Hale Maree

May 13, 2013 ♥Rachel♥ rated it 5 of 5 stars

4.5 Stars

I never thought I’d fall in love with a story about an arranged marriage, but I did! This is one of those stories I stayed up into the wee hours of the morning to finish. I loved it that much!

Eighteen year old Hale has plans to go to college, better her circumstances, and live a normal life. Her plans DO NOT include being forced into an arranged marriage, but her father has other ideas. When a tragedy happens to her father and an old friend, they get together and hammer out a plan to k...more 4.5 Stars

I never thought I’d fall in love with a story about an arranged marriage, but I did! This is one of those stories I stayed up into the wee hours of the morning to finish. I loved it that much!

Eighteen year old Hale has plans to go to college, better her circumstances, and live a normal life. Her plans DO NOT include being forced into an arranged marriage, but her father has other ideas. When a tragedy happens to her father and an old friend, they get together and hammer out a plan to keep each other’s secret by uniting their families with the marriage of their children. Hale married to Oscar. Oscar is a stranger to Hale, someone she’s never laid eyes on, so she’s beyond shocked that her father comes up with this cockamamie plan! Plus, hello, this is the 21st century, not the middle ages! As the circumstances are revealed, Hale realizes this is indeed going to happen and she can’t say no. Panic sets in, as it would to any sane person. That’s when she meets Oscar.

Oscar is gorgeous, rich, and sweet. While this makes the proposition marginally better (hey, it could be a 60 year-old hairy ogre of a man!) but still, Hale feels like she is the cow being bartered away without any thought to her wants and needs. In view of the agreement, Oscar sweeps Hale away to the family’s beach house to get better acquainted before making things official. In the midst of all this the mystery behind the fathers’ pact is slowly revealed and things become more dangerous for all involved, especially Hale.

I’ve had my eye on this story for some time. The synopsis immediately caught my eye, because it was so different from any other reads, but then I’d get distracted by review books and had to put off. Finally after a few trusted blogger friends reviewed this, (Andrea @The Bookish Babes, Heidi @Rainy Day Ramblings and then finally Maja @The Nocturnal Library) I gave in and read it! I’m sorry I waited so long!

Okay, so this may not be the most realistic set of circumstances. I was wondering how the author was going to convince me this could be believable in any way. I was surprised to find that Ms. Provencher pulled it off, even with Oscar being the swoony catch he is. How lucky can a girl get? Apparently, very!! Oscar in all his loveliness:

“I got incredibly lucky that I don’t have to take a toad for the team. In fact, if you are half as much on the inside as you are on the outside, Hale, than I didn’t even have to dodge a bullet. What I did was hit the mother of all jackpots.”

“I think you are perfect for me, Hale, and I’m just waiting for you to realize that I’m perfect for you.”

“Will you?” Oscar asks again, removing the ring. He takes my hand, and slips the ring onto my finger. “Say yes. Please, Hale. Not just because we’re supposed to, but because you think you might actually be able to fall in love with me.”

This isn’t a very long book (190 pages) but I loved every delicious page! It’s a testament to Misty Provencher’s addictive writing that I stayed up until three in the morning to finish this!! She had me hook, line and sinker!! Now I MUST pick up her other series: Cornerstone. I already have the first book locked and loaded on the Kindle! While putting this review together I notice Landon, Oscar's best friend has his own story: Full of Grace. There may be another late night reading in my future!

Favorite quote:
(view spoiler)

You can read this review and more at The Readers Den.(less)

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Nov 26, 2012 Haley ~ YA-Aholic rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: favorites, top-12-reads-of-2012

“Probably not a good idea Oscar,” I try to joke. “You are loyal, remember?” “I am,” he sighs, “but if you are going to be my wife, I guess that trumps any loyalty I have to a girlfriend, now doesn't it?”

This book was incredible. Absolutely incredible, Hale Maree has become one of my favorite books, and is hands down my favorite New Adult book! Hale Maree was a romantic, steamy, and funny read all in one! When I started this book I could NOT put it down, it had me hooked on the very first page an...more

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Nov 04, 2012 Kelli Spear rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: new-adult

Move over Garrett and hello, Oscar!! Never did I think I could find a man named Oscar to be hot, sexy, and delicious but Misty Provencher proved me wrong!!

After an incident of which the reader (and Hale) are initially unaware, Hale and Oscar (swoon!) are forced together by their fathers. She is an 18 year-old with a drunk father and only wants to live her own life. He is a rich Playboy, or so we are led to believe. To begin their courtship, Oscar takes her to his father's beach house and from th...more

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Jan 10, 2013 Jennifer rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: challenge-contemporary, challenge-new-adult, challenge-tbr-pile

I'm actually really intrigued by the idea of an arranged marriage. I have watched a lot of lifetime movies and have read quite a few Harlequins about them. LOL I like that this was a more modern arrangement and understood the circumstances that Hale and Oscar were thrown into. Their dads are mutual friends and one night something bad goes down. Oscar's dad would like Oscar to settle down and locking him down into a marriage with Hale's father would guarantee that Hale's father will never tell or...more I'm actually really intrigued by the idea of an arranged marriage. I have watched a lot of lifetime movies and have read quite a few Harlequins about them. LOL I like that this was a more modern arrangement and understood the circumstances that Hale and Oscar were thrown into. Their dads are mutual friends and one night something bad goes down. Oscar's dad would like Oscar to settle down and locking him down into a marriage with Hale's father would guarantee that Hale's father will never tell or not only would he ruin his friend but his daughter too. Hale's father is jobless and a drunk but he truly loves Hale and wants a better life for her. Oscar is rich and gorgeous so her dad thinks he would be a great match and kicks her out to go move in with Oscar.

With no other option Hale heads with Oscar to his families lake house. Oscar really wants this to work and he was actually really sweet and honest about the entire situation. He told Hale what really happened right at the beginning. Oscar wants to get to know Hale and have her say yes to marriage and not feel forced. Hale is only 18 and inexperienced and a bit scared to be with the 24 year old known playboy. I enjoyed the aspect of the arranged marriage because Hale and Oscar skipped the games and got right to the point of what each other want in a relationship and worked toward being that for each other. Oscar truly wanted to make her happy.

I loved their scenes together. There was humor, romance, and a few steamy scenes. I enjoyed watching them fall in love. Hale was scared and reserved but Oscar slowly brought her out of her shell and truly listened and knew her by the end of their stay. Before long Hale can't deny she has real feelings for Oscar. If anyone would like to arrange a marriage for me with a super hot and rich guy then please arrange away! LOL I devoured their story in one sitting. I also loved that in the end everything was cleared up and then Hale was completely free to choose whether or not to marry Oscar without any obligations. If you're looking for a great new adult romance then I highly recommend this! I actually kept thinking about the couple long after I finished their story.

-----
"I want you to worship me," I say. Oscar's entire forehead wrinkles up with amusement as he chews.
"Worship? Seriously?" he asks, his mouth full.
"Yup."
"You mean like bowing when you walk in the room? Making altars? That kind of thing?"
I roll my eyes. "No. I mean that if I call for you, I want to know that you'll come running. I want to know that, when I walk into a room, you'll notice. That if I burn dinner or turn your t-shirts pink or gain five pounds, you'll still feel lucky to have me. When we talk, I want you to really hear what I'm trying to say. That's what I want from you."
"Done."

It's like the entire room disappears and all I see is Oscar with his level gaze, as he drops his voice to a whisper and says, "Come here."
But I stay where I am, with the sun warming my back through the windows, and I shake my head at him.
"No," I say. "Come running."
He doesn't hesitate. Oscar crosses the room in four strides, pulling me into his arms. (less)

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May 11, 2013 Maja rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: contemporary-fiction, romance, review-copy, reviewed-in-2013

With Hale Maree, Misty Provencher proved once again that she’s very good at thinking outside the box. Arranged marriage is a reality in many places all over the world, but we rarely think about it in the First World context. There aren’t many authors I know of who’d be courageous enough to publish a New Adult contemporary romance that features an arranged marriage, but with Misty Provencher, I’ve learned to expect the unexpected.

Oscar Maree and Hale Simmons have never met before, but they’re su...more With Hale Maree, Misty Provencher proved once again that she’s very good at thinking outside the box. Arranged marriage is a reality in many places all over the world, but we rarely think about it in the First World context. There aren’t many authors I know of who’d be courageous enough to publish a New Adult contemporary romance that features an arranged marriage, but with Misty Provencher, I’ve learned to expect the unexpected.

Oscar Maree and Hale Simmons have never met before, but they’re suddenly faced with two choices: they can either get married or risk sending both their fathers to jail. It doesn’t take long for Oscar to warm up to the idea, he sees something in Hale he’s never had before, and he’s hell bent on winning her over, but Hale’s emotions are a lot more complicated: at only 18, she’s hesitant to get into a serious relationship, let alone marriage; she doesn’t know OR trust Oscar, and she is deeply hurt by her father’s willingness to “sell” her to his childhood friend’s son.

Admittedly, their story was a bit odd at first, but it didn’t take long for me to warm up to the idea of seeing them together. Hale’s behavior made an unrealistic scenario more easily acceptable. If there’s one thing I struggled with just a bit, it’s Oscar himself. On the outside, he seemed like a perfect love interest, mostly because he behaved as one. He said and did all the right things all the time, but I’d hoped for some insecurity as well. Him being so sure of his intentions and feelings after having no more than a day to process the changes in his life was just a touch too unrealistic.

However, everything Oscar wasn’t, Hale was in spades. Her reactions and fears made perfect sense and I enjoyed her icy demeanor and slow thawing more than I can say. I liked seeing her completely unaffected by Oscar’s wealth, even after a life of abject poverty. In fact, my favorite part of this book wasn’t Hale and Oscar’s romance, it was Hale’s relationship with her father. I think Provencher approached that part extremely realistically, especially in the end. It is a sad fact that alcoholics don’t get better overnight, although they sometimes try very hard.

Hale Maree was made infinitely better by its secondary characters, especially Landon and Sher, Oscar and Hale’s best friends. Each of them was instantly likeable and well developed, so much so that a companion novel called Full of Grace has been written about them.

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Nov 27, 2012 Shelley (Bella) rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: authors-i-love

I'm sitting here taking in this totally decidedly different and somewhat controversial story. The writing is of course brilliant and so down to earth. I've come to expect nothing less from this author. She has a gift for immediately drawing you in. Captivating you with a storyline so unlike anything you've ever read. Creating characters you find yourself rooting for, swooning over, and unable to pull yourself away from. In short, crafting tales you cannot put down and never want to end. Hale Mar...more I'm sitting here taking in this totally decidedly different and somewhat controversial story. The writing is of course brilliant and so down to earth. I've come to expect nothing less from this author. She has a gift for immediately drawing you in. Captivating you with a storyline so unlike anything you've ever read. Creating characters you find yourself rooting for, swooning over, and unable to pull yourself away from. In short, crafting tales you cannot put down and never want to end. Hale Maree is no exception. So why is this story controversial? Well, it's not often in this day and age that you find someone I'm sitting here taking in this totally decidedly different and somewhat controversial story. The writing is of course brilliant and so down to earth. I've come to expect nothing less from this author. She has a gift for immediately drawing you in. Captivating you with a storyline so unlike anything you've ever read. Creating characters you find yourself rooting for, swooning over, and unable to pull yourself away from. In short, crafting tales you cannot put down and never want to end. Hale Maree is no exception. So why is this story controversial? Well, it's not often in this day and age that you find someone forced into an arranged marriage. It's pretty much unheard around here. What's amazing about this situation is the circumstance which provokes the fathers to make such a deal. The details of "the event" are a bit shocking and so suspenseful, and continue to be revealed as Hale and Oscar's own story unfolds. And Oscar's degree of loyalty to his family- for such a young man to make such a sacrifice and agree so easily to take on a life with someone he's never met. Wow. Also unheard of. And disturbingly romantic. Of course with Hale being younger, more naive and innocent, well this does not work in to her plans. She wants to date, fall in love- a lot, have a normal teenage love life, and plan for her future. She most certainly wasn't ready to settle down with a stranger. Unfortunately she's not given much of a choice. Her father makes more of a sacrifice in order to make her comply. As you can probably guess this story is very much about sacrifice, loyalty and trust. It's also about discovery, faith and fate. And playing for keeps. Aside from the fact that she's beautiful and unique, Hale is so easy to relate to. Despite her unusual circumstance, she's an average young adult. Trying to fit in and find herself while she deals with school and her not so perfect home life. She doesn't trust easily and keeps to herself. Oscar on the other hand is gorgeous, strong, confident and not afraid to jump in head first. And boy does he. Theirs is not an easy alliance, but it's obvious they'll have to make the best of it- and the universe has it's own plan. Hale Maree is a complicated tale that starts with horrific events, uneasy and problematic relationships, and builds into a story filled with suspense, humor and one of the most fun and unexpected love stories I've read in a long time. It may not have been happenstance that brought Hale and Oscar together, but these two, well...what a joy they were to get to know and grow with. Hale is like your new best friend; so kind and genuine. And Oscar; he's the guy you might crush on, maybe even attempt to resist..and then you realize he's so much more. Hale Maree is a true modern faerie tale and I was under it's spell from beginning to end. I really hope Misty returns to these characters. They're fun and charming, and I'm just not ready to say goodbye to them. A truly wonderful and fascinating read. into an arranged marriage. It's pretty much unheard around here. What's amazing about this situation is the circumstance which provokes the fathers to make such a deal. The details of "the event" are a bit shocking and so suspenseful, and continue to be revealed as Hale and Oscar's own story unfolds. And Oscar's degree of loyalty to his family- for such a young man to make such a sacrifice and agree so easily to take on a life with someone he's never met. Wow. Also unheard of. And disturbingly romantic. Of course with Hale being younger, more naive and innocent, well this does not work in to her plans. She wants to date, fall in love- a lot, have a normal teenage love life, and plan for her future. She most certainly wasn't ready to settle down with a stranger. Unfortunately she's not given much of a choice. Her father makes more of a sacrifice in order to make her comply. As you can probably guess this story is very much about sacrifice, loyalty and trust. It's also about discovery, faith and fate. And playing for keeps. Aside from the fact that she's beautiful and unique, Hale is so easy to relate to. Despite her unusual circumstance, she's an average young adult. Trying to fit in and find herself while she deals with school and her not so perfect home life. She doesn't trust easily and keeps to herself. Oscar on the other hand is gorgeous, strong, confident and not afraid to jump in head first. And boy does he. Theirs is not an easy alliance, but it's obvious they'll have to make the best of it- and the universe has it's own plan. Hale Maree is a complicated tale that starts with horrific events, uneasy and problematic relationships, and builds into a story filled with suspense, humor and one of the most fun and unexpected love stories I've read in a long time. It may not have been happenstance that brought Hale and Oscar together, but these two, well...what a joy they were to get to know and grow with. Hale is like your new best friend; so kind and genuine. And Oscar; he's the guy you might crush on, maybe even attempt to resist..and then you realize he's so much more. Hale Maree is a true modern faerie tale and I was under it's spell from beginning to end. I really hope Misty returns to these characters. They're fun and charming, and I'm just not ready to say goodbye to them. A truly wonderful and fascinating read.(less)

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Nov 13, 2012 Christy (Love of Books) rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: e-book, read-in-2012

-sigh- Hale Maree is one of those books that is really hard for me to review. Actually, it’s hard for me to even explain why it’s hard for me to review. Okay, here it is: I loved this book, but I didn’t want to. Don’t get me wrong, I adore Misty Provencher and know she’s a wonderful writer, but … well … it melted my icy heart, alright? Happy now? It made me feel all swoony and happy and lovey-dovey for a situation I didn’t necessarily want to feel all that stuff about. So, well played, Misty. We...more -sigh- Hale Maree is one of those books that is really hard for me to review. Actually, it’s hard for me to even explain why it’s hard for me to review. Okay, here it is: I loved this book, but I didn’t want to. Don’t get me wrong, I adore Misty Provencher and know she’s a wonderful writer, but … well … it melted my icy heart, alright? Happy now? It made me feel all swoony and happy and lovey-dovey for a situation I didn’t necessarily want to feel all that stuff about. So, well played, Misty. Well played.

Hale’s dad comes home one night with a man she’s never seen before, they’re both drunk and talking total inappropriate craziness. They are discussing her marriage to a guy she has never even heard of, but figures it must be the alcohol talking, so they won’t remember anything in the morning. No such luck. Hale is thrown into a marriage she wants no part of. Or does she… ?

Hale is eighteen and lives with her drunken father in a rundown neighborhood. She’s never had a boyfriend, but not because she doesn’t want one. I found it kind of funny as to why she never has. I felt bad for Hale, but I loved that she had her best friend Sher to make her laugh and be there for her. Hale has an innocence about her that I liked, even though I expected her to be a little more rough around the edges, given how and where she was raised. She’s also a lot more forgiving of her father who would bring home skuzzy drunk buddies, causing her to have to sometimes lock herself in her room.

Oscar is a total yum muffin! He’s sweet, kind, caring, sexy, and stinkin’ rich! Since the story is told from Hale’s point of view, we don’t get as much insight from him. However, the author does a good job showing what a great guy he is. Sometimes he would irritate me, but then make me laugh two seconds later. It was so easy to feel what Hale was feeling when it came to Oscar, and I loved feeling the walls come down to let him in. This was such a sweet romance born out of a crazy situation, and had some smokin’ hot moments, too. Loved it!

Hale Maree is a very quick read that will leave a smile on your face. This is the perfect book if you want something sweet and totally swoony with some nice explicit content (always a bonus). Read it.(less)

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Nov 11, 2012 Michelle Fita rated it 5 of 5 stars

Could. Not. Put. Down. Yes it is THAT good.

I am currently sitting here at 2am in the morning writing this review because honestly plain and simple it deserves it.
This book is completely different to your 'normal' love story.
I love the way this book is written and yes after you read this you WILL have another book boyfriend to add to your lists ;)
Oscar is the complete package but the way he has so much patience and understanding for Hale it just makes you melt even more.

Thank you Misty for shar...more

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Mar 17, 2013 Michelle Turner rated it 5 of 5 stars

I bought this book the minute I found out it was available and couldn't put it down until I read every last word. And I loved every last word!

Hale had me rooting for her from the beginning. She was strong, caring, loyal, and so refreshingly innocent that it pulled at my heart strings. I wanted her to get everything life had to offer and more.

And as much as I was rooting for her, I was rooting for Oscar twice as hard. I wanted him to be Hale's knight in shinning armor, and I wasn't disappointed.

T...more

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Apr 28, 2013 Tina rated it 4 of 5 stars

3.5-4 Stars!

A lovely read. I found the entire novel to be an enjoyable read, though Hale's hardcore stubbornness and anger towards Oscar was frustrating (not that I fully blame her considering the situation she was thrown in). But I found that level of slight immaturity to be necessary as it becomes a comparison to how much she's grown from the beginning to the end of the novel.

There's not much I can say about the book without giving away too much of a spoiler except that I wish it was longer. T...more

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Feb 16, 2013 Elizabeth rated it 4 of 5 stars

photo tumblr_inline_mi4rcbPALr1qz4rgp_zps1b9b9906.gif

I enjoyed the book a lot. It was a light fluffy story, easy and fast to read.I liked Hale & Oscar and their best friends so I'll be awaiting their story in the next book.
I would have liked an epilogue because I thought the ending was a bit rushed.

“I want you to worship me,” I say.
Oscar’s entire forehead wrinkles up with
amusement as he chews.
“Worship? Seriously?” he asks, his
mouth full.
“Yup.”
“You mean like bowing when you walk
in the room? Making altars? That kind of
thing?”
I roll my eyes. “No...more

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Dec 06, 2012 Heidi rated it 4 of 5 stars

Four stars: An engaging read that features an arranged marriage!

Hale busily prepares dinner, not knowing when her father will return home and in what condition he will be. Her father has a drinking problem and he is always dragging home skeevy men. She hears him enter, and sure enough, he brings home an unexpected guest. This time it is a long lost friend from childhood. Hale quickly grabs her food and heads to her room to hide. She knows better than to hang around with two drunk men, but as she...more

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Nov 04, 2012 Kathryn rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: contemporary, favorites, romance, new-adult

OH WOW!!! AB-SO-LUTELY LOVED LOVED LOVED IT!!!!!!!
Freakin fantastic!!!

So, not even a full day after finishing HALE MAREE and I am still captivated by the phenomenally awesomeness of this book....
I have read Misty's Cornerstone series and loved it, but HALE MAREE is different, spunky, HOT, suspenseful...I mean, all the great things to make a fantastic novel.
For starters, we have Hale, the heroine, that is bound and determined to live her life the way she wants and not fall in to any kind of tra...more

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Dec 30, 2012 Clare Davidson rated it 5 of 5 stars

I have to say, I loved Hale Maree. I read it in about 24 hours. It's sexy, sensual and has a whole lot of heart.

Although the novel kicks off with a mystery, the core of the story is the unusual relationship between Hale and Oscar. What kept me turning the pages was the burgeoning romance between the two central characters-wondering if Hale was ever going to let herself fall for Oscar, of if he was too good to be true.

Both of these characters are beautifully constructed, with depth and nuance. Ov...more

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Nov 20, 2012 Vikki ~where did my *squee* go ~ rated it 4 of 5 stars

I am totally flummoxed as to why this book was so darn appealing. The plot was more than just a little reality stretch (though I guess I really shouldn't complain since it was certainly clearly stated in the blurb, and I did buy it). There was never enough explanation to make the whole arranged marriage thing justifiable.

And why Oscar went along with it without a peep of protest is still a mystery (I would pay good money to read this book from Oscar's prospective just so maybe I could understa...more

I am totally flummoxed as to why this book was so darn appealing. The plot was more than just a little reality stretch (though I guess I really shouldn't complain since it was certainly clearly stated in the blurb, and I did buy it). There was never enough explanation to make the whole arranged marriage thing justifiable.

And why Oscar went along with it without a peep of protest is still a mystery (I would pay good money to read this book from Oscar's prospective just so maybe I could understand.)

All that aside, I freaking ADORED Hale. She was awesome. No swooning over the hot guy and losing her brain - not Hale. She knew the situation was all kinds of jacked up, and had no problem telling Oscar that at every turn. It was nice for once to see a character who is a Virgin act like one. ( not that there is only one way for a virgin to act, but most of the ones I see in books these days are pretty much ready for anything, no real nerves or reluctance)

In most ways, Hale is older than her years. She has grown up dirt poor with an alcoholic dad, and deadbeat mom. When Oscar asks what she wants from their relationship I almost cheered at her answer:

"I want you to worship me, I say. Oscar's entire forehead wrinkles up with amusement as he chews.
"Worship? Seriously? " he asks, his mouth full.
"Yup."
"You mean like bowing when you walk in the room? Making alters? That kind of thing?"
I roll my eyes. "No, I mean that if I call for you, I want to know that you'll come running. I want to know that, when I walk in a room, you'll notice. That if I burn dinner or turn your t-shirts pink or gain five pounds, you'll stick with me. When we talk, I want you to really hear what I'm trying to say. That's what I want from you."

She is smart and funny and realistic. I'm pretty sure she is the most realistic heroine I've "met" in a long time.

Oscar is pretty perfect too. He's just on the good side of "too perfect". He obviously has a thing for Hale from the beginning, and he's not shy about telling her. He has many a swoon worthy lines.

Overall, I really liked this. I'm sure that some readers will get caught up in some of the oddities about plots and motivations, and it could deter from there enjoyment. But for me,
I loved Hale and Oscar too much for it to bother me.
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Nov 05, 2012 Amanda (Hootie) Clark rated it 5 of 5 stars

I'm always nervous when an author that has been successful in one genre, steps into another one. The cover for this book was really catchy and I had high hopes it would be good. Expectations = Met! I knew this was gonna be epic simply by getting 3% into the book and coming across this gem...

"I swap you two turkey for my daughter's pussy. Yeah? You like? you want?"

How can you not love a book by just that statement alone? You can't that's how. I absolutely loved this book! It was funny, sexy and s...more

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May 14, 2013 Karla Mae rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: 2013-reads, contemporary, favorites, good-girl-meets-bad-boy, new-adult, published-2013

Who still does arrange marriages?
It's not usual, but I know there are still people, families or even tribes who do arranged marriages. It’s really not often that I get the chance to read stories scoping this subject so there is this sense of interest and intrigue in me as to how the author would convey a story with the said subject added to that is another mysterious and suspenseful event.

Since I’m already there on the story itself, I’m going to tell you guys that the story line of Halle Marre i...more Who still does arrange marriages?
It's not usual, but I know there are still people, families or even tribes who do arranged marriages. It’s really not often that I get the chance to read stories scoping this subject so there is this sense of interest and intrigue in me as to how the author would convey a story with the said subject added to that is another mysterious and suspenseful event.

Since I’m already there on the story itself, I’m going to tell you guys that the story line of Halle Marre is a definite KICK-ASS!! The whole arranged marriage idea was too unused so as I’ve said I was intrigued and interested as to how the author would convey this into the story but I’m definitely glad that the author did well with it! The concept was really not believable but the author seems to have a magical storytelling skill that makes that concept believable and complete sensed. Everything from the romance to the action, to the mystery is well mixed – making the plot not forced for the readers.

The arranged marriage is not what the whole story is about, the side plot – caused by certain circumstances that leads to the arranged marriage – adds up a great mystery and hype to the story.

Oscar Marre - easy and graceful like a smoke. I was surprised to see that a character like him would have this genuine feeling of protection over his father. I know guy characters don’t usually go stumbling and succumb to their father's wishes without any protests but though Oscar didn’t jump to the situation happily he did his best to be optimistic about it - for the sake of his father and Hale's. He's kind and thoughtful and patient with Hale for he didn’t force her to do anything aside from letting him earn her trust which I thought was really nice.

Hale is scared of the unknown and is confused and angry and upset not only to her father but to everything that happened. She feels that her father sold her out for money. Though she's skittish and a bit hard to get along with - I see the true her whenever she talks with her best friend Sher.

The romance started as and easy and fun one but ended in a very romantic, deep and emotional one. Neither of the characters is jumping up and down excitedly about the situation they’re in BUT the very very good thing about it is that both parties seems met at the middle – they’re not pretty much happy about it but totally no hateful to each other. I think that kind of attitude makes it more believable. The relationship build up was so convincing and greatly done.

Hale Marre is a very unexpected but a very good contemporary read to me. It was fun and mysterious and gripping. This is my first novel written by the author and would surely not be the last. ;)(less)

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May 19, 2013 Cupcake Reads rated it 5 of 5 stars

BOOK TWO PLEASE [ just] FOR OSCAR & HALE!! <333

tbh it's my first time to read a book with a story like this. usually I just watched in a telly and I'm a fan. it fantasized me. lol .

[!!!] HOLY MOTHER GOAT! I found this book! & NOW I'M HOOKED!!!!!

Oscar Maree & Hale Simmons!!!

Its been 7 days ( sorry for late review though) IM STILL HAVE HANGOVER OVER THIS BOOK! GAAHHH!

When I read the synopsis. The book really caught my eye. So I read it right away. Well the effect its still on me....more

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Dec 04, 2012 Cayce rated it 4 of 5 stars

First of all, I'd like to thank Misty Provencher for giving me a copy of her first adult novel, Hale Maree, for review. Even thought adult romance is not my usual fare these days - I'm more into young adult and new adult fiction (H M could easily fit into the genre of new adult, in my opinion) -, I absolutely enjoyed reading Hale Maree. It was a delightful read, from start to finish, and I really hope she continues to write more contemporary romance.

The cover of the book instantly caught my eye...more First of all, I'd like to thank Misty Provencher for giving me a copy of her first adult novel, Hale Maree, for review. Even thought adult romance is not my usual fare these days - I'm more into young adult and new adult fiction (H M could easily fit into the genre of new adult, in my opinion) -, I absolutely enjoyed reading Hale Maree. It was a delightful read, from start to finish, and I really hope she continues to write more contemporary romance.

The cover of the book instantly caught my eye. It's sexy, but also classy - just like Hale. And I think it depicts what is going on in the story very well. Also, I just love the way the title pops out - very eye-catching.

The concept of arranged marriage is not something that would normally appeal to me, but the plot is so well created and paced, I got absorbed in it right away. Hale is a heroine anyone can relate to rather easily: a normal 18 years old girl with normal dreams, hopes and aspirations. She wants to go to college, make someone of herself and also hopes to fall in love and get married one day. But it looks like none of this will happen, mostly thanks to her dad. Hale lives with her father, who is a drunk and unemployed most of the time, and for that reason causing them to struggle to make ends meet. As if things weren't already bad, he gets into some trouble with an old friend, and to get out of it promises her daughter to his friend's son. Basically, he sells her daughter for a lawn business. And the Father of the Year Award goes to....not Jerry.
Hale's world is rocked by this, and she is most definitely not on board with the idea of getting married to a stranger. In fact, it scares her to death. Then she meets Oscar Maree and he rocks her world - in the best possible way. It starts to look like this whole arranged marriage business will turn out to be exactly what she needs.

Because wow, Oscar is one fine man: kind, caring, smart and, ahem, also incredible hot. No wonder Hale couldn't resist him for long. They fit together perfectly, in all kinds of ways (*cough* in bed *cough*), and I really liked the dynamics of their relationship. Oscar may have been a little too good to be true, but isn't that why we read romance novels? For some sweet, light fun and to be swept off our feet by Mr. Perfect for a few hours.

Hale Maree is a fresh, funny, and very hot romance spiced with some mystery. It's a book I'd recommend to lovers of romance everywhere.

4.5 stars

Posted on Fighting Dreamer
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Dec 09, 2012 Michelle novelsontherun rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: fave-books

RATING: 5 SWOON WORTHY STARS ,6 OSCAR STARS!!

I have read Cornerstone and Keystone , Misty's YA genre books in the Cornerstone series. Had a blast with her humor and characters.

Now I have Hale Maree and truly if I had the money I would publish this woman. I am poor so it is irrelevant...just sayin'..hehe.

Hale Maree was an absolute pleasure to read. I absolutely adore Oscar aka Ocker aka OC. He is a most patient, beautiful, attentive, funny character who got hit with cupids arrow...hard.

I had th...more

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Nov 11, 2012 Heather Gunter rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: books-i-love

I finished this book yesterday and I'm still reviewing everything that happened in my head...I'm left wanting more, so much more...That's only to say because I loved the characters so much and felt invested in them. It was unlike any story I've read as of late. I had no idea when I started it what to expect and it went off the grid so to speak but in a VERY good way! I have to add how much I love Hale's name, love!!

Oscar is my new book boyfriend. Happy sigh... He was so attentive, manly and funn...more

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Nov 26, 2012 Mandy (I read Indie) Anderson rated it 5 of 5 stars

Who the heck arranges marriages in the US anymore? I mean, really...it's 2012. But Provencher took something so farfetched and made it into a book. The whole idea was gutsy...but so brilliant and believable. I literally devoured this book within 5 hrs. I stayed up almost until 3am to see what would happen and to finish this awesome book. Then I was left wide awake replaying it in my mind. Those crazy characters wouldn’t shut up so I could go get some sleep.

I think readers will get a kick out of...more

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Nov 07, 2012 Karen rated it 5 of 5 stars

4.5 Stars
Hale Yeah!!

Read the book blurb for the story premise.

This was the first novel I read by Misty Provencher, so I honestly had no idea what to expect other than the blurb about the book and some talk I had read on line. On the day this book was released I decided to give it a try and read it immediately. I’m really glad I picked up this book. Here’s why: the writing was smooth and fluid throughout which made it easy to pick up the book and keep on going until the end. I didn’t feel that a...more 4.5 Stars
Hale Yeah!!

Read the book blurb for the story premise.

This was the first novel I read by Misty Provencher, so I honestly had no idea what to expect other than the blurb about the book and some talk I had read on line. On the day this book was released I decided to give it a try and read it immediately. I’m really glad I picked up this book. Here’s why: the writing was smooth and fluid throughout which made it easy to pick up the book and keep on going until the end. I didn’t feel that any part of the writing was out of place in the story – there weren’t any of those awkward moments that don’t feel right. The story telling was funny, sexy, exciting, with a smidge of suspense and deliciously hot without going over the top.

The characters were put together and developed quite well. I loved that each had personality and were inimitable. Their banter and inner dialogue was smart, funny, and sexy at times, adorable, and tender. Some of the banter between Hale and her best friend Sher was hilarious. The author perfectly captured their conversations. So many of the exchanges in this book were quotable and memorable! I imagined some of my girlfriends having the same type of ridiculous chatter and laughing uncontrollably. Now, when we are first introduced to Oscar I was blown away. He is sweet and SEXY! I think he could melt me with a look. I loved that he put it ‘out there’ that he was not like all other guys. More importantly he knows his way around the sex and getting your blood boiling! Oscar is all that and then some and qualifies for book boyfriend status immediately (the line forms behind me). He was determined and made a believer out of me. Hale held her own and I liked her way of going about life, her situation and the challenges and decisions she faced. I liked her personality – she wasn’t whiny, she wasn’t indecisive, she was just youngish, but not immature and she was put in a bad situation. Her point of view was quirky and she had solid character.

Okay, so the writing was imaginative and solid. This book was not run of the mill, it was refreshing. I found it to be so much more than I expected. It had a few twists and turns and was overall captivating. If anything, I wish the book had been longer, I feel it was a bit short (because I was enjoying it so much). The author could have played me and kept me going with more angst and relationship development. I just wanted more!

Misty Provencher’s writing was impressive and made a fan out of me. I will be looking forwarding to reading more of her adult contemporary work. Give it a try! Hale Maree is worth it.
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Nov 04, 2012 Mary rated it 5 of 5 stars

I love Misty! She has quickly become one of my favorite authors and a dear friend! When I learned that she was writing this book, I jumped up and down. Why?! Well, for one this is a different story for Misty. Two, it sounds interesting. Three, I love the COVER!! haha!

Best part of book: Hale and Oscar are the best characters! Hale, 18, young with an alcoholic father and is just trying to get by. Then her whole life is turned upside down when her dad comes home with some guy he knows and proclaims...more

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Dec 06, 2012 Andrea rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: new-adult, read-in-2012

A fun, romantic, and emotional story of a couple who get pushed into the "deep end" of love.

Hale Maree is a story I'd been looking forward to reading from the moment I read the synopsis. Seriously, an arranged marriage in the US in 2012? I was so curious to meet heroine Hale Simmons (love that name!) and sexy playboy Oscar.

It's not often that you find a contemporary story with an "arranged marriage" plotline. I, for one, was very intrigued, and I wondered how in the world Provencher would mak...more A fun, romantic, and emotional story of a couple who get pushed into the "deep end" of love.

Hale Maree is a story I'd been looking forward to reading from the moment I read the synopsis. Seriously, an arranged marriage in the US in 2012? I was so curious to meet heroine Hale Simmons (love that name!) and sexy playboy Oscar.

It's not often that you find a contemporary story with an "arranged marriage" plotline. I, for one, was very intrigued, and I wondered how in the world Provencher would make this work. But if there's one thing that you learn about her writing after reading the Keystone series, it's that Provencher always covers all her plot bases. As I read the story, I would stop to ask "Well, what about...?", and within moments, that question was being explained. The reason Hale's and Oscar's fathers need them to get married actually makes a lot of sense. I appreciate that we aren't just given this crazy, outlandish reason and are forced to swallow it.

Besides the arranged marriage, I also had reservations about Hale and Oscar. If they jumped into the situation with both feet, eager and happy, I would have found the whole thing unbelievable. If they both acted hatefully towards one another because of their unhappiness over a situation neither can control, I would have likely found them irritating. Though Oscar and Hale are thrown into this awkward/insane situation, Provencher really takes her time with the build-up between the characters. More than anything, this story is the slow, sweet creation of the relationship between Hale and Oscar.

Hale is understandably upset. She feels as if her father has basically sold her out. She doesn't know what is expected of her. She's confused, upset, and angry. I love that Hale realizes that Oscar isn't to blame, and that she doesn't place it with him. But, Hale does not make it easy for Oscar. He must work, be patient to earn her trust. You really see the fun side, and get some insight into Hale's thoughts when she talks with her best friend, Sher. And I want to just say now, I would so be down with a story about Sher.

Oscar was nearly pitch perfect as the resigned son who wants to protect his father. Oscar isn't exactly happy about the situation, but he is decidedly optimistic. It's almost as if you can sense in him that he feels instantly drawn to Hale, and will do whatever it takes to make her happy with the situation. Oscar treats Hale like a skittish colt, slowly draws her in and earns her trust. I loved that he was kind, thoughtful, and gentle with Hale. But wow, when Oscar turns up the heat, look out! That boy is smokin'. Hale Maree had loads of sensual, steamy moments, slowly building up to a hot, hot, hot scene that makes me want to knock out my ceiling and put in skylights. Nicely done.

Hale Maree was ultimately a fun story that kept me reeled in until the very end. It was so funny at moments, dangerously alluring and surprising mysterious. Hale Maree is a great choice if you're looking for a romance that's out-of-the norm, and gets it done right.

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Jan 10, 2013 Nancy rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: on-my-kindle, 2013-kindle-reads

"What if I say I love you, Oscar?" He finally looks up and meets my gaze. "Then I'd come running," he says.
*swoon*

I picked up this book after seeing a picture of who Oscar was suppose to look like. (Yes, the guy was pretty hot, how could I not buy it after that?)
This book was such a pleasant surprise that I found it difficult to put down once I started reading it. The topic is somewhat of a controversial matter; arranged marriage. I feel like I would have had a serious problem with it, but the...more

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Nov 13, 2012 Jeannine rated it 5 of 5 stars

I ordered this book via Amazon for the Kindle because of a recommendation I saw by Michelle Leighton on Facebook. I wasn't sure what to expect given the premise but was truly pleased that I got it because it was fantastic! The story is about an 18 year old girl (Hale) who is basically forced into an arranged marriage by her father and the father of the man she is supposed to marry (Oscar). Given this background I found it a little creepy to form any kind of love story or even relationship in a s...more

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Nov 25, 2012 A.M. Hargrove rated it 5 of 5 stars

Hale Maree grabbed me from the first page and I had to force myself to turn off my iPad to go to sleep. I fell in love with Hale when she overheard her dad speaking with Otto and it only kept getting better. Then…enter Oscar. The chemistry between the two characters was so amazing, the reader could literally see it unfolding before her eyes. I was on the edge of my seat waiting to see that happened next. I wanted to read all night, but I had to force myself to turn my iPad off and finish the nex...more

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Dec 09, 2012 Novels On The Run rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: fave-books

MICHELLE'S REVIEW - 5TH DECEMBER 2012

RATING: 5 SWOON WORTHY STARS ,6 OSCAR STARS!!

I have read Cornerstone and Keystone , Misty's YA genre books in the Cornerstone series. Had a blast with her humor and characters.

Now I have Hale Maree and truly if I had the money I would publish this woman. I am poor so it is irrelevant...just sayin'..hehe.

Hale Maree was an absolute pleasure to read. I absolutely adore Oscar aka Ocker aka OC. He is a most patient, beautiful, attentive, funny character who got h...more

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Nov 27, 2012 Jessica Garcia-wells rated it 3 of 5 stars

I really liked the premise. It's just that it was all so rushed & unbelievable. No matter what occurred to bring them to the point that they get married. They knew each other a week. He's already convinced he wants a life with her. She loses her virginity in like 2 seconds after all the fighting it then boom I love you & we're married. It's just far fetched to me. I love the idea of the story, i really do. I just personally felt that before spewing love & flowers that they really nee...more

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