina’s story, and was delighted (and not at all shocked) that it turned out to be everything I hoped for, and more. If you’ve not yet started the BLUE BEECH series, I can’t recommend them highly enough. If you do get round to reading them, please come and chat with me because I’m OBSESSED with these characters
March 8, 2020
I love the tropes so that was a good start. I loved how Rex protected Carolina and how she could depend on him. I liked the author's choice to move us through the years of their friendship.
All that was good but I was bored in the middle. I think the book needed to be shorter. Also I loved them as friends way better maybe except toward the ending cause Rex was the best there.
All that was good but I was bored in the middle. I think the book needed to be shorter. Also I loved them as friends way better maybe except toward the ending cause Rex was the best there.
October 28, 2021
*4 stars*
This was a great, quick. and easy read! The only thing was that I felt like the book was all about their relationship and then went into a huge plot twist that had little to no significance before that reveal moment. It deviated too sharply with no warning or build-up.
This was a great, quick. and easy read! The only thing was that I felt like the book was all about their relationship and then went into a huge plot twist that had little to no significance before that reveal moment. It deviated too sharply with no warning or build-up.
February 6, 2020
Just Friends by Charity Ferrell is book 6 in the Blue Beech Series. This is the story of Rex Lane and Carolina Adams 'Lina'. I have enjoyed the previous books, this added to my enjoyment of this one. But, I did feel you could make this a standalone book if you wish to do so.
Carolina and Rex meet in school where she was the good girl, a preachers daughter. Rex was the bad boy jock but she wasn't his attitude. They ended up become friends which has last through time. But each had a underlining attraction that they don't act on. But then something happens showing how strong Carolina is bring them closer which in turns opens their feelings.
This overall is a sweet friends to lover romance but there is one part that has some darkness. Overall enjoyed their story.
Carolina and Rex meet in school where she was the good girl, a preachers daughter. Rex was the bad boy jock but she wasn't his attitude. They ended up become friends which has last through time. But each had a underlining attraction that they don't act on. But then something happens showing how strong Carolina is bring them closer which in turns opens their feelings.
This overall is a sweet friends to lover romance but there is one part that has some darkness. Overall enjoyed their story.
February 11, 2020
‘Rex Lane will take over my life. He’ll steal my heart. I’ll steal his. Only we won’t know what to do with what we’ve taken.’
Just Friends is the sixth book in the Blue Beech Series and our first introduction to the people of Blue Beech, Iowa where we meet Carolina Adams , the preachers daughter, and Rex Lane, the mayors son, whose family is the most affluent in their small town. A slow burn friends to lovers.
Each from different backgrounds and as different as chalk and cheese – he’s the popular, cocky laid back guy, she’s the studious good girl, and despite initially loathing him, Carolina thaws and a both form a friendship in High School that would intensify as the years progressed.
‘It’s no party, being in love with your best friend, let me tell you.’
Maybe it was the fact that Carolina didn’t take his shit, but something drew Rex to approach her as when we meet them in High School with Rex approaching Carolina to do his Shakespeare homework. Annoyance soon turns into friendship and attraction, with each harbouring secret feelings and not wanting to ruin their friendship by bringing sex into the equation. Besides, Rex isn’t a relationship kind of guy, he’s too afraid of being in a relationship that morphs into the one his parents share, whilst Carolina is a true romantic believing in everlasting happy love.
‘I love Carolina Adams, and there’s nothing I can do about it because I wouldn’t survive losing her.’
We follow them from High School through to college, through hook ups and confrontations willing them to express how they feel, can a romantic girl change an anti-relationship guy into taking a chance?
'I’m not a fan of relationships. I’m not a fan of getting my heart broken. Friends it is with us.’
We really enjoyed our first read by Charity Ferrell and will be lining up to read more from this author. Just Friends was a sweet and sexy friends to lovers story with a twist we didn’t see coming! Talk about a side swipe! You got us good Charity Ferrell! We loved getting to know Rex and Carolina, and like Rex we were dying to see Carolina’s secret unfold. The epilogue was wonderful and made us want to acquaint ourselves with the other characters in Blue Beech from previous books.
Available to purchase below
Amazon US
Amazon UK
Come and say hi, at:
✲ TotallyBookedBlog
✲ TBB on Facebook
✲ TBB on Instagram
✲ TBB on Twitter
✲ TBB on Pinterest
February 6, 2020
When it comes to friends to lovers romances, I can’t get enough! I’m drawn to the heartfelt connection that builds through the years and ultimately makes for an entertaining ride. Rex and Carolina are a delightful pair with interactions that made me smile while shedding a tear or two when a secret she’s been keeping can no longer be ignored. From the first page to the last Ms. Ferrell has crafted a charming and heartwarming tale with a romance that kept me glued to the pages while cheering these two opposites on to realize where their HEA lies...and be willing to go after it.
Rex Lane is the perfect book boyfriend...heck, he’s just perfect period! He comes from a family of wealth, the son of the mayor, and is known for being outgoing, sexy, and popular. Behind that likable facade is also a young man with a heart of gold, someone who’s caring and supportive of those he loves. He’s always just a phone call away and always puts Carolina first. When the story started during their teen years it was clear that he was drawn to Carolina, and her “librarian” looks, and he quickly charmed his way into her heart...and ours. With each turn of the page readers frequently got a glimpse into his heart, and his feelings for her, and I agree that she’s his person. I just wish he could’ve seen his loving qualities sooner so I could’ve enjoyed their togetherness longer. With a father who’s a serial cheater Rex worries he would be the same and it’s that fear, and his protectiveness, that keeps him in the friend-zone for so long despite his clear love for her. Even as just her friend Rex was still one of the most romantic heroes I’ve read in a long time and I could read book after book with him as the lead.
Carolina Adams is the proverbial ”preacher’s daughter” with her glasses, sweaters, and plain way of dressing to keep from garnering attention. She’s a stressed-out young woman too because of her parent’s expectations. She spends all her time studying...at least until she starts an unexpected friendship with the personable and fun-loving Rex. It’s a friendship that utterly sparkled, taking a surprising turn of trust for one night, before becoming more intense. Her time with Rex had her coming out of her shell, trying to experience more out of life, and while some of the results were good there was a relationship with a manipulative man whose threats hung over her through most of the story. Rex also empowered her on many levels and when it came to that villain I cheered her on as she finally held him accountable for what he did. On a whole I found Carolina an immensely appealing heroine who grows as the story progresses. She takes a lot of emotional hits along the way though, from her parents to the villainous mystery man, which made me especially grateful for Rex’s unwavering love and support.
With witty banter and a sizzling connection Rex and Carolina made themselves an unforgettable couple. Their interactions were both fun and flirty, as well as heartwarming, and I couldn’t get enough of them as friends. I especially enjoyed Carolina giving as good as she got from Rex, never letting him become too arrogant. As lovers they further scorched up the pages and I found their interactions in the bedroom well worth the wait. Though this is the sixth book in the Blue Beech series it stands strongly on its own, but with such a wonderful couple found here I’ll definitely be getting the other books in this series!
Rex Lane is the perfect book boyfriend...heck, he’s just perfect period! He comes from a family of wealth, the son of the mayor, and is known for being outgoing, sexy, and popular. Behind that likable facade is also a young man with a heart of gold, someone who’s caring and supportive of those he loves. He’s always just a phone call away and always puts Carolina first. When the story started during their teen years it was clear that he was drawn to Carolina, and her “librarian” looks, and he quickly charmed his way into her heart...and ours. With each turn of the page readers frequently got a glimpse into his heart, and his feelings for her, and I agree that she’s his person. I just wish he could’ve seen his loving qualities sooner so I could’ve enjoyed their togetherness longer. With a father who’s a serial cheater Rex worries he would be the same and it’s that fear, and his protectiveness, that keeps him in the friend-zone for so long despite his clear love for her. Even as just her friend Rex was still one of the most romantic heroes I’ve read in a long time and I could read book after book with him as the lead.
Carolina Adams is the proverbial ”preacher’s daughter” with her glasses, sweaters, and plain way of dressing to keep from garnering attention. She’s a stressed-out young woman too because of her parent’s expectations. She spends all her time studying...at least until she starts an unexpected friendship with the personable and fun-loving Rex. It’s a friendship that utterly sparkled, taking a surprising turn of trust for one night, before becoming more intense. Her time with Rex had her coming out of her shell, trying to experience more out of life, and while some of the results were good there was a relationship with a manipulative man whose threats hung over her through most of the story. Rex also empowered her on many levels and when it came to that villain I cheered her on as she finally held him accountable for what he did. On a whole I found Carolina an immensely appealing heroine who grows as the story progresses. She takes a lot of emotional hits along the way though, from her parents to the villainous mystery man, which made me especially grateful for Rex’s unwavering love and support.
With witty banter and a sizzling connection Rex and Carolina made themselves an unforgettable couple. Their interactions were both fun and flirty, as well as heartwarming, and I couldn’t get enough of them as friends. I especially enjoyed Carolina giving as good as she got from Rex, never letting him become too arrogant. As lovers they further scorched up the pages and I found their interactions in the bedroom well worth the wait. Though this is the sixth book in the Blue Beech series it stands strongly on its own, but with such a wonderful couple found here I’ll definitely be getting the other books in this series!
February 13, 2020
I am so happy, you can not understand how happy I am that this is the last book I have to read of this series of this author, Thank you!!!! So again I do not find books to be romantic if the main characters are having sex with other people, that is not my cup of tea. So Rex and Carolina who are so different from each other end up having a good friendship from the very beginning, but they both have feelings towards each other but dont want to rock the boat. Carolina begs Rex to take her virginity away since she doesn't want to go to college a virgin-yup that is the storyline we have going for us, so he does this hardship, he as her good friend does this deed so she can have that pesky virgin thing gone since he has ooooohhh so much experience. They do the deed continue to be besties, he continues to bang anything he wants, spends time with Carolina all the time until he needs bootang, then comes back. On one night he has other plans so she gets upset decides to go out with a friend and he shows up pissed that she looks sexy even though he has some chick hanging off of him..Carolina leaves all upset, meets some dirt bag, because she is pissed and starts a relationship with this dirtbag because she is tired of Rex having his cake and eating it too..they finally finally admit there feelings (at this point who the hell really cares) everything blows up and then fix everything and live Happily Ever after..
rcvd an ARC at no cost to author (at this point I would have paid not to have to read it)..voluntarily (totally regret) reviewed with my own thoughts and opinions.
rcvd an ARC at no cost to author (at this point I would have paid not to have to read it)..voluntarily (totally regret) reviewed with my own thoughts and opinions.
November 3, 2021
⭐️
4 "Gamer" Stars
⭐️
Caroline and Rex’s book was another good one and concluded the Blue Beech Series in a strong way. Their friends to lovers romance was truly beautiful. I enjoyed how their friendship was always so important to them, making the idea of turning it into a romance difficult. It was apparent they had strong and real feelings for each other, but their special bond couldn't be lost.
Rex was a very interesting hero with a carefree and funny attitude. He's a cocky guy, but always there to help Carolina in her times of need. He was truly her savior in every way. As much as I enjoyed this story, I’ll admit that I felt Carolina was a little too naive in a few situations and it kind of bothered me at times.
Overall Just Friends was interesting with appearences of all the Blue Beech gang. This was such a fantastic series to read and I'm all ready for the next generation come next year!!
Caroline and Rex’s book was another good one and concluded the Blue Beech Series in a strong way. Their friends to lovers romance was truly beautiful. I enjoyed how their friendship was always so important to them, making the idea of turning it into a romance difficult. It was apparent they had strong and real feelings for each other, but their special bond couldn't be lost.
Rex was a very interesting hero with a carefree and funny attitude. He's a cocky guy, but always there to help Carolina in her times of need. He was truly her savior in every way. As much as I enjoyed this story, I’ll admit that I felt Carolina was a little too naive in a few situations and it kind of bothered me at times.
Overall Just Friends was interesting with appearences of all the Blue Beech gang. This was such a fantastic series to read and I'm all ready for the next generation come next year!!
November 30, 2022
3.5 stars !
cute, light-hearted romance :)
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months later: bad book one star
cute, light-hearted romance :)
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months later: bad book one star
September 6, 2021
This was honestly a very good book. I didn't think I would enjoy it so much, nor was I ever interested in friends to lovers trope, but God how sweet this was.
This whole relationship between Caroline and Rex was kind of perfect. Nothing was too much for me, I even think it was a little too little, I think I wanted more.
I liked that relaxed atmosphere, and especially the sex scenes. I don’t think my imagination has ever worked more than with this book.
I mean it was wow, the chemistry between the two of them, their "I don't think he / she feels the same, I don't want to ruin our friendship because of sex" and so, as they were always next to each other, in every possible situation, even when the unexpected happened, at least to me, for Carolina. How he stood beside her and did not condemn her, omg.
I also really like the way the author writes, so I will definitely read the whole Blue Beech series.
This is the 6th book, but I read that it can be read separately, although I realized that the previous books are about their group of friends.
I recommend.
This whole relationship between Caroline and Rex was kind of perfect. Nothing was too much for me, I even think it was a little too little, I think I wanted more.
I liked that relaxed atmosphere, and especially the sex scenes. I don’t think my imagination has ever worked more than with this book.
I mean it was wow, the chemistry between the two of them, their "I don't think he / she feels the same, I don't want to ruin our friendship because of sex" and so, as they were always next to each other, in every possible situation, even when the unexpected happened, at least to me, for Carolina. How he stood beside her and did not condemn her, omg.
I also really like the way the author writes, so I will definitely read the whole Blue Beech series.
This is the 6th book, but I read that it can be read separately, although I realized that the previous books are about their group of friends.
I recommend.
February 12, 2020
Rex and Carolina have been best friends ever since he charmed her, (very reluctantly on her part) into it. Now years later, they're still friends and they're both nursing what they think are unrequited feelings for each other. Alas, they're not meant to be at the time. Life and others happen. But when Carolina needs him most, Rex is always there for her. Will their feelings flare this time?
I love me a good friends to lovers romance, and this one isn't just good, it's great. They're such a great couple, with that chemistry that only long-time friends have, then seamlessly morph into more. Though this one is fun, there is a trigger here so beware if you have triggers. But if you don't have triggers, I highly recommend you give this excellent friends to more love story a read.
ARC via Wildfire Marketing Solutions for an honest review.
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November 30, 2020
4.5 out of 5
OK, did a reread of this one and it all came back to me and even though I didn't remember why exactly I gave it 5.5 stars, it was the right choice. Again, I really enjoyed this book. Rex and Carolina are truly each others 'person', They meet in high school and become almost inseparable, except it's a friends only relationship. Rex is very much a player and has a line up of girls. Of course Lina as he calls her always comes first and he will drop whatever he's doing if she needs him for anything. He is charming, fun, a leader with a great sense of humor and an unquestionable loyalty. He's popular in school and he's also pretty smart.
Lina is very different from Rex. She is quiet and shy. Rex is the only one she can truly be herself with. She is good people, always helping and caring about others. Her father is a pastor so she lived the life of a good preachers daughter, not a rebellious one.
The story is about their friendship through the years and how everyone and their brother and certainly the reader know they belong together but their friendship is so special to each other, they don't want to risk ruining it.
This is a wonderful book and I'm ever so glad I forgot the storyline so I could read it all over again.
~*~*~*~*~*~*
I have read so many books this year, I don’t always remember the storyline if it was a while ago. I read this one back in September and don’t remember much about it except I do know I really enjoyed it and it really touched me. I just started it again to refresh my memory but since I’m already late doing this I’m still going to post this and then when I finish I’ll add more to the review. It’s a friend to lovers romance, that I remember and I adored both the hero and heroine. I had also never read this author before and after I finished this book I picked up more books in this series so even if my memory is sketchy that’s another sign this was a good. So stay tuned. I will be back with more. I have 3 main reading devices, an Amazon Fire, a Samsung Tablet and a third IPad. I have a different book going on each one. This is a crazy reading year, that’s for sure.
OK, did a reread of this one and it all came back to me and even though I didn't remember why exactly I gave it 5.5 stars, it was the right choice. Again, I really enjoyed this book. Rex and Carolina are truly each others 'person', They meet in high school and become almost inseparable, except it's a friends only relationship. Rex is very much a player and has a line up of girls. Of course Lina as he calls her always comes first and he will drop whatever he's doing if she needs him for anything. He is charming, fun, a leader with a great sense of humor and an unquestionable loyalty. He's popular in school and he's also pretty smart.
Lina is very different from Rex. She is quiet and shy. Rex is the only one she can truly be herself with. She is good people, always helping and caring about others. Her father is a pastor so she lived the life of a good preachers daughter, not a rebellious one.
The story is about their friendship through the years and how everyone and their brother and certainly the reader know they belong together but their friendship is so special to each other, they don't want to risk ruining it.
This is a wonderful book and I'm ever so glad I forgot the storyline so I could read it all over again.
~*~*~*~*~*~*
I have read so many books this year, I don’t always remember the storyline if it was a while ago. I read this one back in September and don’t remember much about it except I do know I really enjoyed it and it really touched me. I just started it again to refresh my memory but since I’m already late doing this I’m still going to post this and then when I finish I’ll add more to the review. It’s a friend to lovers romance, that I remember and I adored both the hero and heroine. I had also never read this author before and after I finished this book I picked up more books in this series so even if my memory is sketchy that’s another sign this was a good. So stay tuned. I will be back with more. I have 3 main reading devices, an Amazon Fire, a Samsung Tablet and a third IPad. I have a different book going on each one. This is a crazy reading year, that’s for sure.
November 10, 2022
this one star is for me, for completing the book.
starting was pretty decent, the hero was manwhore, the heroine was virgin, that typical cliche romance good girl X bad boy, as it progressed the book became worse and then worst.
starting was pretty decent, the hero was manwhore, the heroine was virgin, that typical cliche romance good girl X bad boy, as it progressed the book became worse and then worst.
August 18, 2021
It wasn’t the worse, but it was pretty bad. Honestly felt that the female character, Caroline was stupid in pretty much all the choices she made in life. Not to mention, Rex had some dumb moments as well.
March 9, 2020
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5 “Little do I know, walking into Rex’s bedroom will change everything. Rex Lane will take over my life. He’ll steal my heart. I’ll steal his. Only we won’t know what to do with what we’ve taken.”
.
It all started with a bribe to write a paper in high school. They become bestfriends. Stole each other’s hearts. Their friendship always came first. She believed in him. They crossed the line once, swearing to never let it happen again. As time passes, it’s harder to hold back. But she’s keeping a secret that could shatter everything.✨
.
If you love:
•Friends to lovers
•New Adult
•Fake relationship
•Secret twists
•Dual POV
Then this is the book for you!✨
.
This book was so cute. I had a smile on my face for most of the book. I loved the relationship Rex and Lina had. The banter was absolutely adorable. And so funny. But Rex, swoon, I need a Rex in my life. A sweet, caring, gentleman. A charmer. And sexy too! Maybe a litttle overprotective but it only come across as sweet to me.✨
.
This book has just enough drama and angst to keep you engaged and let’s not forget the hot and steamy sexiness! Wowzers. The story flow is great and the characters are so likeable! The book ties up so sweetly, but that last line before the epilogue, perfection! I really enjoyed this read!✨
.
This is my first book of this author and I will happily read more. I definitely want to check out some of the other couples I missed already in this series. This is book 6 in the Blue Bleech Series, but it’s easily read as a standalone. There is crossover but I had no problems. Just added curiosities!!✨
.
It all started with a bribe to write a paper in high school. They become bestfriends. Stole each other’s hearts. Their friendship always came first. She believed in him. They crossed the line once, swearing to never let it happen again. As time passes, it’s harder to hold back. But she’s keeping a secret that could shatter everything.✨
.
If you love:
•Friends to lovers
•New Adult
•Fake relationship
•Secret twists
•Dual POV
Then this is the book for you!✨
.
This book was so cute. I had a smile on my face for most of the book. I loved the relationship Rex and Lina had. The banter was absolutely adorable. And so funny. But Rex, swoon, I need a Rex in my life. A sweet, caring, gentleman. A charmer. And sexy too! Maybe a litttle overprotective but it only come across as sweet to me.✨
.
This book has just enough drama and angst to keep you engaged and let’s not forget the hot and steamy sexiness! Wowzers. The story flow is great and the characters are so likeable! The book ties up so sweetly, but that last line before the epilogue, perfection! I really enjoyed this read!✨
.
This is my first book of this author and I will happily read more. I definitely want to check out some of the other couples I missed already in this series. This is book 6 in the Blue Bleech Series, but it’s easily read as a standalone. There is crossover but I had no problems. Just added curiosities!!✨
February 6, 2020
Although Carolina and Rex couldn’t be more different the forged an enduring friendship that is the most important thing in both of their lives. She is the who always does what is expected of her while he is the son who does everything to live up to his reputation and more.
They have been each other’s confidant and cheerleader through all the ups and downs that life can bring even if they denied that their feelings were much deeper. One night changes everything and they must decide if the risk of changing their relationship is worth the reward of what they could have together?
Filled with heat, humor and all the feels I really enjoyed these characters as Rex is determined to be Carolina’s protector and she is so much stronger than even she realizes.
They have been each other’s confidant and cheerleader through all the ups and downs that life can bring even if they denied that their feelings were much deeper. One night changes everything and they must decide if the risk of changing their relationship is worth the reward of what they could have together?
Filled with heat, humor and all the feels I really enjoyed these characters as Rex is determined to be Carolina’s protector and she is so much stronger than even she realizes.
February 5, 2020
OMG, I loved Rex and Carolina so much. I read this book in one sitting. I couldn’t put it down. Friends to lovers is one of my favorite type of stories. Loved this whole story. Loved watching them fall in love and always be there for each other even when there was that bit of a wrench thrown in to their relationship. Rex was always there for Carolina. They were the perfect couple. This is the second book that I have read from her and this series but I will be going back and reading more of the Blue Beach crew. Highly recommend this story. Gave me all the feels.
I received an ARC of this book and I am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received an ARC of this book and I am voluntarily leaving a review.
February 20, 2020
This is the first book that I've read by this author and I absolutely loved it. This is a friends to lovers romance and a real slow burn kind of love.
Coraline is a very determined, strong minded young woman and once she's set her mind to something there is no going back.
Her parents have always put a hell of alot of pressure on her even when she was very young.
Rex is an amazing guy a real genuine, loyal protective man who is completely head over heels in love with ' Lina.' Rex can't imagine his life without her in it but they seem to fight it.
It is always tradition of the Lane men to go into law only Rex doesn't want that either he wants to go down a different path.
There bond is so strong and they share this powerful connection.
Will they ever realise there feelings?
Is it ever worth risking everything ?
( NO SPOILERS ).
This book moves up through the high school years of Carolina and Rex. He took her virginity and now he had to pretend like it never happened. Only he doesn't want to. He has real feelings for her and I think she does too. Rex is her security blanket and he is very protective of her.
This book really holds your attention and there was a twist I didn't see coming. There is no communication between them both and I just wish they'd talk about how they feel it's obvious there in love with each other. I absolutley love books with epilogue and I love seeing where the characters are now and where they end up. This book is told from different points of view which I always like to.
Thank You to the author and publishers for allowing me to read a copy of this book.
This book is out now.
Coraline is a very determined, strong minded young woman and once she's set her mind to something there is no going back.
Her parents have always put a hell of alot of pressure on her even when she was very young.
Rex is an amazing guy a real genuine, loyal protective man who is completely head over heels in love with ' Lina.' Rex can't imagine his life without her in it but they seem to fight it.
It is always tradition of the Lane men to go into law only Rex doesn't want that either he wants to go down a different path.
There bond is so strong and they share this powerful connection.
Will they ever realise there feelings?
Is it ever worth risking everything ?
( NO SPOILERS ).
This book moves up through the high school years of Carolina and Rex. He took her virginity and now he had to pretend like it never happened. Only he doesn't want to. He has real feelings for her and I think she does too. Rex is her security blanket and he is very protective of her.
This book really holds your attention and there was a twist I didn't see coming. There is no communication between them both and I just wish they'd talk about how they feel it's obvious there in love with each other. I absolutley love books with epilogue and I love seeing where the characters are now and where they end up. This book is told from different points of view which I always like to.
Thank You to the author and publishers for allowing me to read a copy of this book.
This book is out now.
February 11, 2020
Just Friends is a stand-alone novel in the Blue Beech series by Charity Ferrell. This is the first book I read from the author and honestly, I am not sure if I want to read another book from her.
The story is more focused on the main characters dating other people than Carolina and Rex's feelings for each other. There is too much drama that has to do with mainly the people Carolina was seeing and it was a huge turn-off. The mystery behind her big break up with the man she was dating before she got with Rex was annoying and I didn't like the way it was used in the end.
The most frustrating thing was that we kept seeing them with other people while it was so obvious that they had feelings for each other and both of them were holding back even though they practically knew how the other was feeling. I had a really hard time reading the book and what made it worse is that with adding so many useless things, like Carolina's secret the character and story development were zero. I wouldn't recommend the book to anyone.
The story is more focused on the main characters dating other people than Carolina and Rex's feelings for each other. There is too much drama that has to do with mainly the people Carolina was seeing and it was a huge turn-off. The mystery behind her big break up with the man she was dating before she got with Rex was annoying and I didn't like the way it was used in the end.
The most frustrating thing was that we kept seeing them with other people while it was so obvious that they had feelings for each other and both of them were holding back even though they practically knew how the other was feeling. I had a really hard time reading the book and what made it worse is that with adding so many useless things, like Carolina's secret the character and story development were zero. I wouldn't recommend the book to anyone.
December 30, 2021
Just Friends follows two characters who claim they are just friends. They are anything but. It’s both funny and utterly ridiculous. Honestly, while I enjoyed this novel, I can see its flaws ten miles away.
Rex’s scared to ruin his friendship with Carolina and won’t make things official, lying and saying they are just friends, but he treats her just like a girlfriend. They even have to pretend to be a date for her family.
Then there’s the twist ending… which is just plain dumb. Not to mention how Rex handles it all without getting into any trouble. Which would not happen in real life.
This book is just too far-fetched to be taken seriously. Sure, it’s fun while reading, it’s quick and you never want to put it down because you just need to see when they will finally get together. But once you’re done with it… it’s pretty forgettable.
Rex’s scared to ruin his friendship with Carolina and won’t make things official, lying and saying they are just friends, but he treats her just like a girlfriend. They even have to pretend to be a date for her family.
Then there’s the twist ending… which is just plain dumb. Not to mention how Rex handles it all without getting into any trouble. Which would not happen in real life.
This book is just too far-fetched to be taken seriously. Sure, it’s fun while reading, it’s quick and you never want to put it down because you just need to see when they will finally get together. But once you’re done with it… it’s pretty forgettable.
Read
January 28, 2022DNFed this so quick. Tell me why, chapter 3, theyre having sex, and may I say the most awkward (but very funny) sex of all time. You can’t just strip in front of your best friend and tell him to take your virginity right now . Also the writing is too childish/ quirky and gives me high school wattpad vibes
she literally says this when he’s trying to make her comfortable I CANT😂 😂 😂 😂
she literally says this when he’s trying to make her comfortable I CANT😂 😂 😂 😂
“Oh … then I guess we can do a quick foreplay.”
August 23, 2021
Dumpster fire.Haven’t read something this bad since I was fourteen and bingeing wattpad .Just ugh.I finished it for the goodreads count though, but at what cost?
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