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Friend is a Four Letter Word
They both have secrets...But whose past will catch up to them first?
Shayna Gillan is on a mission: start fresh in a new state without the small town gossip that has haunted her since her bad girl days of high school.
Carter MacPherson has long been the most together member of his crazy family—until now. With a secret threatening to crumble everything he's worked for, he wishes he could forget the recent past, too.
The last thing Shayna and Carter are looking for is a relationship. It's best to be alone while they sort out their issues.
Friends. That's all they can ever be.
But even the best laid plans always have a flaw, and once Shayna and Carter cross the line between friendship and more, there's no turning back...
The only question left is—whose past will catch up to them first?
Shayna Gillan is on a mission: start fresh in a new state without the small town gossip that has haunted her since her bad girl days of high school.
Carter MacPherson has long been the most together member of his crazy family—until now. With a secret threatening to crumble everything he's worked for, he wishes he could forget the recent past, too.
The last thing Shayna and Carter are looking for is a relationship. It's best to be alone while they sort out their issues.
Friends. That's all they can ever be.
But even the best laid plans always have a flaw, and once Shayna and Carter cross the line between friendship and more, there's no turning back...
The only question left is—whose past will catch up to them first?
212 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 13, 2014
12 people are currently reading
942 people want to read
About the author
Steph Campbell
34 books1,141 followersMom.
Wife.
YA Author.
So Cal Native.
Bayou Transplant.
Reluctant Texan.
I hate shows with laugh tracks.
Wife.
YA Author.
So Cal Native.
Bayou Transplant.
Reluctant Texan.
I hate shows with laugh tracks.
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January 14, 2014It's LIVE on Amazon!
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January 17, 2014
I felt it was alittle all over the place. I saw potential. Just didn't click with me. And their problems were never really solved.
February 25, 2014
Review Originally Posted at: Book Freak
Rating:4.5 Stars
Friends. Lovers. Nothing is ever written in stone. Lines can blur. You may screw up. Everyone does. When it’s real though, your heart allows to rewrite.
I’m the queen of fucking up and making things not okay.
Shayna Gillian is lost. She was drinking hard, and sleeping around – until she got into her lowest point not just when she was slapped with a sudden rejection, but when she humiliated her parents in front of people who respected them. Not to mention, she just discovered a well-hidden secret that could change her life. She decided to give herself a fresh start, become someone her parents wanted her to be, become a good girl, become perfect.
If only it was that easy.
As for Carter MacPherson – I wonder why he was skeptical in starting a relationship or anything else with Shyna. Is it the rumors? The age? The friendship she shared with her sister? His father had laid out a plan for him, all he had to do was walk that path. However, Carter had some secrets of his own, something that could ruin his chances, not just with the girl of his dreams, but with life as well.
If only it was that easy to change and forget the past.
The last thing both of them needed was a relationship. They had so much issues and secrets both of them need to worked out first before one of them drags the other down. Friends. They needed to be JUST FRIENDS. But proximity and attraction doesn’t really help with them trying to figure out their lives. Once they crossed that thin line between friendship and love, there was no going back…
Shayna was a runner, Carter wasn’t a risk-taker – but Shayna stayed, and Carter took the risk. It wasn’t easy, with all their baggage attached to their backs. Carter couldn’t tell her his secret, he kept sneaking around, until it finally caught up to him. The Shayna who had escaped her parents would have bolted when she knew the truth, instead, she held her ground and gave the support that Carter needed.
The homesick feeling we’ve both talked about – the feeling of searching for something that maybe doesn’t exist – the feeling that has gnawed at me for as long as I can remember is gone when I’m with her.
It’s such a long title for a short read. Nevertheless, I had a grand time reading one of Steph Campbell’s story. She never cease to amaze me and get me hook on her characters and story. This time, I am faced with two broken and lost souls, despite this fact, they were just what the other one needed to mend and be whole again. Shayna and Carter had manage to break my heart, surprise me, and made me hopeful about love. Indeed, love is a powerful thing, it may break you into pieces, but it can make you complete, it can change you for the better.
★ARC Copy was given in exchange for an honest review.★
February 11, 2014
I don't think it's any big secret that Grounding Quinn (and it's sequel, the lovely and poignantly titled "Beautiful Things Never Last") is one of my all-time, best book ever favorites. It's such a delicate and subtle book that I feel kind of dumb being so cheerleady about it - it's like breaking out the pom-poms for an Emily Dickinson poem or something. But it's hard to restrain my book-thusiasm about Quinn, and about Steph's gorgeous, spare but evocative style. It's not just her characters, it's the subtle way she creates them. It's not just her style, it's the emotional veracity and psychological depth of what she perceives and describes. So, it's also probably no secret that I'm delighted, enthused and excited (I'm rah rah, who are you?) to return to Quinn-land, and understand more of what's happened, what is happening, and what might happen, between Quinn's brother Carter and her brittle bestie Shayna. I'm going to save my major encomiums for a more elaborate review, but let me simply say that fans of Steph's insightful, poetic and poignant world, will find pleasure and rich enjoyment here.
July 26, 2014
This was an enjoyable story, but I felt like it ended a little abruptly.
I liked both Shayna and Carter in this book; they both had their issues and they had both made bad decisions. I liked the way they changed, even if it was a difficult process, but it was clear that they needed each other.
It was also nice to catch up with Quinn and Ben again, although I once again thought that Quinn was a totally different person to who she was in ‘Grounding Quinn’.
The storyline in this was enjoyable, and I liked the romance. I liked how Shayna and Carter came together, and I even stayed up late reading this because I didn’t want to put it down!
The end to this wasn’t quite what I expected though, and I just felt like the end came really suddenly. Whether this was in part due to the fact that the ebook ended at the 84% mark I don’t know, but I just felt like we hadn’t really had all of the story, and there were questions left unanswered for me, which was disappointing.
Overall; enjoyable story, but the ending left me hanging,
7 out of 10.
I liked both Shayna and Carter in this book; they both had their issues and they had both made bad decisions. I liked the way they changed, even if it was a difficult process, but it was clear that they needed each other.
It was also nice to catch up with Quinn and Ben again, although I once again thought that Quinn was a totally different person to who she was in ‘Grounding Quinn’.
The storyline in this was enjoyable, and I liked the romance. I liked how Shayna and Carter came together, and I even stayed up late reading this because I didn’t want to put it down!
The end to this wasn’t quite what I expected though, and I just felt like the end came really suddenly. Whether this was in part due to the fact that the ebook ended at the 84% mark I don’t know, but I just felt like we hadn’t really had all of the story, and there were questions left unanswered for me, which was disappointing.
Overall; enjoyable story, but the ending left me hanging,
7 out of 10.
January 17, 2014
I've read almost all of Steph's books and this is one of my favorites. I really liked both Quinn and Carter in GROUNDING QUINN and BEAUTIFUL THINGS NEVER LAST, but I really, really did not like Shayna. As a reader, once you've decided that you dislike a character, it's hard for the author to turn that around. In fact, as much as I wanted to hear more about Carter, I was hesitant to read this book because I didn't want to get to know Shayna. But, of course I did, and of course I was wrong. Understanding Shayna and all the redeeming and complex parts of her personality was refreshing and rewarding.
A highlight of the book for me was revisiting the sibling relationship between Carter and Quinn. The love the share, their protective instincts, and most enjoyable of all- Quinn's snarkiness- made this book another wonderful read from Steph.
A highlight of the book for me was revisiting the sibling relationship between Carter and Quinn. The love the share, their protective instincts, and most enjoyable of all- Quinn's snarkiness- made this book another wonderful read from Steph.
January 25, 2014
****4 We Gotta Stop Running Stars ****
Wow, what a great story. I love Shay and Carter. They both are running and not sure of where their running to. However whatever that is broken inside of them has also drawn them to each other. I loved reading of their trials and tributes. Great read.
Wow, what a great story. I love Shay and Carter. They both are running and not sure of where their running to. However whatever that is broken inside of them has also drawn them to each other. I loved reading of their trials and tributes. Great read.
February 12, 2014
My Thoughts:
Friend is a Four Letter Word by Steph Campbell was a very angst filled story. It is the story of Shayna and Carter, told in dual perspectives. Shayna was raised in a very strict, structured, and conservative family. Her father is a minister, and her mother agrees and supports her husband, and is the perfect minister's wife. Unfortunately, Shayna has never felt like she fit in with her family. She has a wild spirit, and feels like she can't possibly live up to her parents expectations, and be a good enough daughter. She sleeps around, and sneaks alcohol, which she drinks in excess. Shayna doesn't really have any close friends. However, she is friends with a girl named Quinn. They have an interesting friendship. They both have similar personalities, but Shayna is envious of Quinn's ability to show people who she really is.
One night, Shayna meets Quinn's older brother Carter. She is very attracted to him, and ends up making an emotional connection with Carter. For the first time in her life, Shayna feels comfortable to share bits and pieces of herself, when they have a deep conversation. However, Shayna ends up uncovering a family secret that ends up leading her life in a whole new direction.
Carter comes from a very dysfunctional family. His parents are well off, respected, and wrapped up in their own lives. Carter is very close to his younger sister, Quinn, and would do anything for her. Quinn loves her older brother, and looks up to him. Sadly, Carter is a very unhappy person. He is stuck in a boring job, and has a secret (that he is ashamed of,) that nobody knows. When Carter meets Shayna, he finds a kindred soul. She is someone that understands him, and they relate to one another. After Carter meets Shayna, the two of them start texting, and talking on the phone, back and forth. They are separated by great distance (they both live in different states), and the fact that Carter's secret leads him to tell Shayna that he is not ready for a relationship, and they can only be friends.
Shayna tries to be the perfect daughter, and enters a relationship for 7 months with a man that she has no feelings for, so that she can please her parents. Eventually, Shayna realizes that she can't keep up the facade of being someone that she is not. She packs a bag on a whim. She doesn't have any well thought out plans, but decides she must go to California to sort her life out, and see Carter, so that she can figure out what they have together. She shows up at Quinn's door to stay with her friend, and is shocked to see that it is Carter's place. Pretty soon, a complicated dynamic ensues, where is is obvious that Shayna and Carter have deep feelings for one another, but label it as "friends." Shayna wants more than friendship with Carter, and doesn't understand why he keeps pushing her away, when it's obvious that he wants her as badly as she wants him. Carter doesn't think he's good enough for Shayna, but he can't seem to stay away...
Shayna and Carter both went through a great amount of character growth in this story. They both made mistakes, but learned from them. I can see why Shayna rebelled against her parents considering the extremely restrictive and conservative way that she was brought up. Her parents really loved her, and she was lucky to have them, but needed to spread her wings, make her own decisions, and choose her own destiny. Along the way, she acted immature, rash, and selfish at times. I had a bit of trouble connecting with Shayna as a character. I felt like I didn't know enough about her, and what I did know, I wasn't very fond of. As for Carter, I loved his character. He was trying to make mature decisions and get his life on track. He was a great older brother to Quinn, and a good friend to Shayna. I could feel his pain, but again, didn't feel like I knew him well enough as a character. I thought that the story had a good premise, but I had trouble connecting to the characters, and buying in to their connection as a couple. I felt like their relationship needed more depth. The story started off really good, and I was instantly hooked. However, in the middle it became stagnant, and started to drag a bit. The ending was a bit rushed and abrupt. I thought that the plot was entertaining, but was missing that "spark."
My Rating:
Friend is a Four Letter by Steph Campbell, was a story about two people trying to find a place where they belong. It's about growing up, and the transformation that we all go through on our way in to adulthood. Along the way, we are lucky if we can connect with someone on a deep level, and they can help us though the dark times, with their unconditional support, friendship, and Love. I give, Friend is a Four Letter Word 3 Growing, Loving, and Living Stars!
My Favorite Quotes:
"I met a girl who understood me without even realizing it. I met a girl whose presence shook me to my core. Who did all of those clichéd things like make me want to be a better man, just to have a shot with her." (Kindle, Loc. 2203)
~Carter
"Friends. Lovers. Nothing is ever written in stone. Lines can blur. You may screw up. Everyone does. When it's real though, your heart allows for rewrites." (Kindle, Loc. 2631)
~Quinn
"Our home is built on imperfections, craziness, laughter, romance, and love. And it's exactly what we've both been searching for so long." (Kindle, Loc. 27310)
~Shayna
*To Read More Book Reviews, Visit A Bookish Escape at http://www.bookishescape.com
Friend is a Four Letter Word by Steph Campbell was a very angst filled story. It is the story of Shayna and Carter, told in dual perspectives. Shayna was raised in a very strict, structured, and conservative family. Her father is a minister, and her mother agrees and supports her husband, and is the perfect minister's wife. Unfortunately, Shayna has never felt like she fit in with her family. She has a wild spirit, and feels like she can't possibly live up to her parents expectations, and be a good enough daughter. She sleeps around, and sneaks alcohol, which she drinks in excess. Shayna doesn't really have any close friends. However, she is friends with a girl named Quinn. They have an interesting friendship. They both have similar personalities, but Shayna is envious of Quinn's ability to show people who she really is.
One night, Shayna meets Quinn's older brother Carter. She is very attracted to him, and ends up making an emotional connection with Carter. For the first time in her life, Shayna feels comfortable to share bits and pieces of herself, when they have a deep conversation. However, Shayna ends up uncovering a family secret that ends up leading her life in a whole new direction.
Carter comes from a very dysfunctional family. His parents are well off, respected, and wrapped up in their own lives. Carter is very close to his younger sister, Quinn, and would do anything for her. Quinn loves her older brother, and looks up to him. Sadly, Carter is a very unhappy person. He is stuck in a boring job, and has a secret (that he is ashamed of,) that nobody knows. When Carter meets Shayna, he finds a kindred soul. She is someone that understands him, and they relate to one another. After Carter meets Shayna, the two of them start texting, and talking on the phone, back and forth. They are separated by great distance (they both live in different states), and the fact that Carter's secret leads him to tell Shayna that he is not ready for a relationship, and they can only be friends.
Shayna tries to be the perfect daughter, and enters a relationship for 7 months with a man that she has no feelings for, so that she can please her parents. Eventually, Shayna realizes that she can't keep up the facade of being someone that she is not. She packs a bag on a whim. She doesn't have any well thought out plans, but decides she must go to California to sort her life out, and see Carter, so that she can figure out what they have together. She shows up at Quinn's door to stay with her friend, and is shocked to see that it is Carter's place. Pretty soon, a complicated dynamic ensues, where is is obvious that Shayna and Carter have deep feelings for one another, but label it as "friends." Shayna wants more than friendship with Carter, and doesn't understand why he keeps pushing her away, when it's obvious that he wants her as badly as she wants him. Carter doesn't think he's good enough for Shayna, but he can't seem to stay away...
Shayna and Carter both went through a great amount of character growth in this story. They both made mistakes, but learned from them. I can see why Shayna rebelled against her parents considering the extremely restrictive and conservative way that she was brought up. Her parents really loved her, and she was lucky to have them, but needed to spread her wings, make her own decisions, and choose her own destiny. Along the way, she acted immature, rash, and selfish at times. I had a bit of trouble connecting with Shayna as a character. I felt like I didn't know enough about her, and what I did know, I wasn't very fond of. As for Carter, I loved his character. He was trying to make mature decisions and get his life on track. He was a great older brother to Quinn, and a good friend to Shayna. I could feel his pain, but again, didn't feel like I knew him well enough as a character. I thought that the story had a good premise, but I had trouble connecting to the characters, and buying in to their connection as a couple. I felt like their relationship needed more depth. The story started off really good, and I was instantly hooked. However, in the middle it became stagnant, and started to drag a bit. The ending was a bit rushed and abrupt. I thought that the plot was entertaining, but was missing that "spark."
My Rating:
Friend is a Four Letter by Steph Campbell, was a story about two people trying to find a place where they belong. It's about growing up, and the transformation that we all go through on our way in to adulthood. Along the way, we are lucky if we can connect with someone on a deep level, and they can help us though the dark times, with their unconditional support, friendship, and Love. I give, Friend is a Four Letter Word 3 Growing, Loving, and Living Stars!
My Favorite Quotes:
"I met a girl who understood me without even realizing it. I met a girl whose presence shook me to my core. Who did all of those clichéd things like make me want to be a better man, just to have a shot with her." (Kindle, Loc. 2203)
~Carter
"Friends. Lovers. Nothing is ever written in stone. Lines can blur. You may screw up. Everyone does. When it's real though, your heart allows for rewrites." (Kindle, Loc. 2631)
~Quinn
"Our home is built on imperfections, craziness, laughter, romance, and love. And it's exactly what we've both been searching for so long." (Kindle, Loc. 27310)
~Shayna
*To Read More Book Reviews, Visit A Bookish Escape at http://www.bookishescape.com
March 24, 2015
3.5 stars
Meet Shayna and Carter: two lovely, lovely characters previously mentioned in Grounding Quinn. Shayna is a pastor’s daughter who’s never really fit in with her family. Always the odd one out, Shayna’s taken matter into her own hands and rebelled in her own way– basically disrupting the clean-cut pastor’s daughter image expected of her. Alcohol, drugs, meaningless sex–they’re all part of her downward spiral. Shayna’s next target? Her best friend’s older brother.
Carter has secrets of his own. Absentee parents, crazy childhood–you name it. While home for the holiday, Carter connects with his little sister’s best friend. She’s beautiful, sexy, vulnerable… and in high school. And he wants her. Bad. But he’s a hiding some stuff and he doesn’t want to bring her down. So he rejects her.
Pissed and partly drunk, Shayna stumbles home… only to discover a secret that will change the course of her life for the next few months. Fast forward eight months and Shayna’s done. Finished. She can’t keep pretending anymore. So she runs… right into Carter.
Shayna’s situation is one that I felt sympathy for. She’s just discovered her parents are not exactly who she always thought they were and she’s wounded. So she drives halfway around the country… only to discover Carter is now living in Quinn’s old apartment. I can understand where Shayna’s coming from, but I had a little trouble connecting with her. The explanations given for her previous behavior felt a little off for me. Honestly, I felt like Shayna lacked a little depth. Then there’s Carter, who I really liked. He’s the protective older brother and I loved reading his chapters. However, I also felt like the reasons for keeping his secret were not that good.
I am all for sexual chemistry. Give me two characters who are just dying to jump each other and I am a happy gal. Shayna and Carter have spent the past year texting and flirting with each other from afar, but they haven’t really given much of themselves to each other. They basically get together two days after they haven’t seen each other in months… and for some reason, I couldn’t get behind it at all. Their romance is sweet and you can definitely tell that Carter cares for Shayna–even before they get together–but I felt like it was rushed. Everything happens so fast in the beginning that I’m kind of left with a whiplash. That depth that I was talking about–there’s room for a lot more.
Towards the end, you learn the reasons why they kept the secrets they did for so long, so you start to understand a bit more. And as the story progresses, more things come to the surface to tie up loose ends. I still believe there was room for some more character development, but by the end of the novel you’re left with a smile on your face.
If you’re looking for a short, sweet read, Friend is a Four Letter Word is just the book for you.
For more reviews, visit my blog at Bittersweet Reads.
Meet Shayna and Carter: two lovely, lovely characters previously mentioned in Grounding Quinn. Shayna is a pastor’s daughter who’s never really fit in with her family. Always the odd one out, Shayna’s taken matter into her own hands and rebelled in her own way– basically disrupting the clean-cut pastor’s daughter image expected of her. Alcohol, drugs, meaningless sex–they’re all part of her downward spiral. Shayna’s next target? Her best friend’s older brother.
Carter has secrets of his own. Absentee parents, crazy childhood–you name it. While home for the holiday, Carter connects with his little sister’s best friend. She’s beautiful, sexy, vulnerable… and in high school. And he wants her. Bad. But he’s a hiding some stuff and he doesn’t want to bring her down. So he rejects her.
Pissed and partly drunk, Shayna stumbles home… only to discover a secret that will change the course of her life for the next few months. Fast forward eight months and Shayna’s done. Finished. She can’t keep pretending anymore. So she runs… right into Carter.
Shayna’s situation is one that I felt sympathy for. She’s just discovered her parents are not exactly who she always thought they were and she’s wounded. So she drives halfway around the country… only to discover Carter is now living in Quinn’s old apartment. I can understand where Shayna’s coming from, but I had a little trouble connecting with her. The explanations given for her previous behavior felt a little off for me. Honestly, I felt like Shayna lacked a little depth. Then there’s Carter, who I really liked. He’s the protective older brother and I loved reading his chapters. However, I also felt like the reasons for keeping his secret were not that good.
I am all for sexual chemistry. Give me two characters who are just dying to jump each other and I am a happy gal. Shayna and Carter have spent the past year texting and flirting with each other from afar, but they haven’t really given much of themselves to each other. They basically get together two days after they haven’t seen each other in months… and for some reason, I couldn’t get behind it at all. Their romance is sweet and you can definitely tell that Carter cares for Shayna–even before they get together–but I felt like it was rushed. Everything happens so fast in the beginning that I’m kind of left with a whiplash. That depth that I was talking about–there’s room for a lot more.
Towards the end, you learn the reasons why they kept the secrets they did for so long, so you start to understand a bit more. And as the story progresses, more things come to the surface to tie up loose ends. I still believe there was room for some more character development, but by the end of the novel you’re left with a smile on your face.
If you’re looking for a short, sweet read, Friend is a Four Letter Word is just the book for you.
For more reviews, visit my blog at Bittersweet Reads.
February 14, 2014
***Arc was provided in exchange for an honest review***
Shayna was not an easy character to like in Grounding Quinn, so when I saw that Stephanie Campbell was writing Shayna’s story with Quinn’s brother, Carter, as the hero, I was worried that their connection wouldn’t work. But as I thought back to Carter’s struggles and the demons he kept hidden below the surface, so he could support Quinn, it made more sense to me. Their issues are similar. Both Shayna and Carter are struggling to find where they fit in…where they won’t feel restless or want to run away.
Shayna and Carter’s relationship begins on Christmas Eve when they are helping Quinn reunite with Ben. While they aren’t completely honest with each other, Shayna is more open and real that night than she has ever been with anyone else. Their attraction is there, but Carter is not ready for anything because he is trying to work on himself first, so he leaves Shayna behind feeling rejected. That night only gets worse for her and a huge secret is exposed about her life that changes everything. From that night on, she becomes a persona – someone who her parents can be proud of, even though it is not really who she is. Through their months apart, Shayna and Carter stay in contact via text and a few phone conversations, but they never discuss their feelings and they both are hiding significant secrets.
Shayna feels stifled playing the role of the “good” daughter, so she decides she needs a break and travels across country to California as a way to discover her true self, but it’s also an attempt to see if what she and Carter have is beyond friendship. As Shayna and Carter move past friends, they both still have a lot of work to do to heal themselves, so it causes a bit of stress in their new relationship. As they struggle to find their way both separately and together, readers get to experience their journeys with them and cheer them on, hoping it all works out for them.
Overall, I really enjoyed Friend is a Four Letter Word. Personal growth and self discovery stories always resonant with me because everyone has experienced those growing pains and can relate to them. I did have a change of heart about Shayna as well because she definitely grew as a person once she fully accepted herself and found her place to belong. Where I struggle with this story is with the lack of depth. I wanted to see more about how Carter and Shayna healed themselves and their past. I wanted to know more about Shayna and all of the feelings she was going through and the reasons she acted out for so long. I felt like Shayna and Carter’s relationship only scratched the surface. I wanted to see how they grew as a couple by hearing their conversations and witnessing them opening up more to each other. I guess I just wanted more, which is never a bad thing, but in this case, it left me a bit deflated at the end because so much still felt unresolved. I would love to read more about these two – maybe in a novella??
3.5/4 poison apples
Shayna was not an easy character to like in Grounding Quinn, so when I saw that Stephanie Campbell was writing Shayna’s story with Quinn’s brother, Carter, as the hero, I was worried that their connection wouldn’t work. But as I thought back to Carter’s struggles and the demons he kept hidden below the surface, so he could support Quinn, it made more sense to me. Their issues are similar. Both Shayna and Carter are struggling to find where they fit in…where they won’t feel restless or want to run away.
Shayna and Carter’s relationship begins on Christmas Eve when they are helping Quinn reunite with Ben. While they aren’t completely honest with each other, Shayna is more open and real that night than she has ever been with anyone else. Their attraction is there, but Carter is not ready for anything because he is trying to work on himself first, so he leaves Shayna behind feeling rejected. That night only gets worse for her and a huge secret is exposed about her life that changes everything. From that night on, she becomes a persona – someone who her parents can be proud of, even though it is not really who she is. Through their months apart, Shayna and Carter stay in contact via text and a few phone conversations, but they never discuss their feelings and they both are hiding significant secrets.
Shayna feels stifled playing the role of the “good” daughter, so she decides she needs a break and travels across country to California as a way to discover her true self, but it’s also an attempt to see if what she and Carter have is beyond friendship. As Shayna and Carter move past friends, they both still have a lot of work to do to heal themselves, so it causes a bit of stress in their new relationship. As they struggle to find their way both separately and together, readers get to experience their journeys with them and cheer them on, hoping it all works out for them.
Overall, I really enjoyed Friend is a Four Letter Word. Personal growth and self discovery stories always resonant with me because everyone has experienced those growing pains and can relate to them. I did have a change of heart about Shayna as well because she definitely grew as a person once she fully accepted herself and found her place to belong. Where I struggle with this story is with the lack of depth. I wanted to see more about how Carter and Shayna healed themselves and their past. I wanted to know more about Shayna and all of the feelings she was going through and the reasons she acted out for so long. I felt like Shayna and Carter’s relationship only scratched the surface. I wanted to see how they grew as a couple by hearing their conversations and witnessing them opening up more to each other. I guess I just wanted more, which is never a bad thing, but in this case, it left me a bit deflated at the end because so much still felt unresolved. I would love to read more about these two – maybe in a novella??
3.5/4 poison apples
April 8, 2014
I was really looking forward to this one because I’ve always dug the level of angst that Steph provides–especially with what I was familiar with in Grounding Quinn, Delicate, and Beautiful Things Never Last. While I thought this was a good read, in terms of getting Shayna and Carter’s exact story, I was sadly left wanting more.
We know of Shayna and Carter from the Grounding Quinn series; Carter is Quinn’s older, more together brother. We know by the time the last book happens that he and Shayna live together. What we didn’t know was how all that really came to fruition. I’ll say, I wasn’t expecting Carter to be living and dealing with what he was, but I wanted more of that lifestyle than just the aftermath–I realize that’s super cryptic, but I don’t want to spoil.
Shayna comes from a very affluent family–the daughter of a preacher, she is supposed to live and act a certain way. As you might expect, she rebels against that. She doesn’t like the way her life if being planned out for her, and so she does the only thing she can to regain some semblance of control over that–drinks, does some recreational drugs, and sleeps around. As a sometimes-friend of Quinn’s, the story opens and she and Carter are sort of stuck together/hanging out after helping Quinn chase after Ben. What ends with a kiss, but nothing more, leaves Shayna confused, drunk, and so up in arms about where her life is headed.
Fast forward some time, and they’ve had some innocent (or slightly naughty) text conversations, late night phone calls, but that’s it. After some shocking news about her past, and her family, Shayna decides it’s time to chase after this boy, and do something she wants for once. So she leaves Georgia and heads to California.
The obstacles that Shayna and Carter face are real and they’re there. But for some reason, I was just left wishing I got more of both of them. Show me more of that slutty side of Shayna, or that ‘other’ side of Carter, rather than just the reformed. And as for what happened with Nolan, I again just wanted more out of it. I’m never a fan of drama for the sake of drama, but in this case, I would get into it thinking something major was about to blow up, and it was just a match that poofed too soon.
Now, all that said, I still liked the book. A lot. I read it very quickly (ended way too soon–ahem, 85%), and it was well-written. Just for me, personally, I want to feel more from it. I did love Carter called Shayna ‘doll,’ and their chemistry was hot! Plus, I liked the messing around under the friend pretense. It always makes things more interesting.
If you’re a fan of Steph’s, I’m sure you’ll like this book, as well. Like I said, it was great to see just how Shayna and Carter came to be–and the road they traveled to get there. As always, loved seeing little glimpses of Quinn and Ben! I look forward to seeing what Steph is working on next! :)
We know of Shayna and Carter from the Grounding Quinn series; Carter is Quinn’s older, more together brother. We know by the time the last book happens that he and Shayna live together. What we didn’t know was how all that really came to fruition. I’ll say, I wasn’t expecting Carter to be living and dealing with what he was, but I wanted more of that lifestyle than just the aftermath–I realize that’s super cryptic, but I don’t want to spoil.
Shayna comes from a very affluent family–the daughter of a preacher, she is supposed to live and act a certain way. As you might expect, she rebels against that. She doesn’t like the way her life if being planned out for her, and so she does the only thing she can to regain some semblance of control over that–drinks, does some recreational drugs, and sleeps around. As a sometimes-friend of Quinn’s, the story opens and she and Carter are sort of stuck together/hanging out after helping Quinn chase after Ben. What ends with a kiss, but nothing more, leaves Shayna confused, drunk, and so up in arms about where her life is headed.
Fast forward some time, and they’ve had some innocent (or slightly naughty) text conversations, late night phone calls, but that’s it. After some shocking news about her past, and her family, Shayna decides it’s time to chase after this boy, and do something she wants for once. So she leaves Georgia and heads to California.
The obstacles that Shayna and Carter face are real and they’re there. But for some reason, I was just left wishing I got more of both of them. Show me more of that slutty side of Shayna, or that ‘other’ side of Carter, rather than just the reformed. And as for what happened with Nolan, I again just wanted more out of it. I’m never a fan of drama for the sake of drama, but in this case, I would get into it thinking something major was about to blow up, and it was just a match that poofed too soon.
Now, all that said, I still liked the book. A lot. I read it very quickly (ended way too soon–ahem, 85%), and it was well-written. Just for me, personally, I want to feel more from it. I did love Carter called Shayna ‘doll,’ and their chemistry was hot! Plus, I liked the messing around under the friend pretense. It always makes things more interesting.
If you’re a fan of Steph’s, I’m sure you’ll like this book, as well. Like I said, it was great to see just how Shayna and Carter came to be–and the road they traveled to get there. As always, loved seeing little glimpses of Quinn and Ben! I look forward to seeing what Steph is working on next! :)
January 23, 2014
Before making a start on Friend Is A Four Letter Word I wanted to read the previous three companion books, I know I didn't need to and that they can be read as a stand alone, but by reading them I was able to get a bit of background on the characters and how they know each other. Friend Is A Four Letter Word is Shayna's and Carter's story, and once I had finished reading the other book, I couldn't wait to make a start on this one and get to know this duo more.
Shayna definitly has a few shocks in store. She is a wild child, a party goer and all round rebellious teen. Her big rebellious act driving to 'see Quinn' effects her more than her parents, and while I didn't initially like her attitude towards her parents, but I did feel sorry for her when she accidentally stumbles upon a secret. She tries so hard to be perfect for them, but by being perfect she is not being true to herself, and is eventually just a shadow of her true self.
Carter also has to battle his own demons, and for him it's a daily struggle to make it though each day. With Shayna there his battle is a lot easier, but while they are both silently battling their own demons and keeping secrets, its hard for them to become emotionally involved even though they both have feelings for each other.
Friend Is A Four Letter Word also brings us more Ben and Quinn, and I really liked getting to see more of her than I expected. Seeing how her bond with Carter is just as strong as was it was when they were little, and that she was there to help him find sense in this mixed up thoughts and feelings, was such a heart warming thing to read. She is unbelievingly nice to Shayna, given their history wasn't the best, and I like how she treats Shayna like an old friend and also wants to help her too.
Once again I am questioning why I have not read any of these books sooner, even knowing how much I adore Steph's work. Her characters are realistic and face real problems, and that is what helps draw the reader in and makes them feel an emotional connection to the characters. Seeing how Shayna and Carter deal with their secrets and problems, but come out the other side stronger and still fighting, is an inspiration to all who have their own demons to battle.
Shayna definitly has a few shocks in store. She is a wild child, a party goer and all round rebellious teen. Her big rebellious act driving to 'see Quinn' effects her more than her parents, and while I didn't initially like her attitude towards her parents, but I did feel sorry for her when she accidentally stumbles upon a secret. She tries so hard to be perfect for them, but by being perfect she is not being true to herself, and is eventually just a shadow of her true self.
Carter also has to battle his own demons, and for him it's a daily struggle to make it though each day. With Shayna there his battle is a lot easier, but while they are both silently battling their own demons and keeping secrets, its hard for them to become emotionally involved even though they both have feelings for each other.
Friend Is A Four Letter Word also brings us more Ben and Quinn, and I really liked getting to see more of her than I expected. Seeing how her bond with Carter is just as strong as was it was when they were little, and that she was there to help him find sense in this mixed up thoughts and feelings, was such a heart warming thing to read. She is unbelievingly nice to Shayna, given their history wasn't the best, and I like how she treats Shayna like an old friend and also wants to help her too.
Once again I am questioning why I have not read any of these books sooner, even knowing how much I adore Steph's work. Her characters are realistic and face real problems, and that is what helps draw the reader in and makes them feel an emotional connection to the characters. Seeing how Shayna and Carter deal with their secrets and problems, but come out the other side stronger and still fighting, is an inspiration to all who have their own demons to battle.
December 29, 2014
*ARC received in exchange for an honest review*
Shayna is a high school graduate and is ready to start her life as an adult. The only problem is that she doesn’t know where she fits in in the world. For the past seven months she’s been living a lie, just to keep her parents off her back and happy. She has been the good girl, the picture perfect minister’s daughter, dating another minister’s son. Her parents have a plan for her, but Shayna has other ideas. Unfortunately, she’s not quite sure what they are…yet.
Carter is the older brother of one of Shayna’s only friends, Quinn. He’s home on Christmas break from college when he’s thrown into an awkward situation with Shayna. The two make an immediate connection, yet they live on opposite sides of the country and the age difference seems to put Shayna strictly into the “friend” zone, or is it something more? Is Carter hiding a secret that could be the reason he’s holding Shayna at a distance, despite the obvious attraction they have towards each other?
Carter and Shayna continue to have a relationship via flirty late night text messages and phone calls, and when Shayna’s unhappiness at home finally gets to the breaking point, she decides to set out across the country to see if a relationship with Carter could really work. Shayna also finds out that her parents have been harboring a huge secret as well, a secret that could explain a lot of Shayna’s behaviors. This is a great example of a coming of age novel without too much added angst that many in this genre seem to have.
Friend Is a Four Letter Word is a solid four star read. It was quick and easy, perhaps just a little too quick. I truly do hope that there is more of Carter and Shayna’s story that will be told because it felt like there were some issues that were not completely resolved. I loved the characters and the depth of passion between Carter and Shayna. I could really feel Shayna start to evolve and grow, not only because of her relationship with Carter, but that she found she was a much stronger person than she was giving herself credit for. Carter is just plain hot and his ability to admit his own vulnerabilities makes him all the hotter. I would definitely be on board with more of their story!
Shayna is a high school graduate and is ready to start her life as an adult. The only problem is that she doesn’t know where she fits in in the world. For the past seven months she’s been living a lie, just to keep her parents off her back and happy. She has been the good girl, the picture perfect minister’s daughter, dating another minister’s son. Her parents have a plan for her, but Shayna has other ideas. Unfortunately, she’s not quite sure what they are…yet.
Carter is the older brother of one of Shayna’s only friends, Quinn. He’s home on Christmas break from college when he’s thrown into an awkward situation with Shayna. The two make an immediate connection, yet they live on opposite sides of the country and the age difference seems to put Shayna strictly into the “friend” zone, or is it something more? Is Carter hiding a secret that could be the reason he’s holding Shayna at a distance, despite the obvious attraction they have towards each other?
Carter and Shayna continue to have a relationship via flirty late night text messages and phone calls, and when Shayna’s unhappiness at home finally gets to the breaking point, she decides to set out across the country to see if a relationship with Carter could really work. Shayna also finds out that her parents have been harboring a huge secret as well, a secret that could explain a lot of Shayna’s behaviors. This is a great example of a coming of age novel without too much added angst that many in this genre seem to have.
Friend Is a Four Letter Word is a solid four star read. It was quick and easy, perhaps just a little too quick. I truly do hope that there is more of Carter and Shayna’s story that will be told because it felt like there were some issues that were not completely resolved. I loved the characters and the depth of passion between Carter and Shayna. I could really feel Shayna start to evolve and grow, not only because of her relationship with Carter, but that she found she was a much stronger person than she was giving herself credit for. Carter is just plain hot and his ability to admit his own vulnerabilities makes him all the hotter. I would definitely be on board with more of their story!
October 13, 2015
I was unaware when I started reading this book that it was part of a series (although a standalone). Had I known, I would have definitely have read the previous book first,and maybe it would have helped me to connected with the characters a bit better.
Shayna is the daughter of a priest, and feeling like she doesn't fit into her family, decides to rebel. One night after being rejected by Carter (all be it very politely) she turns up at home drunk and ruins her parents church get together. It is at this point she decides to become a better daughter, but when this doesn't work she runs away from her parents and life instead.
I found it hard to connect with Shayna mostly because I didn't agree with a lot of her decisions. She rebels because she's not happy, so they attempts to become the perfect daughter which makes her more unhappy, and so then just runs away. It all just seems a bit immature.
Carter is a mystery, with his own pack of secrets to add to the mix. He rejects Shayna even though it is VERY obvious that he likes her. Then when she turns up at his door he is very happy to see her and invites her to stay, but still hesitates. I really was hoping through this book that it wasn't going to be some stupid pathetic reason, and it wasn't. Carter's secret lets us get to know him better and also give him a pretty good story of his own.
Although they had history (kind of), the romance did feel kind of insta love. They were a cute couple, when not arguing about stupid and annoying things, but at times they felt "too old", which then became "too young" when one of them (mainly Shayna) decided to throw a pathetic tantrum! I found it hard to connect to them as a couple and I'm not sure if it was due to the insta love or the speed of the book. It felt short and I finished feeling like I hadn't got my full fill yet.
It is an interesting read with characters I have never come across before. It was good enough to keep me reading, however I don't feel like it totally reached the emotional depth it could have done . I was class it as an easy breezy book, fun to read, but not going to change your life any time soon.
Shayna is the daughter of a priest, and feeling like she doesn't fit into her family, decides to rebel. One night after being rejected by Carter (all be it very politely) she turns up at home drunk and ruins her parents church get together. It is at this point she decides to become a better daughter, but when this doesn't work she runs away from her parents and life instead.
I found it hard to connect with Shayna mostly because I didn't agree with a lot of her decisions. She rebels because she's not happy, so they attempts to become the perfect daughter which makes her more unhappy, and so then just runs away. It all just seems a bit immature.
Carter is a mystery, with his own pack of secrets to add to the mix. He rejects Shayna even though it is VERY obvious that he likes her. Then when she turns up at his door he is very happy to see her and invites her to stay, but still hesitates. I really was hoping through this book that it wasn't going to be some stupid pathetic reason, and it wasn't. Carter's secret lets us get to know him better and also give him a pretty good story of his own.
Although they had history (kind of), the romance did feel kind of insta love. They were a cute couple, when not arguing about stupid and annoying things, but at times they felt "too old", which then became "too young" when one of them (mainly Shayna) decided to throw a pathetic tantrum! I found it hard to connect to them as a couple and I'm not sure if it was due to the insta love or the speed of the book. It felt short and I finished feeling like I hadn't got my full fill yet.
It is an interesting read with characters I have never come across before. It was good enough to keep me reading, however I don't feel like it totally reached the emotional depth it could have done . I was class it as an easy breezy book, fun to read, but not going to change your life any time soon.
January 25, 2014
I really loved the part of the story that was told....enough to look over what seemed to be parts of this story that were missing. Steph Campbell's style of writing is one-of-a-kind. She has a way of using the dialogue between the characters and their inner thoughts in an equally effective way to make you feel like you are in the characters' lives and watching everything unfold not simply reading about them. If you haven't read Grounding Quinn you might find yourself a bit lost. This is the story of Quinn's brother Carter and her bipolar friendship-mate Shayna. It picks up in the middle of Grounding Quinn but tells the story of the budding relationship between Carter and Shayna. Carter and Shayna are both extremely likable characters that are appealing to me because they aren't one dimensional. They are struggling with their own identities and flaws but so totally drawn to each other, the chemistry between them is unbelievable. The humor used throughout the novel and the dynamic between the main characters as well as the supporting characters were awesome. I even liked Nolan who could have easily been played up as the antagonist in the story.
So what was missing? I would have liked to hear Carter's point of view earlier in the story, particularly because it would have painted a clearer picture of the strength of Carter's feelings as they developed for Shayna but unable to act on because of his own inner battles. It was revealed later on and quite fantastically ( I loved Carter's story at the Center) but up until then the reader only had hints of what his feelings were. I also felt like Carter and Shayna's close moments were cut short rather abruptly and we were sort of cheated out of enjoying the two of them together. You would think these gaps would be detrimental to the story but it only left me wanting more of Shayna and Carter. Can we please get a follow up to this story?
So what was missing? I would have liked to hear Carter's point of view earlier in the story, particularly because it would have painted a clearer picture of the strength of Carter's feelings as they developed for Shayna but unable to act on because of his own inner battles. It was revealed later on and quite fantastically ( I loved Carter's story at the Center) but up until then the reader only had hints of what his feelings were. I also felt like Carter and Shayna's close moments were cut short rather abruptly and we were sort of cheated out of enjoying the two of them together. You would think these gaps would be detrimental to the story but it only left me wanting more of Shayna and Carter. Can we please get a follow up to this story?
March 3, 2014
I love Steph Campbell’s books, and after reading (and loving) Grounding Quinn, Delicate, Beautiful Things Never Last) Friend is a Four Letter Word is another one to add to the books by Steph I love list.
In Beautiful Things Never Last we learned Carter and Shayna were together and in FiaFLW we learn how that came to be. I wasn’t sure how I’d feel about Shayna to be honest; I didn’t really like her in any of the previous books she was in. She was always just such a mean B to Quinn (Carter’s sister) and everyone else BUT by getting to know her, I actually found my entire opinion of her changed. Two thumbs up there Steph because I never thought I’d like her! Carter on the other hand I always loved; I loved the protective big brother in him. While we were led to believe he was the sibling that always had his stuff together, we learn that isn’t true. Carter has a secret not even his Quinnlette knows; Shayna discovers it and encourages him to tell Quinn. That part I loved, I always loved how fiercely supportive Quinn and Carter are of each other no matter what the circumstances. The only thing I wish is that there were more details into what Carter was hiding; maybe while he was confiding to Quinn he could’ve been more detailed and gave her a more in depth run down of how bad the problem was (I know I’m being vague but I don’t want to ruin anything) none the less, FiaFLW was still a highly enjoyable read for me. I polished it off in a sitting and it reminded me why Steph Campbell is one of my must read authors, she satisfies my need for sweet love stories with HEA’s while handling sensitive subjects in a delicate manner.
*I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review
In Beautiful Things Never Last we learned Carter and Shayna were together and in FiaFLW we learn how that came to be. I wasn’t sure how I’d feel about Shayna to be honest; I didn’t really like her in any of the previous books she was in. She was always just such a mean B to Quinn (Carter’s sister) and everyone else BUT by getting to know her, I actually found my entire opinion of her changed. Two thumbs up there Steph because I never thought I’d like her! Carter on the other hand I always loved; I loved the protective big brother in him. While we were led to believe he was the sibling that always had his stuff together, we learn that isn’t true. Carter has a secret not even his Quinnlette knows; Shayna discovers it and encourages him to tell Quinn. That part I loved, I always loved how fiercely supportive Quinn and Carter are of each other no matter what the circumstances. The only thing I wish is that there were more details into what Carter was hiding; maybe while he was confiding to Quinn he could’ve been more detailed and gave her a more in depth run down of how bad the problem was (I know I’m being vague but I don’t want to ruin anything) none the less, FiaFLW was still a highly enjoyable read for me. I polished it off in a sitting and it reminded me why Steph Campbell is one of my must read authors, she satisfies my need for sweet love stories with HEA’s while handling sensitive subjects in a delicate manner.
*I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review
May 30, 2014
What worked for me: Ok, I'll admit that Shayna wasn't my favorite character, but she did grow on me a bit. I definitely saw a softer more vulnerable side to her in this book. And I loved Carter, but that was no surprise. Together...I did like their relationship, but it leads me in to what didn't work for me.
What didn't work for me: Going in to this book, I felt like there was a lot of potential for these two characters. And while I do like them as a couple, I felt like something was missing. The story also felt a bit rushed to me.
Overall, I liked it, but didn't love it as much as I had hoped. I definitely a fan of Campbell's writing and I love this group of characters. I think one of the biggest wins for me was getting to see Quinn and Ben again. I just adore them. Adore. Them. So, would I recommend this one? I would. I think it you liked Grounding Quinn and Beautiful Things Never Last, you should read this one.
Quotes:
"What about dinner?" I ask as he scoops me up into his arms and carries me to his bedroom. "You promised Quinn we'd bring dinner."
"They'll figure out dinner for themselves. You just promised me dessert," he growls in my ear.
"I met a girl who understood me without even realizing it. I met a girl whose presence shook me to my core. Who did all those cliched things like make me want to be a better man, just to have a shot with her."
This isn't perfect. This is real. This...is home.
What didn't work for me: Going in to this book, I felt like there was a lot of potential for these two characters. And while I do like them as a couple, I felt like something was missing. The story also felt a bit rushed to me.
Overall, I liked it, but didn't love it as much as I had hoped. I definitely a fan of Campbell's writing and I love this group of characters. I think one of the biggest wins for me was getting to see Quinn and Ben again. I just adore them. Adore. Them. So, would I recommend this one? I would. I think it you liked Grounding Quinn and Beautiful Things Never Last, you should read this one.
Quotes:
"What about dinner?" I ask as he scoops me up into his arms and carries me to his bedroom. "You promised Quinn we'd bring dinner."
"They'll figure out dinner for themselves. You just promised me dessert," he growls in my ear.
"I met a girl who understood me without even realizing it. I met a girl whose presence shook me to my core. Who did all those cliched things like make me want to be a better man, just to have a shot with her."
This isn't perfect. This is real. This...is home.
June 29, 2016
I think this may be my favourite of the series.
I have to be honest and say this is my favourite of the series. I adores Carter in Grounding Quinn and love him even more after Friend is a Four Letter Word.
Crossing the time frame of Grounding Quinn and pre-Beautiful Things Never Last, Friend is a Four Letter Word encompasses themes of nature versus nurture in a thought-provoking and realistic manner. The feelings of isolation and not belonging pour through the pages. I’m sure we all feel like this at some point in our lives, the concept of the square peg and the round hole come s to mind.
Parental and community expectations add tho the pressure faced by both main characters. The question of whether a strict upbringing causes excess rebellion adds to the questions posed within the story. Coping strategies to deal with negative emotions can lead easily to a path of self-destruction.
The saying ‘Home is where the heart is’ applies to the person rather than the place. Being with a person that makes you feel comfortable to just be you; being accepted for who you are removes a lot of emotional barriers.
The chapters from Carter’s point of view were a lot less than Shayna’s but added emotional depth to the story as a whole.
Fresh starts, clean slates, finding your heart, your home and yourself are the foundations within Friend is a Four Letter Word.
I have to be honest and say this is my favourite of the series. I adores Carter in Grounding Quinn and love him even more after Friend is a Four Letter Word.
Crossing the time frame of Grounding Quinn and pre-Beautiful Things Never Last, Friend is a Four Letter Word encompasses themes of nature versus nurture in a thought-provoking and realistic manner. The feelings of isolation and not belonging pour through the pages. I’m sure we all feel like this at some point in our lives, the concept of the square peg and the round hole come s to mind.
Parental and community expectations add tho the pressure faced by both main characters. The question of whether a strict upbringing causes excess rebellion adds to the questions posed within the story. Coping strategies to deal with negative emotions can lead easily to a path of self-destruction.
The saying ‘Home is where the heart is’ applies to the person rather than the place. Being with a person that makes you feel comfortable to just be you; being accepted for who you are removes a lot of emotional barriers.
The chapters from Carter’s point of view were a lot less than Shayna’s but added emotional depth to the story as a whole.
Fresh starts, clean slates, finding your heart, your home and yourself are the foundations within Friend is a Four Letter Word.
January 30, 2014
Friend is a Four Letter Word
Steph Campbell
3.5 Stars
FFLW was a complicated read for me. This was my first Steph Campbell book, and I know this was the fourth book in this series, even though it was a standalone. I think this is the reason I found myself being more intrigued by every other character besides the main two, Carter and Shayna.
Shayna, a wild child party girl, has just made a huge revelation about her life and wants to change for the better. This makes her go on a voyage of "self discovery."
Carter, the big brother to Shayna's kind of friend, Quinn, definitely has his fair share of secrets.
To say this pair is...odd, would be an understatement. From the beginning they both stare there was this perfect chemistry but I don't know. I just didn't read it that way I guess. And the ending!! I'm so glad they both overcame their biggest obstacles, really I am!! But where are my answers??? How are things with the parents? Nolan? Did they actually solve their problems?? I hope I get to read more about them to see
Steph Campbell
3.5 Stars
FFLW was a complicated read for me. This was my first Steph Campbell book, and I know this was the fourth book in this series, even though it was a standalone. I think this is the reason I found myself being more intrigued by every other character besides the main two, Carter and Shayna.
Shayna, a wild child party girl, has just made a huge revelation about her life and wants to change for the better. This makes her go on a voyage of "self discovery."
Carter, the big brother to Shayna's kind of friend, Quinn, definitely has his fair share of secrets.
To say this pair is...odd, would be an understatement. From the beginning they both stare there was this perfect chemistry but I don't know. I just didn't read it that way I guess. And the ending!! I'm so glad they both overcame their biggest obstacles, really I am!! But where are my answers??? How are things with the parents? Nolan? Did they actually solve their problems?? I hope I get to read more about them to see
July 13, 2014
First--I was elated, ELATED, to get a Quinn/Ben fix by reading this book. Squee!! Absolutely in love with those two. GROUNDING QUINN was the first book I read by Steph Campbell and it definitely made me want to read anything she has a hand in writing.
Second--There's no other way to say this, but I was a bit hesitant to like Shayna. She had a roughness to her and I had a hard time rooting for her. Seeing how her relationship with Carter started, that Christmas Eve night, and then seeing it unfold through the book, really surprised me in the best possible way. Both Carter and Shayna had secrets and struggles, but (and not to sound uber-cliche) they worked together and found their happiness, together. I fell in love with Shayna, and loved seeing her evolve from near self-destruction into a positive, loving partner for Carter. Learning of Carter's struggles and seeing him face them bravely was so heartwarming.
This was an easy, feel-good book, full of charm, witty conversations, and plenty of romance. A must read for sure :)
Keep up the great work, Steph!
Second--There's no other way to say this, but I was a bit hesitant to like Shayna. She had a roughness to her and I had a hard time rooting for her. Seeing how her relationship with Carter started, that Christmas Eve night, and then seeing it unfold through the book, really surprised me in the best possible way. Both Carter and Shayna had secrets and struggles, but (and not to sound uber-cliche) they worked together and found their happiness, together. I fell in love with Shayna, and loved seeing her evolve from near self-destruction into a positive, loving partner for Carter. Learning of Carter's struggles and seeing him face them bravely was so heartwarming.
This was an easy, feel-good book, full of charm, witty conversations, and plenty of romance. A must read for sure :)
Keep up the great work, Steph!
July 21, 2016
Steph Campbell’s Friend is a Four Letter Word is an incredible look at two people who are desperately trying to find themselves while trying not to get lost in one another. Carter MacPherson is celebrated in this Book Boyfriend Report for his humility, self awareness and for trying to keep his eye on the big picture. Steph created an incredible hero in this story who defies all the stereotypes of Mr. Perfect.
Check out my review of Friend is a Four Letter Word: Book Boyfriend Report - Friend Is A Four Letter Word by Steph Campbell
#StephCampbell #FriendIsAFourLetterWord #NewAdult #ContemporaryRomance #Romance #SelfDiscovery #BookBoyfriendReport #CarterMacPherson
Check out my review of Friend is a Four Letter Word: Book Boyfriend Report - Friend Is A Four Letter Word by Steph Campbell
#StephCampbell #FriendIsAFourLetterWord #NewAdult #ContemporaryRomance #Romance #SelfDiscovery #BookBoyfriendReport #CarterMacPherson
February 23, 2014
Friend is a Four Letter Word had me gripped from the very start.
I really loved it. Once you start reading it, you can´t stop. You read it in one sitting until the end.
The story is fast-paced, intriguing and captivating. The characters are amazing, very well developed and interesting.
Shayna and Carter´s journey is heartwarming and will leave you more than a little attached to it.
Looking forward to read more from Steph in the future.
≧◔◡◔≦ 5 ✰ read ≧◉◡◉≦
>>>ARC received in exchange for an honest review<<<
I really loved it. Once you start reading it, you can´t stop. You read it in one sitting until the end.
The story is fast-paced, intriguing and captivating. The characters are amazing, very well developed and interesting.
Shayna and Carter´s journey is heartwarming and will leave you more than a little attached to it.
Looking forward to read more from Steph in the future.
≧◔◡◔≦ 5 ✰ read ≧◉◡◉≦
>>>ARC received in exchange for an honest review<<<
December 28, 2014
This was a pretty good book - with deep characters facing "real" problems and a nice, romantic ending. I couldn't relate much to the characters with their quite wealthy upbringings and in some cases, their close relation to the Church. I'm also very curious about Shayna's real parents. Perhaps I'd learn more about them from reading the other books in the series - I believe this is not the first in the series and I just jumped in right in the middle.
Anyway, I will definitely read more of Steph Campbell's books. Just not sure when.
Anyway, I will definitely read more of Steph Campbell's books. Just not sure when.
January 21, 2014
Loved Carter and Shayna's story! Review soon
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January 29, 2014
Steph Campbell I do so love your books!! I think Steph is a fabulous author and this book was fabulous!! The storyline was great and kept my attention from beginning to end. The characters were great!! Looking forward to more books by Steph Campbell:))
February 13, 2014
Another book in the GROUNDING QUINN series. Quinn is my all time favorite book girlfriend, and I love every book in the series and this is a worthy member. You get to know her brother better, and her friend. I loved it, hated finishing it because now I have to wait for more!
June 10, 2014
I don't know. I just couldn't get into this one as much as the other stories in the series. I don't know what it was. It was a decent enough read but it just didn't keep me hooked or as entertained as the others in this series.
February 28, 2016
3 1/2 stars only bc it just ended so abruptly!
February 22, 2014
It was ok was average at first. Got a lot better in the middle of the story. But I just felt the ending was a little sudden and a lot was left unsolved!
September 9, 2016
REVIEW COMING SOON
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