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Serendipity #2
Destiny
Nash can't help but admire Kelly Moss's confidence and beauty. But he's forced to keep his distance because getting involved with Kelly could destroy his relationship with his newly discovered teenage half-sister, Tess. And Kelly has other reasons for keeping her distance-like the secret she knows Nash will never forgive...
310 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 3, 2012
162 people are currently reading
1756 people want to read
About the author
Carly Phillips
406 books9,784 followersNY Times, Wall Street Journal, and USA Today Bestseller, Carly Phillips is the queen of Alpha Heroes, at least according to The Harlequin Junkie Reviewer.. Carly married her college sweetheart and lives in Purchase, NY along with her crazy dogs who are featured on her Facebook and Instagram pages. The author of over 75 romance novels, she has raised two incredible daughters and is now an empty nester. Carly’s book, The Bachelor, was chosen by Kelly Ripa as her first romance club pick. Carly loves social media and interacting with her readers. Want to keep up with Carly? Sign up for her newsletter and receive TWO FREE books at www.carlyphillips.com.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 342 reviews
April 28, 2024
Predictable and not good.
May 9, 2023
Story: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ (3.5)
Trope: small town
Angst: 😱😱😱😱😱
Smexy: 🔥🔥.5
Unfortunately for me, I just really had a hard time with this one. It just came across as excessively angsty with drama coming from every angle possible. Nash's relationship with his ex-wife. Kelly's relationship with Nash's ex-wife. Nash's relationships with his brothers. The fact that Nash and Kelly share a sibling. It was just too much put all together like that. Additionally, I didn't get any real spark from either the storyline or either of the MCs. I'm a huge fan of Carly's current books, but this series just hasn't been for me.
⛔️ My bookshelves can sometimes be spoilers
Trope: small town
Angst: 😱😱😱😱😱
Smexy: 🔥🔥.5
Unfortunately for me, I just really had a hard time with this one. It just came across as excessively angsty with drama coming from every angle possible. Nash's relationship with his ex-wife. Kelly's relationship with Nash's ex-wife. Nash's relationships with his brothers. The fact that Nash and Kelly share a sibling. It was just too much put all together like that. Additionally, I didn't get any real spark from either the storyline or either of the MCs. I'm a huge fan of Carly's current books, but this series just hasn't been for me.
⛔️ My bookshelves can sometimes be spoilers
October 21, 2011
I was a little hesitant going into this book because I didn't care for the hero in the previous book. He was harsh and judgmental and I wasn't sure how he would be in this novel. Phillips did an excellent job with him, however. He showed major growth. I was frustrated with him during the first half of the book, but he really changed over the course of the second half.
The romance was well done and the secondary characters fun and interesting. Another great entry in the series.
The romance was well done and the secondary characters fun and interesting. Another great entry in the series.
January 4, 2012
Review posted: Happily Ever After - Reads
Nash came across in SERENDIPITY as maybe the harshest brother, very angry and unforgiving of Ethan and decisions he made as an 18 year old kid. He’s also a bit non-accepting of Tess and as a result she shies away from him, not caring about getting to know him. She’s bonded with Ethan, and as Nash isn’t interested in getting along with Ethan, Tess’s mind is pretty much made up about having a relationship with Nash – not happening. Nash sees everything in black and white and he struggles to be what he thinks people need him to be. His first marriage didn’t work out, but he still calls and wants to help his ex, Annie, thinking she always needs help now after her MS diagnosis, instead of listening to her and want she really needs from him, as a friend.
Nash’s growth in this book is one of him becoming more self-aware. His eyes are opened up to how people perceive him and he doesn’t like the reality of it. He makes a real effort to change, realizing that the issues he thought were other people’s problems, are really his own and he takes steps to repair relationships within his family. Lies that people told him hit Nash hard. He has to deal with his youngest and closest brother Dare in a way he never thought he’d have to. His relationship with Dare has always been the one solid thing in his life and to have that turned upside down, because of Dare, is something that triggers Nash to start looking at why people aren’t comfortable coming to him with problems, and it’s a turning point for Nash personally.
One new, strong presence in Nash’s personal life is Kelly, Tess’s half-sister. Kelly is still struggling with her decision of leaving Tess on Ethan’s doorstep just a few short months ago. She knows it really was the best decision but still worries that Tess may have seen it as just another person abandoning her, like their mother did. But she sees Tess thriving in Ethan’s care and home and her decision has given Tess the stability that she’s never had before. Kelly’s moved to town to be closer to Tess and she’s trying to fit in, and makes a fast friend in Annie, Nash’s ex.
Nash and Kelly become closer as the story goes and even though Tess objects at first, because, well…it’s Nash, they are comfortable with each other and find a happiness together that neither one was expecting. Kelly has some personal baggage she’s also dealing with and it ultimately drives a wedge between her and Nash when she doesn’t come clean to him. He sees it as just one more person keeping the truth from him. Both Nash and Kelly have issues to work through on their own, but once they’re able to repair relationships, in Nash’s case, and put the past completely to rest, for Kelly, they can finally move forward together.
“I can’t have this conversation now.”
Not while her fingers were hovering around the hard edge threatening to burst through his pants.
She met his gaze and grinned. “We’re not going to do much talking,” she promised, her eyes glittering with desire. “I just wanted you to know that I get you. And when you’re with me, you can just feel what you’re feeling and I won’t judge…”
He nodded, his throat full, touched beyond reason that she’d thought so long and hard about him. What he wanted and needed. He wanted to express his gratitude, his feelings and once again he reached for her.
Once again she eased out of his grasp. “And now you’re going to lean back and just enjoy. No thinking, Nash. Just feel,” she said, and knelt down in front of him.
Their relationship was sweet and very easy going. They had issues to move past and do, but they came across on page as a fun couple, and a couple that was well matched for each other. While I enjoyed their scenes together, I felt a bit more invested in Nash and his relationship with his brothers, Ethan and Dare. He had a lot of ground to cover with Ethan, and was able to finally let himself “get” where Ethan was coming from and start to move past the hurt he’s carried for so long.
…Ethan turned to Nash and spread his hands out in front of him. “Well? What now?”
Nash ran a hand through his hair. Damned if he knew.
“As much as you don’t like it, we’re brothers. I was wrong back then, but I can’t change the past.”
“So what do you want from me?” Nash asked.
Ethan shrugged. “Get to know me. Judge me for who I am today, not who I was or what I did.”
“That much, huh?” Maybe Nash could give him a kidney too.
Ethan nodded in understanding. “Yeah, I’m asking for that much.” He let out a dark laugh. “You never know. You might just like me.”
Nash rolled his eyes. “Don’t hold your breath, big brother.” Despite himself, a smile edged the corners of his mouth as he followed Ethan out of the office and back to the party.
The most drama came from an unlikely source in the fun loving, (seemingly) happy Dare. That turned out to be a great cover for the hurt and pain Dare has been hiding for many years, all going back to one horrible night when he was 15. When the truth comes out, Nash questions everything he was led to believe about why he and Dare were split up and sent to different foster homes after their parents died. And for Dare, we get a small glimpse at what kind of inner demons he’s been dealing with, all from that one night that still haunts him and it’ll be interesting to see how he deals with it and if he can find some kind of peace and move forward in his book.
One of the side stories that hit on a personal level for me was Annie, who is living with MS. My mom was diagnosed with MS over ten years ago, and it really brought Annie’s story to life more for me, and even though she’s not on page a great deal, I felt like I knew her and some of her struggles very well. When I read it’s to completely escape reality, my happy little book world, but sometimes even books have a way of bringing something in your real life front and center and for me, in this book, it was Annie.
Nash went from being the brother I wanted to smack the most in SERENDIPITY, to the brother I wanted to see reconcile with his family, have a solid relationship with his sister, and find some happiness and love with Kelly. Carly Phillips delivers with a light, fun read, a sweet romance and gives us a family that I can’t wait to read more about in small town Serendipity.
Nash came across in SERENDIPITY as maybe the harshest brother, very angry and unforgiving of Ethan and decisions he made as an 18 year old kid. He’s also a bit non-accepting of Tess and as a result she shies away from him, not caring about getting to know him. She’s bonded with Ethan, and as Nash isn’t interested in getting along with Ethan, Tess’s mind is pretty much made up about having a relationship with Nash – not happening. Nash sees everything in black and white and he struggles to be what he thinks people need him to be. His first marriage didn’t work out, but he still calls and wants to help his ex, Annie, thinking she always needs help now after her MS diagnosis, instead of listening to her and want she really needs from him, as a friend.
Nash’s growth in this book is one of him becoming more self-aware. His eyes are opened up to how people perceive him and he doesn’t like the reality of it. He makes a real effort to change, realizing that the issues he thought were other people’s problems, are really his own and he takes steps to repair relationships within his family. Lies that people told him hit Nash hard. He has to deal with his youngest and closest brother Dare in a way he never thought he’d have to. His relationship with Dare has always been the one solid thing in his life and to have that turned upside down, because of Dare, is something that triggers Nash to start looking at why people aren’t comfortable coming to him with problems, and it’s a turning point for Nash personally.
One new, strong presence in Nash’s personal life is Kelly, Tess’s half-sister. Kelly is still struggling with her decision of leaving Tess on Ethan’s doorstep just a few short months ago. She knows it really was the best decision but still worries that Tess may have seen it as just another person abandoning her, like their mother did. But she sees Tess thriving in Ethan’s care and home and her decision has given Tess the stability that she’s never had before. Kelly’s moved to town to be closer to Tess and she’s trying to fit in, and makes a fast friend in Annie, Nash’s ex.
Nash and Kelly become closer as the story goes and even though Tess objects at first, because, well…it’s Nash, they are comfortable with each other and find a happiness together that neither one was expecting. Kelly has some personal baggage she’s also dealing with and it ultimately drives a wedge between her and Nash when she doesn’t come clean to him. He sees it as just one more person keeping the truth from him. Both Nash and Kelly have issues to work through on their own, but once they’re able to repair relationships, in Nash’s case, and put the past completely to rest, for Kelly, they can finally move forward together.
“I can’t have this conversation now.”
Not while her fingers were hovering around the hard edge threatening to burst through his pants.
She met his gaze and grinned. “We’re not going to do much talking,” she promised, her eyes glittering with desire. “I just wanted you to know that I get you. And when you’re with me, you can just feel what you’re feeling and I won’t judge…”
He nodded, his throat full, touched beyond reason that she’d thought so long and hard about him. What he wanted and needed. He wanted to express his gratitude, his feelings and once again he reached for her.
Once again she eased out of his grasp. “And now you’re going to lean back and just enjoy. No thinking, Nash. Just feel,” she said, and knelt down in front of him.
Their relationship was sweet and very easy going. They had issues to move past and do, but they came across on page as a fun couple, and a couple that was well matched for each other. While I enjoyed their scenes together, I felt a bit more invested in Nash and his relationship with his brothers, Ethan and Dare. He had a lot of ground to cover with Ethan, and was able to finally let himself “get” where Ethan was coming from and start to move past the hurt he’s carried for so long.
…Ethan turned to Nash and spread his hands out in front of him. “Well? What now?”
Nash ran a hand through his hair. Damned if he knew.
“As much as you don’t like it, we’re brothers. I was wrong back then, but I can’t change the past.”
“So what do you want from me?” Nash asked.
Ethan shrugged. “Get to know me. Judge me for who I am today, not who I was or what I did.”
“That much, huh?” Maybe Nash could give him a kidney too.
Ethan nodded in understanding. “Yeah, I’m asking for that much.” He let out a dark laugh. “You never know. You might just like me.”
Nash rolled his eyes. “Don’t hold your breath, big brother.” Despite himself, a smile edged the corners of his mouth as he followed Ethan out of the office and back to the party.
The most drama came from an unlikely source in the fun loving, (seemingly) happy Dare. That turned out to be a great cover for the hurt and pain Dare has been hiding for many years, all going back to one horrible night when he was 15. When the truth comes out, Nash questions everything he was led to believe about why he and Dare were split up and sent to different foster homes after their parents died. And for Dare, we get a small glimpse at what kind of inner demons he’s been dealing with, all from that one night that still haunts him and it’ll be interesting to see how he deals with it and if he can find some kind of peace and move forward in his book.
One of the side stories that hit on a personal level for me was Annie, who is living with MS. My mom was diagnosed with MS over ten years ago, and it really brought Annie’s story to life more for me, and even though she’s not on page a great deal, I felt like I knew her and some of her struggles very well. When I read it’s to completely escape reality, my happy little book world, but sometimes even books have a way of bringing something in your real life front and center and for me, in this book, it was Annie.
Nash went from being the brother I wanted to smack the most in SERENDIPITY, to the brother I wanted to see reconcile with his family, have a solid relationship with his sister, and find some happiness and love with Kelly. Carly Phillips delivers with a light, fun read, a sweet romance and gives us a family that I can’t wait to read more about in small town Serendipity.
March 20, 2017
Cute. A lovely Sunday afternoon book.
May 4, 2023
Reviewed For Saucy Review
On Kinky Korner
I was a little torn as to whether I would get along with this book as I wasn't a fan of Nash in the last book. He was rather abrupt and frankly rude, but you get why, as this book goes along. And I warmed to him in the second half of this book.
Nash and Kelly's connection was instant and consuming. The romance was beautiful to read, and the supporting characters helped to build on the story with the fun they injected. I really feel it's a story that has a great impact on this series. But I feel it needs to be experienced, and that's why I won't go into the ins and outs of the story.
This book is a huge recommend from me, and I can't wait for the next instalment.
On Kinky Korner
I was a little torn as to whether I would get along with this book as I wasn't a fan of Nash in the last book. He was rather abrupt and frankly rude, but you get why, as this book goes along. And I warmed to him in the second half of this book.
Nash and Kelly's connection was instant and consuming. The romance was beautiful to read, and the supporting characters helped to build on the story with the fun they injected. I really feel it's a story that has a great impact on this series. But I feel it needs to be experienced, and that's why I won't go into the ins and outs of the story.
This book is a huge recommend from me, and I can't wait for the next instalment.
April 29, 2023
Destiny is the third book in the Serendipity series and it's a fantastic addition to the series! This book focuses on Nash and Kelly.
The relationship between the Barron brothers, Nash and Ethan, is complicated to say the least, and in this book they take a journey that ends up being a turning point for their entire family. Nash is an attorney, so he likes things to be as black and white as possible, but sometimes that isn't possible and adjusting to having a half sister, Tess, is one of those things that he doesn't handle so well. Not to mention Tess's sister, Kelly, that he is inexplicably attracted to. The chemistry that Nash and Kelly have is undeniable and both of them have to figure out how to handle that along with everything else they are dealing with.
Phillips has once again written a wonderful, complex story that makes you root for the main characters as they fight to learn more about themselves as individuals while trying to figure out where love fits in their lives.
**I voluntarily read an early copy of this title in exchange for an honest review**
The relationship between the Barron brothers, Nash and Ethan, is complicated to say the least, and in this book they take a journey that ends up being a turning point for their entire family. Nash is an attorney, so he likes things to be as black and white as possible, but sometimes that isn't possible and adjusting to having a half sister, Tess, is one of those things that he doesn't handle so well. Not to mention Tess's sister, Kelly, that he is inexplicably attracted to. The chemistry that Nash and Kelly have is undeniable and both of them have to figure out how to handle that along with everything else they are dealing with.
Phillips has once again written a wonderful, complex story that makes you root for the main characters as they fight to learn more about themselves as individuals while trying to figure out where love fits in their lives.
**I voluntarily read an early copy of this title in exchange for an honest review**
January 9, 2018
Loved it! Now on to #3 Karma
May 6, 2023
Difficult to love hero but I’m here for the drama
4 stars
Destiny is a re-release of the third book in Carly Phillips’ Serendipity series. This is my first time reading the story but I suspect there have been a few updates since it was originally published. Technically, I don’t think you need to have read the first book in the series to enjoy and understand this one since the romance definitely stands alone, but there are other strands of the story and the family dynamics that will definitely make sense if you’ve read the first book in the series, Serendipity, that focusses on Nash’s brother Ethan.
And that was my first issue with the book. In Serendipity, Nash was the unforgiving and somewhat nasty brother of the hero, Ethan. In reading and enjoying that book, I didn’t start off much caring for our hero in this book, Nash. And he didn’t do much to help me change my mind about him for the majority of the story. He was inflexible, rigid, quick to judge people and quite standoffish. He slowly got better and finally had realisations of his character flaws but it was hard for me to fully get behind him as he definitely started off on the back foot.
Kelly was a different story. From the first she was feisty, fun and strong. I loved her attitude, the way she dealt with Tess and her new family - and how she didn’t let Nash away with any shit. While I did have my issues with Nash, I genuinely wanted Kelly to be happy with him and by the end, I was happy with them as a couple.
As a couple, Kelly and Nash definitely had chemistry - especially when they got going. And since this is a Carly Phillips novel, the sex is just as smoking hot as you would expect. It really ramps things up to another level and did help me get over my hesitations about Nash as I do so like a man who takes charge and goes after what he wants.
There was a small secondary story included with this one about Annie and Joe. It was a nice diversion, and nice to see a character with MS featured as a heroine, even a secondary one. It didn’t distract from the main story so even though I didn’t feel hugely connected to these characters, it was fun to read.
Where this story shone - and pulled it from a 3 star read to a 4 - was in the relationships between Ethan and Faith (from the first book), bratty but likeable teen, Tess, Nash and Kelly and the youngest brother, Dare. There was a lot to work out in terms of issues from their pasts as well as the worry concerning the custody of Tess. Those issues and pieces of the jigsaw of this story were really what got me invested and kept me interested and reading.
It’s not my favourite book of Ms Phillips’ and it’s never going to be a classic but I’m glad that I picked it up and read it, if nothing else than so I have a fuller picture of the Barron family. And I’ll look forward to the next in the Serendipity series as well as the third brother, Dare’s story, coming in a few books time. 4 stars for this one from me.
May 2, 2023
Small-town charm meets big-city problems in this story about the Barron brothers set in Serendipity, New York. Nash may be the middle child, but their childhood ensured that he become the protector.
Separated from his younger brother Dare after their parents died and the oldest brother Ethan left town, Nash always made sure Dare was taken care of. Those protective instincts carried over into adulthood, making him a bit rigid, viewing the world as black and white. But when he realizes his first assumptions about Kelly Moss are completely wrong, he’s man enough to admit it. And his attraction.
Kelly is the older sister to Tess, the recently discovered teenage half-sister of the Barron brothers. Kelly has moved to Serendipity wants the Barron brothers should get to know their sister that Kelly has been raising on her own. She didn’t anticipate having feelings for Nash, but when things get messy, Kelly doesn’t let that deter her.
This talented storyteller once again delivers a sweet, steamy, heartfelt romance, this time with secrets and complications that challenge families, friendships and love. An easy read that kept me captivated until the last page, this is one you won’t want to miss!
Separated from his younger brother Dare after their parents died and the oldest brother Ethan left town, Nash always made sure Dare was taken care of. Those protective instincts carried over into adulthood, making him a bit rigid, viewing the world as black and white. But when he realizes his first assumptions about Kelly Moss are completely wrong, he’s man enough to admit it. And his attraction.
Kelly is the older sister to Tess, the recently discovered teenage half-sister of the Barron brothers. Kelly has moved to Serendipity wants the Barron brothers should get to know their sister that Kelly has been raising on her own. She didn’t anticipate having feelings for Nash, but when things get messy, Kelly doesn’t let that deter her.
This talented storyteller once again delivers a sweet, steamy, heartfelt romance, this time with secrets and complications that challenge families, friendships and love. An easy read that kept me captivated until the last page, this is one you won’t want to miss!
May 12, 2023
Received an ARC for an honest review.
Having not read the first one, I had a bit of catching up to do, but Carly Phillips does a great job of giving you any necessary information so that you can focus on the story. I loved watch Nash and Kelly get together and at first, I was annoyed at how rigid Nash was...but after everything that he goes through in this one...I think it's absolutely warranted. I loved that we got some tidbits of Annie along the way, but I wanted more. The story did wrap up a little quickly for me in some aspects, but I wanted more about Tess - which I guess we will see in Dare's story.
All in all, an enjoyable time!
Having not read the first one, I had a bit of catching up to do, but Carly Phillips does a great job of giving you any necessary information so that you can focus on the story. I loved watch Nash and Kelly get together and at first, I was annoyed at how rigid Nash was...but after everything that he goes through in this one...I think it's absolutely warranted. I loved that we got some tidbits of Annie along the way, but I wanted more. The story did wrap up a little quickly for me in some aspects, but I wanted more about Tess - which I guess we will see in Dare's story.
All in all, an enjoyable time!
April 29, 2023
Oh how I have missed the Barron brothers. I immediately got sucked in to the town of Serendipity and the relationship between the brothers. Obviously I love the romance between Kate and Nash, but this book continues the painful past and complicated present relationships between Ethan, Nash, and Dare. Thankfully they have their newly discovered half-sister, Tess, forcing the brothers to confront hard truths as they find themselves needing each other after all.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
April 19, 2017
Great book, just couldn't stop reading ☺
May 10, 2023
Nash and Kelly are strong characters with amazingly hot chemistry from the first page. Not only are they the focus of the book but the story is a continuation of Serendepity.
Nash and Kelly's family is part of the mix and we get to revisit and continue with their little sister, Tess's, life and Nash's brother's, Ethan and Dare.
It was a page turner and never a dull moment. It left me wanting more of this family and I cannot wait till the next book.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Nash and Kelly's family is part of the mix and we get to revisit and continue with their little sister, Tess's, life and Nash's brother's, Ethan and Dare.
It was a page turner and never a dull moment. It left me wanting more of this family and I cannot wait till the next book.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
May 10, 2023
Carly Phillips is a new author for me and I absolutely love her books. Kelly and Nash are no different. That slow burn and building into a steamy relationship. Good storyline however sometimes the Tess, Richard, Ethan, Annie stories were rough to keep track of but overall great story.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
June 17, 2012
Review Courtesy of Dark Faerie Tales
Quick & Dirty: A light-hearted contemporary story about love between two completely different people, one who held onto his integrity, and the other who embraced the unexpected.
Opening Sentence: Nash Barron might be cynical about life and more recently about love, but even he normally enjoyed a good wedding.
The Review:
Nash Barron and Kelly Moss share a connection. Within their unusual and dysfunctional family, they both feel like strangers. Theirs is a family amidst the process of healing and mending, mainly for Tess, the young teen who is a common thread for them both. Individually, they are doing the best that they can raising Tess, allowing her to become a part of everything. Ethan and his newly married wife, Faith, just went on their honeymoon, leaving Nash and Kelly to take care of Tess.
Nash is the middle brother in this family of Barron boys. Ethan, Dare, and he were all raised separately, and Nash cannot come to grips for his forgiveness towards Ethan. The sudden death of his parents, and the abandonment of Ethan, left Dare and himself to live in separate foster homes. Nash only sees the black and white of their situation, not allowing himself to grow from the pain. Instead, Nash festers on it, finding it hard to accept and embrace that Ethan isn’t the young teen who tore his life, and family, apart.
Kelly raised Tess on her own. Their distant mother went into one marriage after another, eventually taking off without so much as a care in the world. Kelly lives in shadows of her past, her mother’s past, and their secrets. Love and desperation forced Kelly to leave Tess on Ethan’s doorstep, and now she has finally followed to become a part of this unusual family.
Nash and Kelly’s love is simple amongst the intricacies of their world. Their attraction was unexpected, and maybe even a little complicated because of their families. But they find solace in being with each other, and a sense of peace. While it took a while to be sure of what they have, they found their relationship to be filled with friendship and a commitment towards Tess. Nash was different around Kelly, making him much more enjoyable as a character. I found that he was a little more human, than the brass and aggressive brother that he is towards everyone else.
Phillips’ world is familiar, especially with a contemporary setting. Maybe the familial situation isn’t normal, but the feelings of betrayal, solitude, love, and kinship is. Each character in the Serendipity series has a depth to them that doesn’t always exist in contemporary romance. Phillips always paces Destiny really well, despite the many bits of information for the reader to take in. As a reader, I felt a part of their town, their family, and their lives, easily a part of everything.
Love is a huge part of Destiny, and the series. Phillips talks about many different forms of love, from the ups and downs of brothers, to the complications of unexpected love. Destiny is a great contemporary romance fitting for a weekend read. Phillips will take you on a roller coaster of emotions, ending with happiness and joy.
Notable Scene:
I can’t get you anything?” he asked.
She shook her head and smiled. “Just you.”
“Now that I can give you.” He stepped forward, pulled her into his arms and all her anxiety dissipated in a rush of heat.
She tipped her head back, expecting him to lower his lips to hers as he’d done before. Instead, he slid her shirt off one shoulder and pressed his mouth against her skin. She shivered and her entire body responded, her breasts grew full, her nipples puckered, and flutters picked up deep in her belly.
Nothing that felt this good could be wrong and she tilted her head, giving him better access. The smart man took advantage, trailing his tongue over the sensitive flesh of her neck. He was gentle, which somehow possessed to come alive under the arousing strokes of his tongue. A soft moan escaped her lips and she felt a responding shudder go through him as well.
“Let’s go somewhere more private,” he said roughly in her ear.
The Serendipity Series:
1. Serendipity
1.5. Kismet
2. Destiny
3. Karma
FTC Advisory: Penguin/Berkley provided me with a copy of Destiny. No goody bags, sponsorships, “material connections,” or bribes were exchanged for my review.
Quick & Dirty: A light-hearted contemporary story about love between two completely different people, one who held onto his integrity, and the other who embraced the unexpected.
Opening Sentence: Nash Barron might be cynical about life and more recently about love, but even he normally enjoyed a good wedding.
The Review:
Nash Barron and Kelly Moss share a connection. Within their unusual and dysfunctional family, they both feel like strangers. Theirs is a family amidst the process of healing and mending, mainly for Tess, the young teen who is a common thread for them both. Individually, they are doing the best that they can raising Tess, allowing her to become a part of everything. Ethan and his newly married wife, Faith, just went on their honeymoon, leaving Nash and Kelly to take care of Tess.
Nash is the middle brother in this family of Barron boys. Ethan, Dare, and he were all raised separately, and Nash cannot come to grips for his forgiveness towards Ethan. The sudden death of his parents, and the abandonment of Ethan, left Dare and himself to live in separate foster homes. Nash only sees the black and white of their situation, not allowing himself to grow from the pain. Instead, Nash festers on it, finding it hard to accept and embrace that Ethan isn’t the young teen who tore his life, and family, apart.
Kelly raised Tess on her own. Their distant mother went into one marriage after another, eventually taking off without so much as a care in the world. Kelly lives in shadows of her past, her mother’s past, and their secrets. Love and desperation forced Kelly to leave Tess on Ethan’s doorstep, and now she has finally followed to become a part of this unusual family.
Nash and Kelly’s love is simple amongst the intricacies of their world. Their attraction was unexpected, and maybe even a little complicated because of their families. But they find solace in being with each other, and a sense of peace. While it took a while to be sure of what they have, they found their relationship to be filled with friendship and a commitment towards Tess. Nash was different around Kelly, making him much more enjoyable as a character. I found that he was a little more human, than the brass and aggressive brother that he is towards everyone else.
Phillips’ world is familiar, especially with a contemporary setting. Maybe the familial situation isn’t normal, but the feelings of betrayal, solitude, love, and kinship is. Each character in the Serendipity series has a depth to them that doesn’t always exist in contemporary romance. Phillips always paces Destiny really well, despite the many bits of information for the reader to take in. As a reader, I felt a part of their town, their family, and their lives, easily a part of everything.
Love is a huge part of Destiny, and the series. Phillips talks about many different forms of love, from the ups and downs of brothers, to the complications of unexpected love. Destiny is a great contemporary romance fitting for a weekend read. Phillips will take you on a roller coaster of emotions, ending with happiness and joy.
Notable Scene:
I can’t get you anything?” he asked.
She shook her head and smiled. “Just you.”
“Now that I can give you.” He stepped forward, pulled her into his arms and all her anxiety dissipated in a rush of heat.
She tipped her head back, expecting him to lower his lips to hers as he’d done before. Instead, he slid her shirt off one shoulder and pressed his mouth against her skin. She shivered and her entire body responded, her breasts grew full, her nipples puckered, and flutters picked up deep in her belly.
Nothing that felt this good could be wrong and she tilted her head, giving him better access. The smart man took advantage, trailing his tongue over the sensitive flesh of her neck. He was gentle, which somehow possessed to come alive under the arousing strokes of his tongue. A soft moan escaped her lips and she felt a responding shudder go through him as well.
“Let’s go somewhere more private,” he said roughly in her ear.
The Serendipity Series:
1. Serendipity
1.5. Kismet
2. Destiny
3. Karma
FTC Advisory: Penguin/Berkley provided me with a copy of Destiny. No goody bags, sponsorships, “material connections,” or bribes were exchanged for my review.
January 19, 2012
My Review:
So far, I am really enjoying this series. It provides a fun contemporary read set within a family dynamic that I really enjoy. The first book featured Ethan, the oldest brother of the family and the pariah for abandoning the younger two, Nash and Dare, when their parents died suddenly when all three were teenagers. Nash is the middle brother and, like in most family dynamics, the most willing to hold a grudge. I liked the development of the relationship between Nash and Ethan in this book. Actually, that is probably my favorite thing about this book. I love how their relationship is evolving and becoming more rather than just confrontational. I love that this motley crew of a family is starting to grow back together, even though it is incredibly painful for them to get there.
Adding to that pain are Kelly and Tess. Tess is the half-sister, and teenage rebel, to the three Barron brothers. Kelly is her half sister on the other side of the family. Kelly is NOT a blood relation to the Barron boys, even though the family dynamic here is a little convoluted. Kelly & Nash are incredibly drawn to each other, even though they realize that a romance may not be the best thing for their troubled half sister. (You know, the family dynamic didn't seem as weird when I was reading the book as it does now, typing up this review...LOL!) Yes, it's a little odd, but it's a romance novel. You are expected to suspend disbelief a little bit.
I also really liked Nash's personal evolution in this book. Nash is a lawyer and he sees things in black or white. He is pretty staid in his beliefs and not very forgiving when someone does something that he doesn't agree with. When his solid world falls apart, he has to re-examine himself and how he reacts to other people. There is a huge character growth arc that really helped me to enjoy this book more. I thought that it was really creative how Carly used Nash & Annie's marriage and subsequent divorce/friendship to illustrate his issues so clearly. This is a great book on the sociology of people and why people react the way that they do. Nash had no control over what happened in his life at 16, so he has done everything in his power to control every aspect of it ever since.
What I didn't enjoy about this book were those nagging little details like how Nash and Kelly are *almost* related. Also, she has an issue that isn't really an issue. It just has the appearance of one. Just like how Nash and Kelly have the appearance of being related. They were nagging little things that were surface items only, but both of those things are seriously taboo, which lent almost a tainted air to the book. I didn't enjoy that aspect of it. I wish that the story could have been written with a slightly different dynamic so that it didn't have that minuscule taint. It just kind of gave the book a slightly weird feel, but that's probably just me...
Personally, I cannot wait for Dare's book. I loved the little glimpses that we saw of his cracks. I think that his is going to be a pretty powerful story!
So far, I am really enjoying this series. It provides a fun contemporary read set within a family dynamic that I really enjoy. The first book featured Ethan, the oldest brother of the family and the pariah for abandoning the younger two, Nash and Dare, when their parents died suddenly when all three were teenagers. Nash is the middle brother and, like in most family dynamics, the most willing to hold a grudge. I liked the development of the relationship between Nash and Ethan in this book. Actually, that is probably my favorite thing about this book. I love how their relationship is evolving and becoming more rather than just confrontational. I love that this motley crew of a family is starting to grow back together, even though it is incredibly painful for them to get there.
Adding to that pain are Kelly and Tess. Tess is the half-sister, and teenage rebel, to the three Barron brothers. Kelly is her half sister on the other side of the family. Kelly is NOT a blood relation to the Barron boys, even though the family dynamic here is a little convoluted. Kelly & Nash are incredibly drawn to each other, even though they realize that a romance may not be the best thing for their troubled half sister. (You know, the family dynamic didn't seem as weird when I was reading the book as it does now, typing up this review...LOL!) Yes, it's a little odd, but it's a romance novel. You are expected to suspend disbelief a little bit.
I also really liked Nash's personal evolution in this book. Nash is a lawyer and he sees things in black or white. He is pretty staid in his beliefs and not very forgiving when someone does something that he doesn't agree with. When his solid world falls apart, he has to re-examine himself and how he reacts to other people. There is a huge character growth arc that really helped me to enjoy this book more. I thought that it was really creative how Carly used Nash & Annie's marriage and subsequent divorce/friendship to illustrate his issues so clearly. This is a great book on the sociology of people and why people react the way that they do. Nash had no control over what happened in his life at 16, so he has done everything in his power to control every aspect of it ever since.
What I didn't enjoy about this book were those nagging little details like how Nash and Kelly are *almost* related. Also, she has an issue that isn't really an issue. It just has the appearance of one. Just like how Nash and Kelly have the appearance of being related. They were nagging little things that were surface items only, but both of those things are seriously taboo, which lent almost a tainted air to the book. I didn't enjoy that aspect of it. I wish that the story could have been written with a slightly different dynamic so that it didn't have that minuscule taint. It just kind of gave the book a slightly weird feel, but that's probably just me...
Personally, I cannot wait for Dare's book. I loved the little glimpses that we saw of his cracks. I think that his is going to be a pretty powerful story!
January 15, 2012
Originally Reviewed at Literary Cravings
Impressions
Destiny, the second book in the Serendipity Series, is about Nash Barron and his romance with Kelly Moss. In the first novel of the series Serendipity we were introduced to the Barron brothers Ethan, Nash, and Dash and I have to say that Nash was my least favorite out of them. So I went into this story a little wary, knowing that I would end up hating him even more or he would end up growing on me.
What Worked
Nash begins to have feelings for his half sister Tess’s half sister Kelly Moss. Confusing? Yea l was at first but since Kelly and Nash are not blood related in any way I relaxed with their romance.
The development of Kelly and Nash's paths and how they came to be the adults they were now. Kelly being a strong independent Paralegal and Nash being the jaded lawyer.
The romance between them ranged from steamy to hot. Kelly really gave uptight Nash a challenge, which I enjoyed.
Both Nash and Kelly had to tackling issues within themselves as well as issues with their relationship. I appreciated how they had to deal with their own issues before they could be successful with their relationship. Especially Nash.
Could Have Been Better
The characters didn’t resonate with me. Even though Nate ended up growing on me, and both he and Kelly were good characters I just didn’t connect with them as much as I wanted.
I wish there was an even more complex, dynamic plot to enhance the story.
Overall
Destiny was a nice contemporary romance that showcased the relatable trails and tribulations a family and romantic relationship go through. Adult Romance readers looking for a contemporary romance should give Destiny a shot.
December 4, 2024
I'd love to give this book 4 or 5 stars... It was a decent plot and the characters were likeable! But the timeframe bugged me, the book bored me, and I just found small faults here there and everywhere. Nitpicky stuff really, but still, sorry to say, this book just really didn't do anything for me at all, and kinda disappointed because I was expecting to really like hearing the hero's story.
April 15, 2012
Very good book. Now that Ethan and Faith are settled, and Tess is living with them, life is starting to settle out for Kelly. She has a good job in town and can see Tess as often as she can. At the wedding she and Nash give in to a moment of passion, but then decide that they can't pursue it because it could mess with Tess's newfound life. However, they find that they just can't stay away from each other. Besides dealing with their own feeling, both have other issues to deal with. Nash is dealing with finding that Ethan isn't as bad as he'd believed all these years. He has a shock about his younger brother, who he'd always felt closer to, and finding out that maybe he was a bit more rigid than he thought he was. Kelly is dealing with issues from her ex-boyfriend, her mother, and realizing that Nash has begun to mean more to her than just a fling. She has been trying to find a way to tell Nash about her past, but is afraid of him judging her and walking away. Nash can't believe the things he has told Kelly that he hasn't shared with anyone else, and slowly realizes that he cares for her a lot. The showdown at the end breaks open a whole bunch of things on both sides, eventually opening both ups to the realization that they're in love. I also loved the side story of Annie and Joe.
May 6, 2012
3.5 stars I really had no interest in reading Nash's book when I got this. I was reading it just to get to Dare's book. Dare intrigued me from book one.
Anyway, this book left me pleasantly surprised. I really enjoyed it. Nash comes across as a pretty unlikable, hard man. But he slowly won me over. He's rigid and difficult, but he's human still the same.
Kelly, who I also didn't really care to get to know better, also surprised me. She's a great character with a lot of love in her.
This book is flawed in places, but overall an enjoyable read.
Anyway, this book left me pleasantly surprised. I really enjoyed it. Nash comes across as a pretty unlikable, hard man. But he slowly won me over. He's rigid and difficult, but he's human still the same.
Kelly, who I also didn't really care to get to know better, also surprised me. She's a great character with a lot of love in her.
This book is flawed in places, but overall an enjoyable read.
December 29, 2023
I think I have a new favorite book by Ms. Phillips. Destiny was my introduction to her Serendipity series and I loved it.
I laughed and cried as I read Nash and Kelly's story. Once I started reading this book, I couldn't put it down. They were real people dealing with real problems who were fighting their way to one another.
Now I'm off to find the rest of the series.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I laughed and cried as I read Nash and Kelly's story. Once I started reading this book, I couldn't put it down. They were real people dealing with real problems who were fighting their way to one another.
Now I'm off to find the rest of the series.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
July 21, 2014
more 3.5 than 4 stars.
I liked Kelly very much, she's a wonderful woman, generous and sweet, strong and reliable. Nash... I didn't like him so much.
Nash is hard-headed and for him there is only a way: his way. So, I didn't find them so ready to become a couple. Nash gained some points in the end.
I liked the family interaction (it's the 4 stars reason! ;) )
I liked Kelly very much, she's a wonderful woman, generous and sweet, strong and reliable. Nash... I didn't like him so much.
Nash is hard-headed and for him there is only a way: his way. So, I didn't find them so ready to become a couple. Nash gained some points in the end.
I liked the family interaction (it's the 4 stars reason! ;) )
September 22, 2014
Pleasantly surprised at how much I enjoyed this one.
November 12, 2016
Just another sappy romance.... but good.
June 10, 2023
I'm starting to hate this instalove kind of stories, after a month they're already in love and getting married? Ugh.
May 6, 2023
*An advance reader copy was provided to me in exchange for an honest review.*
Nash Barron and Kelly Moss are some pair. Nash was abandoned by Ethan, his older brother, and sent to a separate foster home than Dare, his younger brother, after their parents had been killed in a car accident when he was only 16. Kelly and her younger half-sister, Tess, were left by their mother, a semi-functioning alcoholic, to fend for themselves about year ago. When Kelly realized that she wasn’t equipped to raise an angry teenager all by herself, she brought Tess to Serendipity and left her with Tess’ oldest half-brother, Ethan, while she also settled in town, got herself a job as a paralegal, and a place to live, so she could still be a part of Tess’ life.
The last thing she should have done was kiss Nash at his brother’s wedding, but she couldn’t help herself. I mean, who could keep their hands off the grumpiest of the Barron brothers? They share a half-sister (her mother/his father), who the brothers didn’t even know about until the ladies showed up at Ethan’s. A relationship between them would be complicated, to say the least. Nash’s ex-wife asked for a divorce two years ago without any warning, so he’s a little gun shy on commitment and Kelly’s last boyfriend was legally separated from his wife, but they ended up getting back together, which broke Kelly’s heart, making her vulnerable. Not to mention that Tess hasn’t thawed to Nash yet, mostly because of the grudge he holds against Ethan.
Together, they light all the words on the page on fire. They are so good together. But things aren’t smooth sailing for either one of them. Knowing that Nash doesn’t like to be lied too, Kelly is just about to tell him something from her past that she’s not proud of, but at the same time comes across some information that knocks everything that Nash thought he knew about what happened after his parents died off-kilter, so she holds off telling him. By the time Kelly knows she can’t put it off any longer, Nash overhears the tail-end of a conversation between Kelly and Ethan, he doesn’t give Kelly a chance to really explain herself and he just walks away.
Will Nash ever realize that life isn’t just black or white, but a million shades of gray? Will this endanger the shaky truce between Nash and Ethan? What about his relationship with Tess? Kelly will always be a part of Tess’ life, which means she’ll always be part of the family. Can Nash face the truth that he’s in love with her?
I love when Carly Phillips writes a series, no matter how many books it’s made up of, she gives us a family… loving, messy, kind, damaged, hurt, honest… Then there are the other side characters that round it out. Ethan’s wife, Faith, who Nash also has issues with, but sees how good she is not just for Ethan, but for Tess. And Annie, who is the daughter of Kelly’s boss and her 1st real friend in Serendipity, but also Nash’s ex-wife. They just complete the story. I can’t wait to see what comes next.
Nash Barron and Kelly Moss are some pair. Nash was abandoned by Ethan, his older brother, and sent to a separate foster home than Dare, his younger brother, after their parents had been killed in a car accident when he was only 16. Kelly and her younger half-sister, Tess, were left by their mother, a semi-functioning alcoholic, to fend for themselves about year ago. When Kelly realized that she wasn’t equipped to raise an angry teenager all by herself, she brought Tess to Serendipity and left her with Tess’ oldest half-brother, Ethan, while she also settled in town, got herself a job as a paralegal, and a place to live, so she could still be a part of Tess’ life.
The last thing she should have done was kiss Nash at his brother’s wedding, but she couldn’t help herself. I mean, who could keep their hands off the grumpiest of the Barron brothers? They share a half-sister (her mother/his father), who the brothers didn’t even know about until the ladies showed up at Ethan’s. A relationship between them would be complicated, to say the least. Nash’s ex-wife asked for a divorce two years ago without any warning, so he’s a little gun shy on commitment and Kelly’s last boyfriend was legally separated from his wife, but they ended up getting back together, which broke Kelly’s heart, making her vulnerable. Not to mention that Tess hasn’t thawed to Nash yet, mostly because of the grudge he holds against Ethan.
Together, they light all the words on the page on fire. They are so good together. But things aren’t smooth sailing for either one of them. Knowing that Nash doesn’t like to be lied too, Kelly is just about to tell him something from her past that she’s not proud of, but at the same time comes across some information that knocks everything that Nash thought he knew about what happened after his parents died off-kilter, so she holds off telling him. By the time Kelly knows she can’t put it off any longer, Nash overhears the tail-end of a conversation between Kelly and Ethan, he doesn’t give Kelly a chance to really explain herself and he just walks away.
Will Nash ever realize that life isn’t just black or white, but a million shades of gray? Will this endanger the shaky truce between Nash and Ethan? What about his relationship with Tess? Kelly will always be a part of Tess’ life, which means she’ll always be part of the family. Can Nash face the truth that he’s in love with her?
I love when Carly Phillips writes a series, no matter how many books it’s made up of, she gives us a family… loving, messy, kind, damaged, hurt, honest… Then there are the other side characters that round it out. Ethan’s wife, Faith, who Nash also has issues with, but sees how good she is not just for Ethan, but for Tess. And Annie, who is the daughter of Kelly’s boss and her 1st real friend in Serendipity, but also Nash’s ex-wife. They just complete the story. I can’t wait to see what comes next.
May 5, 2023
These stories are short but they pack a punch! I loved the previous stories based on this town and was looking forward to Nash’s story. The middle one of the Barron brothers, Nash only sees things in black and white, he’s rigid and for this reason is the brother that Tess likes the least. They have clashed before and he’s frustrated that he can’t get close to his little sister.
Enter Kelly, Tess’ sister on their mother’s side. As we learned in the previous books, their mother bailed on them and Kelly has been raising Tess on her own. When Tess got too hard to handle and got in trouble with the law, Kelly deposited Tess with Ethan, he was able to turn her around, now she adores her big brother, another thorn in Nash’s side. Nash still resents his big brother for his abandonment, causing Nash and Dare to end up in foster care. Nash also harbors a guilt/love relation with his foster parents because they gave him a luxurious life, whereas Dare went to live in the poor side of town with poor foster parents.
There’s an attraction between Kelly and Nash but of course, Nash doesn’t believe it should happen, due to Tess. Even so, they have to be together frequently for events related to Tess or family, so they have opportunity to clash some more. Then the chemistry is too much and they need to hide it for Tess.
This is a turbulent and juicy book to read. There’s a lot of angst related to Nash. He has so many urges, so many feelings of guilt, anger, unresolved issues with his ex-wife. He also has a strong inclination to protect, and ends smothering the people he cares for. He gets hit from all sides, hard truths come out from the events after their parents death, so surprising that he’s overwhelmed.
Then a family crisis comes up and all brothers band together to face the new danger. It helps Nash come to terms with his past, the secrets that are now in the open, and help him peel off that stick in his butt that has been there most of his life. Great story of growing up, and a yummy romance. I don’t talk a lot about Kelly because she’s awesome and perfect, Tess is now an adorable and quirky teenager, Faith is kind and a great friend, and Ethan is slowly coming to terms with his guilt and doing everything he can to atone with his brothers. Lots of feelings all around and all the wonder of small town life. I have now great expectations for Dare’s story!
Enter Kelly, Tess’ sister on their mother’s side. As we learned in the previous books, their mother bailed on them and Kelly has been raising Tess on her own. When Tess got too hard to handle and got in trouble with the law, Kelly deposited Tess with Ethan, he was able to turn her around, now she adores her big brother, another thorn in Nash’s side. Nash still resents his big brother for his abandonment, causing Nash and Dare to end up in foster care. Nash also harbors a guilt/love relation with his foster parents because they gave him a luxurious life, whereas Dare went to live in the poor side of town with poor foster parents.
There’s an attraction between Kelly and Nash but of course, Nash doesn’t believe it should happen, due to Tess. Even so, they have to be together frequently for events related to Tess or family, so they have opportunity to clash some more. Then the chemistry is too much and they need to hide it for Tess.
This is a turbulent and juicy book to read. There’s a lot of angst related to Nash. He has so many urges, so many feelings of guilt, anger, unresolved issues with his ex-wife. He also has a strong inclination to protect, and ends smothering the people he cares for. He gets hit from all sides, hard truths come out from the events after their parents death, so surprising that he’s overwhelmed.
Then a family crisis comes up and all brothers band together to face the new danger. It helps Nash come to terms with his past, the secrets that are now in the open, and help him peel off that stick in his butt that has been there most of his life. Great story of growing up, and a yummy romance. I don’t talk a lot about Kelly because she’s awesome and perfect, Tess is now an adorable and quirky teenager, Faith is kind and a great friend, and Ethan is slowly coming to terms with his guilt and doing everything he can to atone with his brothers. Lots of feelings all around and all the wonder of small town life. I have now great expectations for Dare’s story!
May 10, 2023
Destiny is the third book in the Serendipity series by Carly Phillips. It is an updated rerelease of a book originally published in 2012. I had not read this book or this series prior to this version, so I am unable to make any comparisons from the previous version. I also have not read the two book preceding this one in the series. Having started this series in the middle I can attest that the author does a sufficient job describing and explaining relationships that it does function as a connected stand-alone novel. At no time was I confused by the complex cast of non-traditionally connected characters, though I am now curious to read the earlier stories.
This book is primarily about Nash Barron and Kelly Moss, who had experienced an instant connection upon meeting. This was complicated by the fact that Kelly had come to the town of Serendipity for help raising her troubled teenaged half sister, Tess. Tess just happens to also be Nash’s half-sister. A relationship of which he and his two brothers had been unaware existed. The book starts at the wedding of Nash’s older brother, who is now raising Tess with Kelly. It seems to be too complicated an arrangement for Tess to have a brother and sister who are dating, and both Nash and Kelly try to fight their attraction. This family’s interrelationships are complicated by a number of factors which have caused a great deal of complicated feelings, especially for Nash who has to come to grips with feelings of anger, resentment, and guilt that clouds his connection to his family and the way he views the world. Kelly also has difficulties with trust and abandonment stemming from her own childhood. It was a pretty complicated mixed bag of emotion which had to be waded through for the couple to reach their happily ever after. The author really threw the whole Pandora’s box at this particular family. It could be considered overkill, but somehow she pulls all these threads together in a way that it all make sense. There is no question that the hero and heroine, as well as all the secondary characters, each had strengths and plenty of flaws. The couple has off the charts chemistry which results in explosive intimacy. The happily ever after ending of this story made me swoon. This was a classic Carly Phillips romance and well worth the read.
I am voluntarily submitting this review after reading an advanced complementary copy of this book.
This book is primarily about Nash Barron and Kelly Moss, who had experienced an instant connection upon meeting. This was complicated by the fact that Kelly had come to the town of Serendipity for help raising her troubled teenaged half sister, Tess. Tess just happens to also be Nash’s half-sister. A relationship of which he and his two brothers had been unaware existed. The book starts at the wedding of Nash’s older brother, who is now raising Tess with Kelly. It seems to be too complicated an arrangement for Tess to have a brother and sister who are dating, and both Nash and Kelly try to fight their attraction. This family’s interrelationships are complicated by a number of factors which have caused a great deal of complicated feelings, especially for Nash who has to come to grips with feelings of anger, resentment, and guilt that clouds his connection to his family and the way he views the world. Kelly also has difficulties with trust and abandonment stemming from her own childhood. It was a pretty complicated mixed bag of emotion which had to be waded through for the couple to reach their happily ever after. The author really threw the whole Pandora’s box at this particular family. It could be considered overkill, but somehow she pulls all these threads together in a way that it all make sense. There is no question that the hero and heroine, as well as all the secondary characters, each had strengths and plenty of flaws. The couple has off the charts chemistry which results in explosive intimacy. The happily ever after ending of this story made me swoon. This was a classic Carly Phillips romance and well worth the read.
I am voluntarily submitting this review after reading an advanced complementary copy of this book.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 12, 2023
A journey of self-discovery
The time has come to visit Serendipity and the Barron brothers once again. DESTINY is the story of Nash Barron and Kelly Moss. It is an emotional, heartfelt journey that revolves around friendship, understanding, forgiveness, and love.
From the age of sixteen, when his life was forever changed, Nash Barron has been angry, rude, judgmental, and unforgiving, especially when it came to his older brother Ethan. Nash sees everything as black or white, for him there are no grey areas, and as a result he fails to see and accept the responsibility for his own issues. As he begins to repair his relationship with his older brother Ethan, his relationship with younger brother Dare, who he was always close to, falters due to a secret Dare kept from him. This forces Nash to look closely at himself and try to change his ways.
While Nash is struggling with everything, a new person comes into his life, Kelly Moss. Kelly is the older half-sister of Tess, who she left in the care of Ethan. She has moved to Serendipity to be closer to Tess, but she has also brought with her troubles of her own. At first Nash and Kelly did not get along, but soon the chemistry and attraction between them is too hard to ignore. Their friendship grows and together they shine. Kelly helps Nash to repair his relationship with Ethan, but it is her own secrets and not sharing them with Nash that tears them apart. Will Nash and Kelly be able to put their pasts behind them and find happiness together?
I enjoyed the relationship between Nash and Kelly, they were good for each other. They provided comfort and support for one another when it was needed. I liked the way they could easily talk, except when it came to secrets, to one another, and the ease with which they fitted together. It wasn't their relationship that held me captivated though, it was Nash's own journey of self-discovery. Finding out secrets that had been kept from him forced him to reassess everything, his life and his relationship with others.
Once again Carly Phillips has delivered a captivating story, one that is relationship based and finding love when it is least expected. After finding out the secret Dare held for over ten years I cannot wait for his story.
Another MUST READ from Carly.
Read and Reviewed for Reading Is Our Satisfaction
✨✨✨✨✨ FIVE SOUL SEARCHING STARS ✨✨✨✨✨
The time has come to visit Serendipity and the Barron brothers once again. DESTINY is the story of Nash Barron and Kelly Moss. It is an emotional, heartfelt journey that revolves around friendship, understanding, forgiveness, and love.
From the age of sixteen, when his life was forever changed, Nash Barron has been angry, rude, judgmental, and unforgiving, especially when it came to his older brother Ethan. Nash sees everything as black or white, for him there are no grey areas, and as a result he fails to see and accept the responsibility for his own issues. As he begins to repair his relationship with his older brother Ethan, his relationship with younger brother Dare, who he was always close to, falters due to a secret Dare kept from him. This forces Nash to look closely at himself and try to change his ways.
While Nash is struggling with everything, a new person comes into his life, Kelly Moss. Kelly is the older half-sister of Tess, who she left in the care of Ethan. She has moved to Serendipity to be closer to Tess, but she has also brought with her troubles of her own. At first Nash and Kelly did not get along, but soon the chemistry and attraction between them is too hard to ignore. Their friendship grows and together they shine. Kelly helps Nash to repair his relationship with Ethan, but it is her own secrets and not sharing them with Nash that tears them apart. Will Nash and Kelly be able to put their pasts behind them and find happiness together?
I enjoyed the relationship between Nash and Kelly, they were good for each other. They provided comfort and support for one another when it was needed. I liked the way they could easily talk, except when it came to secrets, to one another, and the ease with which they fitted together. It wasn't their relationship that held me captivated though, it was Nash's own journey of self-discovery. Finding out secrets that had been kept from him forced him to reassess everything, his life and his relationship with others.
Once again Carly Phillips has delivered a captivating story, one that is relationship based and finding love when it is least expected. After finding out the secret Dare held for over ten years I cannot wait for his story.
Another MUST READ from Carly.
Read and Reviewed for Reading Is Our Satisfaction
✨✨✨✨✨ FIVE SOUL SEARCHING STARS ✨✨✨✨✨
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