This book is absolutely adorable! It's friends to lovers done right and I could not put down. I just loved so many things about this book. First, I haThis book is absolutely adorable! It's friends to lovers done right and I could not put down. I just loved so many things about this book. First, I have to say that friends to lovers is my favorite trope. When it's done right, the depth to the relationship cannot be matched and I LOVE it! Unfortunately, sometimes the trope involves endless pining and refusal to communicate for approximately 90% of the book (which I do get but let's get more creative). And this book DID IT FOR ME! Kasey has done it again, just proving my assertion that she is one of the best authors around.
I loved how close Max and Rachael were, while still living their separate lives. I loved that Rachael had a legitimate reason for holding back and not talking about her feelings. And I LOVED that Max had no reservations once he started figuring himself out. Way to go, Max! The traditions between the two families in this one were so cute, and I just loved them. The Grinch theme throughout is kind of my favorite and now I want to decorate with Grinch decor. Would it be ridiculous to make January Grinch month? Because January needs something anyway. Maybe that will do.
I loved how Kasey brought in the little traditions, the family backstories, the feelings and dynamics so succinctly. She did a great job of making sure you knew everything you needed, while still keeping the book a little more on the short side, which is perfect for this time of year. Being confidantes for one another is something I loved about the relationship dynamic for Max and Rachael. And the way that they each started figuring out how to help one another, pushing each other to do the hard things, and grow in the process, is another check for depth to their relationship that makes friends the best kind of lovers. Rachael pushing Max to have the hard conversations he'd been avoiding for so long was fantastic. But I especially loved how Max was determined to help Rachael see all the good things about herself, and help her solve her struggles. But he wasn't pushy, just supportive. Very well done.
What else did I love? - Peppermint (or Pepper...cutest name ever) - Grinch kiss (IYKYK) - Grinch cookies - Bets and wagers with each other - Broken collar bones (rude I know, but it was kind of funny) - Brother's girlfriend keeping brother in line - Hot dog fire - Forced proximity - Both sets of parents - Passion for acting It's just so good! I loved the quick jolt of Christmas cheese in book form, and would absolutely read again. Another winner from Kasey!
Audiobook review: Narrated by Rylee Kuberra and John Rogers -- This narration is done so well! It's a duet narration, meaning when the chapter is from the female point of view, the male narrator still reads all the male voiced lines (and vice versa during the MMC POV chapters). I loved their inflections and emotion, their voices, and the overall way they read. I would absolutely read another book narrated by this duo. ...more
Well, well, well, Gracie Ruth Mitchell, you have delivered again and I couldn't be more pleased! From the very first sentence, I was completely hookedWell, well, well, Gracie Ruth Mitchell, you have delivered again and I couldn't be more pleased! From the very first sentence, I was completely hooked and could not put this book down. I hope you keep writing murder mystery romcoms because this is a genre I need more of in my life. You deliver every time, and I devour it. Like a lifeline, I am tied to your words. I fear I would expire, cease to be, without finishing the next part. Dramatic? Perhaps. But I fail to see how else I could explain my love for these books. Soren is my favorite. No offense to Aiden, but I need more Sorens in my life and in my books and the world needs Sorens. I even feel like he needs the man bun. I have never before liked the look, but Soren gets a pass (for more reasons than his swooniness, but that's a IYKYK situation). I was absolutely in love with how much he loved Heidi. Like he now has all my loyalty. All of it, every single bit. He's the sweetest cinnamon roll of a guy, and I adore him. Heidi Lucy is such a firecracker. I loved her drive, her need to get answers, her willingness to ask tough questions and do the hard things. And her slow admittance to loving Soren just got me. The meet-cute scene between her and Soren had me laughing out loud and wiping all the tears away. The dynamic between the two is hilarious and fun and delightful. Other things I loved: - Bookshop - Baked goods - Dog walking - Baths - The man bun nickname - Authors in books - The roomba - Lists - Heidi's brother - The hot springs scene - Idaho setting - Tetons - Cameo appearances from Juniper and Aiden
This is another book that will for sure be on my rereads list, because I absolutely need more of these two in my life.
Audiobook Review: Narrated by Ellen Quay and Eric Fox -- I've said it before, but these two are both fantastic narrators! Absolutely love their narration style and voices....more
I finally managed to read this book, and let me tell you, it did not disappoint! If you are even a little bit interested in RomComs, you should be reaI finally managed to read this book, and let me tell you, it did not disappoint! If you are even a little bit interested in RomComs, you should be reading Cindy’s books. And this book should be high up on your list. I absolutely loved watching Nora figure herself and her life out—and allow herself to fall in love. The meet cute in this one is really adorable, and you’ll fall in love with Duke basically within the first couple of chapters. So then you’ll just be anxious for Nora to allow herself to get there. And it takes a minute. But it’s so worth it. Cindy nails banter and playfulness in her books. There was romantic tension and attracted emotions, balanced with depth and relationship development. I absolutely loved that Nora and Duke had deep discussions and were mostly honest with one another. And they had disagreements and arguments, without this being an enemies to lovers. Just natural disagreements that arise from being different people, and I thought that was fantastic. It ramps up the tension overall, and makes the romance even better. And Duke is basically the swooniest guy ever. Here are just a few things I loved so much: Duke’s grandparents The farm and the entire pond scene The first seven chapters Nora standing up to a certain person’s dad Talking through difficult family situations The sodas Rooftop meetings Helping clean Duke’s friends The flirting and banter Kissing. Suuuuuch good kissing! Nora’s growth The epilogue
This is really a fantastic read! If you enjoy romance at all, read this one. You’ll be so glad you did. And then message me so we can swoon about Duke together. ...more
Once again, you get a letter from me because I am wholly, completely, fully in love with another of your books. I hope you know that you arDear Emma,
Once again, you get a letter from me because I am wholly, completely, fully in love with another of your books. I hope you know that you are my favorite. Your books are all auto-buy for me (even if I’m on a book buying ban—your books don’t count), and I know I will have feels and get chemistry and sizzle without the bedroom, and your stories will have characters with depth and struggles, and I JUST LOVE ALL OF THAT SO MUCH! Sorry for yelling. BUT I LOVE YOU AND YOUR BOOKS!
Okay, back to this book in particular. Parker and Logan may be my new favorite couple of yours. I mean, I pretty much say that every time, but also it is true. I adore Parker, and I love Logan, and then together is so dang cute.
I loved how respectful Logan was, while also helping ease Parker out of her shell. And I appreciated that he wasn’t perfect! I actually really like a flawed hero, and he is flawed in just the right ways, while acknowledging that he needs to improve. It’s a potent combo, and Logan is one swoony hero.
I loved Parker’s ability to forgive and be cheerful, as well as stand up for herself and insist on being treated right, by her father, her brother, her employer. I just loved that she wasn’t harsh or demanding, but also firm. And these two really are the cutest couple. I kept getting worried that someone would try to pull them apart, but they know how to stand their ground and claim what they want. Thank heavens for mature adults.
Other things I really loved? You always get a list from me, so here goes: - The Appies team. Reading about these guys, I kept thinking, "I hope they're getting stories some day!" I mean, no pressure or anything, but here's one Idahoan who is pretty sure she's a hockey fan now (with your books being most of her lifetime exposure), and the Appies are her favorite team. Just sayin'. - Fancy chair! - The apartment door! - Mr. Eds - ha! That's pretty much the best name for a cat ever ever. - Pink roses. - Pink sticky notes - Pink bathroom. I never knew I wanted a pink bathroom mat until reading this book, but now I do. *commences shopping* - Fall-time setting - Parker standing up for herself against her dad - Brandom being a mature adult - Apple cider donuts - Pink rock (IYKYK) - The team's protectiveness - Never been kissed trope - Never had a girlfriend trope - The kisses! *double triple quadruple swoon* - Imagining all those guys doing trending TikTok dances (we need tutus!) - The dancing - The quotable lines
There is so much to love about this book, and love it I did! I could genuinely go for a reread right now, because I love this place and these people and the sense of community you created in this story. Gosh, am I ever lucky that I get to read your books! You’re on my gratitude list!
Your forever fan and friend, Jessica
AUDIOBOOK REVIEW: Narrated by Emily Ellet and Jay Myers -- I absolutely LOVED this audio. The narrators voices are perfect for the characters, and the voice changes they use for opposite gender lines are not annoying. I can't say which voice I like most because they're both fantastic. If you're an audiobook fan, I highly recommend this on audio!
*Note: thanks for the gifted copy. All thoughts in this letter are my own....more
Dear Mrs. Sowards, How it is that you write book that completely destroy me, and yet I love with every part of my soul, I’m not sure I’ll ever understaDear Mrs. Sowards, How it is that you write book that completely destroy me, and yet I love with every part of my soul, I’m not sure I’ll ever understand. But I do. I’d read this again in a heartbeat, and do plan to reread it one day. It’s a powerful, beautifully told story. I would recommend this to anyone who likes a good WWII fiction. I really loved Karl’s character arc. The way he progresses and grows through this book is just phenomenal. It’s the kind of character growth we always want to see in the MCs of the stories we love. I loved how it took many experiences, people, and his faith to help him grow and change. He had a steadiness about him, and a desire to be the person his father knew he could become. And I admired his ability to be adaptable through the struggles he had. Millie was such a dear, and I adored her from the beginning. I liked her tenacity, her desire to help with the war effort, her intelligence, and her ability to put her best into everything. And the code breaking bits were so good! She wasn’t afraid to speak her mind and I loved that. The relationship between her and Karl was so sweet and lovely. Their letters made me smile, and I thought they were a clever way to share the passage of time. Your addition of Rolf really rounded out the story and gave it some added depth. It made the entire war more human, not just the side I always root for. Did I cry while reading this book? Yes. I did more than cry. I sobbed uncontrollably, for the final 60 or so pages. I knew what was coming. I read Heirs of Falcon Point, and remembered vividly what Karl’s story was. I knew what was coming, and I still sobbed. And yet, I finished the book feeling hope, seeing the beauty in love and family, and amazed at how you brought everything together at the end. You are truly a master storyteller, and I relish the opportunity to enjoy your stories. Thank you for giving me the chance. Ever yours, Jessica
*CW/TW: This is not a book for those who can only enjoy books with an HEA. While this book does end with some happiness, there are still details that could leave you quite bereft if HEA. This is not a romance story a much as it is a WWII fiction, and it’s best enjoyed if that is remembered. (Reading Heirs of Falcon Point prior to this, though not required to enjoy, could also help with some details.) Also contains typical wartime details, such as bombings, sinking boats, death at sea, deprivations of Jewish peoples mentioned, hatred toward various groups, and focus on machines instead of lives.
**thanks to the publisher and author for the copy. These are my own thoughts. ...more
This tender story is sweet, funny, and full of depth and emotion. There are some seriously swoony moments, and it will make you want to move to a sligThis tender story is sweet, funny, and full of depth and emotion. There are some seriously swoony moments, and it will make you want to move to a slightly empty and unknown island and soak up the waves and sunshine. I don’t even like the beach, and this book made me crave it.
I really liked how Sa’s internal reflection led her to her island oasis on an effort to figure out who she actually was. She does so much reconnecting with herself, and grows a lot. She also finds true friends, which I adore. Deacon is a good guy, who genuinely cares about his people, and once you’re his people, you’re stuck for life. I always love that kind of character. I liked his cheerful demeanor, and ability to draw out the good in people. Also, the family dynamic between Deacon, Amber, and Lou is marvelous (I promise it works and makes sense and is not weird; just trust me and read it), and the way Sam became welcomed into that family was so sweet.
There are some really funny moments in this one, that will have you laughing out loud. The setting is so well done, there are emotional hills and valleys that you’LLs experience right alongside the characters, and you’ll want to be a part of this little island home. It’s a delightful debut. Congratulations, Nicole!
*CW/TW: a couple of scenes with naked bodies (nothing seen or described, just know characters only have towels on); on page drinking; cancer; death of parents (previous); neglectful parents
**thanks to the author for the copy. These are my very own thoughts....more
Ah, Kasey, how I love thee and thy books! Seriously though, Jack and Lauren were the best. I loved Jack’s flirting, and persistence, but he was still rAh, Kasey, how I love thee and thy books! Seriously though, Jack and Lauren were the best. I loved Jack’s flirting, and persistence, but he was still respectful of Lauren and her boundaries. One hundred points to Jack. He is genuinely one of my favorite RomCom heroes now. Lauren cracked me up, with her spreadsheets and perfect schedules. (The spreadsheets thing reminded me of my husband, because he would totally do the same kinds of things!) They are the perfect compliment for one another, him loosening her up, and she helping him to be structured and reminding him how important family is. I loved how their growth was individual and yet intertwined. They really were perfect for one another. The cruise ship setting was a lot of fun! I haven’t read that setting before, so I really liked it. But I also loved Arcadia Creek. I’m a huge fan of small towns and this one really fits the bill. Watching Lauren and Jack navigate real life after the fairytale living of the cruise ship was really good. I loved how they had to figure things out. It was a little like a window into the “after romance,” and I loved it. If you like small towns, enemies to lovers, cruise ships, fantastic character development, beautiful settings, great cast of side characters, and family relationships, try out this book! It does not disappoint! Once again, dearest Kasey, I love your books! I just want to be your best friend and read alllll your books. Is that too much to ask? I hope not. Your (hopefully) friend, Jessica
*thanks to the author for the early copy. A positive review was not required. ...more
This book is stunningly, incredibly beautiful. And I don't just mean the cover, though it certainly is that. I am convinced I will Dear Mrs. McDaniel,
This book is stunningly, incredibly beautiful. And I don't just mean the cover, though it certainly is that. I am convinced I will forever be the biggest fan of your storytelling style, but notwithstanding, I thought this book was phenomenal. I loved Amelie right from the very beginning. Her determination to do anything to help the allies in the war against the Nazis--even assume the dreaded persona of "blonde bimbo" (her words, not mine)--was admirable and made me love her right away. Finn was the perfect hero. He was broody and imperfect, and his secrets will keep you guessing for a while. But the way he and Amelie start figuring out how to work together, and solving their mysteries, is exciting and riveting. Every time I thought I had things figured out, another clue would come to light and I would need to start all over with trying to figure out what was going on. And I still didn't have an accurate guess once everything came to light at the end! As my own family heritage includes Swedish ancestry, I have a soft spot for all things Swedish, so naturally that facet of this story endeared me to the story right away. But that isn't the only thing that kept me engaged. The main characters are incredibly well written and exciting, the side characters provide the exact right touch of cheer and humor (or mystery), the mystery kept me guessing, the suspense is on-the-edge-of-your-seat perfect, and the history was well researched. And the book is so well-written. It's a reread worthy book, and I do look forward to immersing myself in this breathtaking book again in the future. Thank you for writing wonderful books I can drop into and have become a part of me. Love, Jessica
**I received a copy of this book from the publisher and author via Netgalley. I also listened to the audiobook via an app I pay for with my own funds. The audiobook is very well done and I recommend that as well. ...more
Dear Mrs. Dykes, This stunning book captivated my heart and soul, pulling me in and holding tight, well after the final The End. You storytelling is riDear Mrs. Dykes, This stunning book captivated my heart and soul, pulling me in and holding tight, well after the final The End. You storytelling is rich, poetic, and ethereal. Each story I read immerses me wholly, making me feel as though I am experiencing the story alongside your characters. I wish I could give this book seven stars—ten stars!—because it deserves more than five. I absolutely love the dual timeline in this story. Each story could hold its own, but the way they bring clarity and insight to each other is masterfully done. I adore Robert. My heart loved him from the very first moment. His tragic and beautiful story was captivating, endearing, and hopeful. And he is the sweetest. Annie’s lost and questioning state at the beginning of the book led to some wonderful character development. I absolutely adored how she grew, learning about herself as she pieced together the clues about her family’s fractured past. Fletcher is the perfect grump—reticent, quiet, unsure, but loyal, kind, and deeply devoted. He provides the perfect counterpoint to Annie’s story. The mystery and questions that get brought up throughout both timelines kept me guessing and wondering through the entire thing. A couple of times, I almost felt like the questions were piling up faster than the answers! But I loved how everything came together in the end. This book almost needs a warning at the beginning, to prepare with a box of tissues, and a smiling-muscle warmup, because both will be needed throughout. And I loved every single moment of it. Thank you for your beautiful books. I love the immersive, poetic way you tell stories, and I’m so happy I can read your books. Your forever fan, Jessica ...more
Do you need a book filled with a hilarious (read: disastrous but still hilarious) meet cute, swoony romance, non-stop action, nail-biting suspense, anDo you need a book filled with a hilarious (read: disastrous but still hilarious) meet cute, swoony romance, non-stop action, nail-biting suspense, and immersive settings? Then choose this book! This one checks every box for a book you want to love. It's an amazing conclusion to the Presley-Coombs series, and I loved every bit of it!
The book starts off with a bang when Isla witnesses something she shouldn't--and she is left for dead by the guilty party. And it doesn't slow down from there. Something is always happening, keeping you guessing and wondering and on the edge of your seat.
The meet-cute between Isla and Ben was absolutely hilarious and I laughed through the whole thing! Did I think Ben was maybe a little too grumpy? Yes. Yes, I did. Did I want to Gibbs-smack him and tell him to apologize? Also yes. Thankfully his dad has no problem with telling him to settle down--and that time can give a lot of perspective to a problem. I loved how it set the tone for the relationship between the two, which provided for some good tension when Isla's situation escalated to life-threatening proportions.
The romance in this one is too cute. I am a major sucker for "he falls first" tropes, and this is no exception, especially because of all that led up to that situation. The last few chapters kept me completely hooked, and I couldn't read it fast enough. I also stayed up way too late to finish, which should be a good recommendation on it's own, as I do not function without my sleep. Willingly giving it up for this book speaks volumes to how I feel about it.
Oh, and did mention that you get two settings in this one? That's another thing I loved. Scotland and Virginia? Yes, please!
This book reads like a standalone, though there are three others previous to this in the series. And you'll want to read them all, because they're all amazing.
**thanks to the author for the copy. I loved this book and these thoughts are my own!...more
Traci and Sian, you have knocked it out of the park AGAIN! Just. Wow. I am seriously flabbergasted every time. How do two people write this and still Traci and Sian, you have knocked it out of the park AGAIN! Just. Wow. I am seriously flabbergasted every time. How do two people write this and still make it so seamless? How do you come up with these villains and stories? I’m here for it. I am allllll the way here! I will cheer and shout from the rooftops and read every single book you decide to work on together (I’ll read all your solo books too, for the record, just in case there was a question).
Anyway, I adore Lars & Merit and Cole and Isabelle. I really enjoyed that this wasn’t a romance in the traditional sense of “will they/can they get together,” but more of how to make their relationships work with life throwing curve balls at them. I liked the relationship growth (is that a thing? Because it felt like a thing) between each couple. Lars and Merit are #RelationshipGoals and Cole is hilariously left-footed when it comes to a girlfriend! But yay for adult, mature conversations! Also love Thor. IYKYK.
The relationship between Cole and Lars is so much fun. Having grown up in a relatively tight-knit family, and getting on well with most of my cousins, seeing cousin-friendships is very special. I also love the friendship blossoming between Merit and Isabelle.
This one kept me on my toes the entire time I read. As soon as I would think there wasn’t a way out, or how could anything go wrong, you both pulled out all the stops I didn’t see coming, and made it happen. And I loved it!
This is a fabulous suspense novel, and the sprinkling of romance (with some really good kisses thrown in for good measure! Good work guys!) added the perfect touch. And now for the annoying question every author hates: when is the next one? ...more
I am a huge fan of historical romance. While I’ve spent a lot of time in the Regency era, I’m finding that I really enjoy Victorian. I am also very inI am a huge fan of historical romance. While I’ve spent a lot of time in the Regency era, I’m finding that I really enjoy Victorian. I am also very interested in books that have some unique themes. No balls or soirées or dinner parties? A woman who supports herself with her art? Not a single wealthy or titled person in the main character lineup? Sign. Me. Up. Just to be clear, I don’t dislike any of those things, but sometimes it’s fun to have something fresh. And The Art of Love and Lies is fresh.
I loved the premise of a heroine who supports herself with her art, by recreating famous paintings, so that other people can enjoy the artwork hanging in their own home. It presents a moral dilemma that I loved watching the Rosanna grapple with. I also loved that she sought independence, and fought hard for it, even when it meant pushing back against someone who could—and did—make life difficult for her. And then she doesn’t give up. Tenacious could be her middle name. I liked her, despite her impetuous behavior. It made for good story, especially the last 30% or so.
Martin is an absolute gem—but not perfect. *chef’s kiss* That’s my favorite kind of hero. He goes through some really good growth in this one. It was a lot of fun watching him become a better person because his love for someone inspired him to change. I loved how smitten he was with Rosanna right away, and their banter! Oh my goodness! There is a definite instant-attraction vibe going on here, but they still have to go through a lot to get to a happily ever after. And they will make you smile all the way to that HEA.
This one has a lot going for it that you can’t help but love. Romance, Victorian era, mystery, art, flirting and banter, swoony kissing (more than one!), mystery, suspense, and one terrible villain. Pick this one up if you’re ready for a delightful, quick read into the world of art, and mystery (and lies!), and romance.
**thanks to the publisher for the copy. These thoughts are all mine. ...more
Y’all, I just love this book. I read and reviewed this book last year, but when I was given the opportunity to listen to an eARC, I jumped2024 Reread:
Y’all, I just love this book. I read and reviewed this book last year, but when I was given the opportunity to listen to an eARC, I jumped at the chance. And I loved it all over again during this reread. The narrators were fun to listen to and I liked how they brought the characters to life. I especially liked Kit, and thought she did a great job for all the voices.
I will wholeheartedly recommend this entire series, but this is still my favorite. I loved it so much, and if audiobooks are your cup of tea, or you want to give them a try, I’d recommend that format.
**thanks to the author for the audio copy. These thoughts are my own.
2023 review:
My Dear Friend Emma, You have done it again. I have fallen absolutely, completely head over heels in love with a book you have written, and I couldn’t be happier about it. You’d almost think there would be a limit, but for you and your books, it is clear there is not. I don’t know whether I was made to love your books, or your writing is just always exactly what I need, but it doesn’t much matter, because both are true. It sounds dramatic, but I mean it when I say I adore your books and they are on the precipice of life changing to me. Now, on to Val and Chevy (and I’ll say I loved the couples name debate; my vote is for Valvrolet, if you can believe it). I adore these two. I am madly, deeply, wholly in love with them both. Friends to lovers is actually my favorite. Have I told you that?Throw in some sister’s best friend, a few family issues, and a cannon, and I am an absolute goner. Absolute. *le sigh* Really, I think every book that I’ve found my new favorite characters, but I really love Val and Chevy. They are so real, and flawed, and vulnerable, and good for each other. I love Val’s ability to emote, her propensity for mindless chatter, and her loving heart. And I want to eat her stuffed French toast. Chevy is so great. Firstly, thanks for writing a hero who doesn’t have a six-pack but is still attractive. *cue applause from the peanut gallery* We need more heroes of that variety. But I also loved his depth, his kindness and thoughtfulness, and his growth in this one. (Also, that character growth was *chef’s kiss* good! Magnifique!) And maybe I’m like Val, because I also love his cheesy sense of humor. Pass the cheese, please. As always, the lineup of secondary characters always add the perfect touch to your books. Grant, Mrs. Fleming and her ‘possum, Mari, Tank, and of course, the Graham Fam and Besties. I just love this little town so much and I’ll say it again: I want to go to Sheet Cake. Maybe I’ll celebrate New Year’s there. Can you arrange for Patty to be present? We always need him for a party. And Tank, because I’m pretty sure I could use one of his hugs. Once again, thank you for sharing your writing with the world. I need it. I know other people need it. It’s a gift, and I’m so happy I get to enjoy it. Love, Jessica PS—other things I loved: - Forced proximity grocery shopping is too delicious! - Stuffed French toast! Yum! - Mari’s “subtlety.” Haha! - The opossum’s bedazzled leash - Mrs. Fleming’s cannons! - The basketball game - All the carrying. Sooo much carrying. Go ahead, Chevy, pick her up again. I am here for it! - The Dr. Pepper convo! Bahaha! I think I vote YES on that one! Where do I sign the petition? - Lindy’s thing. *insert heart eyes* - The “mistletoe!” And James figuring stuff out faster than anyone! And James being in on it! Aw! He’s such a softy. Don’t tell him I said that. - Patty and Collin fighting. - Chevy and the thermostat. Bahaha! I fully expected that poor girl to be sweating when he got back. - Kyoko fitting right in. - Jo’s thing with the crows. Even if I do find crows mildly terrifying. They really are big birds. - Val’s paint on her person, and Chevy looking for it. - Just the whole dang book. Allllll of it. All. Of. It.
Stuffed French toast Big MO’s egg sandwiches with perfectly ripened tomatoes Hamburger
Quotes I loved: I like to think of myself as a fairly smart man. Smart enough, anyway. And smart men know never to call a woman dramatic. -Chevy
“What, exactly, defines a weapon?” I begin to tick off options on y fingers. “Weapons may include but are not limited to, tire irons, baseball bats, cannons, or firearms.” “Did you say forearms?” “Firearms.” She sighs. “I love a good set of forearms. My Nate had lovely forearms.”
To be honest, a lot of teens could do with a good egging. Some adults too, for that matter. -Chevy
Val’s fatal flaw seems to be her penchant to date men who are never good enough for her. -Chevy
“He didn’t deserve you,” Lindy says. “And he has a mullet,” Winnie adds. “On purpose.” Is there such a thing as an accidental mullet? Even if so, Jaxon’s mullet is absolutely intentional. And gross. Which I tried to overlook because I’m not that shallow, but it turns out I am exactly that shallow. I know they’re coming back in style, but they shouldn’t. -Val
I know he’s teasing. I know it because I’ve known him my whole life and have made Steven a hobby. A torturous one, considering my crush, and the lack of any observable evidence that he sees me as anything more than friends or more. Specifically, his sister‘s friend, which is somehow worse. -Val
Chevy’s eyes meet mine, briefly, like the brush of a fingertip over my skin. It has the same effect, sending a wave of goose bumps along my arms. If I’m not imagining it, the tops of his cheeks flush as he returns his full focus to his sister. -Val
When it comes to talking about big life changes or things that scare me, I’m a cartoon ostrich. I jam my head into the sand and stay still, hoping it passes. Which…didn’t quite work in this situation. Because ostriching is not a healthy or practical coping skill. -Val
“Nope,” Chevy says. “Just a small world … after all.” Winnie groans, but I grin at his cheesy joke. I happen to love cheese. As a food and as a style of joking, in movies. And in emotional moments with my besties. I’m all about the Velveeta everything.
“You wear Kraken deodorant? What does Kraken even smell like?” And before I think twice about it and realize how supremely STUPID this is, I lean my face over to Chevy’s armpit and tak a big sniff. Mistake. Big mistake! Not because it smells BAD—in face, sea monster plus Chevy is now my all-time favorite scent—but because once I realize how weird I’m being, I freeze. Right here with my nose in his armpit. Retreat is the logical option. But I’m not always logical. -Val
“It’s not my business,” he says cautiously, and NO good conversation starts this way, “but did y’all drive all the way to Austin to buy a pregnancy test?” Ohhhhh—that. “You saw the box, huh?” “Hard to miss,” he says. “You threw it at my face.” I force out a laugh. “Sorry. It was a reflex.”
“When the winds of change are blowing, brother, the best thing you can do is hoist your sails and let them carry you along.” I’d rather drop anchor and ride out the storm below deck, hoping for the best on the other side.
That earns me a smile I feel all the way down in the soles of my feet. Basking in her smile is like getting drunk on sunshine. -Chevy
Val winks, and something in me tumbles and falls down hard. Because, I realize, no matter how much I keep trying to shove Val back in the friend and best friend of my little sister box, she no longer fits. In fact, I think the box just crumbled to dust. -Chevy
I am basically the equivalent of a goal post cemented into the ground of his friendzone. Always have been. -Val
How do I tell the man that I want him to cross ALL the lines? I want to be one of those handwriting primers they give out in elementary school with a row full of Ts, every single one needing Chevy to cross lines all the way across the page. -Val
“So we’re good?” Chevy asks? “Still friends?” He just had to go there. The most offensive F-word in the world.
“Grown men shouldn’t make pinky promises,” I mutter. “And they definitely shouldn’t choose penny tile for a shower floor.”
Because there is nothing remotely sisterly or even friendly about the feelings that keep bubbling over, no matter how forcefully I slam the lid on the pot. Friend, friend, friend, I chant. Nope, nope, nope, some devilishly delighted voice in my head sing-songs. -Chevy
No matter what people say, violence sometimes IS the answer. -Val
“Sounds like a da—“ He stops himself from saying date—but only just barely. I’d like to reach inside him, yank the word date right out of his body, and stick it in my pocket for safekeeping.
Have I been simmering and jealousy like it’s a slow cooker recipe? Perhaps. -Val
“Chevy is about as emotionally available as an old boot stuck in mud at the bottom of the lake.” -Winnie
I rescind my earlier statement: Bumps on the head are the best! Five out of five stars. Would definitely recommend. -Val
“Is that still your favorite movie?” he asks, smiling. “I should really get around to watching.” “Movies. Plural. It’s a trilogy. And have you really not seen them?” He shakes his head. “Nope.” “We need to remedy this fact. Otherwise, you’re really not fit to be a member of society.” “Is that so?” “Totally so. Plus, you’ll never understand half my quotes. It’s like I’ll be speaking another language.” “Then I definitely need to see them.”
Val has been living here less than twenty-four hours and already, she’s under my skin like the sexiest kind of splinter.
“I take it black,” I tell her. “Like my heart.” She scoffs, and I watch her delicate fingers dredge a thick slice of bread in egg. “Psh! You’ve got one of the biggest hearts of any man I know, Chevy Boyd.”
Don’t fall for it! I tell myself. Remember the whiplash feeling whenever he calls you, friend, or roommate, or compared you to her sister! But it’s too late. The avalanche and I are one, tumbling down the steep slope together, picking up speed and accumulating mass as we go.
No one else’s mistakes have to be yours. -Mari
Being around Chevy doesn’t seem to be doing any favors for my heart OR my head.
“Mostly I’m sleepy. And my butt hurts. Can you have a butt concussion?” I ask. “No.” “You sure? Buttcussion sounds totally legit.”
Be still my heart! “You want to watch those movies with me? That’s quite a commitment!” Chevy winks. “I can commit when I want to commit.”
“It doesn’t mean anything—yet. But I think maybe something’s happening. Maybe.” “I hate maybes,” Winnie says. “You should take that maybe by the horns and make it an absolutely yes.”
Peeping Sheeters.
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“Coffee? It’s terrible. Might kill you.” “Sure. Let’s live dangerously.” -Chevy and Charlie
Mr. Clean Freak kicked off his boots and left them in the middle of the living room instead of lined up neatly by the door. Somewhere, a pig sprouted wings and flew. -Val
“Baby goats are the answer to most of life’s woes. You can quote me in.” “I’ll do you one better—I’ll make you a T-shirt.” “Deal.” -Collin and Harper...more
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