Crushed

I don’t even know where to start. I love Chole sooooo much. Thank you for showing that not everyone is DROP DEAD GORGEOUS, THIN and size 2 but still BEAUTIFUL. I also totally apprecate that fact that she WORKED hard on changing herself (the parts she didn’t like). That’s all anyone can do. SUCH A HEALTHY VIEW in this book. I’ve read this book 3 times. It’s fun, flirty and SEXY! *I also thought it was cool how the “friends” all rallied around him.

It’s bad enough to be in love with your best friend, a guy who’s never looked at you like you’re swimming in the dating pool. But when that same best friend is dating your sister, you know that any happily ever after is going to come with its own pile of complications — assuming the ending isn't just sad and disappointing. And that’s the big boat of worst case scenario that Chloe finds herself in. Michael came to Texas to find out more about the father he never knew he had, and he wouldn't mind having a little fun with the girl taking tennis lessons from him. Too bad she’s dating the half-brother who doesn't know he exists. And that she plays it flirty before backing away every time she sees him. But her sister, he notices, seems to be harboring an unrequited crush of her own, and if he can get in good with her, he’ll have an inside track into family of the man who left his mother pregnant and alone so many years ago. The Verdict: Chloe is the ugly ducking to her sister Kristin’s swan, so in some ways, it’s easy to see why Devon picked her — at least from where Chloe sits. But that doesn't change the fact that she’s been pining for him forever. Unfortunately, he went for picture perfect over witty conversation, and so Chloe buries her head in books and her heart in sarcasm rather than let anyone know how she feels. But she’s not quite as invisible as she thinks. The new super-hot tennis instructor is just the kind of guy she thinks her sister should be with, and it’s obvious he turns on the charm every time Kristen is around. But it’s against the rules of life to go after your sister’s guy, so Chloe has no choice but to wait on the sidelines and hope that Devon will open his eyes and come to his senses. Of course, if Michael can come between the couple, then Devon’s back on the market, and all bets are off. Michael quickly recognizes that Chloe is longing for a man who is off limits, and since that man is part of the story that left his mother pregnant and single, there’s nothing on his conscience to stop him from trying to lure away his girl. Pairing up with Chloe to pull it off seems like a smart move, but before he knows it, there’s something more between them than he counted on. Chloe is by no means unattractive, but she’s been in the shadow of her seemingly perfect sister for so long that she doesn't see herself clearly. She’s sure that when compared to Kristen, she’ll always come in second, and that certainly seems to be the case. So while Michael is being nice to her, and they’re pretending to couple up as part of their grand scheme to work together to get what they want, her mind separates attraction from emotion. It’s really kind of sad watching her give up on herself in that way, but at the same time, it’s perfectly understandable. With Michael, it’s easy to recognize his growing feelings, and it seems like he’d give into them a little more fully if he didn't have the distraction of his newly discovered father to keep him on track. I haven’t yet read the first book in the series (but you can bet I will now!), so I can’t compare him then with the person he becomes in this book. But while in the first few pages, he definitely rubbed me the wrong way, it wasn’t long before I was a little bit in love with him myself. For all his scheming and denial of his feelings, he’s obviously a really great guy who has made some mistakes and doesn't want to hurt anyone who hasn't hurt him. I won’t say how it all plays out or give away the OMG-you-have-to-read-it scene when he finally faces the man who fathered him, but I will say that Crushed is a well-written, thoroughly entertaining story, and while the Ugly Duckling thing has been done countless times before, Lauren Layne certainly does it right. It’s funny, sweet, and pretty damned sexy, and once things get going with Michael and Chloe, it’s impossible to put it down. Crushed is perfect for New Adult Romance lovers, so if you haven’t started the series yet, join me in grabbing the first book and binge reading! ***FicCentral received this book from Random House LLC (via NetGalley) for free in exchange for an honest review.

The first I have read in this series, Crushed was instantly engaging and drew me into a non-stop read it right through moment, staying up far later than I expected. Working well as a standalone title, I would suggest reading Isn’t She Lovely (a novella) and Broken (novel one) before this – it may bring you more satisfaction overall. But, alone – it was damned good, so I’m not complaining. Michael is intriguing, a New Yorker who is transplanted to Texas where his father lives. He’s got a series of struggles with his past and present, and the narration from his point of view help readers to see him as more worthwhile than he often sees himself: early on he is the ‘boy toy’ for the older married women at the country club, and one might dismiss him as uncaring and rather manipulative. But it is so far from the truth, and early on we see the depth of his own emotional pain and concerns. Still pining for Olivia who headed to Maine after he had shared his feelings, he’s not interested in commitment or challenges- he’s waiting for her. Chloe is Michael’s half-sister Kristen’s sister, and a more perfectly perky, comical and caring heroine will make you laugh out loud as she winds her way into your heart on the way to winning Michael. Not the first choice on either’s love list, Chloe NEVER stops talking – and with no filter between brain and mouth, she’s honest and lovable and funny. Together, the two are good for one another, Chloe’s zeal for life and living, and her constant chatter work on Michael’s anger and issues, and he finds that she is trustworthy and caring. He’s able to appreciate the curvy chatterbox for who she is, and not just her looks. But, as her appearance starts to change from the training that Michael is providing in the gym, she catches the eye of the man on the top of her love list, Michael is not prepared for his reactions. There is plenty going on here from personal growth and learning to a relationship that grows organically between two friends who realize they are attracted and intrigued by one another. Delightfully angst free, this is a story where situations and intentions change dramatically from beginning to end. Lots of moments to laugh out loud, a few where tears are appropriate, Lauren Layne leaves readers with a smile and plenty to think about after the last page. I received an eArc copy of the title from the publisher via NetGalley for purpose of honest review. I was not compensated for this review: all conclusions are my own responsibility.

As always,Lauren keeps up on the edge of our seats, either grabbing tissues or being angry at Michael for the stupid things he's done but in the end, love prevails. I loved every second of this novel, from the tear jerking moments that make you go "aww" to the intimate scenes that make you go gasp! Her novels are a real inspiration to me and always will be. She's amazing and I hope to become or as equivalent of an amazing author as she is.

Received an ARC from the publisher through Netgalley for an honest review. Loved this quick sweet romantic read. After Michael St Claire finds out that the man who raised him is not really his father he leaves his family and moves to Cedar Grove, Texas looking for his biological father. It is while he is working at the posh country club as a tennis pro when he meets Kristin Bellamy. Kristin reminds him of Olivia his old crush, she is pretty, and perfect and is everything that he thinks he wants. Kristin also has been dating Devon Patterson his half brother for 8 years. He then happens to meet Kristin's younger, curvier, sister Chloe who has been crushing on Devon Patterson since she was 8 years old, so Michael offers to be Chloe's personal trainer to help her become healthier. The banter between Chloe and Michael is fantastic. She makes him feel like he is someone that matters. There is great sexual tension as well as chemistry between these two. This story makes you laugh, and it makes you cry. Will Michael ever get up the nerve to tell his biological father that he is his son? And what will his father think of him? Will Chloe get the attention that she has been yearning for from Devon? Will Michael find the love that he wants and needs? Well you are just going to have to read this to find out. Loved this story it was funny, sweet and great sexual tension filled the pages. I couldn't stop reading it and neither will you.

If you want to stay up all night, ignore your chores for the day, laugh, melt and maybe even shed a tear or two Lauren Layne is the perfect author for you. Michael St. Claire is broken. After he destroys his relationship with his best friend and the girl he's loved for a long time doesn't return the same feelings Michael is devastated. Then when he comes home he hears more news that sends his head spinning. He finds out that for almost 24 years his parents have kept a secret from him. His mother had an affair and got pregnant. The man he calls dad is not really his dad. He over hears his parents talking about it and leaves his life in New York to find his real father. He trades in his suites and his money for some cowboy boots, two low paying jobs and a rented out basement. Defiantly not the life style he's used to. While working at a country club as a trainer he meets Kristen Bellamy. Kristen just happens to be his half brother Devon's girlfriend. Michael sees a perfect opportunity to get close to Devon and his biological father. He however doesn't expect to get close to Kristen's totally opposite sister Chloe. Chloe is not a size two like her sister. Chloe doesn't care that she's a nerd and loves books and her snacks. She doesn't care that she's not noticed by anyone. She tells it like it is and goes on about her way. She is perfectly fine sitting in a chair reading while everyone else is out enjoying the pool or whatever else is going on outside. Since its summer break everyone's home. Including the love of Chloe's life Devon Patterson. Chloe's sisters boyfriend. Chloe and Devon have been friends since grade school. Both of them out casts because of their looks and their love of books. Eighth grade summer changes Devon. He gets rid of his braces, acne and has a growth spurt. This sends him to the popular side and also Kristen leaving Chloe behind. We'll sort of. They are still friends just not as close as they were. Chloe becomes the third wheel hanging out with her sister and Devon as much as she can. She starts going to the country club with her sister while Kristen's getting the un-needed tennis lessons from Michael. Chloe and her don't give a s### attitude gains Michael's attention right away. Chloe sees how Michael is playing with Kristen's head and Michael sees how Chloe only has eyes for Devon. Michael comes up with a better plan to get close to his father. He stops trying to woo Kristen and focuses on Chloe. He's going to get the smart mouth, snack eating, book reading and wild hair Chloe in better shape. I loved how Michael had no problem with the way Chloe was. He just wanted her to be healthier and have better self esteem. Once these two start working out a few days a week Chloe starts getting under Michael's skin. She makes him want to talk and smile. Of course once Chloe starts getting a little braver wearing different clothes showing off her more toned curves she gets noticed. She gets the attention of the one man she's loved forever. But does she still want his attention? I loved Chloe and Michael! They banter back and fourth. Chloe making Michael open up and face what he was in Texas to do. Michael making Chloe feel comfortable not being a size two like her sister. We get a surprise visit toward the end and I was very happy:) I really enjoyed this series and hope we get more! I recommend you clear your schedule and click the buy button on this baby! You will not be disappointed! ***ARC from the author in exchange for an honest review via Netgalley. Thank you so much!!***

Received a copy from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. Oh, Lauren Layne. Let me count the ways I love thee... You write such layered, flawed, and interesting characters. You bring a sharp humor and sexy edge to a story which written by any other NA author would be a melodramatic and cheesy hot mess. I could go on... ;) CRUSHED is definitely a satisfying conclusion to the Redemption series. I adored Chloe--she was the perfect spunky match to Michael's broody 'beefcake.' Their chemistry was great, the story flowed nicely, and the ending was sweet (if not a little rom-com cheesy). Layne does a great job of never taking herself or the story too seriously, which makes for a truly enjoyable read. This wasn't my favorite in the series (ISN'T SHE LOVELY still reigns supreme for me), but it is definitely worth a read. Particularly if you want to tie everything up in a nice, neat package. Another fun read! Thanks, Lauren Layne!

CRUSHED (Redemption #2) by Lauren Layne April 14, 2015 Publisher: Flirt approx 304 pages Romance: Contemporary, New Age & College, Comedy ** Provided by the Publisher and Netgalley in Exchange for an HONEST Review ** -- MY THOUGHTS -- Judging a Book by it's cover: The cover is sweet, soft, and inviting - a bit misleading when considering the drama and angst inside. The synopsis is a little busy and chaotic, but captures the general essence of the book.  Looking Deeper: The beginning starts out with a bang... pun intended. There are several important characters and key factors introduced within the first chapter, so make sure you're paying attention -oh, and, keep your hand and feet inside the car at all times - it promises to be a crazy ride!  It's hard to break this one down purely by Lead male, lead female, and secondary characters because of the relationship dynamics. We know Michael *is* the lead male, but from there, it's mix-and-match drama for a bit. Unrequited lust, drama, angst, chaos, jealousy, spite... oh, it's got it all. The characters are all unique in personality and attitude, which provides some entertaining moments. Dialogue and interaction range from a bit awkward to natural and believable. The plot is solid with a steady and progressive flow. As you could imagine when a several love triangles intertwine, there is plenty of conflict. Add in there the parental and sibling drama and it's truly a drama of epic proportions, but the conflicts are handled in realistic, age-appropriate ways. There was not a lot of predictability. The conclusion was rather solid, but the epilogue felt like an afterthought without a significant, defined purpose. Overall, it was a good read for those who enjoy the angsty, dramatic plots of the NA genre.   This story CAN stand alone. I read it without reading BROKEN first with no problems.  ------------------------ Heat Level: 3.25 ------------------------ Score: 4.1 Stars: 4 ----------------------- Tina J / Happily Ever Chapter  Reviewing for:  Tangled Hearts  -and- Smut Book Junkie