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The Tenth Girl #1
Kissed by Reality
Falling in love is hard. Falling in love on national television is impossible. Right?
Leighton Aldridge did not sign up to meet her soulmate; she signed up for the lights, camera and action. So when the Hollywood-native ends up with the wounded war veteran and a ring on her finger, it's a surprise to everyone.
What isn't a surprise is the way she breaks Finn Wyatt's heart, or the massively public breakup that follows.
But a year later she's back, ready for another round on the reality TV show that brought them together. Her ex-fiance has no idea why she left, and the dark secrets she’s bringing as baggage might make him change his mind about her.
She knows what they had was the real thing, and she's ready to fight for him, even if it means ultimate embarrassment and heartbreak.
Finn is the new Mr. Right, the country's favorite single guy, and the object of 25 women's affections. But when his ex-fiance steps onto set and back into the limelight, he wishes he never agreed to another season.
Leighton shattered his heart for the world to see, and he's not ready to face that reality. Or the fact that he can’t focus on anyone else when she’s in the room.
Can Leighton convince him, and America, that she's the one? Or will her future with Finn only consist of fifteen more minutes of fame?
Leighton Aldridge did not sign up to meet her soulmate; she signed up for the lights, camera and action. So when the Hollywood-native ends up with the wounded war veteran and a ring on her finger, it's a surprise to everyone.
What isn't a surprise is the way she breaks Finn Wyatt's heart, or the massively public breakup that follows.
But a year later she's back, ready for another round on the reality TV show that brought them together. Her ex-fiance has no idea why she left, and the dark secrets she’s bringing as baggage might make him change his mind about her.
She knows what they had was the real thing, and she's ready to fight for him, even if it means ultimate embarrassment and heartbreak.
Finn is the new Mr. Right, the country's favorite single guy, and the object of 25 women's affections. But when his ex-fiance steps onto set and back into the limelight, he wishes he never agreed to another season.
Leighton shattered his heart for the world to see, and he's not ready to face that reality. Or the fact that he can’t focus on anyone else when she’s in the room.
Can Leighton convince him, and America, that she's the one? Or will her future with Finn only consist of fifteen more minutes of fame?
264 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 10, 2016
34 people are currently reading
1037 people want to read
About the author
Carrie Aarons
63 books2,990 followersAuthor of romance novels such as Fleeting and Love at First Fight, Carrie Aarons writes books that are just as swoon-worthy as they are sarcastic. Her stories are fueled by vanilla lattes, meloncholy music, and copious amounts of candles.
When she isn't writing, Carrie is busy binging reality TV, having a love/hate relationship with cardio, and trying not to burn dinner. She lives in farm country with her husband, two children and ninety-pound rescue pup.
When she isn't writing, Carrie is busy binging reality TV, having a love/hate relationship with cardio, and trying not to burn dinner. She lives in farm country with her husband, two children and ninety-pound rescue pup.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 100 reviews
November 16, 2017
Second chance with a bit of a spin!
I liked the whole reality show plot point of the story. It was intriguing to me, because even if it’s not a “new” trope per say, it can be approached so many different ways and I think it was done well as a second chance romance in Kissed by Reality!
I took stars away only because some of the angst in this story didn’t really work for me. Plus even though it was real for the hero to have feelings for other women in the scenario they were in... it still felt icky. I guess it did help me sympathize with the heroine since she does some meh stuff as well in the past.
All in all a good read. If you like shows like the Bachelor/Bachelorette you would probably really enjoy this book!
I liked the whole reality show plot point of the story. It was intriguing to me, because even if it’s not a “new” trope per say, it can be approached so many different ways and I think it was done well as a second chance romance in Kissed by Reality!
I took stars away only because some of the angst in this story didn’t really work for me. Plus even though it was real for the hero to have feelings for other women in the scenario they were in... it still felt icky. I guess it did help me sympathize with the heroine since she does some meh stuff as well in the past.
All in all a good read. If you like shows like the Bachelor/Bachelorette you would probably really enjoy this book!
May 9, 2016
‘Four months ago I dreamed about coming here with Finn. Two weeks ago I’d never imagined I’d be here in this lifetime with him.
But here I was, three Irish car bombs in, surrounded by 10 other Mr. Right contestants and the man I loved, but who I wasn’t certain even liked me.’
Carrie Aarons is a new to me author and if all her books are as good as this one than I am sure I will be reading through them all very soon. Typically books about “famous” people are not for me especially books about reality shows but when I was approached to read this one I was intrigued by the blurb and went into it with an open mind and I am so glad I did. Kissed by Reality was an emotion filled journey that had me staying up way too late just to find out what would happen next.
“Don’t equate me ability to get it up for a hot woman to emotions. I’m a guy, Leighton, and you were always the best piece of ass I’s ever stuck it in.”
We all know that the love found on reality dating shows is mostly always skin deep and Kissed By Reality dives into the possibility that two people who were actually brought together in that environment only to have it tear their love apart can possibly have a second chance at rekindling their feelings on the small screen and with tons of other women also vying for the attention of the heart broken man. When Leighton broke Finns heart he wasn’t sure he would ever move on but going back onto the show that brought them together in order to show her he moved on seemed like a good idea at the time. Until she steps out of the limo as one of the contestants trying to win his heart.
I loved Finn and Leighton, their problems and feelings while set in a place that was so unreal had a very organic and real feel to them. Finn is hurt so deep from Leighton’s betrayal that he is downright mean to her and yet the pull she has over him cannot be denied. And for Leighton’s part she knows she did wrong and is there to win back the man she loves and has to deal with a lot in the process. But she is strong and vigilant. Both make a ton of mistakes in their journey for a happy ending but between their chemistry and knowing that deep down no one could make them feel like they feel about each it is obvious from the start that these two need to end up together.
“You are perfect. For me.”
I use the word journey for this story because that was it was. Full of highs and lows with both making mistakes and attempting to learn from them. It was not always easy but it was definitely satisfying. This is the kind of book that will have you yelling out loud at both the good and the bad. I loved it and I really hope you do too!
~miranda
But here I was, three Irish car bombs in, surrounded by 10 other Mr. Right contestants and the man I loved, but who I wasn’t certain even liked me.’
Carrie Aarons is a new to me author and if all her books are as good as this one than I am sure I will be reading through them all very soon. Typically books about “famous” people are not for me especially books about reality shows but when I was approached to read this one I was intrigued by the blurb and went into it with an open mind and I am so glad I did. Kissed by Reality was an emotion filled journey that had me staying up way too late just to find out what would happen next.
“Don’t equate me ability to get it up for a hot woman to emotions. I’m a guy, Leighton, and you were always the best piece of ass I’s ever stuck it in.”
We all know that the love found on reality dating shows is mostly always skin deep and Kissed By Reality dives into the possibility that two people who were actually brought together in that environment only to have it tear their love apart can possibly have a second chance at rekindling their feelings on the small screen and with tons of other women also vying for the attention of the heart broken man. When Leighton broke Finns heart he wasn’t sure he would ever move on but going back onto the show that brought them together in order to show her he moved on seemed like a good idea at the time. Until she steps out of the limo as one of the contestants trying to win his heart.
I loved Finn and Leighton, their problems and feelings while set in a place that was so unreal had a very organic and real feel to them. Finn is hurt so deep from Leighton’s betrayal that he is downright mean to her and yet the pull she has over him cannot be denied. And for Leighton’s part she knows she did wrong and is there to win back the man she loves and has to deal with a lot in the process. But she is strong and vigilant. Both make a ton of mistakes in their journey for a happy ending but between their chemistry and knowing that deep down no one could make them feel like they feel about each it is obvious from the start that these two need to end up together.
“You are perfect. For me.”
I use the word journey for this story because that was it was. Full of highs and lows with both making mistakes and attempting to learn from them. It was not always easy but it was definitely satisfying. This is the kind of book that will have you yelling out loud at both the good and the bad. I loved it and I really hope you do too!
~miranda
June 4, 2016
I didn't know what to expect but this book was really good and it even pulled at the heart strings.
June 4, 2018
Leighton never thought that she would really find true love starring on a reality TV show and when she did, she cherished it right until the moment he broke her heart and she his. The pair went their separate ways but each moped about. That is until this coming season where Finn is starring on a Bachelor-type show called Finding Mrs. Right. Leighton has been signed up as one of the contestants, mainly to cause drama as there are unresolved issues between her and Finn. For Leighton though, this is her chance to win back the man she loves and not break her promise that she made to her mother who is currently lying in a hospital bed. When Finn sees Leighton, he can't believe his eyes and wants her voted off immediately - WTF makes her think she can waltz back into his life after she ripped out his heart and on national TV nonetheless. With some competition as there is another girl who could be right for Finn aka Erin, Leighton must up her game and prove to Finn that she made an awful mistake and that if he will forgive her , she can prove to him that she never stopped loving him. I loved this book as it had a mixture of favourite things from Reality TV Shows to Second Chance romances which Carrie Aarons is known for writing. I also loved the ending which showed the next season of the show and the starring contestant as it made me feel that everyone got at least some kind of happy ending. Fans of the TV show "The Bachelor and Bachelorette" will love Carrie Aarons Kissed by Reality.
April 26, 2016
99 pennies
Amazon US→ amzn.to/21RpMU7
UK→ amzn.to/21RpSva
CA→ amzn.to/1V18OSV
AU→ bit.ly/1SjRxj8
“…there is nothing in life that is worth having if we don’t pursue it with a ferocious need.”
I’ve only read Red Card by this author, and so when I saw this book, well of course, I jumped right in because I wanted to read more of her.
Kissed by Reality is a refreshing read for me. I’ve read a lot of reality TV shows book, in fact, and it’s hard to not actually compare. This book, however, had just come out above everything I have read.
To say I was hooked from the start I’ve started reading this book, is not a bit much. It was really like watching a reality TV show that have captured you’re attention. You just wanted to devour every detail, every gossip, every little detail about the players, focusing on who you feel like having a shot, rooting for a person because of a personality you like, or just not even bothering to remember the names of the other player because you know they will just be forgotten after they were sent off.
“Thank you for choosing me last. Because that’s what I am, your last. That’s what I was meant to be, your last. The last woman to ever have you. And you’re my last man.”
“Leighton is my favorite drug, one whiff, one taste and I’ll be sucked right back in, not caring one bit that she is the worst thing for my health, my system, my livelihood.”
To say that first is always important for me is a fact. And from the moment Leighton have set his eyes on Finn, and Finn on her, it was just something in the air. The connection was something I’ve actually felt through.
Finn is just Finn.
*sigh*
*staring at him with beautiful eyes*
*sigh*
That’s just how I feel when I think of him. I think it was love at first sight. Ops, sorry, it’s love at first read because the man just captured my heart. He was so imperfectly perfect.
Leighton is this person who have this cool façade and untouchable personality on the outside. But on the outside, she’s just so human, scared and vulnerable.
“I don’t need the romance. I don’t need the speeches. None of that fake crap means anything.”
I love how this book was written. I’ve already said that this has been the best book yet that I’ve read with regards to reality TV show, and that isn’t said lightly. Carrie Aarons keeps me on my seat, like I was really watching, knowing there has been some producers manipulation with casting and the results, but still I am glued and rooting for just things to happen. The twist, how everything was played through was brilliant! *slow clap*
This book has been all about second chances. Second chances that aren’t given but are chased no matter what the cost is just so to achieve the end goal. This book is also about working hard for something, and that something happiness. And when it’s finally of reach, all there is is bliss. This book is a definite must read.
“To live each day to the fullest. To love and fight and makeup and want to kill each other. But just to live with so much emotion that when we were old and gray, we didn’t have to look back and regret a single thing.”
(F) BR with my shhlut, Sophie! Thanks babe!
April 8, 2016
I love it when a book starts off with some drama! From the beginning you could feel the tension between Leighton and Finn. You just know this is gonna be goooood!!!
So here's a quick summary of the story.
Leighton Aldridge wasn't looking for love or a soulmate when she signed up to be on the reality tv show Mr. Right. But, eventually she crossed paths with Finn Wyatt and that's exactly what happened. The very show that brought them together, would also be their undoing. She broke his heart months ago and has been contacted by the Mr./ Mrs. Right franchise to be one of the 25 women for the current Mr. Right ( Finn Wyatt) to choose from. The producers believing it would increase their ratings because of their very public break up, just a few short months ago. She has been living with the regret of hurting him in such away that she is willing to do whatever it takes to get back into his good graces, including subjecting herself to the humiliation of him possibly falling in love with someone else right in front of her, on national television!
Finn Wyatt is now the current Mr. Right bachelor, he can't believe he's back in this position and willing to put himself out there again after what he'd already been through with Leighton. But, now here he is and standing there face to face with the woman that broke his heart.
I don't watch a lot of reality tv, used to but then I decided it wasn't really for me! Especially the Bachelor franchise! I couldn't believe that women ( or men, for that matter) would willingly put themselves out there like that?! Whether it was for truly finding their "one true love" or for their 15 minutes of fame?! That being said... I enjoyed this book immensely! It was a cute and sweet love story about a second chance at love! Not everyone gets a second chance and Leighton was NOT about to let this opportunity slip through her fingers. She took a huge chance just being at that house and subjecting herself to such hostility (behind the scenes any way). You could tell how how much Finn despised her being there, but had to play nice for the cameras.
I love Leighton's character. While reading the story you could just tell that what she did to hurt Finn, wasn't true to her character and that she was forced into behaving in such a manner. She seemed to genuinely care for him and understood Finn like no other woman in that house could! She could read him like a book. She is a strong woman, and I don't think many could do what she did to prove that she was going to fight to get Finn back and that she was there for him... For them!
Finn, initially seemed like he was going to be hard headed and stubborn. But, eventually he warmed up to the idea of having Leighton around. I love they way Carrie Aarons took her time re-building their relationship and that they were able to show a natural progression of doing such!
I absolutely adored this story and this may have been my first Carrie Aarons novel, it will not be my last! They way she tells a story just draws you in and keeps you turning the pages! Their moments of intimacy were hot and steamy. Their tender moments were beautiful and emotional. It had an intriguing story line with great twists to the story! I would highly recommend this to those who love a great second chance story with a happily ever after!
So here's a quick summary of the story.
Leighton Aldridge wasn't looking for love or a soulmate when she signed up to be on the reality tv show Mr. Right. But, eventually she crossed paths with Finn Wyatt and that's exactly what happened. The very show that brought them together, would also be their undoing. She broke his heart months ago and has been contacted by the Mr./ Mrs. Right franchise to be one of the 25 women for the current Mr. Right ( Finn Wyatt) to choose from. The producers believing it would increase their ratings because of their very public break up, just a few short months ago. She has been living with the regret of hurting him in such away that she is willing to do whatever it takes to get back into his good graces, including subjecting herself to the humiliation of him possibly falling in love with someone else right in front of her, on national television!
Finn Wyatt is now the current Mr. Right bachelor, he can't believe he's back in this position and willing to put himself out there again after what he'd already been through with Leighton. But, now here he is and standing there face to face with the woman that broke his heart.
I don't watch a lot of reality tv, used to but then I decided it wasn't really for me! Especially the Bachelor franchise! I couldn't believe that women ( or men, for that matter) would willingly put themselves out there like that?! Whether it was for truly finding their "one true love" or for their 15 minutes of fame?! That being said... I enjoyed this book immensely! It was a cute and sweet love story about a second chance at love! Not everyone gets a second chance and Leighton was NOT about to let this opportunity slip through her fingers. She took a huge chance just being at that house and subjecting herself to such hostility (behind the scenes any way). You could tell how how much Finn despised her being there, but had to play nice for the cameras.
I love Leighton's character. While reading the story you could just tell that what she did to hurt Finn, wasn't true to her character and that she was forced into behaving in such a manner. She seemed to genuinely care for him and understood Finn like no other woman in that house could! She could read him like a book. She is a strong woman, and I don't think many could do what she did to prove that she was going to fight to get Finn back and that she was there for him... For them!
Finn, initially seemed like he was going to be hard headed and stubborn. But, eventually he warmed up to the idea of having Leighton around. I love they way Carrie Aarons took her time re-building their relationship and that they were able to show a natural progression of doing such!
I absolutely adored this story and this may have been my first Carrie Aarons novel, it will not be my last! They way she tells a story just draws you in and keeps you turning the pages! Their moments of intimacy were hot and steamy. Their tender moments were beautiful and emotional. It had an intriguing story line with great twists to the story! I would highly recommend this to those who love a great second chance story with a happily ever after!
July 31, 2016
I received an advanced copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
I don't watch reality dating shows. They make me cringe and the second hand embarrassment is too much for me to handle. But I do watch the Lifetime show Unreal, which is a scripted show about the behind the scenes drama on a reality dating show. So when I read the synopsis for this book, I immediately thought, "Yeah. I'm going to have to read this one."
Leighton and Finn have a history, a slightly complicated, messy history. They met on a reality show, fell in love, got engaged and then the whole thing blew up in their faces. Now it is months later and Leighton has decided to win Finn back...on another reality dating show. And as much as she loves being in the spotlight, Leighton loves Finn more and will do anything to win him back.
Finn was heartbroken when he and Leighton broke up. He really thought that they were going to get their happily ever after, but that wasn't the case. When Leighton steps out of the limo and Finn sees the girl who destroyed him, he is not happy. He wants nothing to do with her, but unfortunately for him, Leighton will be sticking around for a while. Throughout the course of the book, we slowly learn what happened between Leighton and Finn. The two of them truly did find love on a reality show, but a lapse of judgement on Leighton's part ruined everything. It was very clear to me that they had a lot of unfinished business and the only thing that was going to make it better was for them to have it out. Then throw in the fact that Finn develops feelings for one of the other contestants and you got yourself a story.
Despite meeting on a reality show, the two of them connected on a deeper level and saw the other person's true selves, not just the personas they put on for the cameras. Leighton never pitied Finn or saw his disability as a negative thing. She encouraged him to be proud of it and never hide it because it made someone uncomfortable. And when tragedy strikes Leighton's personal life, Finn is there to help her through it. And despite everything they have been through, the truth remains that Finn and Leighton belong together.
**sigh** True love y'all. True love.
If you are a fan of reality dating shows, I think that you will enjoy this book. And even if you aren't (like me), you will enjoy it. While there is definitely drama, it doesn't overwhelm the story. Most of the characters are likable and you will walk away feeling satisfied with the way everything plays out. And a quick note on Erin, the other contestant I mentioned earlier...I really liked her. I am hoping that we get to read her story some time soon. She was a genuine, down to earth and VERY understanding. I really want her to get that happily ever after.
I don't watch reality dating shows. They make me cringe and the second hand embarrassment is too much for me to handle. But I do watch the Lifetime show Unreal, which is a scripted show about the behind the scenes drama on a reality dating show. So when I read the synopsis for this book, I immediately thought, "Yeah. I'm going to have to read this one."
Leighton and Finn have a history, a slightly complicated, messy history. They met on a reality show, fell in love, got engaged and then the whole thing blew up in their faces. Now it is months later and Leighton has decided to win Finn back...on another reality dating show. And as much as she loves being in the spotlight, Leighton loves Finn more and will do anything to win him back.
Finn was heartbroken when he and Leighton broke up. He really thought that they were going to get their happily ever after, but that wasn't the case. When Leighton steps out of the limo and Finn sees the girl who destroyed him, he is not happy. He wants nothing to do with her, but unfortunately for him, Leighton will be sticking around for a while. Throughout the course of the book, we slowly learn what happened between Leighton and Finn. The two of them truly did find love on a reality show, but a lapse of judgement on Leighton's part ruined everything. It was very clear to me that they had a lot of unfinished business and the only thing that was going to make it better was for them to have it out. Then throw in the fact that Finn develops feelings for one of the other contestants and you got yourself a story.
Despite meeting on a reality show, the two of them connected on a deeper level and saw the other person's true selves, not just the personas they put on for the cameras. Leighton never pitied Finn or saw his disability as a negative thing. She encouraged him to be proud of it and never hide it because it made someone uncomfortable. And when tragedy strikes Leighton's personal life, Finn is there to help her through it. And despite everything they have been through, the truth remains that Finn and Leighton belong together.
“We’re not through it yet. You sure you want to do this?”
I gazed up at him, my hands skimming over his t-shirt where I could feel the rock hard stomach beneath. I pushed a lock of golden brown aside and palmed his cheek.
“I could not be more ready to do this. Obviously, I wish we didn’t have to do it this way, but it doesn’t mean I don’t want to do this.”
“Well, it’s not very romantic. You basically know how it’s going to happen.” He threaded his fingers in my hair and my heart gave a content sigh. He was always going to be the all American gentleman, and my heart blushed a little at that.
“I don’t need the romance. I don’t need the speeches. None of that fake crap means anything. I need you. I need us. I love you, Finn Wyatt. None of the other stuff matters. I just need your loyalty, your trust, and your love. This is the real deal this time, not some fake reality. As long as I have you, I’m perfect.”
“You are perfect. For me.” Finn leaned down and pressed his lips to mine, his mouth communicating every emotion he felt. His kiss seared me, marked me and filled my soul to the brim with love.
**sigh** True love y'all. True love.
If you are a fan of reality dating shows, I think that you will enjoy this book. And even if you aren't (like me), you will enjoy it. While there is definitely drama, it doesn't overwhelm the story. Most of the characters are likable and you will walk away feeling satisfied with the way everything plays out. And a quick note on Erin, the other contestant I mentioned earlier...I really liked her. I am hoping that we get to read her story some time soon. She was a genuine, down to earth and VERY understanding. I really want her to get that happily ever after.
April 12, 2016
Leighton Aldridge loves the spotlight and attention of the cameras. Being on reality t,v, suits her, even though the shows were about romance. For Leighton, she wasn't looking for love, but she could play the part and yet true love still found her in the form of Finn Wyatt. What they had was real, but it crashed and burned in the public limelight, leaving Finn crushed and heartbroken. Now, Finn's the main character is being vied for by 25 eligible females, including Leighton, on the new season of Mr. Right. Leighton is determined to win him back, but as soon as Finn sets eyes on her, he remembers all the pain and the reasons why he won't go back down that road ever again.
Leighton took me some time to warm up to initially. She's not unemotional, but she doesn't show much in the way of her feelings. She keeps it calm and collected on the outside even if her nerves are shaking on the inside. At first, I wanted to see more vulnerability on behalf of Finn, because he wears his heart on his sleeve, and I thought that would be a faster route to his heart rather than playing up to the cameras. As for Finn, he's definitely a catch, but he's not without his flaws either, which Leighton accepts wholeheartedly and it becomes obvious that Finn has reservations about sharing all of himself with just anyone, despite his open honesty. The 2 of them had great chemistry, palpable enough to keep Finn in limbo between love and hate.
What surprised me was how much more there was to both Finn and Leighton beyond their actual relationship and their depth as individual people. As they navigate the dynamics of reality t.v. and actual reality, it becomes apparent that they've both changed since they were last together as a couple, for the better and worse. Will Finn be able to forgive and follow his heart when it comes time for the final selection? Will Leighton be able to earn Finn's trust again when there are 24 other attractive women who haven't broken his heart before? Is what they have simply made for good television ratings or is there more to it outside of the public eye? And what happens when others meddle and try to sway their judgment? I was really intrigued by the storyline, characters and plot twists. Definitely an entertaining read for fans of second chance romance and reality t.v.
*I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review*
Leighton took me some time to warm up to initially. She's not unemotional, but she doesn't show much in the way of her feelings. She keeps it calm and collected on the outside even if her nerves are shaking on the inside. At first, I wanted to see more vulnerability on behalf of Finn, because he wears his heart on his sleeve, and I thought that would be a faster route to his heart rather than playing up to the cameras. As for Finn, he's definitely a catch, but he's not without his flaws either, which Leighton accepts wholeheartedly and it becomes obvious that Finn has reservations about sharing all of himself with just anyone, despite his open honesty. The 2 of them had great chemistry, palpable enough to keep Finn in limbo between love and hate.
What surprised me was how much more there was to both Finn and Leighton beyond their actual relationship and their depth as individual people. As they navigate the dynamics of reality t.v. and actual reality, it becomes apparent that they've both changed since they were last together as a couple, for the better and worse. Will Finn be able to forgive and follow his heart when it comes time for the final selection? Will Leighton be able to earn Finn's trust again when there are 24 other attractive women who haven't broken his heart before? Is what they have simply made for good television ratings or is there more to it outside of the public eye? And what happens when others meddle and try to sway their judgment? I was really intrigued by the storyline, characters and plot twists. Definitely an entertaining read for fans of second chance romance and reality t.v.
*I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review*
October 6, 2016
Thank you so much Give Me Books Promotions for sending me an ARC of this book!! I'm very honored and grateful!! :)
5 Reality has never been more complicated Stars!!
I've only ever watched a few episodes of the Bachelor and i was sort of familiar with that whole TV world but this book made me want to binge watch some seasons. It was heartbreaking, shocking, and quite beautiful. It was a different take on how one falls in love but i greatly admire that and it felt refreshing to read. Ms.Aarons takes you into a world full of drama, lies, cameras, and love. It had so many funny moments as well as sweet ones. I felt like i could see the characters clear as day in my mind while reading and i love it when i'm so swept into a world that an author creates that it's as if it's real which makes me fall in love with the story even more.
Leighton was a character that i couldn't quite decipher if she had good intentions or not at first. It was interesting to see how well she adapted back into the world of the reality TV show Mr.Right. She had me laughing more times than not and i truly felt for her. I hated to see her struggle with what the producers wanted her to do and what she herself wanted to do. With every turn of the page i couldn't help but like her more and more. She is one heroine that is a force to be reckoned with and even when she bit her tongue sometimes she wouldn't back down.
Finn was a character that really tugged on my heartstrings and i hated what he had to endure in his life. His injury from the war in Afghanistan didn't define him and only made him more beautiful in my opinion. He was harsh and very jerk like at first and i fully understood why but it was hard at first to truly connect with him as a character on a likable level. Finn surprised me more times than not and it was so cool to see him break out of his shell even more.
I highly recommend this book to anyone looking for a story that's about more than reality TV and cameras but peeling back the layers pf the drama and coming to terms with the love as well as adoration the characters have for one another underneath their facades. One-click this book today!! You won't regret it!! It was a quick page turner for me and i couldn't get enough! I'll definitely be checking out more of Ms.Aarons work soon! 5 stars all around!!
5 Reality has never been more complicated Stars!!
I've only ever watched a few episodes of the Bachelor and i was sort of familiar with that whole TV world but this book made me want to binge watch some seasons. It was heartbreaking, shocking, and quite beautiful. It was a different take on how one falls in love but i greatly admire that and it felt refreshing to read. Ms.Aarons takes you into a world full of drama, lies, cameras, and love. It had so many funny moments as well as sweet ones. I felt like i could see the characters clear as day in my mind while reading and i love it when i'm so swept into a world that an author creates that it's as if it's real which makes me fall in love with the story even more.
Leighton was a character that i couldn't quite decipher if she had good intentions or not at first. It was interesting to see how well she adapted back into the world of the reality TV show Mr.Right. She had me laughing more times than not and i truly felt for her. I hated to see her struggle with what the producers wanted her to do and what she herself wanted to do. With every turn of the page i couldn't help but like her more and more. She is one heroine that is a force to be reckoned with and even when she bit her tongue sometimes she wouldn't back down.
Finn was a character that really tugged on my heartstrings and i hated what he had to endure in his life. His injury from the war in Afghanistan didn't define him and only made him more beautiful in my opinion. He was harsh and very jerk like at first and i fully understood why but it was hard at first to truly connect with him as a character on a likable level. Finn surprised me more times than not and it was so cool to see him break out of his shell even more.
I highly recommend this book to anyone looking for a story that's about more than reality TV and cameras but peeling back the layers pf the drama and coming to terms with the love as well as adoration the characters have for one another underneath their facades. One-click this book today!! You won't regret it!! It was a quick page turner for me and i couldn't get enough! I'll definitely be checking out more of Ms.Aarons work soon! 5 stars all around!!
January 11, 2017
I love the idea of this novel. Falling in love on reality TV and all the antics that go with it plus I really love the cover of the story so I dove right in.
Leighton was a great lead. She went after what she wanted and didn't let people's judgments get to her. Resilience is always a great quality to have and a character. She played it cool because she was scared (IMO). Everyone makes mistakes, and I loved seeing her try to rectify hers.
Finn was just perfect. The perfect mix or jerk and sweet. I liked him right from the start. He was a veteran and that made him ten times better. He had a lot to deal with this is this story but in the end he stayed true to him self.
I loved the set up on how the two main characters knew each other. I really would have loved to have seen that first hand as opposed to them telling us about it and being flashbacks. Not that it made my view on this story different because it didn't, I just feel that it could have been a good prequel story, or novella.
Fans of second chance romance novels will really enjoy this take. It was fun and flirty, lots of laugh out loud moments but still had heart and some intriguing moments that will leave you wondering what happened and what's going to happen.
Overall this was super cute. I laughed, my heart broke, I cried and I was so happy by the end my heart was so full! I would love to see this expanded into another story about this couple or a prequel or sorts. Or.... maybe even a book for Finns brother Carter! (Yes Please!!!!) 5 stars #2OCCJD
Leighton was a great lead. She went after what she wanted and didn't let people's judgments get to her. Resilience is always a great quality to have and a character. She played it cool because she was scared (IMO). Everyone makes mistakes, and I loved seeing her try to rectify hers.
Finn was just perfect. The perfect mix or jerk and sweet. I liked him right from the start. He was a veteran and that made him ten times better. He had a lot to deal with this is this story but in the end he stayed true to him self.
I loved the set up on how the two main characters knew each other. I really would have loved to have seen that first hand as opposed to them telling us about it and being flashbacks. Not that it made my view on this story different because it didn't, I just feel that it could have been a good prequel story, or novella.
Fans of second chance romance novels will really enjoy this take. It was fun and flirty, lots of laugh out loud moments but still had heart and some intriguing moments that will leave you wondering what happened and what's going to happen.
Overall this was super cute. I laughed, my heart broke, I cried and I was so happy by the end my heart was so full! I would love to see this expanded into another story about this couple or a prequel or sorts. Or.... maybe even a book for Finns brother Carter! (Yes Please!!!!) 5 stars #2OCCJD
April 12, 2016
4 STARS
I’ll start by saying that I’m not a fan of reality TV. I’m not preaching or looking down on those that do, I just don’t get the allure. I find it’s so far from reality that I just can’t be bothered. So, having this book based on a reality TV show à la the Bachelor/Bachelorette, I wasn't sure if it would work for me. But I was pleasantly surprised. I really enjoyed Carrie’s debut novel Red Card and her follow up novel, didn’t disappoint.
Leighton Aldridge and Finn Wyatt first met on a reality TV show, fell in love and crashed and burned. Now Finn’s back on another reality TV show, Mr. Right, looking for a second chance at love. Little does he know, Leighton’s among his new prospects.
This story's a peek into finding love on a reality TV show. It does touch on the reality that some of it's orchestrated all for the sake of drama. This was a sexy and fun story. There was some angst, sexy times and sweet moments.
**I won this ARC in a giveaway contest by Carrie Aarons. Thank you, Carrie!!**
I’ll start by saying that I’m not a fan of reality TV. I’m not preaching or looking down on those that do, I just don’t get the allure. I find it’s so far from reality that I just can’t be bothered. So, having this book based on a reality TV show à la the Bachelor/Bachelorette, I wasn't sure if it would work for me. But I was pleasantly surprised. I really enjoyed Carrie’s debut novel Red Card and her follow up novel, didn’t disappoint.
Leighton Aldridge and Finn Wyatt first met on a reality TV show, fell in love and crashed and burned. Now Finn’s back on another reality TV show, Mr. Right, looking for a second chance at love. Little does he know, Leighton’s among his new prospects.
This story's a peek into finding love on a reality TV show. It does touch on the reality that some of it's orchestrated all for the sake of drama. This was a sexy and fun story. There was some angst, sexy times and sweet moments.
**I won this ARC in a giveaway contest by Carrie Aarons. Thank you, Carrie!!**
July 10, 2016
If I had to describe this book in a couple of words, it'd be angsty and hot. It's such a wonderful story. This second chance romance had me hooked and I loved it!
I wasn't expecting this book to have significant emotional depth, but I was pleasantly surprised when it did. There were moments where I could feel my chest ache as I read. I will even admit to crying while I was reading this book. I couldn't help myself and I don't think you will be able to stop yourself either.
Leighton stole the show. I loved her character. She's strong, determined, and willing to do whatever it takes to get Finn to talk to her. I even like Finn a lot. I'd say love instead, but there were times when I wanted to shake him for the things he said and did.
I've read four of the seven books Carrie Aarons has written. They've all been great. I feel like she's getting better with every book, and I'm really looking forward to reading more from her.
I wasn't expecting this book to have significant emotional depth, but I was pleasantly surprised when it did. There were moments where I could feel my chest ache as I read. I will even admit to crying while I was reading this book. I couldn't help myself and I don't think you will be able to stop yourself either.
Leighton stole the show. I loved her character. She's strong, determined, and willing to do whatever it takes to get Finn to talk to her. I even like Finn a lot. I'd say love instead, but there were times when I wanted to shake him for the things he said and did.
I've read four of the seven books Carrie Aarons has written. They've all been great. I feel like she's getting better with every book, and I'm really looking forward to reading more from her.
April 11, 2016
Review ~~ Kissed by Reality
Kissed by Reality
by Carrie Aarons
QueenZany 4 STAR REVIEW
Holy Cow!!
I'm all for a good Reality show. But this book takes the cake with that aspect.
Think the bachelor! That mixed with a second chance romance. Now you can drool!
"Kissed by Reality" was the perfect mix of an enticing and alluring. I couldn't help but fall for Leighton and Finn! They had a magnetic chemistry along with a bit of fury. That just created a relationship of flare with intensity. To hot for words!! Thank goodness for HEA!!
ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review
https://plus.google.com/+heatherpollo...
May 5, 2021
As A Fan Of Trashy Reality Shows This Was The Perfect Book For Me With All I Could Need
September 4, 2019
First of all, let me explain a few things ;) I received this ARC in exchange for an honest opinion, and by now I hope you trust me enough to know that I will always write you my real thoughts and that I would never recommend you a book that I didn't love myself... :) and to be honest, I did have Carrie Aarons and her books on my #BookMountain for some time now, so when I saw the opportunity to get my hands on her newest gem, I knew I had to give it a try :) so imagine my joy when it landed on my kindle :) and the best adjective I can use to describe this book is... addictive... :) also surprising works really well ;) but mainly addictive :) I'm gonna elaborate more on that in a minute, but I have to say one more thing first :) I know that by now you might be used to the fact that I pretty much always put quotes at the end of my reviews to show you the writing style and the vibe of the book... but I couldn't do it this time :) and believe me, not because the book sucked :) quite the contrary :) the writing style was amazing, it's just that there's so much history between our main couple and a lot of things are happening really quickly in the story, one surprising twist after another, that pretty much all that I wanted to use was too spoilerific :) but take my word for it, the writing is amazing :) ok, now that all that is out in the open, how about we dive a bit more into the details about our main couple :)
So... Finn and Leighton... :) when I say there's history between them I mean it :) they met on one of the programs in "Mr. Right" franchise... a dating reality tv show :) they connected pretty much instantly and got together very quickly after that :) but things got... well, it ended for reasons that I can't tell you :) sorry :) but now we have a few months later and Finn, a wounded war veteran, is America's newest Mr. Right and Leighton decides to go back to that franchise to win him back... that's pretty much all the details I can share with you... :) if you think I'm kidding or exaggerating, be sure to read the book and then tell me what more can you say without spoiling what's gonna happen... ;) it's much more trickier... is that even a word? :) nevermind, let's use it anyway ;) so it's much more trickier than you think... :) also, I love when I have in books description of certain characters that compare them to actual people :) I have a pretty good imagination, but it's easier to visualize, when I can just google them ;) so to give you a little glimpse into our main couple, they look like Jessica Lowndes and Chris Evans :)
So now that you know how they look, I will try to tell you a bit more about them... and really guys, I am doing my best to come up with stuff I CAN share with you, but it's not easy :) so like I mentioned before, when they met there was an instant connection :) he was mesmerized by her, and I can't really blame him :) she was fun and snarky and never made him feel like less of a man because of his prosthesis... because he lost part of his leg... and I loved that about her :) so even after they broke up, I was rooting for them to get back together :) and, well... damn... I really can't say anything more ;) just be prepared for the unexpected... ;) cause there were quite a few surprises along the way before a very beautiful ending to this story :)
Now about the secondary characters... :) again, my problem is still the same... I can't tell you a whole lot about them, mainly because it would expose some of the key players for you too early on in the book, but I will share with you my favourite scene-stealer... ;) Carter, Finn's younger brother :) he was hilarious and just a real gem... plus, it definitely doesn't hurt that he was compared to Thor on more than one occasion... ;) and even though this book is a standalone, at least for now ;) I can absolutely see a potential for some future books about certain characters... and Carter would be definitely on top of my wish list ;) so you have to read this book soon, so we can all start a petition together to inspire Carrie to write about him ;)
Even though I can't share with you guys any details about this story, because it really is best for you to not know certain stuff before they happen, I can share with you my thoughts and impressions :) so I kind of wasn't sure what to expect of this book, cause to be honest, I never watched, nor do I have any inclinations to do it in the future, any kind of dating reality tv show :) so imagine my shock when I fell in love with this story :) it was the best kind of a surprise :) this book was addictive from the start :) it's the perfect adjective to describe my experience with it :) the writing style, the characters, all the twists and turns in it... and believe me... I was surprised more than once... :) it starts as this really fun and entertaining story, but it's the second part of it that shocked me the most... it was surprisingly serious and emotional at times... not to mention astonishingly sweet... and I definitely did not expect to tear up reading it... don't worry, no spoilers from me :) plus, it has two perspectives people... and you know how big of a fan I am of that :) especially when it's done well, like in this case :) so if you are looking for an entertaining story with a fantastic writing style, that will make you feel all the feels... seriously people... ALL of them :) look no further and pick this one up :) it's funny, sweet, sexy, surprising and will keep you up way too late just so you can finish it ;)
XOXO
A
So... Finn and Leighton... :) when I say there's history between them I mean it :) they met on one of the programs in "Mr. Right" franchise... a dating reality tv show :) they connected pretty much instantly and got together very quickly after that :) but things got... well, it ended for reasons that I can't tell you :) sorry :) but now we have a few months later and Finn, a wounded war veteran, is America's newest Mr. Right and Leighton decides to go back to that franchise to win him back... that's pretty much all the details I can share with you... :) if you think I'm kidding or exaggerating, be sure to read the book and then tell me what more can you say without spoiling what's gonna happen... ;) it's much more trickier... is that even a word? :) nevermind, let's use it anyway ;) so it's much more trickier than you think... :) also, I love when I have in books description of certain characters that compare them to actual people :) I have a pretty good imagination, but it's easier to visualize, when I can just google them ;) so to give you a little glimpse into our main couple, they look like Jessica Lowndes and Chris Evans :)
So now that you know how they look, I will try to tell you a bit more about them... and really guys, I am doing my best to come up with stuff I CAN share with you, but it's not easy :) so like I mentioned before, when they met there was an instant connection :) he was mesmerized by her, and I can't really blame him :) she was fun and snarky and never made him feel like less of a man because of his prosthesis... because he lost part of his leg... and I loved that about her :) so even after they broke up, I was rooting for them to get back together :) and, well... damn... I really can't say anything more ;) just be prepared for the unexpected... ;) cause there were quite a few surprises along the way before a very beautiful ending to this story :)
Now about the secondary characters... :) again, my problem is still the same... I can't tell you a whole lot about them, mainly because it would expose some of the key players for you too early on in the book, but I will share with you my favourite scene-stealer... ;) Carter, Finn's younger brother :) he was hilarious and just a real gem... plus, it definitely doesn't hurt that he was compared to Thor on more than one occasion... ;) and even though this book is a standalone, at least for now ;) I can absolutely see a potential for some future books about certain characters... and Carter would be definitely on top of my wish list ;) so you have to read this book soon, so we can all start a petition together to inspire Carrie to write about him ;)
Even though I can't share with you guys any details about this story, because it really is best for you to not know certain stuff before they happen, I can share with you my thoughts and impressions :) so I kind of wasn't sure what to expect of this book, cause to be honest, I never watched, nor do I have any inclinations to do it in the future, any kind of dating reality tv show :) so imagine my shock when I fell in love with this story :) it was the best kind of a surprise :) this book was addictive from the start :) it's the perfect adjective to describe my experience with it :) the writing style, the characters, all the twists and turns in it... and believe me... I was surprised more than once... :) it starts as this really fun and entertaining story, but it's the second part of it that shocked me the most... it was surprisingly serious and emotional at times... not to mention astonishingly sweet... and I definitely did not expect to tear up reading it... don't worry, no spoilers from me :) plus, it has two perspectives people... and you know how big of a fan I am of that :) especially when it's done well, like in this case :) so if you are looking for an entertaining story with a fantastic writing style, that will make you feel all the feels... seriously people... ALL of them :) look no further and pick this one up :) it's funny, sweet, sexy, surprising and will keep you up way too late just so you can finish it ;)
XOXO
A
May 3, 2020
I was really liking it but we are Led to believe SHE left him and HE was heartbroken (I was so happy to have a second chance withe reverse roles) when in fact HE threw her out without letting her explain and SHE was heartbroken (and celibate and not enough angry at him) (not so original indeed...)
I had to finish because... i always finish them (first I tell myself Just to read the end but then i want to know how they get there, if I missed something worthy...)
I had to finish because... i always finish them (first I tell myself Just to read the end but then i want to know how they get there, if I missed something worthy...)
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 27, 2021
I really did enjoy this book, but it was not my favorite. If you enjoy the shows like the Bachelor, Bachelorette, Bachelor in Paradise (or whatever it is called), you could absolutely find enjoyment in this book. While I have watched different seasons of those shows, it is not really my favorite style of reality t.v., or reading. I think the book would be wonderful for someone who has a taste for that kind of theme.
July 7, 2024
Wow wat was hij bitter. Verder dan de helft gekomen... Hij wilt wel seks met haar, maar geeft toe dat hij ook gevoelens heeft voor anderen deelnemers.. en hij heeft wel meerdere mensen gehad in die 4 maanden dat ze uit elkaar waren... Ja fuck you dan... Hij liet haar niet eens uitpraten verklaren... En zij was degene die door iedereen uitgescholden werd... Terwijl ze gemanipuleerd werd door de show...
January 25, 2018
Just okay
I have read and really enjoyed some of Carrie Aaron's other books, but just didn't like this one as much. The writing was fine, but the male lead was kinda a jerk and I couldn't figure out why the female lead wanted him back. It didn't seem like they much chemistry, either. Don't get me wrong, it was still okay, just not her best.
I have read and really enjoyed some of Carrie Aaron's other books, but just didn't like this one as much. The writing was fine, but the male lead was kinda a jerk and I couldn't figure out why the female lead wanted him back. It didn't seem like they much chemistry, either. Don't get me wrong, it was still okay, just not her best.
January 20, 2022
2 🌟 Another one to add to the list of reality tv x romance book spiral. I feel bad giving it 2 stars because the premise is SO down my alley but the book also wades into discrimination, PTSD, and sexism but doesn’t actually give itself enough space to do so. Instead of being an intelligent addition to a fun, shallow premise it instead just makes the effort a little .. cringy
April 11, 2016
4 KISSED BY REALITY STARS (★★★★)
*** Disclaimer: I received an ARC from the author in exchange for an honest review. However, this doesn’t affect my opinion of this book and the words in this review. ***
“Thank you for choosing me last. Because that’s what I am, your last. The last woman to ever have you. And you’re my last man.”
Kissed by Reality wasn’t my first Carrie Aaron’s novel, so I knew what to expect in terms of her writing style and her ability to make her characters feel real and to let you get to know them. Just let me say that I liked reading Hitting to Win so much, I couldn’t wait to start another novel by this author. Especially after reading the blurb and finding out the premise. Carrie Aaron did it again, because Kissed by Reality was just as good, maybe even better.
“I think you’re beautiful. The things you consider flaws only make you more attractive, more gorgeous to me.”
A year after Leighton participated as one of the women in the reality tv show Right Now Island she’s back on tv. Because this is her third time in such a reality show Leighton knows exactly how it all works. In Right Now Island Finn and Leighton fell in love with each other, but Leighton ruined it all and broke Finn’s heart into a million pieces on live tv. She wants to win him back, because without Finn in her life, nothing really matters anymore. Finn is trying to get over het by finding a new woman to spend his life with as the new Mr. Right and Leighton is there to show him there’s no moving on from her. They are meant to be together. Will Leighton succeed in worming her way back into Finn’s heart and life?
Leighton participated in Mr. Right-like shows two times in a row, the last time was on Right Now Island. She’s good at keeping up a front. Just like how she’s still in love with Finn, but pretends she’s only on the show for the attention. She’s incapable of showing emotion, she’s just not wired that way. That has something to do with her daddy issues, due to her father leaving her and her mother when Leighton was in high school. Leighton is sarcastic, sweet and confident.
Finn is boyishly handsome, with dimples and clear blue eyes. He’s got a sweet site, but he can also be dirty and sarcastic. He’s a war veteran, he was a marine. But due to an accident he lost his leg and now he has a prosthetic leg. Finn also participated multiple times in Mr. Right-like shows, until he was Mr. Right himself. Finn is confident overall, but when it comes to his leg he’s very self-conscious. He grown up on a farm with his very protective and loving two brothers and parents.
I needed Finn. Wanted him. Loved him. I’d found the person I was put on this planet for, and I wasn’t giving up until I was bruised, beaten and bloody.
The story is told in chronological order with alternating perspectives, between Finn and Leighton, but there are a couple flashbacks added. The flashbacks give you a glimpse into their lives together and the way they broke up. Very quickly you find out what exactly happened between the two. I really loved the flashbacks. I think the story would’ve been less good if the characters just told you what happened in the past, in comparison with the flashback Carrie Aaron’s used in Kissed by Reality. It just worked! Another thing I really likes was the cover. It’s just so beautiful. A cover like that would surely persuade me to buy this novel on its own, without any help of its premise and writer.
I couldn’t stop reading, because I wanted to find out what would happen with Finn and Leighton. I had to know if they would get a second chance at love. If Finn would find it in his heart to forgive Leighton. Because of how real both characters felt, you feel for them and you want happiness for them. With every encounter that was described in the book, you could feel how much they still loved each other and the sexual tension was off the charts! I really felt for Leighton and her mother, that part of the story was very sad. I just couldn’t stop the tears.
I liked the uniqueness of the premise, a touch of Hollywood to this story gave it an extra layer. I did think some parts of the story dragged, though. It didn’t happen a lot, there were just some passages in the book that didn’t need as much information as were used. Some information was repetitive and/or redundant.
“Honey, there is nothing in life that is worth having if we don’t pursue it with a ferocious need. Desperation, fear, anxiety, wanting… these are just all signs that you’re alive. That you’re living to the fullest of your abilities, scared as all hell but saying fuck it and doing it anyway.”
Kissed by Reality is about a second chance in love. Being heartbroken, because you’ve been betrayed and trying to move on, even taking revenge. But finding out that you could never love someone as much, thus falling in love again and forgiving. This all combined with some steamy angry sex scenes and a touch of fake Hollywood and you’ve got the perfect sexy, sweet and emotional romance novel Kissed by Reality is.
“I just need your loyalty, your trust, and your love. This is the real deal this time, not some fake reality. As long as I have you, I’m perfect.”
*** Disclaimer: I received an ARC from the author in exchange for an honest review. However, this doesn’t affect my opinion of this book and the words in this review. ***
“Thank you for choosing me last. Because that’s what I am, your last. The last woman to ever have you. And you’re my last man.”
Kissed by Reality wasn’t my first Carrie Aaron’s novel, so I knew what to expect in terms of her writing style and her ability to make her characters feel real and to let you get to know them. Just let me say that I liked reading Hitting to Win so much, I couldn’t wait to start another novel by this author. Especially after reading the blurb and finding out the premise. Carrie Aaron did it again, because Kissed by Reality was just as good, maybe even better.
“I think you’re beautiful. The things you consider flaws only make you more attractive, more gorgeous to me.”
A year after Leighton participated as one of the women in the reality tv show Right Now Island she’s back on tv. Because this is her third time in such a reality show Leighton knows exactly how it all works. In Right Now Island Finn and Leighton fell in love with each other, but Leighton ruined it all and broke Finn’s heart into a million pieces on live tv. She wants to win him back, because without Finn in her life, nothing really matters anymore. Finn is trying to get over het by finding a new woman to spend his life with as the new Mr. Right and Leighton is there to show him there’s no moving on from her. They are meant to be together. Will Leighton succeed in worming her way back into Finn’s heart and life?
Leighton participated in Mr. Right-like shows two times in a row, the last time was on Right Now Island. She’s good at keeping up a front. Just like how she’s still in love with Finn, but pretends she’s only on the show for the attention. She’s incapable of showing emotion, she’s just not wired that way. That has something to do with her daddy issues, due to her father leaving her and her mother when Leighton was in high school. Leighton is sarcastic, sweet and confident.
Finn is boyishly handsome, with dimples and clear blue eyes. He’s got a sweet site, but he can also be dirty and sarcastic. He’s a war veteran, he was a marine. But due to an accident he lost his leg and now he has a prosthetic leg. Finn also participated multiple times in Mr. Right-like shows, until he was Mr. Right himself. Finn is confident overall, but when it comes to his leg he’s very self-conscious. He grown up on a farm with his very protective and loving two brothers and parents.
I needed Finn. Wanted him. Loved him. I’d found the person I was put on this planet for, and I wasn’t giving up until I was bruised, beaten and bloody.
The story is told in chronological order with alternating perspectives, between Finn and Leighton, but there are a couple flashbacks added. The flashbacks give you a glimpse into their lives together and the way they broke up. Very quickly you find out what exactly happened between the two. I really loved the flashbacks. I think the story would’ve been less good if the characters just told you what happened in the past, in comparison with the flashback Carrie Aaron’s used in Kissed by Reality. It just worked! Another thing I really likes was the cover. It’s just so beautiful. A cover like that would surely persuade me to buy this novel on its own, without any help of its premise and writer.
I couldn’t stop reading, because I wanted to find out what would happen with Finn and Leighton. I had to know if they would get a second chance at love. If Finn would find it in his heart to forgive Leighton. Because of how real both characters felt, you feel for them and you want happiness for them. With every encounter that was described in the book, you could feel how much they still loved each other and the sexual tension was off the charts! I really felt for Leighton and her mother, that part of the story was very sad. I just couldn’t stop the tears.
I liked the uniqueness of the premise, a touch of Hollywood to this story gave it an extra layer. I did think some parts of the story dragged, though. It didn’t happen a lot, there were just some passages in the book that didn’t need as much information as were used. Some information was repetitive and/or redundant.
“Honey, there is nothing in life that is worth having if we don’t pursue it with a ferocious need. Desperation, fear, anxiety, wanting… these are just all signs that you’re alive. That you’re living to the fullest of your abilities, scared as all hell but saying fuck it and doing it anyway.”
Kissed by Reality is about a second chance in love. Being heartbroken, because you’ve been betrayed and trying to move on, even taking revenge. But finding out that you could never love someone as much, thus falling in love again and forgiving. This all combined with some steamy angry sex scenes and a touch of fake Hollywood and you’ve got the perfect sexy, sweet and emotional romance novel Kissed by Reality is.
“I just need your loyalty, your trust, and your love. This is the real deal this time, not some fake reality. As long as I have you, I’m perfect.”
October 15, 2020
This book was all the feels and more. I was completely captured by the writing of this author. My heart lost to the lives of her characters. I couldn't put this book down. Yet, I also didn't want it to end.
May 9, 2021
Good story, especially if you enjoy the bachelor show.
August 26, 2021
I loved this book! I read it in 1 evening. Leighton and Finn's chemistry was amazing!! Fun easy read!
August 31, 2022
i don’t know how to describe it but this book definitely had me intrigued the whole time.
April 11, 2016
Title: Kissed by Reality
Author: Carrie Aarons
Publisher: Carrie Aarons
Reviewer: Mollien
Release Date: April 11, 2016
Genre(s): Romance, Reality Television
Page Count: 215 pages
Heat Level: 3 flames out of 5
Rating: 5 stars out of 5
Blurb:
Review:
SCORES on a scale of 1-5 Stars rate each of the Following 5 Categories
PLOT: 5 Stars
CHEMISTRY: 5 Stars
PACING: 5 Stars
ENDING: 5 Stars
CHARACTER DEVELOPMENT: 5 Stars
Review Copy of Kissed by Reality provided by the Carrie Aarons and Give Me Books Promotions for an honest review. Reviewed by Mollien from Alpha Book Club
Author: Carrie Aarons
Publisher: Carrie Aarons
Reviewer: Mollien
Release Date: April 11, 2016
Genre(s): Romance, Reality Television
Page Count: 215 pages
Heat Level: 3 flames out of 5
Rating: 5 stars out of 5
Blurb:
Falling in love is hard. Falling in love on national television is impossible. Right?
Leighton Aldridge did not sign up to meet her soulmate. She signed up for the lights, camera and action. So when the Hollywood-native ends up with the wounded war veteran and a ring on her finger, it's a surprise to everyone. What isn't a surprise is the way she breaks Finn Wyatt's heart, or the massively public breakup that follows. But a year later she's back, ready for another round on the reality TV show that brought them together. She knows he was the real thing, and she's ready to fight for him.
Finn is the new Mr. Right. The country's favorite single guy, and the object of 25 women's affections. But when his ex-fiance steps onto set and back into the limelight, he wishes he never agreed to another season. Leighton shattered his heart for the world to see, and he's not ready to face that reality. Can Leighton convince him, and America, that she's the one? Or will her future with Finn only consist of 15 more minutes of fame?
Review:
Who of us hasn’t watch that show where the guy gets to choose from a bunch of girls to find someone to marry or the other way around? Even I must confess to having watch a season, but I am going to blame my daughter. She wanted to watch it. This book is behind the scenes where the action, drama, laughs take place.
Plot- This is not the first time that Leighton Aldridge has participated on the reality TV show, but it will be her last. She is there to win back the heart of the man that she loves. Finn Wyatt met Leighton on a spin off of “Mr. Right.” They were all chosen because of their popularity on previous seasons. Finn and Leighton hit it off and became engaged, but they don’t achieve their happy ever after. Finn sees Leighton cheating on him and the engagement is called off. Finn is trying his hand or should I say heart on another season of Mr. Right. He is hoping to get Leighton out of his head and out of his heart. Problem is the producers have signed Leighton to be one of the girls trying to win Finn’s heart.
You can tell that with all the pain and drama that Finn is still in love with Leighton. The chemistry is as exciting as each location that they travel to. The pacing is a back and forth from present to the past slowly revealing the break up. I loved the ending. Loved this book. I enjoyed the way the author kept us wondering what happened in the past and how the story would play out. This is the second book that I have read by this author. I will be on the lookout for future and past books by Carrie Aarons.
SCORES on a scale of 1-5 Stars rate each of the Following 5 Categories
PLOT: 5 Stars
CHEMISTRY: 5 Stars
PACING: 5 Stars
ENDING: 5 Stars
CHARACTER DEVELOPMENT: 5 Stars
Review Copy of Kissed by Reality provided by the Carrie Aarons and Give Me Books Promotions for an honest review. Reviewed by Mollien from Alpha Book Club
April 24, 2016
***4.5 Hearts
Kissed by Reality is the first book I have read by Carrie and I know it won't be my last. As soon as I read the synopsis along with the beautiful cover, I knew I had to read it! I love reality shows. I know it's full of drama, and yes, can be scripted but it's one of my guilty pleasures. Actually, I don't feel guilty about it. I have even gone to DASH boutique. I have the keychain. Anyway...this isn't about the Kardashians. This is Leighton and Finn's story...
This isn't Leighton and Finn's first rodeo. This is their third! Leighton was looking for fame when she went on Mr. Right the first time, and she found her fifteen minutes. And when that ended she went to Right Now Island. Why not? She would get a free trip, flirt with hot cast-offs from previous Mrs. Right's seasons, and have some fun in the sun. What she didn't expect was that she would actually leave the island in love and even engaged. To Finn Wyatt. The new Mr. Right. The man that she is determined to win back after she broke his heart six months ago...
Fuck! What is she doing here? That was what Finn's first thought was after she got out of the limo. He was set-up. He wanted to hate the woman that broke him but his body, and heart betrayed him. He didn't want her here. If it was up to him she would be gone before she even entered the house. But it wasn't up to him. It was up to the producers and their precious ratings. He didn't know why she would be back here unless she was looking for another fifteen minutes. Well, two can play at this game, he will just have to fall in love with someone else right in front of her. It would be the only way to break her down. But what if she was actually there for love? He was determined to get her off of his mind but when it came to Leighton that was easier said than done.
Leighton and Finn have gone through so much together. He is a wounded veteran and she never looked at him or treated him any differently because of his missing leg. She actually loved him even more because of it. And Finn saw past Leighton's beauty and saw so much more. She was sweet, silly, and beautiful on the inside. But, does all this mean that he could forgive her for her past betrayal? The one that was seen by millions. The one that ripped him apart. Can Leighton win his heart once again or will one of the other 24 hopefuls be "the one"?
I wasn't so sure of Leighton at first but it didn't take me long to root for her. I know for a fact that I could not do what she did. A man that I loved was going to have 24 other woman vying for his attention. Kissing him. Falling for him. Talking about their one on one dates. I would be a basket case. But, at the same time, it would be easier to fight for him than to watch him fall for someone else while you sat at home watching it all go down.
Overall...I was hooked from the start. I was nervous. I laughed. I teared up. It was a great rollercoaster ride.
Quotes:
“Find me somebody to love, find me somebody to love, find me somebody to love…”
"Promise you won't let go?" Jesus, I sounded like some desperate version of Rose in Titanic.
"Well, since you said please. You know I've always had a thing for manners."
Kissed by Reality is the first book I have read by Carrie and I know it won't be my last. As soon as I read the synopsis along with the beautiful cover, I knew I had to read it! I love reality shows. I know it's full of drama, and yes, can be scripted but it's one of my guilty pleasures. Actually, I don't feel guilty about it. I have even gone to DASH boutique. I have the keychain. Anyway...this isn't about the Kardashians. This is Leighton and Finn's story...
This isn't Leighton and Finn's first rodeo. This is their third! Leighton was looking for fame when she went on Mr. Right the first time, and she found her fifteen minutes. And when that ended she went to Right Now Island. Why not? She would get a free trip, flirt with hot cast-offs from previous Mrs. Right's seasons, and have some fun in the sun. What she didn't expect was that she would actually leave the island in love and even engaged. To Finn Wyatt. The new Mr. Right. The man that she is determined to win back after she broke his heart six months ago...
Fuck! What is she doing here? That was what Finn's first thought was after she got out of the limo. He was set-up. He wanted to hate the woman that broke him but his body, and heart betrayed him. He didn't want her here. If it was up to him she would be gone before she even entered the house. But it wasn't up to him. It was up to the producers and their precious ratings. He didn't know why she would be back here unless she was looking for another fifteen minutes. Well, two can play at this game, he will just have to fall in love with someone else right in front of her. It would be the only way to break her down. But what if she was actually there for love? He was determined to get her off of his mind but when it came to Leighton that was easier said than done.
Leighton and Finn have gone through so much together. He is a wounded veteran and she never looked at him or treated him any differently because of his missing leg. She actually loved him even more because of it. And Finn saw past Leighton's beauty and saw so much more. She was sweet, silly, and beautiful on the inside. But, does all this mean that he could forgive her for her past betrayal? The one that was seen by millions. The one that ripped him apart. Can Leighton win his heart once again or will one of the other 24 hopefuls be "the one"?
I wasn't so sure of Leighton at first but it didn't take me long to root for her. I know for a fact that I could not do what she did. A man that I loved was going to have 24 other woman vying for his attention. Kissing him. Falling for him. Talking about their one on one dates. I would be a basket case. But, at the same time, it would be easier to fight for him than to watch him fall for someone else while you sat at home watching it all go down.
Overall...I was hooked from the start. I was nervous. I laughed. I teared up. It was a great rollercoaster ride.
Quotes:
“Find me somebody to love, find me somebody to love, find me somebody to love…”
"Promise you won't let go?" Jesus, I sounded like some desperate version of Rose in Titanic.
"Well, since you said please. You know I've always had a thing for manners."
April 9, 2016
4.5 Poison Apples
I have to admit...I don't see the appeal of reality tv shows, especially of the dating variety. The idea that a couple can find lasting love in a situation that is scripted, fueled by ratings, and high on drama and attention whore antics is preposterous. Add in the fact that the producers want the show to go in a certain way, staging perhaps even a certain outcome and the feasibility of anyone being truly honest and genuine seems farfetched.
But Carrie Aarons makes me want to believe that it can work; she forces me to root for Finn and Leighton's relationship even if it's unclear through a lot of the story what's honest and what's for ratings. Aarons crafts her characters in such a way that they become way more than props to make good television, and she proves that the "real deal" is way better than storybooks or movies.
Finn Wyatt was "America's Favorite Military Hunk," and now, after getting his heart shredded by Leighton, he's the next Mr. Right, looking to find his Mrs. Right and forget how wrong he was to believe in what he had with Leighton. But the producers of the reality show complicate Finn's season because Leighton gets put into the 20 women vying for Finn's attention and ultimately his love, which sends Finn spiraling back to what happened with her and trying to figure out if she deserves a second chance or if a different woman will claim his heart, allowing him to finally forget Leighton.
I truly felt bad for both Finn and Leighton throughout their time on Mr. Right. Finn's anger and hurt definitely clouded his view of things, and while I can't fault him for his reactions, his inability to listen to Leighton was part of the problem. Honesty is everything to him, and Leighton betrayed their connection by not being forthcoming, which is a big thing for Finn to try and get over.
At first, I didn't think I would like Leighton, but that's because she's painted as a woman who's always playing a role - someone who's addicted to the spotlight and wants the fame and exposure that goes along with being on television. But Leighton is more than the persona that's been created for her and that's clearly shown as Leighton deals with the fallout of her actions and knows just how to soothe Finn's nightmares and insecurities from what happened in the past.
Kissed By Reality is an interesting title and it's one that has multiple meanings for Finn and Leighton. Their feelings for one another started out on a reality tv show, where most of the actions are dictated by the producers and ratings...then they enter the real world as a couple but are forced back into the fictitious world they were once in, undoing any normalcy they had achieved. Four months later, and once again, Finn and Leighton have roles to play in front of the camera, even though what's happening between them should be explored solely by them, complicating an already tenuous situation and threatening to ultimately end everything between them.
A complimentary copy was provided in exchange for an honest review.
I have to admit...I don't see the appeal of reality tv shows, especially of the dating variety. The idea that a couple can find lasting love in a situation that is scripted, fueled by ratings, and high on drama and attention whore antics is preposterous. Add in the fact that the producers want the show to go in a certain way, staging perhaps even a certain outcome and the feasibility of anyone being truly honest and genuine seems farfetched.
But Carrie Aarons makes me want to believe that it can work; she forces me to root for Finn and Leighton's relationship even if it's unclear through a lot of the story what's honest and what's for ratings. Aarons crafts her characters in such a way that they become way more than props to make good television, and she proves that the "real deal" is way better than storybooks or movies.
Finn Wyatt was "America's Favorite Military Hunk," and now, after getting his heart shredded by Leighton, he's the next Mr. Right, looking to find his Mrs. Right and forget how wrong he was to believe in what he had with Leighton. But the producers of the reality show complicate Finn's season because Leighton gets put into the 20 women vying for Finn's attention and ultimately his love, which sends Finn spiraling back to what happened with her and trying to figure out if she deserves a second chance or if a different woman will claim his heart, allowing him to finally forget Leighton.
I truly felt bad for both Finn and Leighton throughout their time on Mr. Right. Finn's anger and hurt definitely clouded his view of things, and while I can't fault him for his reactions, his inability to listen to Leighton was part of the problem. Honesty is everything to him, and Leighton betrayed their connection by not being forthcoming, which is a big thing for Finn to try and get over.
At first, I didn't think I would like Leighton, but that's because she's painted as a woman who's always playing a role - someone who's addicted to the spotlight and wants the fame and exposure that goes along with being on television. But Leighton is more than the persona that's been created for her and that's clearly shown as Leighton deals with the fallout of her actions and knows just how to soothe Finn's nightmares and insecurities from what happened in the past.
Kissed By Reality is an interesting title and it's one that has multiple meanings for Finn and Leighton. Their feelings for one another started out on a reality tv show, where most of the actions are dictated by the producers and ratings...then they enter the real world as a couple but are forced back into the fictitious world they were once in, undoing any normalcy they had achieved. Four months later, and once again, Finn and Leighton have roles to play in front of the camera, even though what's happening between them should be explored solely by them, complicating an already tenuous situation and threatening to ultimately end everything between them.
A complimentary copy was provided in exchange for an honest review.
April 11, 2016
A Solid Four Stars
Once bitten twice shy or so the saying goes, but is this the adage that Finn is going to adhere to or will he look past their past and give Leighton the opportunity to prove how much she regrets the mistake she made.
Leighton had her shot with Finn when they fell in love following their appearance on Mr Right, the reality dating show which is just all shades of wrong in my opinion, but I digress.
Their relationship really looked like the real deal and they eventually moved to a position where they could see that their futures belonged together and they got engaged. No things should have been hunky-dory from then but Leighton managed to blow everything they had apart and almost destroyed Finn in the process, he was bereft.
Looking to find his happy ever after Finn is back on the show and this time it is him that is in the hot seat – he is Mr Right, but unbeknown to him, the producers have a surprise in store, Leighton is back and she is going to do whatever it takes to show him that her heart is his if he wants it and that she has lived every day without him regretting what happened.
Now I give kudos to Leighton for being willing to publically humiliate herself in a bid to emphasise her regret almost but I also understood Finn’s reaction, let’s put it this way, it didn’t go as she had hoped! Put this is ratings, and the producers have a whole series of hoops for her to navigate in her bid to win back her man.
I liked the behind the scenes information, I found it gave credibility to the whole setting, I don’t know that I would have been able to read the whole thing from a purely presentation point of view, I needed to see what was making it all tick and the author gave that to me.
The author also made their path realistic, despite the basis on which they met, they were real people with rea feelings and both had been hurt, they needed time, patience and understanding to allow themselves the opportunity to find a way back to each other, they was a barrier between the two of them but it was nice to see that wall come down brick by brick rather than to have it bulldozed immediately and their lives become almost the caricature of what they wanted.
There is just enough angst to keep you on the edge of your seat but not enough to have you diving behind your fingers for cover, I have done that believe it or not – sneakily read a book through my fingers desperately hoping that nothing bad is going to leap out and surprise me, this is a much nicer read. I finished it in one sitting and flipped the last page over with a content smile.
A well-paced read, with characters that ingratiate themselves to you and that come to matter. Not everything is as it seems and you ill question the events that surrounded their initial break up but that being said, you will also have you fingers crossed for their future
Once bitten twice shy or so the saying goes, but is this the adage that Finn is going to adhere to or will he look past their past and give Leighton the opportunity to prove how much she regrets the mistake she made.
Leighton had her shot with Finn when they fell in love following their appearance on Mr Right, the reality dating show which is just all shades of wrong in my opinion, but I digress.
Their relationship really looked like the real deal and they eventually moved to a position where they could see that their futures belonged together and they got engaged. No things should have been hunky-dory from then but Leighton managed to blow everything they had apart and almost destroyed Finn in the process, he was bereft.
Looking to find his happy ever after Finn is back on the show and this time it is him that is in the hot seat – he is Mr Right, but unbeknown to him, the producers have a surprise in store, Leighton is back and she is going to do whatever it takes to show him that her heart is his if he wants it and that she has lived every day without him regretting what happened.
Now I give kudos to Leighton for being willing to publically humiliate herself in a bid to emphasise her regret almost but I also understood Finn’s reaction, let’s put it this way, it didn’t go as she had hoped! Put this is ratings, and the producers have a whole series of hoops for her to navigate in her bid to win back her man.
I liked the behind the scenes information, I found it gave credibility to the whole setting, I don’t know that I would have been able to read the whole thing from a purely presentation point of view, I needed to see what was making it all tick and the author gave that to me.
The author also made their path realistic, despite the basis on which they met, they were real people with rea feelings and both had been hurt, they needed time, patience and understanding to allow themselves the opportunity to find a way back to each other, they was a barrier between the two of them but it was nice to see that wall come down brick by brick rather than to have it bulldozed immediately and their lives become almost the caricature of what they wanted.
There is just enough angst to keep you on the edge of your seat but not enough to have you diving behind your fingers for cover, I have done that believe it or not – sneakily read a book through my fingers desperately hoping that nothing bad is going to leap out and surprise me, this is a much nicer read. I finished it in one sitting and flipped the last page over with a content smile.
A well-paced read, with characters that ingratiate themselves to you and that come to matter. Not everything is as it seems and you ill question the events that surrounded their initial break up but that being said, you will also have you fingers crossed for their future
April 12, 2016
4.5 stars for Kissed by Reality by Carrie Aarons!
Kissed by Reality was a sexy but sweet contemporary romance between Leighton Aldridge and Finn Wyatt as they make their way through a reality dating tv show called Mr Right. Leighton and Finn aren’t newbies to the reality dating show scene. They’ve both competed on the show before and ended up on the spin off where they met. They fell in love on the show and got engaged but once the show was over Leighton destroyed the relationship, leaving Finn devastated and angry.
Finn is now the bachelor on the new season of Mr Right, he’s ready to try and move on from Leighton and find another woman to love but what he doesn’t expect is for Leighton to show up and be one of the women trying to win his attention on the show. Leighton has regretted the decision she made ever since the day it destroyed her relationship and she's ready to try and win Finn back. The producers of Mr Right think that her being back will bring in the views the show needs but Leighton couldn't careless about the views, she just wants Finn to realise that they are meant to be together. What she doesn't expect is her nerve to start slipping when Finn is angry and doesn’t want to see her. She’s ready to put her heart on the line in front of the whole nation to prove to him that she is the one for him.
I haven’t read a book with this premise before and I don’t watch reality dating shows but Kissed by Reality was a great read for me and the whole story made me feel like I was actually on the set of the show. I loved learning about the behind the scenes of the show and how the producers had a part in how the public saw certain people and how they manipulated how the show played out. Hearing what happened between Leighton and Finn was so interesting and made me feel exactly what each of them were feeling at that time. The angst wasn’t over the top and it was good enough that it kept you turning the page and getting excited to know what happens next. I read this book in about three hours because I couldn’t put it down. The sexy times between Finn and Leighton were hot. The development between them made it easy to relate and when it was finally revealed what had caused them to break up I was shocked. I was so excited for their reconciliation at the ending so when that last hurdle came I was feeling everything the characters were feeling like I was there. By the time the book finished I was happy for them like they were my friends.
I really loved this story and I could really relate to the characters and feel all the emotions that they were feeling. Carrie Aaron’s has written an amazing story that had be flicking the pages quickly to see what happened next.
*ARC received from Give Me Books in exchange for an honest review*
Kissed by Reality was a sexy but sweet contemporary romance between Leighton Aldridge and Finn Wyatt as they make their way through a reality dating tv show called Mr Right. Leighton and Finn aren’t newbies to the reality dating show scene. They’ve both competed on the show before and ended up on the spin off where they met. They fell in love on the show and got engaged but once the show was over Leighton destroyed the relationship, leaving Finn devastated and angry.
Finn is now the bachelor on the new season of Mr Right, he’s ready to try and move on from Leighton and find another woman to love but what he doesn’t expect is for Leighton to show up and be one of the women trying to win his attention on the show. Leighton has regretted the decision she made ever since the day it destroyed her relationship and she's ready to try and win Finn back. The producers of Mr Right think that her being back will bring in the views the show needs but Leighton couldn't careless about the views, she just wants Finn to realise that they are meant to be together. What she doesn't expect is her nerve to start slipping when Finn is angry and doesn’t want to see her. She’s ready to put her heart on the line in front of the whole nation to prove to him that she is the one for him.
I haven’t read a book with this premise before and I don’t watch reality dating shows but Kissed by Reality was a great read for me and the whole story made me feel like I was actually on the set of the show. I loved learning about the behind the scenes of the show and how the producers had a part in how the public saw certain people and how they manipulated how the show played out. Hearing what happened between Leighton and Finn was so interesting and made me feel exactly what each of them were feeling at that time. The angst wasn’t over the top and it was good enough that it kept you turning the page and getting excited to know what happens next. I read this book in about three hours because I couldn’t put it down. The sexy times between Finn and Leighton were hot. The development between them made it easy to relate and when it was finally revealed what had caused them to break up I was shocked. I was so excited for their reconciliation at the ending so when that last hurdle came I was feeling everything the characters were feeling like I was there. By the time the book finished I was happy for them like they were my friends.
I really loved this story and I could really relate to the characters and feel all the emotions that they were feeling. Carrie Aaron’s has written an amazing story that had be flicking the pages quickly to see what happened next.
*ARC received from Give Me Books in exchange for an honest review*
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