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Hermosa Beach #1
Promise Me Nothing
Wyatt Calloway isn’t a good idea.
I didn’t pick up my life and move to this urban beach city to spend my days swooning over a rich bad boy who rides a motorcycle and seems to know every girl in town. I’m here to get to know the brother I’ve never met. To try and create a family when I’ve gone so long without one. Maybe find a place where I belong. So why can’t I seem to get him off my mind?
Hannah Morrison isn’t a good idea.
I’m back in town just for the summer, and my priorities are to spend time with my little sister, check in with my family, and make sure things aren’t really as bad as they seem. But somehow, the new girl becomes my focus. She’s got a heaping ton of baggage, and she doesn’t understand why she’s really here. But I’ll do anything to make her feel like she belongs. Even give her promises I’m not sure I can keep.
Welcome to Hermosa Beach.
I didn’t pick up my life and move to this urban beach city to spend my days swooning over a rich bad boy who rides a motorcycle and seems to know every girl in town. I’m here to get to know the brother I’ve never met. To try and create a family when I’ve gone so long without one. Maybe find a place where I belong. So why can’t I seem to get him off my mind?
Hannah Morrison isn’t a good idea.
I’m back in town just for the summer, and my priorities are to spend time with my little sister, check in with my family, and make sure things aren’t really as bad as they seem. But somehow, the new girl becomes my focus. She’s got a heaping ton of baggage, and she doesn’t understand why she’s really here. But I’ll do anything to make her feel like she belongs. Even give her promises I’m not sure I can keep.
Welcome to Hermosa Beach.
389 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 17, 2019
311 people are currently reading
772 people want to read
About the author
Jillian Liota
34 books441 followersJillian Liota is a Southern California native currently living in Kailua, Hawaii. She is married to her best friend, has a three-legged pup with endless energy, and acts as a servant to two very temperamental cats.
Jillian writes contemporary and new adult romance, and her books have been praised for depth of character, strong female friendships, deliciously steamy scenes, and positive portrayal of mental health.
She has a master’s in Higher Education and Student Affairs, and she is passionate about all things improvement, development and organization.
She’s also a big fan of taking walks with her husband, reading romance, watching a handful of horrible reality TV shows, and exploring the island she calls home.
Jillian writes contemporary and new adult romance, and her books have been praised for depth of character, strong female friendships, deliciously steamy scenes, and positive portrayal of mental health.
She has a master’s in Higher Education and Student Affairs, and she is passionate about all things improvement, development and organization.
She’s also a big fan of taking walks with her husband, reading romance, watching a handful of horrible reality TV shows, and exploring the island she calls home.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 93 reviews
July 6, 2019
Hello new series by Jillian Liota, I'm happy to see you! Hermosa Beach #1 was a contemporary romance with something of a NA feel. By the end, I still wasn't sure which genre I would categorise it as, but that didn't really bother me because I enjoyed the vibe of the story and characters.
PROMISE ME NOTHING was unexpected in a few ways. Firstly, the lead protagonist, Hannah is a closed-off young woman with a rough life in her past. She was flung into the lifestyle of the rich and occasionally famous as she was reunited with a previously unknown family member. Hannah was endearing from the start, with little trust to bestow and yet a heart with a small crack open to those around her; she drew me in. Secondly, this story had unexpected twists, twists I'm going to tell you nothing about, so that you can find it all out for yourself.
Family was central to this tale and I really enjoyed Hannah opening herself slowly and carefully to family, friends and just a little bit of fun. The'just a little bit of fun' came in the shape of Wyatt, 'Pier Boy'. He was kind of scrumptious, a little moody, a lot entitled but with a down-to-earth nature (think The OC). There's nothing simple about the connection between these two but the chemistry. I can say that of all Jillian Liota's books I've read, this was the hottest and she wrote that aspect really well.
This read is a little bit angsty, a little bit twisty and a whole lot unputdownable. I'm looking forward to more from this context and characters. I highly recommend this read and considering it's set in a beach town, this would be perfect as a beach or holiday read. Go get!
I voluntarily read an early copy from the author and the review can be found on the blog here .
PROMISE ME NOTHING was unexpected in a few ways. Firstly, the lead protagonist, Hannah is a closed-off young woman with a rough life in her past. She was flung into the lifestyle of the rich and occasionally famous as she was reunited with a previously unknown family member. Hannah was endearing from the start, with little trust to bestow and yet a heart with a small crack open to those around her; she drew me in. Secondly, this story had unexpected twists, twists I'm going to tell you nothing about, so that you can find it all out for yourself.
Family was central to this tale and I really enjoyed Hannah opening herself slowly and carefully to family, friends and just a little bit of fun. The'just a little bit of fun' came in the shape of Wyatt, 'Pier Boy'. He was kind of scrumptious, a little moody, a lot entitled but with a down-to-earth nature (think The OC). There's nothing simple about the connection between these two but the chemistry. I can say that of all Jillian Liota's books I've read, this was the hottest and she wrote that aspect really well.
This read is a little bit angsty, a little bit twisty and a whole lot unputdownable. I'm looking forward to more from this context and characters. I highly recommend this read and considering it's set in a beach town, this would be perfect as a beach or holiday read. Go get!
I voluntarily read an early copy from the author and the review can be found on the blog here .
December 24, 2020
‧͙⁺˚*･༓☾☆ 3.5 stars ☆☽༓･*˚⁺‧͙
This was kinda weird. I liked it, but the pacing was weird. It's not written in the same formula or pattern most books are written in. I'm getting used to Jillian's writing and I like it!!
What I liked:
-Ivy! She was the sweetest.
-The relationship between Hannah and Wyatt once they started going out on dates, that was the sweetest thing ever. The first interactions are also so natural and sweet.
-It felt magical at some point. Wyatt really started to care for her and I just, ugh. My heart felt full.
-How Hannah really tried and developed a relationship with Lucas.
-The writing and how well-described everything was.
-When Hannah finds out it's oh so painful. But I appreciate the emotional bit. It added substance to the story.
What I didn't like:
-How almost half the story was about Hannah getting used to California. I think the romance started waay too late in the story.
-The big secret was revealed like 40% into the story. I felt pretty bad when I found out because Hannah's relationships with Lucas and Wyatt was advancing and I just couldn't appreciate everything because the secret was hanging in there.
-There's a point where Wyatt had a lot of things happening to him, I felt the pressure and wanted to curl up in a ball and cry, but I felt unfulfilled at how he handled it. It was pretty much brushed under the rug. His stuff felt unresolved at the end. It ended too quickly after the thing with Hannah resolved.
-I really got frustrated when Hannah kept bringing her past and her "I don't belong here" thing, it felt very repetitive and I wanted to see her grow. When someone points out that she keeps bringing that up, the story is almost over, so I didn't really get to see the character development.
-HATED what Wyatt says to Lucas. The "used" thing. HATED THAT.
It looks like I didn't really like it, but I swear I did. This was nice!!
This was kinda weird. I liked it, but the pacing was weird. It's not written in the same formula or pattern most books are written in. I'm getting used to Jillian's writing and I like it!!
What I liked:
-Ivy! She was the sweetest.
-The relationship between Hannah and Wyatt once they started going out on dates, that was the sweetest thing ever. The first interactions are also so natural and sweet.
-It felt magical at some point. Wyatt really started to care for her and I just, ugh. My heart felt full.
-How Hannah really tried and developed a relationship with Lucas.
-The writing and how well-described everything was.
-When Hannah finds out it's oh so painful. But I appreciate the emotional bit. It added substance to the story.
What I didn't like:
-How almost half the story was about Hannah getting used to California. I think the romance started waay too late in the story.
-The big secret was revealed like 40% into the story. I felt pretty bad when I found out because Hannah's relationships with Lucas and Wyatt was advancing and I just couldn't appreciate everything because the secret was hanging in there.
-There's a point where Wyatt had a lot of things happening to him, I felt the pressure and wanted to curl up in a ball and cry, but I felt unfulfilled at how he handled it. It was pretty much brushed under the rug. His stuff felt unresolved at the end. It ended too quickly after the thing with Hannah resolved.
-I really got frustrated when Hannah kept bringing her past and her "I don't belong here" thing, it felt very repetitive and I wanted to see her grow. When someone points out that she keeps bringing that up, the story is almost over, so I didn't really get to see the character development.
-HATED what Wyatt says to Lucas. The "used" thing. HATED THAT.
It looks like I didn't really like it, but I swear I did. This was nice!!
June 12, 2019
[I received a digital arc for an honest review]
Promise Me Nothing the newest release by Jillian Liota brings us the emotional story of a woman trying to find where she belongs.
Hannah Morrison has lost the only family she knew and had it far from easy living in the foster cafe system. She has survived sexual abuse and homelessness but when she discovers she has a half brother she sees it as a sign that its time for a change and maybe there's a light at the end of the tunnel. Moving from Arizona to California to get to know her last chance at family she is thrown into a world far different from the one she knew. When she meets Wyatt Calloway and grows a strong connection with him she feels like she finally might belong. But before she knows it, it's ripped away, by lies and deceit from those around her.
"I know there's a storm coming our way. Something intense and painful and .. I feel helpless to stop it."
Hannah is such a complex and well-developed character. She came to life and I felt all her struggles, fears and hopes. You can't help but root for her and want her to find a place where she feels she belongs. I loved how down to earth and honest she was in her interactions with the people she meets and with her half brother. Sadly, I didn't bond as well with Wyatt's character , he fell a little flat for me, and I had trouble picturing him at times. However, I really enjoyed them together. They built a great friendship, took their relationship slow and you could tell how much they cared for one another. I really appreciated Wyatt's hesitancy to take the physical aspect of their relationship further because of the secrets he was keeping.
"I can't help myself when it comes to Hannah. I feel drawn to her, on a visceral level. I love when she smiles. I love making her smile."
The story has a setting that comes alive, I am dying to go to the beach after reading it and enjoy the summer with bonfires and days by the pool. It also has a fantastic group of supporting characters, I wouldn't mind a day spent with friends like Paige and Eleanor. Wyatt's sister is a sweetheart and Hannah's brother Lucas' is fun-loving and means well.
Overall, Promise Me Nothing is a wonderful contemporary romance. A slow burn that focus' on finding yourself and the relationships we build. I always enjoy Jillian Liota's stories and can't wait for her future releases.
"Us meeting here is a meet-cute, but the fact we're both here is Kismet. Fate."
"Stay so I can show you how beautiful it can be when someone loves you the way you deserve."
Promise Me Nothing the newest release by Jillian Liota brings us the emotional story of a woman trying to find where she belongs.
Hannah Morrison has lost the only family she knew and had it far from easy living in the foster cafe system. She has survived sexual abuse and homelessness but when she discovers she has a half brother she sees it as a sign that its time for a change and maybe there's a light at the end of the tunnel. Moving from Arizona to California to get to know her last chance at family she is thrown into a world far different from the one she knew. When she meets Wyatt Calloway and grows a strong connection with him she feels like she finally might belong. But before she knows it, it's ripped away, by lies and deceit from those around her.
"I know there's a storm coming our way. Something intense and painful and .. I feel helpless to stop it."
Hannah is such a complex and well-developed character. She came to life and I felt all her struggles, fears and hopes. You can't help but root for her and want her to find a place where she feels she belongs. I loved how down to earth and honest she was in her interactions with the people she meets and with her half brother. Sadly, I didn't bond as well with Wyatt's character , he fell a little flat for me, and I had trouble picturing him at times. However, I really enjoyed them together. They built a great friendship, took their relationship slow and you could tell how much they cared for one another. I really appreciated Wyatt's hesitancy to take the physical aspect of their relationship further because of the secrets he was keeping.
"I can't help myself when it comes to Hannah. I feel drawn to her, on a visceral level. I love when she smiles. I love making her smile."
The story has a setting that comes alive, I am dying to go to the beach after reading it and enjoy the summer with bonfires and days by the pool. It also has a fantastic group of supporting characters, I wouldn't mind a day spent with friends like Paige and Eleanor. Wyatt's sister is a sweetheart and Hannah's brother Lucas' is fun-loving and means well.
Overall, Promise Me Nothing is a wonderful contemporary romance. A slow burn that focus' on finding yourself and the relationships we build. I always enjoy Jillian Liota's stories and can't wait for her future releases.
"Us meeting here is a meet-cute, but the fact we're both here is Kismet. Fate."
"Stay so I can show you how beautiful it can be when someone loves you the way you deserve."
June 27, 2019
This one began on somewhat shaky ground as it reminded me of a updated version of 90210/The OC, but in the end, I found myself completely immersed. Yes, there is some cliche SoCal drama, but the overall flow of the book is engaging and addictive. There is even a little mystery added into the mix. Hannah is the fierce NA heroine I enjoy reading about, and I admired her immensely. (Okay, I am little biased for an AZ girl, but she is equal parts tough and vulnerable.) There's a slow burning romance, but I enjoyed the family/acceptance theme just as much. Even though it's not currently marked, I assume this is going to be a series? I am intrigued by Paige and Ben and hope there's more to come. Another well done book by Liota.
February 1, 2020
I’m going to be honest...I didn’t read the blurb going into this one. And I wasn’t sure what to expect. But I fell in love with this story.
Hannah has a very humbling outlook on life. Her backstory leading up to this time in her life wasn’t easy to read but it was absolutely necessary to make her the person she is. I love her realistic but compassionate attitude.
Lucas almost broke my heart. When the truth came out about who Hannah was, I was so worried for her that this was a big scheme. And while it wasn’t a fairytale, I’m glad it wasn’t what I thought. He’s so genuine and lovable. The perfect big brother for Hannah!
& then there’s Wyatt...oh what a beautiful man. He isn’t a saint by any means but the way he sees Hannah and respects her...he’s perfect for her. He was always so aware of her feelings and her boundaries.
Ivy isn’t going to be forgotten either. I love her! She is wise beyond her years and makes the most of her situation.
I just love everything about this book!
All the characters were well developed. The setting could be pictured so easily. Makes me wanna take a trip to California!
I don’t want to say my expectations weren’t high going into this one, I just didn’t really have any. But WOW. It would’ve blown them out of the water. This story tugged at my heartstrings. Sad tears, happy tears, a lot of swoon that just made me smile. I cannot wait to start Lucas’ story!
Hannah has a very humbling outlook on life. Her backstory leading up to this time in her life wasn’t easy to read but it was absolutely necessary to make her the person she is. I love her realistic but compassionate attitude.
Lucas almost broke my heart. When the truth came out about who Hannah was, I was so worried for her that this was a big scheme. And while it wasn’t a fairytale, I’m glad it wasn’t what I thought. He’s so genuine and lovable. The perfect big brother for Hannah!
& then there’s Wyatt...oh what a beautiful man. He isn’t a saint by any means but the way he sees Hannah and respects her...he’s perfect for her. He was always so aware of her feelings and her boundaries.
Ivy isn’t going to be forgotten either. I love her! She is wise beyond her years and makes the most of her situation.
I just love everything about this book!
All the characters were well developed. The setting could be pictured so easily. Makes me wanna take a trip to California!
I don’t want to say my expectations weren’t high going into this one, I just didn’t really have any. But WOW. It would’ve blown them out of the water. This story tugged at my heartstrings. Sad tears, happy tears, a lot of swoon that just made me smile. I cannot wait to start Lucas’ story!
June 11, 2019
"She's pure. A beautiful, enchanting ray of sunshine breaking through the cracks of the tangled web that we live in. And like a moth, I am drawn to her, unable to see anything but that light."
Sweet with a whole lot of story!! The town of Hermosa Beach is decadent and affluent and terrifying for Hannah, who grew up in Foster Care and has seen more tragedy than most. Struggling to find her place, a chance meeting that grows in an achingly slow burn that didn't set fire to my kindle until about 60% in, but once it did, I couldn't get enough!! Finding herself, finding love, finding her place in the world all swirled together with secrets being revealed and bombshells being dropped. It was refreshing to see a more realistic relationship progression, slowly pulling the reader in all the while. All in all, a worthwhile escape in my reading chair!! I thank the Author for providing me a copy to review!!
~~~Erika, Book Haven Book Blog
Sweet with a whole lot of story!! The town of Hermosa Beach is decadent and affluent and terrifying for Hannah, who grew up in Foster Care and has seen more tragedy than most. Struggling to find her place, a chance meeting that grows in an achingly slow burn that didn't set fire to my kindle until about 60% in, but once it did, I couldn't get enough!! Finding herself, finding love, finding her place in the world all swirled together with secrets being revealed and bombshells being dropped. It was refreshing to see a more realistic relationship progression, slowly pulling the reader in all the while. All in all, a worthwhile escape in my reading chair!! I thank the Author for providing me a copy to review!!
~~~Erika, Book Haven Book Blog
June 21, 2022
4.5 stars
The first book in the Hermosa Beach series, this is a dramatic and beautifully emotional story with wonderful characters and an opposites-attract romance that completely owned my heart. I loved it!
Hannah’s idyllic childhood came to an abrupt end when her parents died. She went into the foster system until her beloved older brother became old enough to become her legal guardian, but his tragic death when she was 12 meant that she was all alone in the world, trapped at the mercy of whichever foster parents she happened to be housed with. Now she’s 20 years old and still struggling to find her feet and make a connection with somebody. So when she receives a message from someone who tells her that he is her half-brother and he invites her to his home in Hermosa Beach for the summer, she is just desperate enough to go, and she soon discovers a world that she never could have imagined.
Her brother, Lucas, is wealthy… ridiculously wealthy, and though he is the product of an affair between his mother and Hannah’s father, he welcomes Hannah with open arms into his home, introduces her to his friends, and supports her as she finds a job and tries to figure out where her life is going.
Wyatt is a good friend of Lucas’ and a Hermosa Beach local, but he has been living away from home for a few years. Now he’s back in town to catch up with friends and spend time with his younger sister, and all it takes is one look at the new arrival in town for him to be completely smitten. Things don’t go according to plan when Hannah is instantly dismissive, and then when he learns that she is Lucas’ sister, it complicates things a bit, but he can’t stay away from her. He knows she has had a difficult life, and that all she has been through has left emotional scars, but nothing can stand in the way of all that he’s feeling.
I loved watching Hannah and Wyatt come together. He’s so gentle with her – he moves slowly, not rushing anything, but at the same time he doesn’t hide the way he feels. He’s there for her in all the ways, supporting her and encouraging her to come out of her shell and start to live, and their romance is so gorgeous.
At the same time, Hannah is building a relationship with her brother, and she’s making friends of her own, and I loved seeing her find her strength and embrace her new life. You can see the shift in her as she finds her confidence, her sense of humour starts to come through more and more as she teases and jokes around, and I loved seeing her start to flourish.
But the people that she is coming to care so much for have a secret, and it’s one that has the potential to shatter the delicate trust that she has built. It’s heartbreakingly emotional, and I loved that even though we sort of knew where the story was going, the way it unfolds was not predictable, and I read with my emotions completely caught up, desperate for Hannah and Wyatt to find their happy ending.
I loved this book. It’s beautifully written, and the romance is sweet and sexy with so much heart. I was so easily swept up in it all. In the midst of all of the emotion we’re introduced to a big group of family and friends on Hermosa Beach, and there are some really intriguing characters and complex dynamics there. I’m really looking forward to getting to know them more as the series continues.
Such a gorgeous read – 4.5 stars.
Review Copy generously provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.
The first book in the Hermosa Beach series, this is a dramatic and beautifully emotional story with wonderful characters and an opposites-attract romance that completely owned my heart. I loved it!
Hannah’s idyllic childhood came to an abrupt end when her parents died. She went into the foster system until her beloved older brother became old enough to become her legal guardian, but his tragic death when she was 12 meant that she was all alone in the world, trapped at the mercy of whichever foster parents she happened to be housed with. Now she’s 20 years old and still struggling to find her feet and make a connection with somebody. So when she receives a message from someone who tells her that he is her half-brother and he invites her to his home in Hermosa Beach for the summer, she is just desperate enough to go, and she soon discovers a world that she never could have imagined.
Her brother, Lucas, is wealthy… ridiculously wealthy, and though he is the product of an affair between his mother and Hannah’s father, he welcomes Hannah with open arms into his home, introduces her to his friends, and supports her as she finds a job and tries to figure out where her life is going.
Everything about my life screams that I’m lacking in the things Lucas seems to have in abundance.
Like money. Confidence. Complete comfort in his own skin and a belief that he deserves to take up space in this world.
Wyatt is a good friend of Lucas’ and a Hermosa Beach local, but he has been living away from home for a few years. Now he’s back in town to catch up with friends and spend time with his younger sister, and all it takes is one look at the new arrival in town for him to be completely smitten. Things don’t go according to plan when Hannah is instantly dismissive, and then when he learns that she is Lucas’ sister, it complicates things a bit, but he can’t stay away from her. He knows she has had a difficult life, and that all she has been through has left emotional scars, but nothing can stand in the way of all that he’s feeling.
I also wonder if I’ll ever recover from the way she makes me feel when she looks at me with those soft eyes that are both so world-weary and so trusting at the same time.
I loved watching Hannah and Wyatt come together. He’s so gentle with her – he moves slowly, not rushing anything, but at the same time he doesn’t hide the way he feels. He’s there for her in all the ways, supporting her and encouraging her to come out of her shell and start to live, and their romance is so gorgeous.
“If I know anything about you, he adds, his hand holding me lightly at the side of my neck, his fingers singeing my skin, “it’s that you’re probably deserving of an amazingly happy life more than most people I know.”
He makes me feel precious, treasured, like I’m something priceless that he needs to protect.
And it’s one of the most beautiful things I’ve felt.
At the same time, Hannah is building a relationship with her brother, and she’s making friends of her own, and I loved seeing her find her strength and embrace her new life. You can see the shift in her as she finds her confidence, her sense of humour starts to come through more and more as she teases and jokes around, and I loved seeing her start to flourish.
But the people that she is coming to care so much for have a secret, and it’s one that has the potential to shatter the delicate trust that she has built. It’s heartbreakingly emotional, and I loved that even though we sort of knew where the story was going, the way it unfolds was not predictable, and I read with my emotions completely caught up, desperate for Hannah and Wyatt to find their happy ending.
“Do you have any idea what I feel when I look at you? How enraptured I am with you?”
I loved this book. It’s beautifully written, and the romance is sweet and sexy with so much heart. I was so easily swept up in it all. In the midst of all of the emotion we’re introduced to a big group of family and friends on Hermosa Beach, and there are some really intriguing characters and complex dynamics there. I’m really looking forward to getting to know them more as the series continues.
Such a gorgeous read – 4.5 stars.
Review Copy generously provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.
June 10, 2019
So many secrets!!! This series is going to be full of them, I can tell already. I need book two. I need to know what the hell is going on in this town! Wyatt's dad is a dickhole, and I hope he gets what's coming to him.
The author had me hooked with the phrase "new girl in town". I'm a sucker for a new girl (or guy) coming in town. I can't help it. :D However, this book was nothing like I expected from your usual "new girl in town" meets rich dude. There's none of that "My town, my rules" stuff or "go back to the trailerpark" bullying. These rich kids are nice. Poor rich kids, they have such a stereotype in the romance world.
Wyatt's letter/grovel was probably the sweetest thing I've read all year. Hashtag swoon.
I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book in exchange for a review.
The author had me hooked with the phrase "new girl in town". I'm a sucker for a new girl (or guy) coming in town. I can't help it. :D However, this book was nothing like I expected from your usual "new girl in town" meets rich dude. There's none of that "My town, my rules" stuff or "go back to the trailerpark" bullying. These rich kids are nice. Poor rich kids, they have such a stereotype in the romance world.
Wyatt's letter/grovel was probably the sweetest thing I've read all year. Hashtag swoon.
I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book in exchange for a review.
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June 15, 2019
Hannah was alone, she had lost all of her family or so she thought. One little notification forever changed her life, but was it for the best? Will she be able to make a new life for herself?
This story had secrets galore and was a tangled web.
Hannah has experienced a lot in her young life. Given her experiences her fears are normal and felt real. She didn’t feel like she belonged anywhere. She was always seen as the outcast no matter where she was living.
Wyatt, I still don’t know how I feel about him. I honestly couldn’t connect with him as a character and there was something about him that just always felt off to me. Though, I did love what he did for Hannah at the end, it was super sweet and touching. His love for Ivy was also another thing about him I did enjoy. He was the protective and loving big brother and would do ANYTHING for his baby sister.
Hannah and Wyatt together had chemistry and their relationship had a SLOW start. Of course, Wyatt wasn’t sure if he she get involved his Hannah knowing what he knew about her past and the things that he was keeping from her.
I LOVED Ivy, Paige and Eleanor and honestly would just love to spend time with them. They seemed so real and genuine compared to several other of the secondary characters. They really made the story for me and added so much for me.
Jillian painted such a vivid picture of the town, of Lucas’s house and pretty much every scene. It was so easy to visual the entire town of Hermosa Beach and feel like you were right there in the story.
Overall, this story was enjoyable and is a great summer read!
This story had secrets galore and was a tangled web.
Hannah has experienced a lot in her young life. Given her experiences her fears are normal and felt real. She didn’t feel like she belonged anywhere. She was always seen as the outcast no matter where she was living.
Wyatt, I still don’t know how I feel about him. I honestly couldn’t connect with him as a character and there was something about him that just always felt off to me. Though, I did love what he did for Hannah at the end, it was super sweet and touching. His love for Ivy was also another thing about him I did enjoy. He was the protective and loving big brother and would do ANYTHING for his baby sister.
Hannah and Wyatt together had chemistry and their relationship had a SLOW start. Of course, Wyatt wasn’t sure if he she get involved his Hannah knowing what he knew about her past and the things that he was keeping from her.
I LOVED Ivy, Paige and Eleanor and honestly would just love to spend time with them. They seemed so real and genuine compared to several other of the secondary characters. They really made the story for me and added so much for me.
Jillian painted such a vivid picture of the town, of Lucas’s house and pretty much every scene. It was so easy to visual the entire town of Hermosa Beach and feel like you were right there in the story.
Overall, this story was enjoyable and is a great summer read!
June 29, 2019
3.5 stars. This is a story about a girl trying to find her place in the world and ultimately trying to find family... which is so much more than blood, sometimes it’s about the family you choose.
I loved that Hannah was able to be vulnerable even with all she’s been through. She hasn’t been dealt the best hand, but has made the most of it and really just wanted to find people who wouldn’t let her down.
Wyatt was... I don’t know. Something about him doesn’t sit well with me after reading it. Could a self-absorbed rich kid really change that much in the matter of weeks? Did he even change?
I think what he (and Lucas) was reprehensible and honestly I think she forgave both of them way, way too soon which was a big knock for me. You had this huge life-altering secret that showed your foundation was built on a pile of lies but one letter and all is forgiven? It was like the word count was hit so let’s wrap everything up with a bow. It wasn’t realistic and I didn’t like how it made Hannah seem like a doormat when her character was so much more.
I loved that Hannah was able to be vulnerable even with all she’s been through. She hasn’t been dealt the best hand, but has made the most of it and really just wanted to find people who wouldn’t let her down.
Wyatt was... I don’t know. Something about him doesn’t sit well with me after reading it. Could a self-absorbed rich kid really change that much in the matter of weeks? Did he even change?
I think what he (and Lucas) was reprehensible and honestly I think she forgave both of them way, way too soon which was a big knock for me. You had this huge life-altering secret that showed your foundation was built on a pile of lies but one letter and all is forgiven? It was like the word count was hit so let’s wrap everything up with a bow. It wasn’t realistic and I didn’t like how it made Hannah seem like a doormat when her character was so much more.
June 10, 2019
I received an ARC from the author and I am happy to give my honest review.
I ran across Jillian Liota's works by accident and have loved everything I've read from her. I was a little hesitant to accept an ARC for Promise Me Nothing, not because I don't love her but because New Adult isn't my cup of tea. But I downloaded it and then stayed up until 2:30am to finish this book. It was good and held my interest and all of the things I want/need from a book.
Hannah is an orphan with no living family. She aged out of the foster care system and had lived with friends while trying to make her new life in Phoenix. She discovers a half brother named Lucas unexpectedly and the stars aligned for her to stay with him in California for the summer. So she hops on a bus and doesn't look back.
There's something going on here, though. Lucas is uber rich and lives in a huge house on the beach. His friends are uber rich and live on even bigger houses on the beach. Hannah doesn't belong but "smiles softly" (some derivative is mentioned over 200 times) while she starts a new waitressing job and doesn't really spend any time with her brother. He's busy with his friends but keeps pushing his close friend Wyatt at her. They become friends and slowly fall into kissing and romance. Except he doesn't want to and keeps pushing her away. I was hooked - I needed to know what was going on with Lucas, Wyatt and his sister Ivy. So much mysteriousness but I won't ruin the plot here.
Again, New Adult isn't my thing. I'm in my 30's and far enough away from my college days that I don't really care to read about their problems. I seriously wish my only issues were what party to go to tonight and if I'll be able to make Monday's brunch. I didn't connect with Lucas because he didn't really make an effort with Hannah (explained in the book so I can kind of forgive it) and Wyatt had his own issues going on that I kept thinking "Spend time with your family and forget about the girl!" In the end I think Hannah made the right decision but I wish her heart hadn't needed to be completely broken to get there.
Check this out if you like the summer beach, college parties, discovered half siblings, and jaded obscenely rich gossipers. It's always a good day when I can read a Jillian Liota book, even if it's not a genre I usually like.
I ran across Jillian Liota's works by accident and have loved everything I've read from her. I was a little hesitant to accept an ARC for Promise Me Nothing, not because I don't love her but because New Adult isn't my cup of tea. But I downloaded it and then stayed up until 2:30am to finish this book. It was good and held my interest and all of the things I want/need from a book.
Hannah is an orphan with no living family. She aged out of the foster care system and had lived with friends while trying to make her new life in Phoenix. She discovers a half brother named Lucas unexpectedly and the stars aligned for her to stay with him in California for the summer. So she hops on a bus and doesn't look back.
There's something going on here, though. Lucas is uber rich and lives in a huge house on the beach. His friends are uber rich and live on even bigger houses on the beach. Hannah doesn't belong but "smiles softly" (some derivative is mentioned over 200 times) while she starts a new waitressing job and doesn't really spend any time with her brother. He's busy with his friends but keeps pushing his close friend Wyatt at her. They become friends and slowly fall into kissing and romance. Except he doesn't want to and keeps pushing her away. I was hooked - I needed to know what was going on with Lucas, Wyatt and his sister Ivy. So much mysteriousness but I won't ruin the plot here.
Again, New Adult isn't my thing. I'm in my 30's and far enough away from my college days that I don't really care to read about their problems. I seriously wish my only issues were what party to go to tonight and if I'll be able to make Monday's brunch. I didn't connect with Lucas because he didn't really make an effort with Hannah (explained in the book so I can kind of forgive it) and Wyatt had his own issues going on that I kept thinking "Spend time with your family and forget about the girl!" In the end I think Hannah made the right decision but I wish her heart hadn't needed to be completely broken to get there.
Check this out if you like the summer beach, college parties, discovered half siblings, and jaded obscenely rich gossipers. It's always a good day when I can read a Jillian Liota book, even if it's not a genre I usually like.
June 9, 2019
From the very first sentence, I was enthralled by “Promise Me Nothing.” It drew me in and never let go. Hannah is super relatable. She is quiet, somewhat awkward and easily embarrassed, and a bit of a mess. She is also incredibly thoughtful and kind. I adored her immediately. And Wyatt! Motorcycles are totally my weakness, so of course I was a fan. The connection between the two of them was strong from the beginning. And it only gets hotter as things progress. Like, on fire! I mean, talk about steamy!
While the book was definitely a romance, it wasn’t the whole story. Hannah’s relationship with Lucas is also a major theme, as well as with Ivy and some of her other friends. We also see Wyatt’s family drama. Often times, characters outside of the main couple can feel like side characters, but here they were a big part of the story. Characters were very well developed.
Having all this take place at the beach was so perfect, too. The book really transported me. I could practically see and hear and even smell the ocean. It was a place I didn’t ever want to leave. In fact, the whole book was hard to let go of. It took me a couple days to get over it enough to be able to start reading another one.
Highly recommend to anyone looking for a super steamy, drama-filled beach read with all the feels.
While the book was definitely a romance, it wasn’t the whole story. Hannah’s relationship with Lucas is also a major theme, as well as with Ivy and some of her other friends. We also see Wyatt’s family drama. Often times, characters outside of the main couple can feel like side characters, but here they were a big part of the story. Characters were very well developed.
Having all this take place at the beach was so perfect, too. The book really transported me. I could practically see and hear and even smell the ocean. It was a place I didn’t ever want to leave. In fact, the whole book was hard to let go of. It took me a couple days to get over it enough to be able to start reading another one.
Highly recommend to anyone looking for a super steamy, drama-filled beach read with all the feels.
June 15, 2019
This is my first time reading a book by this author. Beautiful cover, beautiful characters and a beautiful story. I so wish Ivy a beautiful outcome. I’m so happy for Hannah and her HEA... I’d love to see an even further out Epilogue of her HEA.
The story had a perfect balance of intrigue and emotion. I’m excited to read other books by this author.
The story had a perfect balance of intrigue and emotion. I’m excited to read other books by this author.
June 6, 2019
THE GUIDE TO ROMANCE NOVELS REVIEW
Not my first review, Jillian was a very new to me author last year & quickly became one I couldn't resist to read! This is more a young and fresh read for me (if you knew me you'd understand) but I gave this a try!
The book started off a little slow for me, but it picked right back up into chapter 2. Hannah is a 21 year old lost soul, lost because she isn't really sure what, where, who or when! She is back home for the summer and searching....This is a little bit of a different read for me, because the characters are very young. Luckily they are mature and the story has so much depth in it, i was not expecting that. The events, the scenes are each on it's own great, I really enjoyed the scenery and how much Jillian puts effort in the details of the surroundings in this one. The side-characters were great to read, and of course our hero and heroine...gosh their chemistry, so much for sticking to the plan of 'i wont go there'.
Great and easy read, a lot of fun to read!
Rating: 4.5
Steamy: ♨♨♨
Recommended? ☑
↪H A P P Y - R E A D I N G↩
Not my first review, Jillian was a very new to me author last year & quickly became one I couldn't resist to read! This is more a young and fresh read for me (if you knew me you'd understand) but I gave this a try!
The book started off a little slow for me, but it picked right back up into chapter 2. Hannah is a 21 year old lost soul, lost because she isn't really sure what, where, who or when! She is back home for the summer and searching....This is a little bit of a different read for me, because the characters are very young. Luckily they are mature and the story has so much depth in it, i was not expecting that. The events, the scenes are each on it's own great, I really enjoyed the scenery and how much Jillian puts effort in the details of the surroundings in this one. The side-characters were great to read, and of course our hero and heroine...gosh their chemistry, so much for sticking to the plan of 'i wont go there'.
Great and easy read, a lot of fun to read!
Rating: 4.5
Steamy: ♨♨♨
Recommended? ☑
↪H A P P Y - R E A D I N G↩
June 8, 2019
Overall, this was one of my favorite books I’ve read so far this year. After the first few chapters, I couldn’t put the book down. The author did a great job providing readers the ability to relate to the characters. Highly recommend!
September 5, 2019
Wyatt Calloway isn't a good idea. I didn't pick up my life and move to this urban beach city to spend my days swooning over a rich bad boy who rides a motorcycle and seems to know every girl in town. I'm here to get to know the brother I've never met. To try and create a family when I've gone so long without one. Maybe find a place where I belong. So why can't I seem to get him off my mind?
Hannah Morrison isn't a good idea. I'm back in town just for the summer, and my priorities are to spend time with my little sister, check in with my family, and make sure things aren't really as bad as they seem. But somehow, the new girl becomes my focus. She's got a heaping ton of baggage, and she doesn't understand why she's really here. But I'll do anything to make her feel like she belongs. Even give her promises I'm not sure I can keep.
Welcome to Hermosa Beach.
Promise Me Nothing isn't just a romance. It isn't solely a book focused on Hannah and Wyatt and how they become more tan friends. This is a story about growth. This is a story about Hannah trying to find herself, and trying to connect with a brother she never even knew she had.
Hannah was damaged. You could clearly tell she had been through a lot in her life. She found it hard to trust people, she didn't want to ask anyone for help, and she was desperate to find a connection with some type of family. When she found out she had a step brother it was a blessing in disguise for her, and without much though she packed up to go spend some time with him. Right away, I loved that even though Lucas had a ton of money, she wanted nothing to do with it. She wanted to make her own money, and her own life. I liked her relationship with Lucas, and also the one she started with Ivy, Wyatt's sister. You could tell that she was just looking for somewhere she could fit in and make roots to call home.
Wyatt was complicated, as most fantastic book boyfriends are. He was hiding things, and it made it more difficult for him to keep his secrets when he started to fall for Hannah. Hannah wasn't what he was expecting and I think that threw him for a loop. He was very loyal to his family, most of them anyway. And he would do literally anything for his little sister, Ivy. I loved how much he loved her. It was very endearing.
These two had some major sexual chemistry brewing. I liked that they didn't jump into something right away, but it felt like the perfect build up. Neither one of them was looking for anything, and yet they found each other, and I think it was a nice surprise for them. Wyatt had his secrets, which I will say were pretty big secrets, I wish he would have handled the things he was keeping from Hannah better, but hey, where's the drama in that?
This was my first book from Jillian Liota, but it won't be my last. I loved her writing. It was easy to connect with her characters, and she made me feel like I was right there on the beach with them. It's almost as if I could feel the wind in my hair and my toes in the sand. She's very good at making sure you not only connect with her characters, but with their lives, and their surroundings.
Overall, I'm giving this one 4 STARS. I really enjoyed the story, I connected with the characters, and I was rooting for them all to have a happy ending. I love Jillian's writing, so I will definitely seek her out again in the future.
Check out this review and more on my blog!
https://njpennybookreviews.blogspot.com/
Hannah Morrison isn't a good idea. I'm back in town just for the summer, and my priorities are to spend time with my little sister, check in with my family, and make sure things aren't really as bad as they seem. But somehow, the new girl becomes my focus. She's got a heaping ton of baggage, and she doesn't understand why she's really here. But I'll do anything to make her feel like she belongs. Even give her promises I'm not sure I can keep.
Welcome to Hermosa Beach.
Promise Me Nothing isn't just a romance. It isn't solely a book focused on Hannah and Wyatt and how they become more tan friends. This is a story about growth. This is a story about Hannah trying to find herself, and trying to connect with a brother she never even knew she had.
Hannah was damaged. You could clearly tell she had been through a lot in her life. She found it hard to trust people, she didn't want to ask anyone for help, and she was desperate to find a connection with some type of family. When she found out she had a step brother it was a blessing in disguise for her, and without much though she packed up to go spend some time with him. Right away, I loved that even though Lucas had a ton of money, she wanted nothing to do with it. She wanted to make her own money, and her own life. I liked her relationship with Lucas, and also the one she started with Ivy, Wyatt's sister. You could tell that she was just looking for somewhere she could fit in and make roots to call home.
Wyatt was complicated, as most fantastic book boyfriends are. He was hiding things, and it made it more difficult for him to keep his secrets when he started to fall for Hannah. Hannah wasn't what he was expecting and I think that threw him for a loop. He was very loyal to his family, most of them anyway. And he would do literally anything for his little sister, Ivy. I loved how much he loved her. It was very endearing.
These two had some major sexual chemistry brewing. I liked that they didn't jump into something right away, but it felt like the perfect build up. Neither one of them was looking for anything, and yet they found each other, and I think it was a nice surprise for them. Wyatt had his secrets, which I will say were pretty big secrets, I wish he would have handled the things he was keeping from Hannah better, but hey, where's the drama in that?
This was my first book from Jillian Liota, but it won't be my last. I loved her writing. It was easy to connect with her characters, and she made me feel like I was right there on the beach with them. It's almost as if I could feel the wind in my hair and my toes in the sand. She's very good at making sure you not only connect with her characters, but with their lives, and their surroundings.
Overall, I'm giving this one 4 STARS. I really enjoyed the story, I connected with the characters, and I was rooting for them all to have a happy ending. I love Jillian's writing, so I will definitely seek her out again in the future.
Check out this review and more on my blog!
https://njpennybookreviews.blogspot.com/
June 18, 2019
I'm still struggling to put into words how this book made me feel. If I could give it more than 5 stars, I would! Talk about a twisted, convoluted, heart breaking journey for the heroine Hannah. Her entire life story broke my heart. The difficult situations that she dealt with at such a young age. The loss and loneliness she felt. Her strong and relentless desire to grasp onto anything that could ground her. I adored everything about this independent, selfless, courageous young woman.
Hermosa Beach was suppose to be an opportunity to get away from her drab reality, get to know a family she didn't know existed, have a carefree summer at the beach. But once she stepped foot off that Greyhound bus, nothing would ever be the same. Lucas, her half brother from another mother was a hot shot surfer who lived a life of luxury (a far cry from her foster care upbringing). He had a mansion on the beach, model physique friends, more money than he knew what to do with and not a care in the world. He had everything but the sibling relationship with a little sister he'd never met.
This romance read had my full attention from cover to cover. I was so engrossed in Hannah's story, her navigation of a whole world she didn't feel a part of, her discovery of the secrets her father kept. And then in walks Pier Boy Wyatt and knocks her off her feet and she took me down with her! I was invested in this duo like you wouldn't believe. I wanted so badly for Hannah to finally catch a break. Let the knight on a white horse save her from herself. But Wyatt was not a savior, he was a wolf in in sheep's designer clothing.
Ivy, oh Ivy. You sweet little angel. I adored every scene she was in. Something about her brave little soul had her holding my heart in her hands. Jillian did an incredible job highlighting the struggles Ivy faced, her want for acceptance and inclusion, her love for her family. Gah! She was probably my favorite character in the entire book.
I didn't want to believe the plot of this story. I just didn't want to accept that this was the way the story would end. I literally had to pick my jaw up off the floor and stop to blink a few times. So many secrets, so many lies and so much deceit. I didn't think Hannah, Lucas and Wyatt could recover after a bomb detonated between them.
The ending held me captive. I didn't know if Hannah could recover. If she even wanted to try. The way the author wrapped up the ending of this story was nothing short of amazing. I closed this book with a smile on my face and giddy feelings for what was to come. Let's not forget that this was a love story and it sure had it's hot and steamy moments! The slow burn between Hannah and Wyatt was to die for. The ups and downs were worth the wait.
Hermosa Beach was suppose to be an opportunity to get away from her drab reality, get to know a family she didn't know existed, have a carefree summer at the beach. But once she stepped foot off that Greyhound bus, nothing would ever be the same. Lucas, her half brother from another mother was a hot shot surfer who lived a life of luxury (a far cry from her foster care upbringing). He had a mansion on the beach, model physique friends, more money than he knew what to do with and not a care in the world. He had everything but the sibling relationship with a little sister he'd never met.
This romance read had my full attention from cover to cover. I was so engrossed in Hannah's story, her navigation of a whole world she didn't feel a part of, her discovery of the secrets her father kept. And then in walks Pier Boy Wyatt and knocks her off her feet and she took me down with her! I was invested in this duo like you wouldn't believe. I wanted so badly for Hannah to finally catch a break. Let the knight on a white horse save her from herself. But Wyatt was not a savior, he was a wolf in in sheep's designer clothing.
Ivy, oh Ivy. You sweet little angel. I adored every scene she was in. Something about her brave little soul had her holding my heart in her hands. Jillian did an incredible job highlighting the struggles Ivy faced, her want for acceptance and inclusion, her love for her family. Gah! She was probably my favorite character in the entire book.
I didn't want to believe the plot of this story. I just didn't want to accept that this was the way the story would end. I literally had to pick my jaw up off the floor and stop to blink a few times. So many secrets, so many lies and so much deceit. I didn't think Hannah, Lucas and Wyatt could recover after a bomb detonated between them.
The ending held me captive. I didn't know if Hannah could recover. If she even wanted to try. The way the author wrapped up the ending of this story was nothing short of amazing. I closed this book with a smile on my face and giddy feelings for what was to come. Let's not forget that this was a love story and it sure had it's hot and steamy moments! The slow burn between Hannah and Wyatt was to die for. The ups and downs were worth the wait.
June 10, 2019
4.5 stars.
I loved this book by new-to-me author Jillian Liota!
Hannah has no living family and after ageing out of the foster care system she's been living with a friend until she discovers that she has a half-brother she never knew of. Her brother, Lucas, offers for her to come and stay with him for the summer but she doesn't realise just how rich Lucas and his friends are. She feels like she doesn't belong in their world, yet she tries her best to fit in with the others spending time with Lucas' friends, especially Wyatt.
Wyatt is interested as soon as he meets Hannah, and he doesn't make any effort to hide it, yet when he finds out exactly who she is his whole attitude changes. There is a mysterious element going on here as it's clear that there's something happening between Wyatt and Lucas which leads to Wyatt refusing to be more than friends with Hannah. I was so confused by this aspect and found myself desperate to know what exactly it was that was going on!
I really did love the relationship here though, even when Wyatt tries to push Hannah away it's clear to see that he cares deeply for her and can't fight the attraction he feels. They had a very raw chemistry that was sweet and definitely a bit steamy too!
A large part of this book also talks about the relationship between Hannah and her brother Lucas. I wasn't sure on Lucas for most of this book as considering this is supposed to be a summer for him and Hannah to get to know each other he spends a lot of time away from her so I feel like we never get to know him properly. I would love to know more about him though, as his character was definitely intriguing. There was actually a great host of side characters overall, I especially loved Wyatt's sister Ivy and Lucas' friend Paige.
This was such a fantastic, romantic read which I raced through all in one day. I'd definitely recommend for anyone looking for a sweet, sexy romance and I can't wait to read more from this author!
*ARC copy provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.
I loved this book by new-to-me author Jillian Liota!
Hannah has no living family and after ageing out of the foster care system she's been living with a friend until she discovers that she has a half-brother she never knew of. Her brother, Lucas, offers for her to come and stay with him for the summer but she doesn't realise just how rich Lucas and his friends are. She feels like she doesn't belong in their world, yet she tries her best to fit in with the others spending time with Lucas' friends, especially Wyatt.
Wyatt is interested as soon as he meets Hannah, and he doesn't make any effort to hide it, yet when he finds out exactly who she is his whole attitude changes. There is a mysterious element going on here as it's clear that there's something happening between Wyatt and Lucas which leads to Wyatt refusing to be more than friends with Hannah. I was so confused by this aspect and found myself desperate to know what exactly it was that was going on!
I really did love the relationship here though, even when Wyatt tries to push Hannah away it's clear to see that he cares deeply for her and can't fight the attraction he feels. They had a very raw chemistry that was sweet and definitely a bit steamy too!
A large part of this book also talks about the relationship between Hannah and her brother Lucas. I wasn't sure on Lucas for most of this book as considering this is supposed to be a summer for him and Hannah to get to know each other he spends a lot of time away from her so I feel like we never get to know him properly. I would love to know more about him though, as his character was definitely intriguing. There was actually a great host of side characters overall, I especially loved Wyatt's sister Ivy and Lucas' friend Paige.
This was such a fantastic, romantic read which I raced through all in one day. I'd definitely recommend for anyone looking for a sweet, sexy romance and I can't wait to read more from this author!
*ARC copy provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.
June 17, 2019
This book was a page turner from page one...I literally couldn’t put it down and stayed up way too late reading it all in one night! I love the tension between the two main characters, Hannah and Wyatt and was dying to know all the secrets and mysteries in the book. Strong family and foster themes that show no one’s family is perfect, as well as that sometimes the ones closest to us hurt us the deepest. Heartbreaking, captivating, suspenseful, and oh so satisfying, this book is a summer must read!
I received this book as an advance readers copy in exchange for an honest review.
I received this book as an advance readers copy in exchange for an honest review.
June 17, 2019
This book was full of secrets and I loved it! Hannah moved across the country to find the only family she had left. If the book was just about that I would have loved it, but Romance was added to it and it was amazing! Hannah has her own struggles, stemming from her losses. And while there may have been a few bumps, she didn’t let her past stop her from living happily. This book was great. I can’t wait for Lucas’ book!
June 3, 2019
This book is so much more than a romance. It started off a bit slow but by the second chapter, I was hooked. This story had depth that I wasn't expecting going into it, leaving me wondering what was going to happen next. Such a great read and with this being my first book by this author, I will definitely check out her other books!
June 17, 2019
** I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review. **
Wyatt and Hannah have so much tension from the start. Secrets make that tension even worse! This story was such a page turner with the suspense and mystery behind their relationship! I loved Hannah’s character!
Little Ivy is a doll! I love the inclusion of a Deaf character! The sign language was displayed perfectly in the book!
This book is filled with drama! Hannah does a great job as staying true to herself. She’s an inspiration to us after all that she’s been through!
I can’t wait for book 2!
Wyatt and Hannah have so much tension from the start. Secrets make that tension even worse! This story was such a page turner with the suspense and mystery behind their relationship! I loved Hannah’s character!
Little Ivy is a doll! I love the inclusion of a Deaf character! The sign language was displayed perfectly in the book!
This book is filled with drama! Hannah does a great job as staying true to herself. She’s an inspiration to us after all that she’s been through!
I can’t wait for book 2!
June 17, 2019
** Review to come **
June 19, 2019
So. Angsty. And so, so good! This book will twist you up inside the best of ways. I LOVED Hannah and Wyatt was such a great match for her even though I wanted to kick him a couple of times. Can't wait for the rest of this series!
June 22, 2022
“I can’t help how I feel about her. Can’t make myself stop this endless plummet into something deep and beautiful. That’s what loving her feels like.”
As my first book by this author, Promise Me Nothing has made me an immediate fan of this author! Not only that, this book was such a great kick to the Hermosa Beach series. Usually I tend to stay away from a series. But there’s was something about this book particularly that just sucked me into this world and had me intrigued by these characters. I also love the new girl in town trope, so this book was just my cup of tea.
I had been immediately captivated by Wyatt and Hannah’s story from the first page to the last. I couldn’t get enough of these two. Their journey was filled with plenty of moments that had me crying, smiling, and swooning. But one of the things that I really loved about this book was how relatable these characters were and how these characters dealt with these real life experience. Honestly I thought that it was done so beautifully. Not to mention, this author crafted such a compelling and heartfelt love story that I couldn’t put this book down. Overall, I found this book truly enjoyable and addicting. Promise Me Nothing is the perfect summer read that delves so much deeper than your typical summer romance. You’ll fall in love with Hermosa Beach and it’s wonderful cast of characters!
As my first book by this author, Promise Me Nothing has made me an immediate fan of this author! Not only that, this book was such a great kick to the Hermosa Beach series. Usually I tend to stay away from a series. But there’s was something about this book particularly that just sucked me into this world and had me intrigued by these characters. I also love the new girl in town trope, so this book was just my cup of tea.
I had been immediately captivated by Wyatt and Hannah’s story from the first page to the last. I couldn’t get enough of these two. Their journey was filled with plenty of moments that had me crying, smiling, and swooning. But one of the things that I really loved about this book was how relatable these characters were and how these characters dealt with these real life experience. Honestly I thought that it was done so beautifully. Not to mention, this author crafted such a compelling and heartfelt love story that I couldn’t put this book down. Overall, I found this book truly enjoyable and addicting. Promise Me Nothing is the perfect summer read that delves so much deeper than your typical summer romance. You’ll fall in love with Hermosa Beach and it’s wonderful cast of characters!
July 28, 2019
Promise Me Nothing by Jillian Liota is truly an astounding read. It's an uphill battle through tears and joy that left me an emotional wreck in the end. Jillian is a new author for me and has been completely blown away by her books each time. They are nothing short of amazing. Much like this one, it is filled with bittersweet moments delivered with such raw and honest truths about life, love, and family. It really puts things into a new perspective, especially if you're a realist (like myself).
I would be honest when I say that you won't find too much hot and heavy moments between the hero and the heroine in this book. As I was reading, I wasn't too put off with this, considering I LOVE romance. Instead, the story really reels you in from the start. It sets the mood, the setting, the backgrounds of each character before diving into their relationship. And this is actually a more in-depth approach in getting to know the plot and the characters, that way as I read I wasn't too overloaded with too much information.
Our heroine is Hannah Morrison. She's in a process of moving on with her life after the deaths of her parents and brother. Having lost her family, she's left all alone to fend for herself. But one simple match with a half-brother she never met before found her flying off to spend the summer in the coastal city of Hermosa Beach. Trying to fit in and find her belonging was never an easy task for her and it's something she copes with for as long as she can remember.
Reconnecting with her half-brother might not be that bad of an idea. Except, they live two very different lives. He's born wealthy in this town full of people who share the same legacies. And then, there's Wyatt Calloway. He's all kind of warnings in big bold letters. They spend too much time running into each other and it's clear that they have a certain chemistry that neither one could deny. Both Wyatt and Hannah are carrying their own baggage, and before things get too serious, they need to put aside all the secrets and web of lies they've to build in this not-so-friendly town of Hermosa Beach. Can one summer really change a person's life forever?
I wasn't really expecting anything when I dive head first into this book. But I was really impressed with how Jillian builds the characters. Hannah is her own person. She went through terrible terrible things, but she's a very genuine person in a way. She's very level-headed, likable, and lonely—that much is clear. But she's also very grounded and has rooms for other people in her hearts. I think she has qualities in her character that are rare to find.
Meanwhile, Wyatt is a more rebellious character. He's pissed off at the world—mostly at his parents. But he is also down-to-earth and caring to those he loves. He's struggling to do the right by his family and standing up for them. Given the chance, he's truly a guy that can rely on despite all his flaws.
All in all, this is an incredible summer read. It doesn't focus solely on the romance but also about the bigger scheme of things—but put more heavily on family. If you haven't read anything by Jillian Liota and am intrigued or want to start somewhere but not sure with what, I'd 100% recommend this one.
I would be honest when I say that you won't find too much hot and heavy moments between the hero and the heroine in this book. As I was reading, I wasn't too put off with this, considering I LOVE romance. Instead, the story really reels you in from the start. It sets the mood, the setting, the backgrounds of each character before diving into their relationship. And this is actually a more in-depth approach in getting to know the plot and the characters, that way as I read I wasn't too overloaded with too much information.
Our heroine is Hannah Morrison. She's in a process of moving on with her life after the deaths of her parents and brother. Having lost her family, she's left all alone to fend for herself. But one simple match with a half-brother she never met before found her flying off to spend the summer in the coastal city of Hermosa Beach. Trying to fit in and find her belonging was never an easy task for her and it's something she copes with for as long as she can remember.
Reconnecting with her half-brother might not be that bad of an idea. Except, they live two very different lives. He's born wealthy in this town full of people who share the same legacies. And then, there's Wyatt Calloway. He's all kind of warnings in big bold letters. They spend too much time running into each other and it's clear that they have a certain chemistry that neither one could deny. Both Wyatt and Hannah are carrying their own baggage, and before things get too serious, they need to put aside all the secrets and web of lies they've to build in this not-so-friendly town of Hermosa Beach. Can one summer really change a person's life forever?
I wasn't really expecting anything when I dive head first into this book. But I was really impressed with how Jillian builds the characters. Hannah is her own person. She went through terrible terrible things, but she's a very genuine person in a way. She's very level-headed, likable, and lonely—that much is clear. But she's also very grounded and has rooms for other people in her hearts. I think she has qualities in her character that are rare to find.
Meanwhile, Wyatt is a more rebellious character. He's pissed off at the world—mostly at his parents. But he is also down-to-earth and caring to those he loves. He's struggling to do the right by his family and standing up for them. Given the chance, he's truly a guy that can rely on despite all his flaws.
All in all, this is an incredible summer read. It doesn't focus solely on the romance but also about the bigger scheme of things—but put more heavily on family. If you haven't read anything by Jillian Liota and am intrigued or want to start somewhere but not sure with what, I'd 100% recommend this one.
June 6, 2019
Wow this book was such a great read it had me emotional. Poor Hannah has had a rough life and a lot thrown her way but she always found ways to endure. She finds out she has a brother in California and he wants her to come out for the summer and get to know him. After all she’s been through she’s skeptical of everyone and always wondering when the other shoe will drop. She takes charge and she finds her way again while getting to know her brother, she finds a job, she makes friends, and she meets Wyatt. Wyatt was such a great character he was caring, loyal, and swoon worthy. He really liked Hannah and eventually fell in love with her but some things happen and we find out her brother Lucas and Wyatt had their own agendas for brining Hannah to Cali. This book showed us a strong heroine who learned to fight for herself at a young age and she eventually learned to let go, relax and it was ok to let some people in. I absolutely loved it and can’t wait to see if we get a book on Ben or Lucas.
September 7, 2023
4.5 ⭐️I picked this book up on a whim and it such a great decision.
Think the oc x gossip girl.
This is book 1 in the series and follows Hannah who is a foster kid and finds out she has a brother she never knew about and decides to go visit him and meets Wyatt. The rich bad boy who is also her brothers best friend. Feeling a little out of sorts and her brother is always busy she spends more time with Wyatt and falls for him but everything is not what it seems and she remembers promises mean nothing.
This book ends on a happy for now - I expect more in the rest of the series
As this is book 1 you meet the characters for this four book series and if you like any of the below you will be hooked.
If you love:
The OC
Character driven plot
Found family vibes
Small town romance
Bad guy x good girl
Rich guy x poor girl
Plot twists
Brothers best mate
Then this is for you
Think the oc x gossip girl.
This is book 1 in the series and follows Hannah who is a foster kid and finds out she has a brother she never knew about and decides to go visit him and meets Wyatt. The rich bad boy who is also her brothers best friend. Feeling a little out of sorts and her brother is always busy she spends more time with Wyatt and falls for him but everything is not what it seems and she remembers promises mean nothing.
This book ends on a happy for now - I expect more in the rest of the series
As this is book 1 you meet the characters for this four book series and if you like any of the below you will be hooked.
If you love:
The OC
Character driven plot
Found family vibes
Small town romance
Bad guy x good girl
Rich guy x poor girl
Plot twists
Brothers best mate
Then this is for you
June 10, 2019
A wonderfully written, angsty, slow burn romance!
The characters are so well written, and we get a deep feel of who they are and what they have been through, and are still going through. I definitely formed a connection with these characters and I enjoyed their journey.
Hannah and Wyatt have a strong connection from the start, and I loved seeing that grow. They have been through so much, and I loved their growth individually.
There are secrets, a strong connection between Hannah and Wyatt, and finding family. A well written, must read!
The characters are so well written, and we get a deep feel of who they are and what they have been through, and are still going through. I definitely formed a connection with these characters and I enjoyed their journey.
Hannah and Wyatt have a strong connection from the start, and I loved seeing that grow. They have been through so much, and I loved their growth individually.
There are secrets, a strong connection between Hannah and Wyatt, and finding family. A well written, must read!
January 16, 2022
This was an amazing start to the Hermosa beach series. Jillian Liota writes characters with such depth and wonderful emotional journeys. I was so invested in Wyatt and Hannah. Hannah‘s backstory–who she was and how her experiences shaped her–was so amazing. I admired her strength. Wyatt did some things that weren’t great, but he never did them with malicious intent, which was really important. There were parts of this book when these little things happened, and i knew I was going to be so happy with how it played out in the bigger picture. There’s just something about how Jillian writes these books that represent a real human experience, and have me totally invested. Also I loved Ivy, she was adorable and I loved seeing her and Hannah‘s relationship develop. Overall, I’m so excited to read the rest of the series and I think I’m gonna binge it right now!
Reader I did exactly that, I binged the whole series!
Reader I did exactly that, I binged the whole series!
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