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No Strings Attached #2
The Girl He Knows
She wants one night, he wants forever.
Three reasons I slept with my best friend’s brother by Paisley McAllister:
We laughed all night, the drinks were strong, and I needed to sleep somewhere.
I have a weakness for military men.
I know he won’t kiss and tell.
… but lord when he kisses, he makes me forget I’ve completely broken the best friend code.
So when he makes me a no strings attached offer, I figure we’ve already done it once. But Hank has never been the type for casual. He’s husband material, and I should’ve seen the problems with this plan from the beginning.
As good as he makes me feel, the ink’s just dried on my divorce papers. I’m no longer the girl he knows.
Three reasons I slept with my best friend’s brother by Paisley McAllister:
We laughed all night, the drinks were strong, and I needed to sleep somewhere.
I have a weakness for military men.
I know he won’t kiss and tell.
… but lord when he kisses, he makes me forget I’ve completely broken the best friend code.
So when he makes me a no strings attached offer, I figure we’ve already done it once. But Hank has never been the type for casual. He’s husband material, and I should’ve seen the problems with this plan from the beginning.
As good as he makes me feel, the ink’s just dried on my divorce papers. I’m no longer the girl he knows.
290 pages, Paperback
First published January 1, 2014
148 people are currently reading
998 people want to read
About the author
Kristi Rose
52 books257 followersHey! I’m Kristi. I write romances that will tug your heartstrings and laugh out loud mysteries. In all my stories you’ll fall in love with the cast of characters, they’ll become old, fun friends. My one hope is that I create stories that satisfy any of your book cravings and take you away from the rut of everyday life (sometimes it's a good rut).
When I’m not writing I’m spinning (riding a stationary bike, repurposing Happy Planners, or drinking a London Fog (hot tea with frothy milk).
I’m the mom of 2 and a milspouse (retired). We live in the Pacific Northwest and are under-prepared if one of the volcanoes erupts.
Here are 3 things about me:
• I lived on the outskirts of an active volcano (Mt.Etna)
• A spider bit me and it laid eggs in my arm (my kids don’t know that story yet)
• I grew up in Central Florida and have skied in lakes with gators.
I’d love to get to know you better. Join my Read & Relax community and then fire off an email and tell me 3 things about you!
Not ready to join? Email me or follow me here. Thanks for popping by!
You can connect with Kristi at any of the following:
www.kristirose.net
kristi@kristirose.net
When I’m not writing I’m spinning (riding a stationary bike, repurposing Happy Planners, or drinking a London Fog (hot tea with frothy milk).
I’m the mom of 2 and a milspouse (retired). We live in the Pacific Northwest and are under-prepared if one of the volcanoes erupts.
Here are 3 things about me:
• I lived on the outskirts of an active volcano (Mt.Etna)
• A spider bit me and it laid eggs in my arm (my kids don’t know that story yet)
• I grew up in Central Florida and have skied in lakes with gators.
I’d love to get to know you better. Join my Read & Relax community and then fire off an email and tell me 3 things about you!
Not ready to join? Email me or follow me here. Thanks for popping by!
You can connect with Kristi at any of the following:
www.kristirose.net
kristi@kristirose.net
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Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 109 reviews
August 27, 2014
A free copy of this book was provided by NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. This review does contain some spoilers.
I have struggled with how to review this story quite a bit because I found it in parts promising, but frustrating. The Girl He Knows is the story of Paisley, who is determined to move on and throw herself into the dating scene following her divorce from her cheating husband. However, despite her plans, she doesn't expect for her first conquest to be her best friend Gigi's brother, Hank.
This book started well with a funny opening scene as Paisley finds herself naked in her friend's childhood home, but it quickly became a little repetitive, as Paisley dabbles with various dating prospects and Hank gets mad at her, even though they agreed to just stay friends. I'm sorry to say that apart from their chemistry in the first quarter of this book, I just didn't buy their romance.
Paisley is a character unsure of herself in the extreme, and while the book explains that her previous relationship with her husband was manipulative and emotionally abusive, no-one else in the story seems to acknowledge that she's had a hard time and therefore won't be confident in her relationships. When a date with a bartender ends with him leaving bruises on her and pushing her over, Paisley's friends - one of whom knew said bartender was a bad egg - simply shrug and expect her to have known that he wasn't the right kind of guy. What kind of messed up friends are these? More importantly, Hank, who's supposed to be all good and sweet and honorable, basically tells Paisley that it's her own fault this guy basically beat her up because she doesn't stand up for herself. WTF? I was slightly horrifed at this point, especially since Hank wraps up his victim-blaming with a lovely speech about how he used to love Paisley, but since she's not the exact same person as she was when she was fifteen - having actually grown up and changed as a person - that he's not going to bother loving her anymore. And guess what? It's all her fault. Everything! Admittedly, Paisley is a bit of a weak character with tons of self doubt and the like, but considering her back story that she's got out of a abusive relationship, it's not that uncommon.
The worse part of this is the ending, when Paisley drags herself to Hank's house in her best dress and practically begs him to try loving her again. It was meant to be the book's big romantic climax, but I felt uncomfortable all the way through reading it.
This is another story where I felt that the man's profession (Hank is in the military) is meant to excuse all his faults and almost brush them aside. Like, it's okay that Hank blows hot and cold, insults Paisley and gets unreasonably angry with her actions when she's told him the score because he's fought for his country. Since when did that exclude a someone from being a bit of an arse. And while I didn't agree with all of Paisley's actions as a character, I could also understand why she behaved the way she did. In this way, I really thought that Kristi Rose had written a great character story, but I just can't agree with the ending or the last third of the book. I just wasn't happy reading it at that point.
A good start to this story and a well-developed female protagonist which is unfortunately let down by a 'hero' who is just not a very nice person to read about. 1.5 stars.
I have struggled with how to review this story quite a bit because I found it in parts promising, but frustrating. The Girl He Knows is the story of Paisley, who is determined to move on and throw herself into the dating scene following her divorce from her cheating husband. However, despite her plans, she doesn't expect for her first conquest to be her best friend Gigi's brother, Hank.
This book started well with a funny opening scene as Paisley finds herself naked in her friend's childhood home, but it quickly became a little repetitive, as Paisley dabbles with various dating prospects and Hank gets mad at her, even though they agreed to just stay friends. I'm sorry to say that apart from their chemistry in the first quarter of this book, I just didn't buy their romance.
Paisley is a character unsure of herself in the extreme, and while the book explains that her previous relationship with her husband was manipulative and emotionally abusive, no-one else in the story seems to acknowledge that she's had a hard time and therefore won't be confident in her relationships. When a date with a bartender ends with him leaving bruises on her and pushing her over, Paisley's friends - one of whom knew said bartender was a bad egg - simply shrug and expect her to have known that he wasn't the right kind of guy. What kind of messed up friends are these? More importantly, Hank, who's supposed to be all good and sweet and honorable, basically tells Paisley that it's her own fault this guy basically beat her up because she doesn't stand up for herself. WTF? I was slightly horrifed at this point, especially since Hank wraps up his victim-blaming with a lovely speech about how he used to love Paisley, but since she's not the exact same person as she was when she was fifteen - having actually grown up and changed as a person - that he's not going to bother loving her anymore. And guess what? It's all her fault. Everything! Admittedly, Paisley is a bit of a weak character with tons of self doubt and the like, but considering her back story that she's got out of a abusive relationship, it's not that uncommon.
The worse part of this is the ending, when Paisley drags herself to Hank's house in her best dress and practically begs him to try loving her again. It was meant to be the book's big romantic climax, but I felt uncomfortable all the way through reading it.
This is another story where I felt that the man's profession (Hank is in the military) is meant to excuse all his faults and almost brush them aside. Like, it's okay that Hank blows hot and cold, insults Paisley and gets unreasonably angry with her actions when she's told him the score because he's fought for his country. Since when did that exclude a someone from being a bit of an arse. And while I didn't agree with all of Paisley's actions as a character, I could also understand why she behaved the way she did. In this way, I really thought that Kristi Rose had written a great character story, but I just can't agree with the ending or the last third of the book. I just wasn't happy reading it at that point.
A good start to this story and a well-developed female protagonist which is unfortunately let down by a 'hero' who is just not a very nice person to read about. 1.5 stars.
July 22, 2014
I really enjoyed this book! The book begins with Paisley waking up in bed with her best friends older brother, Hank. She's recently divorced and is trying to find herself after her failed marriage. At times, I found Paisley to be a little frustrating and weak but I loved her and Hank together and he really brought out the best in her character. Hank is funny, sweet, romantic, kind, and in the Navy. He's the perfect book boyfriend! I really enjoyed the supporting characters and Paisley's group of friends. My only complaint about this book would be the end, I wish that there was an epilogue. Overall, this was a romantic and fun book and I really enjoyed it! Highly recommend!
*ARC received by NetGalley in exchange for an honest review*
*ARC received by NetGalley in exchange for an honest review*
July 11, 2014
Received an ARC copy from Netgalley for a honest review.
4.5 stars
Lots of humour and romance involved in this book. It's been a while since I read a funny romance. It had me laughing out loud a few times and couldn't get enough of the chemistry between all the characters, even her crazy best friends.
Paisley is divorced and isn't looking for a boyfriend. So when she finds herself in bed with Hank, her best-friends brother, she is on unknown territory. Hank is sweet, trust worthy, and has always been there for Paisley. Putting these two together are hilarious and yet yummy. It is a must read!!!
4.5 stars
Lots of humour and romance involved in this book. It's been a while since I read a funny romance. It had me laughing out loud a few times and couldn't get enough of the chemistry between all the characters, even her crazy best friends.
Paisley is divorced and isn't looking for a boyfriend. So when she finds herself in bed with Hank, her best-friends brother, she is on unknown territory. Hank is sweet, trust worthy, and has always been there for Paisley. Putting these two together are hilarious and yet yummy. It is a must read!!!
August 5, 2015
Man, I needed this book. The quirky, fun humor hit me at just the right time. I swear to God, I laughed so damned hard through the sex toy party I couldn't see straight. I mean, really, who hasn't been in that exact (and grossly awkward) situation? Even better is when Hank finds BOB. ;)
Yes, the humor was great and the back and forth tension between Hank and Paisley was spot on for this light, enjoyable romance, but I think the part I liked even better were the rich emotional arcs. I could really identify with the struggles Paisley faced coming out of a failed marriage and loved the journey of her fighting her way from her fears.
Hank was a lovely hero. I loved how stalwart he was throughout the book and found myself rooting for him in the end.
If you're up for a light, funny, heart-touching romance, this is a great one to pick up.
Yes, the humor was great and the back and forth tension between Hank and Paisley was spot on for this light, enjoyable romance, but I think the part I liked even better were the rich emotional arcs. I could really identify with the struggles Paisley faced coming out of a failed marriage and loved the journey of her fighting her way from her fears.
Hank was a lovely hero. I loved how stalwart he was throughout the book and found myself rooting for him in the end.
If you're up for a light, funny, heart-touching romance, this is a great one to pick up.
February 20, 2017
3.5 stars I think I would have enjoyed it more if Paisley had not been so wishy washy in her feelings towards Hank.
August 18, 2014
*whining*
See, now this is exactly the type of book I want to avoid, but end up reading. It makes me want to tear my hair out and scream that I never seem to learn how to select books. Like, seriously? When will I fucking learn?
In my defense, the premise of this book was really good. And I have hair like the model on the cover so maybe that justifies it?
No?
Oh well.
This is one of those books. Ones that don’t even need explaining. You read the premise and you get the general idea of the book. And I was looking for a light read so eh, why the hell not, right?
It was a light read. It was mindless fluff. But the problem is, I’d expected much more.
*end whining*
Paisley is a doormat. No seriously. She’s a spineless Mary Sue and my God, it shows in every word she says. She’s just gotten over a divorce from her life-sucking ex-husband but it seems like she’s learnt absolutely nothing from him.
She will get on your nerves. She will stomp all over your expectations. You will want to just finish the book already.
I did, however, discover her greatest problem.
That’s right. Our beloved MC thinks too much.
The saddest event of her life is waking up beside Hank—her best friend’s brother—who rocked her world. And if the sex was as good as she thought it was, instead of sneaking out the fucking window, I’d give him the keys to my HOUSE.
She freaks out and freaks out and guess what? She freaks out some more. What I don’t understand is this—They’re both adults who engaged in consenting sex. Dafuq is the problem?
I get that it might be awkward with Hank’s family but you will not believe the lengths Paisley went to, to keep the secret.
Let’s finish off this Hank character now.
This guy is confused. He really needs to get his shit together before falling into bed with a neurotic woman.
Picture this: Huge, hot sailor guy. Does not curse. Wants a no strings attached relationship. Gets sad every time Paisley goes on a date. Tells her that he loves her, then leaves. Ignores her when she tells him she loves him, and then tries to leave.
You need help, son.
I really didn’t appreciate the way too many issues were cramped into one book. And everything gets solved, as if by magic. Especially the way Paisley gets her HEA.
Poof, Hank is being a jerk.
Poof, Hank is in love with me.
Poof, Hank has always been in love with me.
Poof, I’m in love with Hank.
Poof, Rhea is now dead.
Find this review and more at Rhea's Neon Journal.
See, now this is exactly the type of book I want to avoid, but end up reading. It makes me want to tear my hair out and scream that I never seem to learn how to select books. Like, seriously? When will I fucking learn?
In my defense, the premise of this book was really good. And I have hair like the model on the cover so maybe that justifies it?
No?
Oh well.
This is one of those books. Ones that don’t even need explaining. You read the premise and you get the general idea of the book. And I was looking for a light read so eh, why the hell not, right?
It was a light read. It was mindless fluff. But the problem is, I’d expected much more.
*end whining*
Paisley is a doormat. No seriously. She’s a spineless Mary Sue and my God, it shows in every word she says. She’s just gotten over a divorce from her life-sucking ex-husband but it seems like she’s learnt absolutely nothing from him.
She will get on your nerves. She will stomp all over your expectations. You will want to just finish the book already.
I did, however, discover her greatest problem.
That’s right. Our beloved MC thinks too much.
The saddest event of her life is waking up beside Hank—her best friend’s brother—who rocked her world. And if the sex was as good as she thought it was, instead of sneaking out the fucking window, I’d give him the keys to my HOUSE.
She freaks out and freaks out and guess what? She freaks out some more. What I don’t understand is this—They’re both adults who engaged in consenting sex. Dafuq is the problem?
I get that it might be awkward with Hank’s family but you will not believe the lengths Paisley went to, to keep the secret.
Let’s finish off this Hank character now.
This guy is confused. He really needs to get his shit together before falling into bed with a neurotic woman.
Picture this: Huge, hot sailor guy. Does not curse. Wants a no strings attached relationship. Gets sad every time Paisley goes on a date. Tells her that he loves her, then leaves. Ignores her when she tells him she loves him, and then tries to leave.
You need help, son.
I really didn’t appreciate the way too many issues were cramped into one book. And everything gets solved, as if by magic. Especially the way Paisley gets her HEA.
Poof, Hank is being a jerk.
Poof, Hank is in love with me.
Poof, Hank has always been in love with me.
Poof, I’m in love with Hank.
Poof, Rhea is now dead.
Find this review and more at Rhea's Neon Journal.
June 22, 2014
This book is laugh out loud funny, but with an undercurrent of the difficulty of accepting love after betrayal. Paisley is relatable, she's flawed, but genuine, and I think that's what makes her so likable.
The romance in this book is tender and sexy and sweet. Hank is swoon worthy, right from the start. The chemistry between him and Paisley had me rooting for them from the beginning. There were some heavier tones in this book, but I think they balance the more hilarious parts. It isn't just fluff, there is depth, and the fact that Hank is a serviceman makes this book ideal for anyone with a spouse/partner in the military. Or if you just like a guy in a uniform;)
Also, I want to go get drinks with Paisley and her friends! I wanted to know more about some of the relationships her friends are in, and maybe there will be another book to satisfy this curiosity?! It is a great debut novel!
The romance in this book is tender and sexy and sweet. Hank is swoon worthy, right from the start. The chemistry between him and Paisley had me rooting for them from the beginning. There were some heavier tones in this book, but I think they balance the more hilarious parts. It isn't just fluff, there is depth, and the fact that Hank is a serviceman makes this book ideal for anyone with a spouse/partner in the military. Or if you just like a guy in a uniform;)
Also, I want to go get drinks with Paisley and her friends! I wanted to know more about some of the relationships her friends are in, and maybe there will be another book to satisfy this curiosity?! It is a great debut novel!
March 29, 2015
This was a lovely read. I enjoyed the insights I got from struggles I've never personally understood. It's a wonderful coming home and finding yourself story. I did want that last scene, however. Mrs. Rose, you owe me a shower scene.
February 18, 2024
it started off promising and had so much potential. The first half I enjoyed but then it turned very repetitive and while I liked the love interest at first, towards the end I could no longer stand him. This is one of those books where I feel like the couple definitely broke up after. The book had so much potential and so many funny moments like the opening scene, but it just wasn’t enough for me to deem it worth reccomending. Sorry 🤷♀️
[originally would’ve been a 2.5 star but the last few chapters just ruined it for me]
[originally would’ve been a 2.5 star but the last few chapters just ruined it for me]
August 21, 2014
*Review from my blog Skeleton Key Reviews http://skeletonkeyreviews.com/?p=309*
Paisley has just gotten out of a college marriage. She supported her med school husband and put her life on hold. Then finds him a couple of years later in her bed with some one else. Now she has to reenter dating society and learn to date all over again. She is determined to stand on her own two feet and not be a doormat again.
Hank is her sister’s hot Navy brother. She has always counted on him and has always been attracted to him. Little does she know that Hank has also had feelings for her since they were younger. Hank admired her spunk and spirit when she was younger and that is what attracted him to her. He return home in the hopes that now that they are both single that there may be a chance for them.
OMG, I love the main character, Paisley. She is downright hilarious. Some of the stuff that comes out of her mouth is stuff I would say on a daily. And Hank, the guy every woman would be ecstatic to snag. He’s sweet, funny, sensitive and playful. I understood where Paisley was coming from after her failed marriage, but come on! Here is the perfect guy, that has always been around and she’s had feelings for. At times I wanted to put my foot up her ass and I think her friends did too.
The playfulness and banter between Paisley and Hank, the shenanigans and close relationships with her friends make this an enjoyable read. Her Irish grandma and mother getting drunk and having hang overs is just down right hilarious. I laughed and I cried. That signals a good book for me. Definitely would say spend your hard earned dollars on this one!
Paisley has just gotten out of a college marriage. She supported her med school husband and put her life on hold. Then finds him a couple of years later in her bed with some one else. Now she has to reenter dating society and learn to date all over again. She is determined to stand on her own two feet and not be a doormat again.
Hank is her sister’s hot Navy brother. She has always counted on him and has always been attracted to him. Little does she know that Hank has also had feelings for her since they were younger. Hank admired her spunk and spirit when she was younger and that is what attracted him to her. He return home in the hopes that now that they are both single that there may be a chance for them.
OMG, I love the main character, Paisley. She is downright hilarious. Some of the stuff that comes out of her mouth is stuff I would say on a daily. And Hank, the guy every woman would be ecstatic to snag. He’s sweet, funny, sensitive and playful. I understood where Paisley was coming from after her failed marriage, but come on! Here is the perfect guy, that has always been around and she’s had feelings for. At times I wanted to put my foot up her ass and I think her friends did too.
The playfulness and banter between Paisley and Hank, the shenanigans and close relationships with her friends make this an enjoyable read. Her Irish grandma and mother getting drunk and having hang overs is just down right hilarious. I laughed and I cried. That signals a good book for me. Definitely would say spend your hard earned dollars on this one!
August 22, 2014
The Girl He Knows is a sweet love story. Filled with realistic characters and real-life situations. Hank is refreshingly normal. He's a hard working military man, not some billionaire alpha-male. He's masculine without the need to dominate. Paisley is rediscovering herself following a divorce. She's so concerned with the idea of needing to sow her wild oats that she loses herself. Kristi Rose does a wonderful job of creating Paisley's world. The dialogue is witty and real. What I loved most was Paisley's voice. She is clearly independent, quick witted, and her sarcastic narrative made me laugh out loud. Overall, TGHK is an enjoyable story you'll read with a smile on your face.
July 3, 2014
This book is an excellent romance. Full of laughter but still maintaining a sense of reality. Paisley wakes up naked next to her best friend's older brother. Refusing to acknowledge a lifetime of secret attraction. Paisley and Hank agree to a no strings attached arrangement. Unfortunately, no strings only works when both partners don't really care. That is definitely not the case here. It is a fast, funny read that I highly recommend.
August 3, 2014
3.65 stars
Thanks Netgalley for ARC
the book was short and good but it felt kinda slow.
More to come....
Thanks Netgalley for ARC
the book was short and good but it felt kinda slow.
More to come....
April 22, 2023
This was a 3/4 star book until the last 1/4 or 1/3 of the book. Then it became barely, and I mean not even a 2 star, but I can't give partial stars and it's not a 1 star, but seriously I was tempted.
Why is this a not even, but rounded up two a 2 star book.
1. In the beginning Paisley is just really annoying. Like the first five chapters from when she wakes up with Hank to when the families have dinner she's acting very immature. I was literally yelling at the book "no one is looking at you that much."
2. Paisley is extremely judgemental of everyone. And then acts like everyone is judging her. I mean, she goes to her friend's Gigi's house to shower and change before going to the mall and watches her friend morning drink and doesn't ask a question.
Like your friend is just drinking at 8 am and you don't ask her if she's okay?
Also, later in the book she also admits she knows Gigi's husband works for the FBI but doesn't know what he does. And yet you judge him for not being home? When he could work with kidnappings or hostage negotiation. It's not like crime takes the weekend off.
3. So we know Paisley is divorce and her ex husband cheated on her and probably had been for a long time. Well, she took a year off from dating and started therapy so she can improve herself. All great, what she should be doing.
Her therapist doesn't get to what her actual problem is and talks about her dad and his death and her friends want her to get into a serious relationship right off the bat. She says she wants to date and then they latch onto Hank and she can't date. The Jake or Jack storyline probably would have been shorter had they just let it be.
The middle isn't bad. Her trying to justify continuing to see Jake or Jack was repetitive especially since she was always saying that she didn't want to see him. I understand the second date, but she knows she doesn't want a third and yet she flirts with him.
So what made this a 2 star read and since this deals with the last 1/3-1/4 there are spoilers. Bewear.
So Paisley goes to her hometown fund raiser The Swan Ball and she runs into Hank there and he's dancing with other girls. Perfectly fine they aren't exclusive. Well, Hank starts dancing with a girl who wasn't really nice to Paisley in high school and was rude to her after. Yes adults now, but we get a scene with her and the girl is catty.
After the Ball ends, Hank and Paisley go on a impromptu date and when Paisley asks about it he toys with her about it, and then says that Paisley is jealous. Yes, Paisley is jealous but he obviously knows the history since they've known each other for a long time.
AND THEN after a bachelorette overnight, where Gigi finds out that Paisley is seeing her brother, Hank goes over to Paisley's and finds some bruises on her arms.
When she Finally tells Jake she doesn't want to see him again he gets violent. Paisley and her friends get him fired and TP his car.
So Hank asks about them and she tells him and he gets mad at her because she missed warning signs. Telling he he's been in love with her since she was 10, and then says that he's been waiting for her to notice him. Then he brings up that they were both single his senior year and he broke up with his girlfriend because she was single. Instead of actually telling her this he tells her a lie about it in highschool and expects what?! She's not a mind reader.
Also, he accused her of always running to him to be her hero. And him always being there. Well buddy, that was your choice. And yet he still doesn't say anything to her about being in love with her in high school. Fine whatever you're stupid in high school.
So Paisley goes stag to her friend's wedding and Gigi tells her that she knew Hank was in love with her and sites and thing in college where Paisley was going to break up with Trevor, her ex, but he proposed and then Gigi tells her that she told him to say something and instead of telling her this he says that if Trevor is the person she said yes to, even though he hasn't told her anything, then she's not the girl for him.
To me Hank is just another Trevor who makes Paisley feel like everything is her fault that his inaction was because of her and she had to make all the compromises for him to even acknowledge that she said something when she realized she want to give their relationship a go.
The ending just ruined the entire story for me and if I wasn't about 20 pages from the end I would have DNfed it
Why is this a not even, but rounded up two a 2 star book.
1. In the beginning Paisley is just really annoying. Like the first five chapters from when she wakes up with Hank to when the families have dinner she's acting very immature. I was literally yelling at the book "no one is looking at you that much."
2. Paisley is extremely judgemental of everyone. And then acts like everyone is judging her. I mean, she goes to her friend's Gigi's house to shower and change before going to the mall and watches her friend morning drink and doesn't ask a question.
Like your friend is just drinking at 8 am and you don't ask her if she's okay?
Also, later in the book she also admits she knows Gigi's husband works for the FBI but doesn't know what he does. And yet you judge him for not being home? When he could work with kidnappings or hostage negotiation. It's not like crime takes the weekend off.
3. So we know Paisley is divorce and her ex husband cheated on her and probably had been for a long time. Well, she took a year off from dating and started therapy so she can improve herself. All great, what she should be doing.
Her therapist doesn't get to what her actual problem is and talks about her dad and his death and her friends want her to get into a serious relationship right off the bat. She says she wants to date and then they latch onto Hank and she can't date. The Jake or Jack storyline probably would have been shorter had they just let it be.
The middle isn't bad. Her trying to justify continuing to see Jake or Jack was repetitive especially since she was always saying that she didn't want to see him. I understand the second date, but she knows she doesn't want a third and yet she flirts with him.
So what made this a 2 star read and since this deals with the last 1/3-1/4 there are spoilers. Bewear.
So Paisley goes to her hometown fund raiser The Swan Ball and she runs into Hank there and he's dancing with other girls. Perfectly fine they aren't exclusive. Well, Hank starts dancing with a girl who wasn't really nice to Paisley in high school and was rude to her after. Yes adults now, but we get a scene with her and the girl is catty.
After the Ball ends, Hank and Paisley go on a impromptu date and when Paisley asks about it he toys with her about it, and then says that Paisley is jealous. Yes, Paisley is jealous but he obviously knows the history since they've known each other for a long time.
AND THEN after a bachelorette overnight, where Gigi finds out that Paisley is seeing her brother, Hank goes over to Paisley's and finds some bruises on her arms.
When she Finally tells Jake she doesn't want to see him again he gets violent. Paisley and her friends get him fired and TP his car.
So Hank asks about them and she tells him and he gets mad at her because she missed warning signs. Telling he he's been in love with her since she was 10, and then says that he's been waiting for her to notice him. Then he brings up that they were both single his senior year and he broke up with his girlfriend because she was single. Instead of actually telling her this he tells her a lie about it in highschool and expects what?! She's not a mind reader.
Also, he accused her of always running to him to be her hero. And him always being there. Well buddy, that was your choice. And yet he still doesn't say anything to her about being in love with her in high school. Fine whatever you're stupid in high school.
So Paisley goes stag to her friend's wedding and Gigi tells her that she knew Hank was in love with her and sites and thing in college where Paisley was going to break up with Trevor, her ex, but he proposed and then Gigi tells her that she told him to say something and instead of telling her this he says that if Trevor is the person she said yes to, even though he hasn't told her anything, then she's not the girl for him.
To me Hank is just another Trevor who makes Paisley feel like everything is her fault that his inaction was because of her and she had to make all the compromises for him to even acknowledge that she said something when she realized she want to give their relationship a go.
The ending just ruined the entire story for me and if I wasn't about 20 pages from the end I would have DNfed it
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 26, 2024
2.5 Stars. I liked this book in the beginning because of how realistic it was. Paisley’s journey seemed genuine and I appreciated that she was learning about herself. However, towards the end, Hank completely flipped on Paisley and I didn’t like it at all. How dare he call her a coward for being married to Trevor even though he wasn’t a literal Prince Charming, and what was even worse, how dare he be mad at her for what Jake did. With Trevor, she was happy (at least she wasn’t unhappy), she was young and the she thought that was what she wanted. It sucks that it didn’t work out but it’s not her fault. And the Jake thing was ridiculous. He blamed her for being afraid?? That’s crap. Hank never said anything about his true feelings. He might have implied it but he never actually said the words so he has no right to be mad at Paisley for not knowing. I didn’t like that complete change in his personality and it ruined the book for me.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 27, 2024
I don’t love these books but I can stop reading them. She has a very predictable way of writing which makes them kind of boring. She also writes smut like a middle schooler which makes me cringe. If you’re going to attempt to write it then just do it no “girl parts.” Paisley was kind of annoying and stubborn, blew things with Hank way out of proportion. If she thought her BFF was going to be mad that she fell in love with her brother then that’s not a real friend. I understand Hanks concerns of a relationship while in the military. However Hank had some major red flags when he freaked on Paisley about the marks Jake left on her. He should have been kicking Jakes ass and worried about what Paisley has gone through than yelling at her that she’s a coward. Obviously the author does not understand unhealthy and toxic relationships. I still continue to read these books though and I don’t know why.
October 5, 2024
recommend: no!
⭐️⭐️.5
🌶️🌶️(euphemism)
Paisley was incredibly annoying. Hank brings up multiple reasons now she has changed and how her views are skewed, she is refuses to listen. Which is ironically what she accuses Hank of doing towards the end of the book.
Paisley keeps saying that Gigi is her best friend, but we barely see Gigi. Not a negative, just freaking weird.
I have decided to dnf this series. I have given the series a chance with reading two books, and I am not convinced I will enjoy the other two in the series. I am getting better at dnfing and that it’s okay for something to not be for you.
tropes
* No strings attached
* Childhood friends to lovers
* Second chance
* Best friend’s brother
⭐️⭐️.5
🌶️🌶️(euphemism)
Paisley was incredibly annoying. Hank brings up multiple reasons now she has changed and how her views are skewed, she is refuses to listen. Which is ironically what she accuses Hank of doing towards the end of the book.
Paisley keeps saying that Gigi is her best friend, but we barely see Gigi. Not a negative, just freaking weird.
I have decided to dnf this series. I have given the series a chance with reading two books, and I am not convinced I will enjoy the other two in the series. I am getting better at dnfing and that it’s okay for something to not be for you.
tropes
* No strings attached
* Childhood friends to lovers
* Second chance
* Best friend’s brother
June 13, 2020
I don't like to write bad reviews but damn
Paisley was a doormat, she never stood up for herself, they tried to make her look sassy on the confrontation with Jake and failed, she didn't deserve the hero (and he was not that high on my list).
And they could have made her change more believable, how do you go to not knowing yourself to a better version of yourself ready to have a mature relationship in days, weeks. Came on.
I didn't like the fact that she never paid a closer look to her Best friend, never once realized that he was the love of her friends life, is she really the best friend?
I would have enjoyed if we had got more depth in this book.
Paisley was a doormat, she never stood up for herself, they tried to make her look sassy on the confrontation with Jake and failed, she didn't deserve the hero (and he was not that high on my list).
And they could have made her change more believable, how do you go to not knowing yourself to a better version of yourself ready to have a mature relationship in days, weeks. Came on.
I didn't like the fact that she never paid a closer look to her Best friend, never once realized that he was the love of her friends life, is she really the best friend?
I would have enjoyed if we had got more depth in this book.
April 30, 2023
I have mixed feelings about this story. There were warm and fuzzy parts. There were silly parts that deserved a little chuckle. Then, there were the parts that made me dislike Paisley or Hank or both. Paisley is a divorcee and victim of an abusive husband. I expected flaws, but the whining was annoying. Hank was okay for most of the book. I was actually rooting for him until he took some cheap shots at Paisley. Granted, she needed a wake-up call and push. The story lagged in places, but it wasn't completely horrible. I would read the next story, but it wouldn't be an immediate rush to grab it.
April 1, 2023
Enjoyable read, would recommend
I really enjoy Kristi's writing style, it's always a lighthearted captivating read that's difficult to put down.
However in this book the only thing stopping me from giving 5 stars is it felt a little like victim blaming towards the end and I didn't like that Paisley had to grovel to get back in Hanks good books when she didn't do anything wrong. Apart from that I found it very easy to picture each character as described and Kristi did well to make your skin crawl when it came to Jake.
I really enjoy Kristi's writing style, it's always a lighthearted captivating read that's difficult to put down.
However in this book the only thing stopping me from giving 5 stars is it felt a little like victim blaming towards the end and I didn't like that Paisley had to grovel to get back in Hanks good books when she didn't do anything wrong. Apart from that I found it very easy to picture each character as described and Kristi did well to make your skin crawl when it came to Jake.
June 9, 2023
2.75⭐️
Paisley is honestly the worst and just doesn’t deserve Hank. He’s what got me through this entire book. Plus the way her friends handled her dating situation really annoyed the hell out of me. She was so judgmental and was surprised when things weren’t as she assumed. Her moment in St Augustine definitely bumped up the rating for me but even then it couldn’t save this book.
Paisley is honestly the worst and just doesn’t deserve Hank. He’s what got me through this entire book. Plus the way her friends handled her dating situation really annoyed the hell out of me. She was so judgmental and was surprised when things weren’t as she assumed. Her moment in St Augustine definitely bumped up the rating for me but even then it couldn’t save this book.
July 4, 2023
Not as good as the first book in this series as I found it lacked a little on the storyline compared to The Girl He Needs, but nonetheless it was still good. I found the MC relatable. I don’t think I’d read this book again, but I probably will read The Girl He Needs again. Good, but not wow. Worthy of 4 stars though
December 5, 2016
Great read!
I've laughed & cried with the characters as the author brings real life scenarios to the forefront through them. I'd highly recommend this book to anyone. Can't wait to read the next one in the series!
I've laughed & cried with the characters as the author brings real life scenarios to the forefront through them. I'd highly recommend this book to anyone. Can't wait to read the next one in the series!
May 22, 2019
Friends to Lovers.
Not sure about this one. Wanted to knock their heads together. Why couldn't Hank be clear about what he wanted rather than laid back? When he finally tells her his feelings, he rejects her! Not a book I will re-read.
Not sure about this one. Wanted to knock their heads together. Why couldn't Hank be clear about what he wanted rather than laid back? When he finally tells her his feelings, he rejects her! Not a book I will re-read.
October 28, 2023
Good, but….
I really liked the book and the characters until the end. Hank’s reaction to her injuries was out of place. She was not at fault for many of the thing that happened and he labeled her a coward. Then she had to beg to get him back. It just did not make sense to me.
I really liked the book and the characters until the end. Hank’s reaction to her injuries was out of place. She was not at fault for many of the thing that happened and he labeled her a coward. Then she had to beg to get him back. It just did not make sense to me.
February 7, 2024
If you like romance..READ THIS
I’ve been going through a hard time with a long term relationship falling out. These series have distracted me so much and made me realize just what I need for myself. Which is me.
I’ve been going through a hard time with a long term relationship falling out. These series have distracted me so much and made me realize just what I need for myself. Which is me.
September 24, 2017
Great book!!
Would recommend this book to any romantic!! Couldn't put it down and now want to see where hank and paisley take their relationship! Fantastic!
Would recommend this book to any romantic!! Couldn't put it down and now want to see where hank and paisley take their relationship! Fantastic!
February 19, 2018
Fun and Flirty. Excellent debut novel from Kristi Rose. Mostly fun and light hearted, with just enough suspense to pull the heartstrings.
June 18, 2020
Loved Hank. Not such a fan of Paisley.
March 24, 2021
Lost love
Excellent book cannot put it down read it straight through. Well written enough twists and turns making u wanting more
Excellent book cannot put it down read it straight through. Well written enough twists and turns making u wanting more
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