What do you think?
Rate this book
River Rain #5
Fighting the Pull
From New York Times bestselling author Kristen Ashley comes the new book in her River Rain Series, Fighting the Pull.
Hale Wheeler inherited billions from his father. He’s decided to take those resources and change the world for the better. He’s married to his mission, so he doesn’t have time for love.
There’s more lurking behind this decision. He hasn’t faced the tragic loss of his father, or the bitterness of his parents’ divorce. He doesn’t intend to follow in his father’s footsteps, breaking a woman’s heart in a way it will never mend. So he vows he’ll never marry.
But Hale is intrigued when he meets Elsa Cohen, the ambitious celebrity news journalist who has been reporting on his famous family. He warns her off, but she makes him a deal. She’ll pull back in exchange for an exclusive interview.
Elsa Cohen is married to her career, but she wants love, marriage, children. She also wants the impossibly handsome, fiercely loyal, tenderhearted Hale Wheeler.
They go head-to-head, both denying why there are fireworks every time they meet. But once they understand their undeniable attraction, Elsa can’t help but fall for the dynamic do-gooder.
As for Hale, he knows he needs to fight the pull of the beautiful, bold, loving Elsa Cohen, because breaking her would crush him.
Reviews for Fighting the
“Fighting the Pull is a scorching, emotional journey between two beautifully flawed characters. Kristen Ashley's writing is as captivating as ever, and she penned an emotional rollercoaster filled with suspense, passion and intense love.” ~ Red Cheeks Reads
“FIGHTING THE PULL is a story of betrayal and vengeance, loss and acceptance, greed and jealousy, acceptance and love. The haunting premise is heart breaking, emotional, raw and honest; the characters are tragic, animated and starting to heal; the romance is seductive and spicy.” ~ The Reading Cafe
“Compelling from beginning to end, Fighting the Pull was an amazing addition to what has been a strong series and one of my favorite books of the year. I loved it!” ~ Simply Love Books
“Hale and Elsa were wonderful. The storyline was entertaining and kept you interested. The writing was fabulous. Totally recommend!” ~ Random Contemplations on Books and Nonsense
“I absolutely recommend this story, it’s beautiful and a tearjerker, but overall amazing.” ~ Ellesbooklife
Hale Wheeler inherited billions from his father. He’s decided to take those resources and change the world for the better. He’s married to his mission, so he doesn’t have time for love.
There’s more lurking behind this decision. He hasn’t faced the tragic loss of his father, or the bitterness of his parents’ divorce. He doesn’t intend to follow in his father’s footsteps, breaking a woman’s heart in a way it will never mend. So he vows he’ll never marry.
But Hale is intrigued when he meets Elsa Cohen, the ambitious celebrity news journalist who has been reporting on his famous family. He warns her off, but she makes him a deal. She’ll pull back in exchange for an exclusive interview.
Elsa Cohen is married to her career, but she wants love, marriage, children. She also wants the impossibly handsome, fiercely loyal, tenderhearted Hale Wheeler.
They go head-to-head, both denying why there are fireworks every time they meet. But once they understand their undeniable attraction, Elsa can’t help but fall for the dynamic do-gooder.
As for Hale, he knows he needs to fight the pull of the beautiful, bold, loving Elsa Cohen, because breaking her would crush him.
Reviews for Fighting the
“Fighting the Pull is a scorching, emotional journey between two beautifully flawed characters. Kristen Ashley's writing is as captivating as ever, and she penned an emotional rollercoaster filled with suspense, passion and intense love.” ~ Red Cheeks Reads
“FIGHTING THE PULL is a story of betrayal and vengeance, loss and acceptance, greed and jealousy, acceptance and love. The haunting premise is heart breaking, emotional, raw and honest; the characters are tragic, animated and starting to heal; the romance is seductive and spicy.” ~ The Reading Cafe
“Compelling from beginning to end, Fighting the Pull was an amazing addition to what has been a strong series and one of my favorite books of the year. I loved it!” ~ Simply Love Books
“Hale and Elsa were wonderful. The storyline was entertaining and kept you interested. The writing was fabulous. Totally recommend!” ~ Random Contemplations on Books and Nonsense
“I absolutely recommend this story, it’s beautiful and a tearjerker, but overall amazing.” ~ Ellesbooklife
378 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 12, 2023
613 people are currently reading
6451 people want to read
About the author
Kristen Ashley
138 books39.5k followersKristen Ashley was born in Gary, Indiana, USA. She nearly killed her mother and herself making it into the world, seeing as she had the umbilical cord wrapped around her neck (already attempting to accessorise and she hadn't taken her first breath!).
Kristen grew up in Brownsburg, Indiana but has lived in Denver, Colorado and the West Country of England. Thus she has been blessed to have friends and family around the globe. Her posse is loopy (to say the least) but loopy is good when you want to write.
Kristen was raised in a house with a large and multi-generational family. They lived on a very small farm in a small town in the heartland and existed amongst the strains of Glenn Miller, The Everly Brothers, REO Speedwagon and Whitesnake (and the wardrobes that matched).
Needless to say, growing up in a house full of music, clothes and love was a good way to grow up.
And as she keeps growing up, it keeps getting better.
Kristen grew up in Brownsburg, Indiana but has lived in Denver, Colorado and the West Country of England. Thus she has been blessed to have friends and family around the globe. Her posse is loopy (to say the least) but loopy is good when you want to write.
Kristen was raised in a house with a large and multi-generational family. They lived on a very small farm in a small town in the heartland and existed amongst the strains of Glenn Miller, The Everly Brothers, REO Speedwagon and Whitesnake (and the wardrobes that matched).
Needless to say, growing up in a house full of music, clothes and love was a good way to grow up.
And as she keeps growing up, it keeps getting better.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 292 reviews
April 27, 2024
4 stars
After reading the previous books in this series I was excited to get Hale and Elsa’s book! I knew there had to be more to Elsa Cohen than what we were made to believe and I wanted to know more about Hale, who is Corey’s son. Elsa was likable and I loved getting Hale’s backstory and learning more about Corey. I felt like there was a lot of closure there. Overall this was a great addition to the series. I’m not sure who the next book is about, but I’m excited to read it!
After reading the previous books in this series I was excited to get Hale and Elsa’s book! I knew there had to be more to Elsa Cohen than what we were made to believe and I wanted to know more about Hale, who is Corey’s son. Elsa was likable and I loved getting Hale’s backstory and learning more about Corey. I felt like there was a lot of closure there. Overall this was a great addition to the series. I’m not sure who the next book is about, but I’m excited to read it!
Audio book source: Audible
Story Rating: 4 stars
Narrators: Lance Greenfield, Stella Bloom & Joseph Discher
Narration Rating: 4 stars
Genre: Romance
Length: 12h 24m
September 26, 2023
1 ⭐- Ugh! Didn't like it - triggers - pet peeve!
=====================================
R
A
N
T
.
.
.
Could someone explain to me what leads an author to blindly embark on the Woke agenda and Agenda 2030 proposed by the UN and present us with a hero who is a cosplay of billionaire Bill Gates and all liberal millionaires who want to control and dictate how we should live our lives while strolling through world on private jets wearing designer clothes?
The author follows a script determined by the woke agenda where in each paragraph she shoves some revolutionary liberal agenda down our throats.
What happened to that author who presented us with wonderful heroes and heroines that we identified with? Was she co-opted by the revolutionary movement and decided to write only for those who agree with the type of politics she defends?
Unfortunately, that's what it seems.
There are pages and pages of preaching and virtue signaling from the heroes.
Everything really pissed me off and I held out until 37% and definitely threw in the towel. After buying more than 60 of the author's books and following her career from the beginning, I simply can't do it anymore.
=====================================
R
A
N
T
.
.
.
Could someone explain to me what leads an author to blindly embark on the Woke agenda and Agenda 2030 proposed by the UN and present us with a hero who is a cosplay of billionaire Bill Gates and all liberal millionaires who want to control and dictate how we should live our lives while strolling through world on private jets wearing designer clothes?
The author follows a script determined by the woke agenda where in each paragraph she shoves some revolutionary liberal agenda down our throats.
What happened to that author who presented us with wonderful heroes and heroines that we identified with? Was she co-opted by the revolutionary movement and decided to write only for those who agree with the type of politics she defends?
Unfortunately, that's what it seems.
There are pages and pages of preaching and virtue signaling from the heroes.
Everything really pissed me off and I held out until 37% and definitely threw in the towel. After buying more than 60 of the author's books and following her career from the beginning, I simply can't do it anymore.
“You never intend to get married?” I asked. “Nope,” he answered. “Is it an issue with the concept of marriage, perhaps religious, or the government’s involvement?” “None of those. I’m just not the marrying type.”
“Are you calling me a racist now?” Oskar demanded. “No, I’m suggesting you’re a misogynist,” Elsa returned smoothly.
“Not entirely, but I limit meat. For environmental reasons. Though, as you can tell, I could do better with that since I’m not limiting cheese.”
“I have yet to meet Lizzo,”
“Do you honestly think it’s only a matter of willpower, and not a failure of our mental health system that leaves many without the capacity to acquire the tools to find healthier ways to live their lives?”
“Thank God the kindly, well-off Jews who took in your great-grandparents as they fled the Nazis didn’t have your views on immigrants,” David retorted.
“You can’t get any more real and in-your-face than New York. You can’t get any more fruity and fake than LA.”
Images of his mother and father and feeling invisible or miserable juxtaposed over memories of Tom and Genny, Chloe, Matt and Sasha.
“Emilie is spoiled and was never allowed to grow up,” Hale said. “She also suffers from pretty-girl syndrome, erroneously operating under the assumption her good looks will get her everything she wants. This might be the case, at her age. But she’s going to run into some ugly truths when society deems her unworthy after she hits thirty-five.
“But I’ll never in my life understand a man like Oskar. He’s a chauvinist and a bigot. He obviously didn’t get that from his dad, and he’s educated, so he has no excuse not to be more enlightened.
His awesome browbeating of Oskar on the subject of body-shaming I wished I had on tape.
Still, to this day, these things were so embedded in our society, women unwittingly fell into patterns I had no interest in and had no intention of following.
“It’s still women’s stories as written by a man.”
“You can’t run through women like water, buddy boy. Remember, every woman is a different version of a cat. Some are affectionate. Some are aloof. Some are wild. Some are divas. Some are combinations of those. But all of us have claws.”
They’re pissed you give money to pro-choice organizations.
you’ve forced them to rewrite hiring, diversity, equality and harassment policies and demanded gender and race neutral remuneration.
“You’ve then forced them to go green and establish strategies to be carbon neutral within a decade. You then significantly cut or even eliminated executive bonuses,
Another thing that pisses off the alt-right, you’re the human equivalent of woke, and even though the vast majority of them don’t even know what woke means, they hate you for it.
September 10, 2023
4 STARS
It's been a hot minute since I read a KA book and I'm not even sure why. She's pure comfort read for me. Sassy heroines, protective and possessive uber alphas, family dynamics and drama, and all the steam. And this book definitely packed all of that in.
Now admittedly, in my usual way of doing things back a$$wards, I read this book first before reading the rest of the series. And while I'll definitely be going back to rectify that, you can certainly enjoy this as a standalone. However, I can't help but feel I did myself a disservice by not reading at least After the Climb first. It did take a me a minute to wrap my mind around all the mixed family dynamics, but Ashley does a fantastic job summarizing the main details so I never felt lost.
I really loved Hale and Elsa. Hale is your typical KA alpha. He's a touch tortured, a splash broken, dirty talking, possessive and protective. His first impression of Elsa is not great but boy do sparks fly between them when they come face to face. Hale quickly comes to see that Elsa is not quite the vapid gossip news that he assumed she was. This is a woman with passion, drive, and clear morals.
Elsa was such a wonderful heroine. She is a driven career woman herself and doesn't take any $hit, even from Hale. Her family is one crazy ride and watching that crazy ride out was certainly entertain and frustrating at the same time.
The romance was satisfying as always, but I do wish we got to see Hale's dominant side a bit more. There was more alluding to it and this dirty bird just wished for more. It was still deliciously spicy, but the promise was more than the reality in parts. We do get the third act breakup, which had me wanting to punch Hale in all the painful places. And while he sees the error of his ways quickly enough, I also can't help but wish that Elsa made him grovel a bit more for her forgiveness.
There is a bit of suspense added in with a stalker that made it that much more entertaining and I enjoyed it so much! I will definitely now be reading the rest of the series!
ARC courtesy of author in exchange for an honest review
Find me on:
I think you missed the part where I don’t want the interview anymore, Mr. Wheeler.”
“Call me Mr. Wheeler one more time, baby.”
I went perfectly still.
It's been a hot minute since I read a KA book and I'm not even sure why. She's pure comfort read for me. Sassy heroines, protective and possessive uber alphas, family dynamics and drama, and all the steam. And this book definitely packed all of that in.
Now admittedly, in my usual way of doing things back a$$wards, I read this book first before reading the rest of the series. And while I'll definitely be going back to rectify that, you can certainly enjoy this as a standalone. However, I can't help but feel I did myself a disservice by not reading at least After the Climb first. It did take a me a minute to wrap my mind around all the mixed family dynamics, but Ashley does a fantastic job summarizing the main details so I never felt lost.
I really loved Hale and Elsa. Hale is your typical KA alpha. He's a touch tortured, a splash broken, dirty talking, possessive and protective. His first impression of Elsa is not great but boy do sparks fly between them when they come face to face. Hale quickly comes to see that Elsa is not quite the vapid gossip news that he assumed she was. This is a woman with passion, drive, and clear morals.
Elsa was such a wonderful heroine. She is a driven career woman herself and doesn't take any $hit, even from Hale. Her family is one crazy ride and watching that crazy ride out was certainly entertain and frustrating at the same time.
The romance was satisfying as always, but I do wish we got to see Hale's dominant side a bit more. There was more alluding to it and this dirty bird just wished for more. It was still deliciously spicy, but the promise was more than the reality in parts. We do get the third act breakup, which had me wanting to punch Hale in all the painful places. And while he sees the error of his ways quickly enough, I also can't help but wish that Elsa made him grovel a bit more for her forgiveness.
There is a bit of suspense added in with a stalker that made it that much more entertaining and I enjoyed it so much! I will definitely now be reading the rest of the series!
ARC courtesy of author in exchange for an honest review
Find me on:
September 16, 2023
The second she mentioned domination I rolled my eyes.
Seriously. Enough is enough. Not every book needs this.
I have to admit I skipped every sex scene. It just wasn't necessary and added absolutely nothing.
The book as a whole was ok, not her best but not her worst. I loved the premise but sadly I believe KA under delivered. Elsa for me turned out to be just another copy, paste KA heroine - I expected a bit more push and pull in this one, a bit more conflict.
I'm fed up of reading about rich people now too, that's all we really get these days. Something more relatable would be nice.
Seriously. Enough is enough. Not every book needs this.
I have to admit I skipped every sex scene. It just wasn't necessary and added absolutely nothing.
The book as a whole was ok, not her best but not her worst. I loved the premise but sadly I believe KA under delivered. Elsa for me turned out to be just another copy, paste KA heroine - I expected a bit more push and pull in this one, a bit more conflict.
I'm fed up of reading about rich people now too, that's all we really get these days. Something more relatable would be nice.
September 20, 2023
DNF
Just can't get through the political conversations.
Even if I agree with a lot of the positions, and I do, I do not want stuff shoved down my throat when I just want to enjoy a good romance novel. It is so over the top and ridiculous. It is forced, comes off contrived, and it does not flow at all.
You cannot escape politics in today's America. Everything is hyper politicized on most if not all media platforms. It would be nice to be able to take a break from it and just read.
Just can't get through the political conversations.
Even if I agree with a lot of the positions, and I do, I do not want stuff shoved down my throat when I just want to enjoy a good romance novel. It is so over the top and ridiculous. It is forced, comes off contrived, and it does not flow at all.
You cannot escape politics in today's America. Everything is hyper politicized on most if not all media platforms. It would be nice to be able to take a break from it and just read.
Want to read
March 23, 2023I'm not sure I even want to read this I'm still reeling from her character assassination of Genny and whitewashing of Tom in Making the Match. I'm not going to be able to focus on Hale and Elsa. Though, just to say, I'm already not enthusiastic about Elsa as the heroine. 🙄
avoid
September 11, 2023Avoiding because the world doesnt need another middle-aged doormat romance.
September 12, 2024
4.5 stars!
Hot billionaire with issues + classy career woman + drama = a good time. Need a say more???
Setup: ★★★
Plot/Pacing: ★★★★
Characters: ★★★★
Enjoyment: ★★★★★
Elsa Cohen is a celebrity journalist in New York City with an up-and-coming news segment and a social media follower base on the rise. She covers the real stories, she steers clear of the drama, and she's determined to succeed to the top.
There's just one small snag in her setup: Hale Wheeler.
Billionaire Hale and his famous family are often on Elsa's radar—it's hard to avoid them as their beautiful family is mired in drama and involved in everything.
But Hale's been burned by Elsa's news before, and he refuses to allow for a repeat. So Hale and Elsa made a deal: Elsa wouldn't report on Hale's family, and Hale would break his reclusive media silence and give Elsa a one-of-a-kind interview.
But like every conflict, there's more than one side to the story...
And when sparks fly between Elsa and Hale during their interview, Hale's promise of eternal bachelorhood and Elsa's need to protect her heart are going to be tested.
AHHHHH this was a lot of fun, y'all. Fighting the Pull had all of those city-vibes, billionaire lover, and family drama ingredients that you could ask for in a contemporary romance. And it delivered in the heat and feels too, like every good Kristen Ashley book.
Now, in full and complete transparency, this was my first dip into the River Rain series. (I know!! This is book five!!) But I couldn't resist reading it when I was given an early copy as a member of the author's ARC team.
So, to my potential fellow new readers, I'll say that this book was a satisfying entry novel to the series. Hale and Elsa's backstories were fully fleshed out in this novel and I didn't feel like the late person to the party like other romances. This vibe did get... harder... as the book reached the 75% mark as the references to past books' relationships/dramas came to the forefront as the drama started to involve Hale's past and the side characters more. But even then, for me as a reader I felt that this book was its own complete story, and the references just made me curious to go back and read the other pairings. This might not be the case for all readers, but I'm game for pretty much anything so it didn't bother me a bit.
Elsa was my queen in this book. I loved her, I loved cheering for her in her dramas, and I loved her complex dynamics with Hale. She was my favorite part of this book.
Hale... was interesting. Would I date him myself? Absolutely not. Not a chance, even if he asked (which he wouldn't). His daddy issues mixed with an ego the size of a small country was kind of a lot to take in for this reader. I know this comes with the territory for billionaire romances in general, so let me just say that I'm also not a frequent reader of this trope... I came here for KA, and found myself warming up to the billionaire thing as the story unfolded.
However, the two of them were perfect for each other and it obviously sorted itself out—to the point where by the end, I did come around to liking Hale!
Another banger from KA! Don't miss this one if you're a fan of these tropes.
Blog | Instagram | Libro.fm Audiobooks
Hot billionaire with issues + classy career woman + drama = a good time. Need a say more???
Setup: ★★★
Plot/Pacing: ★★★★
Characters: ★★★★
Enjoyment: ★★★★★
Elsa Cohen is a celebrity journalist in New York City with an up-and-coming news segment and a social media follower base on the rise. She covers the real stories, she steers clear of the drama, and she's determined to succeed to the top.
There's just one small snag in her setup: Hale Wheeler.
Billionaire Hale and his famous family are often on Elsa's radar—it's hard to avoid them as their beautiful family is mired in drama and involved in everything.
But Hale's been burned by Elsa's news before, and he refuses to allow for a repeat. So Hale and Elsa made a deal: Elsa wouldn't report on Hale's family, and Hale would break his reclusive media silence and give Elsa a one-of-a-kind interview.
But like every conflict, there's more than one side to the story...
And when sparks fly between Elsa and Hale during their interview, Hale's promise of eternal bachelorhood and Elsa's need to protect her heart are going to be tested.
AHHHHH this was a lot of fun, y'all. Fighting the Pull had all of those city-vibes, billionaire lover, and family drama ingredients that you could ask for in a contemporary romance. And it delivered in the heat and feels too, like every good Kristen Ashley book.
Now, in full and complete transparency, this was my first dip into the River Rain series. (I know!! This is book five!!) But I couldn't resist reading it when I was given an early copy as a member of the author's ARC team.
So, to my potential fellow new readers, I'll say that this book was a satisfying entry novel to the series. Hale and Elsa's backstories were fully fleshed out in this novel and I didn't feel like the late person to the party like other romances. This vibe did get... harder... as the book reached the 75% mark as the references to past books' relationships/dramas came to the forefront as the drama started to involve Hale's past and the side characters more. But even then, for me as a reader I felt that this book was its own complete story, and the references just made me curious to go back and read the other pairings. This might not be the case for all readers, but I'm game for pretty much anything so it didn't bother me a bit.
Elsa was my queen in this book. I loved her, I loved cheering for her in her dramas, and I loved her complex dynamics with Hale. She was my favorite part of this book.
Hale... was interesting. Would I date him myself? Absolutely not. Not a chance, even if he asked (which he wouldn't). His daddy issues mixed with an ego the size of a small country was kind of a lot to take in for this reader. I know this comes with the territory for billionaire romances in general, so let me just say that I'm also not a frequent reader of this trope... I came here for KA, and found myself warming up to the billionaire thing as the story unfolded.
However, the two of them were perfect for each other and it obviously sorted itself out—to the point where by the end, I did come around to liking Hale!
Another banger from KA! Don't miss this one if you're a fan of these tropes.
Blog | Instagram | Libro.fm Audiobooks
September 12, 2023
If you have read any previous books in this series, you won't want to miss Hale and Elsa's story. Kristen Ashley delivers a story where you'll feel ALL THE FEELS; one minute, I laughed out loud, and the next, I sobbed like a baby. In it all, two Strong Individuals realize they are stronger together.
Hale always held my heart in this series, and I knew when it was his turn to get a HEA, it was going to have to be with a woman who was strong enough to push through the walls that he erected around his heart because anyone else wouldn't be able to handle all that is Hale.
𝑪𝒐𝒏𝒕𝒊𝒏𝒖𝒆 𝒓𝒆𝒂𝒅𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒎𝒚 𝒓𝒆𝒗𝒊𝒆𝒘 𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝒂𝒏 𝑬𝒙𝒄𝒆𝒓𝒑𝒕 𝒉𝒆𝒓𝒆 ➡ https://bit.ly/NBReviewFtP
**I have voluntarily reviewed an Advanced Readers Copy of this book for my Blog, Nadine's Obsessed with Books
You can find me here: https://linktr.ee/NadineBookaholic
Hale always held my heart in this series, and I knew when it was his turn to get a HEA, it was going to have to be with a woman who was strong enough to push through the walls that he erected around his heart because anyone else wouldn't be able to handle all that is Hale.
𝑪𝒐𝒏𝒕𝒊𝒏𝒖𝒆 𝒓𝒆𝒂𝒅𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒎𝒚 𝒓𝒆𝒗𝒊𝒆𝒘 𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝒂𝒏 𝑬𝒙𝒄𝒆𝒓𝒑𝒕 𝒉𝒆𝒓𝒆 ➡ https://bit.ly/NBReviewFtP
**I have voluntarily reviewed an Advanced Readers Copy of this book for my Blog, Nadine's Obsessed with BooksYou can find me here: https://linktr.ee/NadineBookaholic
Read
September 13, 2023First of all from my memories of the previous book it's not my favourite premise. That may prove a good thing as I'm going in with low expectations, when actually the heroine wasn't as annoying as I perceived her in the previous book.
The Hero is super rich, his dad is Corey, and billions has been mentioned, I just feel its a bit out of touch with how so many are struggling these days.
Dual POV plus Corey.
The premise he never wants to settle down, which due to his family background you can see him having issues but she wants a family. This has heartbreak written all over it.
As the Hero is so rich we had almost 2 pages of her outfit then his outfit then his apartment. I don't care!!!
I don't understand the fake boyfriend thing and how this helps at all. He goes to a family function to run interference as her family are so awful, won't they be impressed she's with him. What about next time when she's not? Surely they'd give her grief why it ended, especially if he's famous and photographed with other women.
Now her family made snide comments about the heroine so I feel a bit lectured by societies views on weight, fat shaming etc..... then a lecture on being a good news reporter.
I honestly feel the tone of this book as always reflects the author's latest interests. When she was watching Yellowstone we had the ranch, sons of anarchy we had the MC club. I've noticed recently she's doing more social media promoting her work and she mentioned learning tiktok, in this book for the heroine this is her business. News via social media.
No intimate scenes other than the Hero and heroine.
Dom/sub.
We get Chloe's wedding, the nonfrench chick who is incredibly annoying, the wedding descriptions are KA on speed, I skipped most of that.
HEA.
I wouldn't say you have to have read previous books but lots of things are referenced to from events in previous books.
One the whole it was okay. Other than the money, lengthy descriptions of clothes or apartments, I enjoyed the family angst, both mothers have their issues so that was good.
But the social media business and the green business issues I don't want to feel lectured or read about these crusades in romance.
I didn't feel the emotional impact as much as I have in earlier books.
The Hero is super rich, his dad is Corey, and billions has been mentioned, I just feel its a bit out of touch with how so many are struggling these days.
Dual POV plus Corey.
The premise he never wants to settle down, which due to his family background you can see him having issues but she wants a family. This has heartbreak written all over it.
As the Hero is so rich we had almost 2 pages of her outfit then his outfit then his apartment. I don't care!!!
I don't understand the fake boyfriend thing and how this helps at all. He goes to a family function to run interference as her family are so awful, won't they be impressed she's with him. What about next time when she's not? Surely they'd give her grief why it ended, especially if he's famous and photographed with other women.
Now her family made snide comments about the heroine so I feel a bit lectured by societies views on weight, fat shaming etc..... then a lecture on being a good news reporter.
I honestly feel the tone of this book as always reflects the author's latest interests. When she was watching Yellowstone we had the ranch, sons of anarchy we had the MC club. I've noticed recently she's doing more social media promoting her work and she mentioned learning tiktok, in this book for the heroine this is her business. News via social media.
No intimate scenes other than the Hero and heroine.
Dom/sub.
We get Chloe's wedding, the nonfrench chick who is incredibly annoying, the wedding descriptions are KA on speed, I skipped most of that.
HEA.
I wouldn't say you have to have read previous books but lots of things are referenced to from events in previous books.
One the whole it was okay. Other than the money, lengthy descriptions of clothes or apartments, I enjoyed the family angst, both mothers have their issues so that was good.
But the social media business and the green business issues I don't want to feel lectured or read about these crusades in romance.
I didn't feel the emotional impact as much as I have in earlier books.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 2, 2024
Dive into the captivating world of "Fighting the Pull" by Kristen Ashley!
💖📚 Hale Wheeler, heir to billions, sets out to change the world, determined to avoid the heartbreak his father caused. Enter Elsa Cohen, an ambitious journalist, making a deal with him for an exclusive interview that sparks undeniable chemistry.
🔥This latest installment in the River Rain Series is a delightful tale of family, friendship, and love. The mix of characters feels like a chosen family, offering unwavering support for Hale as he confronts both daddy and mommy issues.
🌟Hale's journey is heart-wrenching, yet the camaraderie with friends and family adds a comforting touch. Elsa, a strong, independent woman, navigates falling for a man with walls sky-high. Their chemistry is electric, making it impossible not to cheer for them.
✨ The story unfolds with little drama providing long-awaited answers that leave you craving more. Get ready for a rollercoaster of emotions with this book! 🎢 I can't wait to discover what the next installment in the series has in store for us. Who else is eagerly anticipating it? 🙋♀️🙋♂️
#FightingThePull #KristenAshley #RiverRainSeries #BookReview #RomanceReads #BookishLove #BookRecommendation #BookCommunity #MustRead #BookWorm #BookLoversUnite #ReadingTime #BookObsessed #BookishJoys #LoveInPages #HeartwarmingReads #BookMagic #BookNerd #BookAddict #PageTurner #NarrationLove #BookishAdventures #InstaReads #EngageWithBooks
💖📚 Hale Wheeler, heir to billions, sets out to change the world, determined to avoid the heartbreak his father caused. Enter Elsa Cohen, an ambitious journalist, making a deal with him for an exclusive interview that sparks undeniable chemistry.
🔥This latest installment in the River Rain Series is a delightful tale of family, friendship, and love. The mix of characters feels like a chosen family, offering unwavering support for Hale as he confronts both daddy and mommy issues.
🌟Hale's journey is heart-wrenching, yet the camaraderie with friends and family adds a comforting touch. Elsa, a strong, independent woman, navigates falling for a man with walls sky-high. Their chemistry is electric, making it impossible not to cheer for them.
✨ The story unfolds with little drama providing long-awaited answers that leave you craving more. Get ready for a rollercoaster of emotions with this book! 🎢 I can't wait to discover what the next installment in the series has in store for us. Who else is eagerly anticipating it? 🙋♀️🙋♂️
#FightingThePull #KristenAshley #RiverRainSeries #BookReview #RomanceReads #BookishLove #BookRecommendation #BookCommunity #MustRead #BookWorm #BookLoversUnite #ReadingTime #BookObsessed #BookishJoys #LoveInPages #HeartwarmingReads #BookMagic #BookNerd #BookAddict #PageTurner #NarrationLove #BookishAdventures #InstaReads #EngageWithBooks
January 29, 2024
Spoilers ahead
Dear KA
1) It's quite ok for the MMC to get the necessary help he needs to deal with his childhood trauma BEFORE hurting the h. Whether it be commuining with his brotherhood, professional help or other he absolutely does NOT need to heal after doling out unnecessary hurt to a woman who's done nothing but love him.
2) Not everyone and every relationship needs healing/redemption. It's ok to cut ppl out of our lives and move on
3) When a man hurts a woman she's entitled to be angry and upset....what I'm tired off is when this happens the MMC whips out his tragic backstory so all is forgiven. Hale was an asshole to break up with her after she'd been attacked!!! But his backstory led to immediate forgiveness 😒🙄
This was a long ass drawn out boring read dealing with Corey's son Hale who finally gets his story
I was preached too so much in this book my eye started twitching
Meh just meh
Dear KA
1) It's quite ok for the MMC to get the necessary help he needs to deal with his childhood trauma BEFORE hurting the h. Whether it be commuining with his brotherhood, professional help or other he absolutely does NOT need to heal after doling out unnecessary hurt to a woman who's done nothing but love him.
2) Not everyone and every relationship needs healing/redemption. It's ok to cut ppl out of our lives and move on
3) When a man hurts a woman she's entitled to be angry and upset....what I'm tired off is when this happens the MMC whips out his tragic backstory so all is forgiven. Hale was an asshole to break up with her after she'd been attacked!!! But his backstory led to immediate forgiveness 😒🙄
This was a long ass drawn out boring read dealing with Corey's son Hale who finally gets his story
I was preached too so much in this book my eye started twitching
Meh just meh
November 20, 2024
3.25 stars
I liked parts of this book but it was very generic Kristen Ashley. neither of the main characters stood out to me and I felt like they were the same characters of hers I've read before. I loved most of her books but some can get repetitive and this was one of them. if you haven't read many KA books I think you'll like this one but if you've read a few of her other books, I think you'll get how I feel about this one. I still love KA though and will continue with the series, this one just didn't quite do it for me.
I liked parts of this book but it was very generic Kristen Ashley. neither of the main characters stood out to me and I felt like they were the same characters of hers I've read before. I loved most of her books but some can get repetitive and this was one of them. if you haven't read many KA books I think you'll like this one but if you've read a few of her other books, I think you'll get how I feel about this one. I still love KA though and will continue with the series, this one just didn't quite do it for me.
September 21, 2023
So yeah, if you are reading and enjoying this series then there is no doubt this is the book you were waiting for. I mean, this is Corey Szabo's son and there was no doubt that this was going to hurt.
And hurt it did.
Corey fucking Szabo. Gah!
Alright. It wasn't at all what I was expecting. I knew, from the previous books the setup, I just think I expected Hale a little more stiff, a little more unlikeable and really, just more intimidating. He was portrayed that way previously, even with his family. Here though, he seemed more normal, real and well, he really loves his family. I'm glad. He was softer. I liked him quite a bit.
Elsa. Again, this whole bit caught me by surprise. I knew she was going to have scruples and I knew she was going to have to be likeable I just expected her to be a bit more aggressive or something. This isn't bad. I liked her and I guess I even liked her for Hale (though, I like him a lot so it's hard to like anyone for him).
So, yes, I guess this pairing worked. They were fun together and young. I think that is something I struggle with more and more these days when reading romance. Youth. It's harder and harder for me to relate to that youth and then add billions and I'm lost.
Bad parents. This is such a trend in romance and I feel like almost all the reviews I write anymore I have to mention this. I don't get it. It isn't appealing to me and even worse, they always seem to be forgiven and all forgotten. Let's quit this trend.
I can't possibly not mention Chloe's wedding. How lovely but what did we expect? I'm happy for her and Judge and will at some point probably revisit this whole series. Maybe once we finally get some Sasha or Matt. Was Matt even at the wedding? Poor Matt.
And finally. KA really has an agenda and she without doubt inserts this into her stories more and more and more. In this case it was A LOT. It didn't move the story. It's definitely her prerogative to write what she wants (of course) but I'm not the biggest fan of my romance books having this sort of agenda.
She's still a favorite and will probably always be, she's just really started pushing certain messages in a manor that doesn't always feel good or right, at least to me.
There is probably so much more but that's the way with KA. I'll just leave it with saying I enjoyed the story. Hale just about killed me and I'm so happy for him and what I didn't love, I'll just ignore.
And hurt it did.
Corey fucking Szabo. Gah!
Alright. It wasn't at all what I was expecting. I knew, from the previous books the setup, I just think I expected Hale a little more stiff, a little more unlikeable and really, just more intimidating. He was portrayed that way previously, even with his family. Here though, he seemed more normal, real and well, he really loves his family. I'm glad. He was softer. I liked him quite a bit.
Elsa. Again, this whole bit caught me by surprise. I knew she was going to have scruples and I knew she was going to have to be likeable I just expected her to be a bit more aggressive or something. This isn't bad. I liked her and I guess I even liked her for Hale (though, I like him a lot so it's hard to like anyone for him).
So, yes, I guess this pairing worked. They were fun together and young. I think that is something I struggle with more and more these days when reading romance. Youth. It's harder and harder for me to relate to that youth and then add billions and I'm lost.
Bad parents. This is such a trend in romance and I feel like almost all the reviews I write anymore I have to mention this. I don't get it. It isn't appealing to me and even worse, they always seem to be forgiven and all forgotten. Let's quit this trend.
I can't possibly not mention Chloe's wedding. How lovely but what did we expect? I'm happy for her and Judge and will at some point probably revisit this whole series. Maybe once we finally get some Sasha or Matt. Was Matt even at the wedding? Poor Matt.
And finally. KA really has an agenda and she without doubt inserts this into her stories more and more and more. In this case it was A LOT. It didn't move the story. It's definitely her prerogative to write what she wants (of course) but I'm not the biggest fan of my romance books having this sort of agenda.
She's still a favorite and will probably always be, she's just really started pushing certain messages in a manor that doesn't always feel good or right, at least to me.
There is probably so much more but that's the way with KA. I'll just leave it with saying I enjoyed the story. Hale just about killed me and I'm so happy for him and what I didn't love, I'll just ignore.
September 12, 2023
Fighting the Pull was a truly exceptional story filled with so much feeling and emotion that there were times I just had to take a minute to catch my breath. I loved it all! Hale and Elsa were everything! I loved the details, the depth, all the amazing characters, and the build to an incredible ending. I was so excited to read this book and it did not disappoint.
I loved Elsa to her core. I liked her strength, integrity, and how hard she worked to make her dreams come true. I have loved Hale since the start of the series, he’s protective and low-key alpha and good to his soul but he had his demons. I loved how Hale and Elsa clashed in the beginning and the animosity between them. Underneath it all, you could feel that building attraction and sexual tension. I loved Elsa’s attitude and how she didn't roll over and do whatever Hale wanted, she challenged him. I loved when their walls started to come down and they really opened up. I could feel these small emotional breaks growing in Hale and I hurt for him. I was filled with so much anticipation waiting for things to boil over for him and when it finally happened, it was intense and painful. While there was a lot of emotion, there was also a good bit of drama, playful moments, and some super-hot ones too. Those lighter, fun scenes were super entertaining and helped to really round out the story.
I loved learning about Hale’s complicated relationship with his dad from both of their viewpoints. I loved the emotion as memories aligned for Hale and as he struggled with others. I loved feeling like I really got to know Corey and understand his actions and choices, some of his whys were heartbreaking. I loved all the characters involved in this story and enjoyed getting to see more of those relationships and bonds that I have come to know and love in the series. There were a lot of great moments that had me choking up. I loved seeing the fatherly side of Tom with Hale and getting hints about Jamie and Nora. There were so many great snippets of other characters including the very intriguing Rhys Vaughn that has me excited about what is to come in the series.
I love a story that makes me feel and this one definitely had me on an emotional rollercoaster. Hale and Elsa were wonderful characters who were flawed and real. This story was sweet and painful, and heart-wrenching and beautiful all rolled into one. I loved the pace, and how it really built and pulled me in, I felt captivated the entire time. I loved all the healing, love, hope, and found families. It felt like this story broke me a bit and then built me back up. I cannot begin to say enough good things about Fighting the Pull and the River Rain series, it was all fantastic!
Complimentary copy received.
I loved Elsa to her core. I liked her strength, integrity, and how hard she worked to make her dreams come true. I have loved Hale since the start of the series, he’s protective and low-key alpha and good to his soul but he had his demons. I loved how Hale and Elsa clashed in the beginning and the animosity between them. Underneath it all, you could feel that building attraction and sexual tension. I loved Elsa’s attitude and how she didn't roll over and do whatever Hale wanted, she challenged him. I loved when their walls started to come down and they really opened up. I could feel these small emotional breaks growing in Hale and I hurt for him. I was filled with so much anticipation waiting for things to boil over for him and when it finally happened, it was intense and painful. While there was a lot of emotion, there was also a good bit of drama, playful moments, and some super-hot ones too. Those lighter, fun scenes were super entertaining and helped to really round out the story.
I loved learning about Hale’s complicated relationship with his dad from both of their viewpoints. I loved the emotion as memories aligned for Hale and as he struggled with others. I loved feeling like I really got to know Corey and understand his actions and choices, some of his whys were heartbreaking. I loved all the characters involved in this story and enjoyed getting to see more of those relationships and bonds that I have come to know and love in the series. There were a lot of great moments that had me choking up. I loved seeing the fatherly side of Tom with Hale and getting hints about Jamie and Nora. There were so many great snippets of other characters including the very intriguing Rhys Vaughn that has me excited about what is to come in the series.
I love a story that makes me feel and this one definitely had me on an emotional rollercoaster. Hale and Elsa were wonderful characters who were flawed and real. This story was sweet and painful, and heart-wrenching and beautiful all rolled into one. I loved the pace, and how it really built and pulled me in, I felt captivated the entire time. I loved all the healing, love, hope, and found families. It felt like this story broke me a bit and then built me back up. I cannot begin to say enough good things about Fighting the Pull and the River Rain series, it was all fantastic!
Complimentary copy received.
November 1, 2023
I was expecting a knock-down, drag-out, enemies to loves story, what I got was not that, but so much more. Hale is so closed off, so turned and tuned out to emotions, they have been used against him all his life, and he has seen the damage they can leave in their wake. Elsa owns where she’s been, and focuses on where she is going. Driven and being high achievers is what these two have in common. The attraction, immediate. The connection, strong. The missteps, a few. Communication is what Elsa does well, but Hale has a lot of barriers he fiercely protects. When the walls come down, the emotions flood, and, finally for Hale, it all makes sense and he can be at peace and happy
I knew there would be a lot of emotion here, with Hale being Corey’s son, things we had hints at were going to be exposed, and they were going to hurt. Seeing Corey as he was, gaining knowledge behind his actions, finding out just how deeply he loved and cared for Hale, the tissues were close, because with each piece that was exposed, the waterworks flowed, heck, they’re flowing now thinking about it. Life is never simple, blood family is complex, and found family is a gift, and love is the answer, though it isn’t always clear how it shows. Another wonderfully told story, with all the messiness and happiness, life brings <3
I knew there would be a lot of emotion here, with Hale being Corey’s son, things we had hints at were going to be exposed, and they were going to hurt. Seeing Corey as he was, gaining knowledge behind his actions, finding out just how deeply he loved and cared for Hale, the tissues were close, because with each piece that was exposed, the waterworks flowed, heck, they’re flowing now thinking about it. Life is never simple, blood family is complex, and found family is a gift, and love is the answer, though it isn’t always clear how it shows. Another wonderfully told story, with all the messiness and happiness, life brings <3
September 19, 2023
3.5 stars
I’m not sure what’s going on with me but this book wasn’t my favorite. After binging most of her OG series a few months ago, this story felt more political and preachy. That was a turn off. I understand that authors change, just like the world around them, but this change I’m not a fan of.
Don’t get me wrong, I was curious about Hale. I DID, in fact, cry a time or two, but no amount of emotions can take away the preachy feelings that popped up quite often. Also the dom/sub aspect wasn’t my favorite. It had me rolling my eyes, it didn’t feel organic.
Maybe I’ll stick with all my rereads instead of trying anything new for a while. Which makes me sad.
I’m not sure what’s going on with me but this book wasn’t my favorite. After binging most of her OG series a few months ago, this story felt more political and preachy. That was a turn off. I understand that authors change, just like the world around them, but this change I’m not a fan of.
Don’t get me wrong, I was curious about Hale. I DID, in fact, cry a time or two, but no amount of emotions can take away the preachy feelings that popped up quite often. Also the dom/sub aspect wasn’t my favorite. It had me rolling my eyes, it didn’t feel organic.
Maybe I’ll stick with all my rereads instead of trying anything new for a while. Which makes me sad.
September 24, 2023
*3.5ish stars*
I really liked Elsa and Hale, and I was happy this book seemed to focus more on them and their relationship without the supporting characters taking up too much space in their story like in previous books. But again this one felt very rushed. And really I just want to go back to when KA’s books were all about the drama and angst. Sometimes I don’t want that in books but when I’m reading KA and she’s writing it so perfectly, I want as much drama as possible. Elsa and Hale had two conflicts in the whole book and they were resolved within a few pages. And sure the stuff Hale realizes and talks about makes me feel like a dick to say it but I wanted more grovel in the end. This series is definitely not a fav for me but I will probably read the next one because, well it’s KA 🤷♀️
I really liked Elsa and Hale, and I was happy this book seemed to focus more on them and their relationship without the supporting characters taking up too much space in their story like in previous books. But again this one felt very rushed. And really I just want to go back to when KA’s books were all about the drama and angst. Sometimes I don’t want that in books but when I’m reading KA and she’s writing it so perfectly, I want as much drama as possible. Elsa and Hale had two conflicts in the whole book and they were resolved within a few pages. And sure the stuff Hale realizes and talks about makes me feel like a dick to say it but I wanted more grovel in the end. This series is definitely not a fav for me but I will probably read the next one because, well it’s KA 🤷♀️
August 21, 2023
Mature love in the public spotlight was pulled off by the incomparable Kristen Ashley. Smart addictive writing kept me turning the pages till the wee hours. Hale and Elsa may just be my favorite of the series thus far. Now, I have a mighty need to start the River Rain series all over again.
~Tanja
Follow me on
✿KTBookReviews✿Instagram✿Twitter✿Facebook✿TikTok
~Tanja
Follow me on
✿KTBookReviews✿Instagram✿Twitter✿Facebook✿TikTok
September 26, 2023
I loved KA and this book didn’t disappoint!! I loved the story and it went to quick !!
These characters jump off the page and crew ate their own world that invite you in.
These characters jump off the page and crew ate their own world that invite you in.
March 30, 2024
Best Story in The Series!
5 Solid Stars
This is my favorite in the series so far.
I absolutelyADORED both Hale & Elsa.
Their chemistry was off the charts. Their interactions with each other was sometimes heartbreaking and often funny.
I laughed and cried and Sighed throughout their story.
The flow and the pace kept me completely involved.
Their intimate scenes where the HOTTEST and best sex scenes I've read in a KA book!
Loved LOved LOVED this story!!
5 Solid Stars
This is my favorite in the series so far.
I absolutelyADORED both Hale & Elsa.
Their chemistry was off the charts. Their interactions with each other was sometimes heartbreaking and often funny.
I laughed and cried and Sighed throughout their story.
The flow and the pace kept me completely involved.
Their intimate scenes where the HOTTEST and best sex scenes I've read in a KA book!
Loved LOved LOVED this story!!
October 10, 2023
You know that comfort you feel when you hang out with good friends? People who fully understand you, and always have your back? That's how I usually feel when I read a Kristen Ashley novel. And that's how I felt while reading Fighting the Pull.
Read
September 13, 2024Dnf. My fault, I half finished the first in this series then skipped to this one and I have no idea who anyone is, I can’t keep track of all the characters. Too much effort.
September 23, 2023
This was a decent book. Not bad, but not horrible. Elsa is cool, and Hale is.... complicated. The side characters are fun and interesting as always. I love the dynamic between them all and how they genuinely care about each other.
There are two complaints I have with this book. First: I respect the fact that people have their own individual views on politics, religion, society, etc. But can you please not put them in a romance story? This book clearly had an agenda, and quite frankly, I'm sick of agendas. We are inundated with that shit all the time. I read to escape reality, not hear more about it. Not everyone is going to agree with some or all of the viewpoints, so can we please just avoid them altogether? Ugh.
Second: Can we please just read normal romantic scenes without getting into any BDSM kink? Light, medium, or hardcore, it seems like that's the only kind of intimacy that KA seems to be writing about now in her books. No shade to those who like that, and if that's what KA wants to write, fine. But then, make a story with that kind of sex in it and give your readers a warning like when the Honey series was written and released. Not everyone likes that, and I'd like a warning if that's what I have to look forward to in the story.
I really miss the funny crazy antics of her earlier stories like Rock Chick, Mystery Men, Chaos, the original Fantasyland series, etc. Those stories I read over and over again. But most of these new ones, I seriously struggle with. I love KA, she's one of my favorite authors, and I'm really disappointed with how so many of her stories are turning out. I literally laugh out loud when re-reading the Rock Chick series and I want more of that.
There are two complaints I have with this book. First: I respect the fact that people have their own individual views on politics, religion, society, etc. But can you please not put them in a romance story? This book clearly had an agenda, and quite frankly, I'm sick of agendas. We are inundated with that shit all the time. I read to escape reality, not hear more about it. Not everyone is going to agree with some or all of the viewpoints, so can we please just avoid them altogether? Ugh.
Second: Can we please just read normal romantic scenes without getting into any BDSM kink? Light, medium, or hardcore, it seems like that's the only kind of intimacy that KA seems to be writing about now in her books. No shade to those who like that, and if that's what KA wants to write, fine. But then, make a story with that kind of sex in it and give your readers a warning like when the Honey series was written and released. Not everyone likes that, and I'd like a warning if that's what I have to look forward to in the story.
I really miss the funny crazy antics of her earlier stories like Rock Chick, Mystery Men, Chaos, the original Fantasyland series, etc. Those stories I read over and over again. But most of these new ones, I seriously struggle with. I love KA, she's one of my favorite authors, and I'm really disappointed with how so many of her stories are turning out. I literally laugh out loud when re-reading the Rock Chick series and I want more of that.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 10, 2024
I really liked the last 25 percent of the book. The beginning was slow, and once again I cannot relate to the rich, designer wearing characters. I also felt like the author pushed a lot of her own beliefs to almost preach to the reader, I agree with all her beliefs so it didn’t bother me but I can see how it would bother another person.
The last bit of the book felt like old school KA. this book was definitely the best book in the series so far but I have to admit, I’m not loving this series. I just can’t relate to the characters and it all seems so vain and ridiculous.
The last bit of the book felt like old school KA. this book was definitely the best book in the series so far but I have to admit, I’m not loving this series. I just can’t relate to the characters and it all seems so vain and ridiculous.
September 18, 2023
Did I miss the part when he started to like the h? I know I didn’t skim but from visiting his building to meeting her for the FIRST TIME, to doing the interview and now I’m only in the scene where he wants to accompany the h to her family’s house to pretend to be his fake boyfriend/fiancé. I mean where is the build up? Where the hell is the chemistry? I just don’t have a freakin luck these days with any book 🤦🏻♀️
This one was just terrible and not for me. DNF
This one was just terrible and not for me. DNF
September 14, 2023
When I tell you, this book had me BLUSHING. I too was fighting the pull. I’m not talking spice either, though that was pretty ace, but just the banter or the smoothness of his lines when he was trying to woo her… phew. I was roped in from the first chapter.
The book also touched on some serious topics too and I was glad that it wasn’t all just fluff. I definitely could tell I was missing some context, as this is the 5th book in the series, but it can still be read as standalone. I read it as such, and still thoroughly enjoyed it. I will be putting the other books on my backlist though to catch up on. Also, this book had a brief bout of fake dating, which is my favorite trope, so that is another check in the win column for me!
Thank you Blue Box Press for the early copy of this book.
The book also touched on some serious topics too and I was glad that it wasn’t all just fluff. I definitely could tell I was missing some context, as this is the 5th book in the series, but it can still be read as standalone. I read it as such, and still thoroughly enjoyed it. I will be putting the other books on my backlist though to catch up on. Also, this book had a brief bout of fake dating, which is my favorite trope, so that is another check in the win column for me!
Thank you Blue Box Press for the early copy of this book.
February 22, 2025
harbiden çok güzel bi kitaptı. serideki favorim olabilir (ikinci kitap peşinden geliyor)
yani corey için hüngür hüngür hüngür ağladım.. arkadaşıma anlatırken bi tur daha ağladım. öle kalbimi kırdı benim. keşke gerekli psikolojik destekleri alsaydı ve babamız olarak kalsaydı..
elsa ve hale'in tüm dinamiğine BA YIL DIM. çok slaylerdi açıkçası. kristen ashley'nin bu serisinde booktokta falan popüler olan trope'ları KRISTEN ASHLEY TARZINDA yorumladığını ve slay kitaplar yazdığını görmüş olduk.
rhys'ın kitabı çıkmalı. rhys'ın kitabına İHTİYACIM var yani. öyle böyle değil ciddili ihtiyacım var. GEL ANNECİĞİNE NOLUR
bi de rhys, sasha'yla olabilir gibi geldi bana nalaka bilmirem ama kitaptaki bi cümleden o tarz bi anlam çıkardım.. GÖRÜCEZ
yani corey için hüngür hüngür hüngür ağladım.. arkadaşıma anlatırken bi tur daha ağladım. öle kalbimi kırdı benim. keşke gerekli psikolojik destekleri alsaydı ve babamız olarak kalsaydı..
elsa ve hale'in tüm dinamiğine BA YIL DIM. çok slaylerdi açıkçası. kristen ashley'nin bu serisinde booktokta falan popüler olan trope'ları KRISTEN ASHLEY TARZINDA yorumladığını ve slay kitaplar yazdığını görmüş olduk.
rhys'ın kitabı çıkmalı. rhys'ın kitabına İHTİYACIM var yani. öyle böyle değil ciddili ihtiyacım var. GEL ANNECİĞİNE NOLUR
bi de rhys, sasha'yla olabilir gibi geldi bana nalaka bilmirem ama kitaptaki bi cümleden o tarz bi anlam çıkardım.. GÖRÜCEZ
August 22, 2023
❤️🤟🏾ARC REVIEW🤟🏾❤️
Fighting the pull?! More like fighting my emotions! I think we can all agree that we have been waiting on Hale’s novel since he was introduced to us in After the Climb. Hale finds himself navigating the complex world of inherited wealth and the emotional scars from his father’s tragic fate and his own childhood . Battling his demons, he shields his heart from the very notion of romantic love.
Enter Elsa, the trendy and upcoming talk show host who is married to her career. Neither one of them are looking for anything permanent, but I don’t think KA got the memo lol. Their incendiary chemistry certainly doesn’t help their intentions.
Kristen did an amazing job crafting their interactions with each other and I got a front row seat to watch the sparks fly and emotional walls gradually crumble. When I got to the bombshell revelations, I had to explain to my husband why I was crying at 2 almost 3 in the morning.
The intricacies of delicate subjects in the plot are depicted with sensitivity and authenticity. If the ebb and flow of emotions wasn’t enough, KA threw in a layer of suspense that injected a touch of thrill to the plot. As the characters confronted their pasts and surrendered to their passions, I was taken on a thrilling emotional ride that left me craving for more long before I turned the last page. ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
Fighting the pull?! More like fighting my emotions! I think we can all agree that we have been waiting on Hale’s novel since he was introduced to us in After the Climb. Hale finds himself navigating the complex world of inherited wealth and the emotional scars from his father’s tragic fate and his own childhood . Battling his demons, he shields his heart from the very notion of romantic love.
Enter Elsa, the trendy and upcoming talk show host who is married to her career. Neither one of them are looking for anything permanent, but I don’t think KA got the memo lol. Their incendiary chemistry certainly doesn’t help their intentions.
Kristen did an amazing job crafting their interactions with each other and I got a front row seat to watch the sparks fly and emotional walls gradually crumble. When I got to the bombshell revelations, I had to explain to my husband why I was crying at 2 almost 3 in the morning.
The intricacies of delicate subjects in the plot are depicted with sensitivity and authenticity. If the ebb and flow of emotions wasn’t enough, KA threw in a layer of suspense that injected a touch of thrill to the plot. As the characters confronted their pasts and surrendered to their passions, I was taken on a thrilling emotional ride that left me craving for more long before I turned the last page. ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
September 20, 2023
3.75 stars ⭐️
The characters were really well developed, mature and their attraction was palpable! I was happy to see them both get their happy ending!
✓ Enemies to Lovers
✓ Billionaire
✓ Brief Fake Relationship
✓ Found Family
✓ Dual POV
The characters were really well developed, mature and their attraction was palpable! I was happy to see them both get their happy ending!
✓ Enemies to Lovers
✓ Billionaire
✓ Brief Fake Relationship
✓ Found Family
✓ Dual POV
Displaying 1 - 30 of 292 reviews