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Kowalski Family #7
Love a Little Sideways
Liz Kowalski is heading home to Whitford, Maine—this time for good. Eager for her family, a fresh start and some fun, she doesn't count on being rescued by the chief of police her very first night back in town. Drew is everything she's not looking for…so why is she still so attracted to him?
After a brief, forbidden rendezvous at her brother's wedding, Drew Miller expects Liz to return to New Mexico and stay there. He's searching for someone to settle down with, not a casual fling with his best friend's sister. But when they're stuck together on the annual Kowalski camping trip, things start going a little sideways. Keeping their hands off each other proves just as impossible as keeping their secret from becoming public knowledge.
Amid family, mud and melted marshmallow, Liz and Drew try to fight what's growing between them. But a little time alone, a lot of chemistry and too many opinions might be just what it takes to bring together two people so determined not to fall in love.
After a brief, forbidden rendezvous at her brother's wedding, Drew Miller expects Liz to return to New Mexico and stay there. He's searching for someone to settle down with, not a casual fling with his best friend's sister. But when they're stuck together on the annual Kowalski camping trip, things start going a little sideways. Keeping their hands off each other proves just as impossible as keeping their secret from becoming public knowledge.
Amid family, mud and melted marshmallow, Liz and Drew try to fight what's growing between them. But a little time alone, a lot of chemistry and too many opinions might be just what it takes to bring together two people so determined not to fall in love.
384 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published November 26, 2013
183 people are currently reading
2231 people want to read
About the author
Shannon Stacey
145 books2,640 followersNew York Times and USA Today bestselling author Shannon Stacey lives with her husband and two sons in New England, where her favorite activities are writing romance and really random tweets when she’s not riding her ATV. She loves mud, books, football & watching way too much TV.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 314 reviews
February 14, 2015
I thought it was hilarious in the previous story when Liz and Drew did the walk of shame following their little interlude at Mitch's wedding and couldn't wait for the follow up. She's been an elusive character with not a lot known about her. And aside from him being Mitch's best friend and a lawman with a busted marriage, Drew's been a mystery, too.
This was a humorous story in some ways given all the crazy moments during the camping trip. But mixed in there were many tender moments between Drew and Liz and lots of focus on both of them being clear about what they want in life. As much as she cared for him, Liz wanted a shot at figuring out what to do with her life before making a commitment to another relationship.
There were times when Liz drove me crazy about wanting independence...to do what? But then I finally figured out it didn't matter what as long as she had the time and space to choose. Drew's patience was just one of the qualities I admired about his character while at the same time never wavering from what was true for him. I loved how he loved her, even when things went a bit sideways. His conflict with Mitch about their relationship provided serious tension that made the story meaty.
I really liked that these two wounded characters finally found happiness and with each other. This was a story worthy of them, one I enjoyed and was in keeping with the rest in the series. Its family themes make it even more appealing, along with so many interesting secondary relationships. I'm still hooked.
(I received an ARC from NetGalley)
This was a humorous story in some ways given all the crazy moments during the camping trip. But mixed in there were many tender moments between Drew and Liz and lots of focus on both of them being clear about what they want in life. As much as she cared for him, Liz wanted a shot at figuring out what to do with her life before making a commitment to another relationship.
There were times when Liz drove me crazy about wanting independence...to do what? But then I finally figured out it didn't matter what as long as she had the time and space to choose. Drew's patience was just one of the qualities I admired about his character while at the same time never wavering from what was true for him. I loved how he loved her, even when things went a bit sideways. His conflict with Mitch about their relationship provided serious tension that made the story meaty.
I really liked that these two wounded characters finally found happiness and with each other. This was a story worthy of them, one I enjoyed and was in keeping with the rest in the series. Its family themes make it even more appealing, along with so many interesting secondary relationships. I'm still hooked.
(I received an ARC from NetGalley)
December 7, 2013
I'm going to give this 5 stars just because I adore the entire Kowalski family and this series. If I was completely honest I might only give this story 4 stars just because the ending seemed to come up too quickly or maybe just because I would have liked an epilogue. I know that there are more books planned for the series so we should get to see more of Drew and Liz, but when I finished the story I just felt there was something missing at the end.
Something that I felt was new and fresh for this story was that it was Drew who was craving the commitment and the happily ever after with a horde of children running through his house, and Liz was the one feeling cautious about moving too quickly.
I don't want to go too much into the story because I don't like to give away spoilers, but I do feel really happy about the way some things were dealt with, when I expected there to be a huge blow up full of drama, there wasn't and matters were dealt with like adults should.
I just adore Drew and I know I change my mind frequently and that Drew isn't an actual blood related Kowalski, but he just might be my favourite.
The camping trip with all the Kowalskis was a great part of the book and I loved having them all together and reading about the antics they get up to.
I'm always telling people that they should pick up one of Shannon's books sometime and the Kowalskis are a great place to start.
Something that I felt was new and fresh for this story was that it was Drew who was craving the commitment and the happily ever after with a horde of children running through his house, and Liz was the one feeling cautious about moving too quickly.
I don't want to go too much into the story because I don't like to give away spoilers, but I do feel really happy about the way some things were dealt with, when I expected there to be a huge blow up full of drama, there wasn't and matters were dealt with like adults should.
I just adore Drew and I know I change my mind frequently and that Drew isn't an actual blood related Kowalski, but he just might be my favourite.
The camping trip with all the Kowalskis was a great part of the book and I loved having them all together and reading about the antics they get up to.
I'm always telling people that they should pick up one of Shannon's books sometime and the Kowalskis are a great place to start.
June 5, 2015
Honestly, I really liked the first three books in this series, but I haven't enjoyed the rest much at all. I think the problem is that every single member of this family has the same endgame: to settle down in their small town, surrounded by their nosy family. Anyone with dreams beyond that comes to realize that their dreams aren't nearly as important as filling that role in their family. While I liked the wit of this novel, it was in a lot of ways, really depressing, since Liza was a free-spirited type and the entire story was basically about her becoming the same as all the rest of her family. There was sort of some handwave acknowledgment that maybe her life would be a bit different with Drew (ie, the blow-up pool furniture), but I didn't believe it. :(
________
I tried to quit this series after not liking two of the last three novels. However, it appears this one takes place at the Kowalski family camping trip OF DOOM! So, obviously, I'm on board for this installment.
________
I tried to quit this series after not liking two of the last three novels. However, it appears this one takes place at the Kowalski family camping trip OF DOOM! So, obviously, I'm on board for this installment.
August 10, 2013
I freely admit I'm biased when I come to Shannon Stacey's books. Some I like more than others, but I always like them. Yours to Keep has held on to the "favorite Shannon Stacey book" title since it came out. Post-it Notes. Need I say more?
But Drew and Liz stole that title away and added another one: Favorite Contemporary Romance of All Time.
I smiled through the whole first part of the book. There are some lines throughout that are just...*happy sighs*. There's also a line (well, two sentences), delivered by Mitch, that made me cry. You have to read the book to get a feel for what happens between Drew and Mitch (Mitch is Liz's older brother and a wee bit protective of her...and the guy code) to truly get the impact of the line.
So between the laughs and the tears, and the making-me-love-these-characters, this book is my favorite Shannon Stacey book as well as my favorite contemporary romance of all time.
Keep in mind, this is just my opinion. Your mileage may vary.
But Drew and Liz stole that title away and added another one: Favorite Contemporary Romance of All Time.
I smiled through the whole first part of the book. There are some lines throughout that are just...*happy sighs*. There's also a line (well, two sentences), delivered by Mitch, that made me cry. You have to read the book to get a feel for what happens between Drew and Mitch (Mitch is Liz's older brother and a wee bit protective of her...and the guy code) to truly get the impact of the line.
So between the laughs and the tears, and the making-me-love-these-characters, this book is my favorite Shannon Stacey book as well as my favorite contemporary romance of all time.
Keep in mind, this is just my opinion. Your mileage may vary.
November 30, 2013
I was looking forward to reading this, cause I always wanted Liz to have a story, but I was kind of disappointed with this book. It was just boring, and after reading about her in the other books, I ended up not liking her as much as I wanted to. I liked Drew though, but he just wasn't enough to keep me interested in this book. That's too bad, cause I really like this series.
July 27, 2017
Reviewed for Romancing the Readers Blog: https://romancingthereaders.blogspot....
I love this series by Shannon Stacey. Each book gets better then the next. Of course, I feel that's more to do with that as you read each book you get to know all the characters better which makes the story a fuller one to read.
We've been waiting for Liz and Drew's story for a while now. You got the feeling that there was more to these two in prior books but....
I'm so glad to report that there was! Hot damn!!! I know, it's not read news. Ha! But what is news is the fact that this turned out to be a wonderful story. With the romance and humor that we've come to except from Stacey.
Many times while reading this story I found myself laughing. I just really enjoyed it.
These two have a ton of trouble coming to term with the fact that they love each other. Or maybe I should say that Liz had trouble. She just didn't know what she wanted out of life and Drew did. Of course if they ever talked, I mean really talked they would know they wanted the same thing and that they each would be willing to wait for the other to be ready.
But what fun would it be if they talked for us? None! We need the deep pleasure we receive from yelling at our books like the characters can honestly hear us. I know I like to tell them what they are doing wrong. I also do the same thing for movies and TV and reality shows. I draw the line at sports because I know I couldn't do that.
By the end of the book both Liz and Drew learn that being with each other is more important then some unfounded fears. You will be so happy for them when they decide to trust in each other.
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I love this series by Shannon Stacey. Each book gets better then the next. Of course, I feel that's more to do with that as you read each book you get to know all the characters better which makes the story a fuller one to read.
We've been waiting for Liz and Drew's story for a while now. You got the feeling that there was more to these two in prior books but....
I'm so glad to report that there was! Hot damn!!! I know, it's not read news. Ha! But what is news is the fact that this turned out to be a wonderful story. With the romance and humor that we've come to except from Stacey.
Many times while reading this story I found myself laughing. I just really enjoyed it.
These two have a ton of trouble coming to term with the fact that they love each other. Or maybe I should say that Liz had trouble. She just didn't know what she wanted out of life and Drew did. Of course if they ever talked, I mean really talked they would know they wanted the same thing and that they each would be willing to wait for the other to be ready.
But what fun would it be if they talked for us? None! We need the deep pleasure we receive from yelling at our books like the characters can honestly hear us. I know I like to tell them what they are doing wrong. I also do the same thing for movies and TV and reality shows. I draw the line at sports because I know I couldn't do that.
By the end of the book both Liz and Drew learn that being with each other is more important then some unfounded fears. You will be so happy for them when they decide to trust in each other.
Follow me on:
https://www.facebook.com/RomancingThe...
https://twitter.com/Romancingreader
February 20, 2014
Shannon Stacey writes a collection of books about the Kowalski family, a crazy extended bunch of eligible bachelors (and the odd bachelorette) who live and play in New England, and Love a Little Sideways is one of them. Liz Kowalski belongs to one male-laden branch. In fact, she's the little sister. Which makes getting involved with the best friend of her oldest brother rather complicated.
But involved she does get, with Drew, the chief of police. Liz is back in town after finally ditching her deadbeat boyfriend and deciding to return to the fold. She's starting new, but the first thing she does is run into an old fling. Not that old, actually; it was only a few months ago when they hooked up for a quickie at brother Mitch's wedding. The feelings are still pretty fresh, so they have a hard time staying away from each other. Especially when they're forced together on the big Kowalski camping trip.
Liz has got a couple of problems in this story. First, she's picking up the pieces of her life. Starting from scratch, with new freedom and a new job but a borrowed house and a borrowed car. Naturally she's keen on some soul-searching, trying to determine where she fits and what she's meant to do with her life. Unfortunately, or not, Drew gets in the way of all that. He knows exactly what he wants, and it's what his ex-wife was unwilling to give him: children. So expecting the in-flux Liz to jump into the relationship with both feet is clearly not realistic.
And so he makes loads of assumptions. First, because of some off-hand comment she makes, he assumes that she never wants children ever and decides he should just forget her, full stop. Then, because she's into him, he assumes she'll drop every hope and dream of her own and fully commit. Maybe that's exaggerating, but it's close. And of course, when she doesn't fully commit, he's terribly disappointed and must move on pronto. Wow, people should really talk to each other.
Liz's other problem is her brother and his ridiculous high-school code of ethics. Friends don't sleep with friends' sisters. Not even twenty years after high school, apparently. Which maybe happens in real life, but I'm kind of skeptical. Honestly, the barriers thrown up between these two are almost entirely of their own devising and they wouldn't be surprising at all if they really weren't into each other but were just kind of horny. And that's what this relationship really feels like to me, even though I know it's supposed to be more than that, so much more. It just feels like two people who want to sleep together but don't really want to commit. Not a great love story, that set-up.
I think the thing that is missing is the history. The grand passion between Drew and Liz happens off-stage, so we really don't get a sense of what they're fighting for. Both suffered heartbreak at the hands of others and found solace with each other, if only briefly, and that could be really powerful, except it's not actually in this book. I needed to see the pain and angst and the reckless passion that brought them together in the first place if I was going to buy what's happening in this book. I haven't read all the Kowalski books, so maybe it was in another one, but it shouldn't be. It's deadly important to this story. It's missing, and sadly so, because I probably would have cared about the relationship if I had that to go on.
And one other thing that really bugged me: when Liz goes to her surrogate mom Rose and tells her that she and Drew are no more because she wants to figure out what she wants from life and he wants her to believe that it's babies now, Rose asks her if she's happy. She says yes, she has a job she loves and she's with family she loves and she's in love with a guy, and Rose tells her that should be enough. That she was stupid and stubborn for wanting to see if there's more. Okay, so maybe Rose is right that being happy with job and home and love is enough to be happy for now, but not giving credence to the fact that Liz might want to be more than a waitress and wife and mom is stupid and stubborn and a recipe for postpartum depression. It's okay for that to be enough. You don't have to be a lawyer or travel the world or be big on YouTube to be happy. But you're allowed to hope and dream and try. Liz is right to want to explore other options, even if she decides not to pursue them. Nobody, neither her pseudo-mom nor her boyfriend, is right to tell her otherwise. That broke my heart a little. Just when I was starting to get a sense of who Liz actually was and who she could be, she was forced to say, "No, you're right, dreams are stupid."
In my heart I really like the concept of the Kowalski books. Just regular people, more or less, falling in love and having fun with family. Helps when you're sick to death of billionaire CEOs. The romance in the everyday appeals to me. Stealing moments amid messy family stuff. Relationships under small-town microscopes. So much to relate to. But maybe not so much passion all the time. And unless there's passion, it's kind of too relatable, and I can just follow my neighbours on Facebook for that.
Neva
Reviewed from ARC. Published by Carina Press December 1, 2013.
Full review at nomdeplumepress.wordpress.com
But involved she does get, with Drew, the chief of police. Liz is back in town after finally ditching her deadbeat boyfriend and deciding to return to the fold. She's starting new, but the first thing she does is run into an old fling. Not that old, actually; it was only a few months ago when they hooked up for a quickie at brother Mitch's wedding. The feelings are still pretty fresh, so they have a hard time staying away from each other. Especially when they're forced together on the big Kowalski camping trip.
Liz has got a couple of problems in this story. First, she's picking up the pieces of her life. Starting from scratch, with new freedom and a new job but a borrowed house and a borrowed car. Naturally she's keen on some soul-searching, trying to determine where she fits and what she's meant to do with her life. Unfortunately, or not, Drew gets in the way of all that. He knows exactly what he wants, and it's what his ex-wife was unwilling to give him: children. So expecting the in-flux Liz to jump into the relationship with both feet is clearly not realistic.
And so he makes loads of assumptions. First, because of some off-hand comment she makes, he assumes that she never wants children ever and decides he should just forget her, full stop. Then, because she's into him, he assumes she'll drop every hope and dream of her own and fully commit. Maybe that's exaggerating, but it's close. And of course, when she doesn't fully commit, he's terribly disappointed and must move on pronto. Wow, people should really talk to each other.
Liz's other problem is her brother and his ridiculous high-school code of ethics. Friends don't sleep with friends' sisters. Not even twenty years after high school, apparently. Which maybe happens in real life, but I'm kind of skeptical. Honestly, the barriers thrown up between these two are almost entirely of their own devising and they wouldn't be surprising at all if they really weren't into each other but were just kind of horny. And that's what this relationship really feels like to me, even though I know it's supposed to be more than that, so much more. It just feels like two people who want to sleep together but don't really want to commit. Not a great love story, that set-up.
I think the thing that is missing is the history. The grand passion between Drew and Liz happens off-stage, so we really don't get a sense of what they're fighting for. Both suffered heartbreak at the hands of others and found solace with each other, if only briefly, and that could be really powerful, except it's not actually in this book. I needed to see the pain and angst and the reckless passion that brought them together in the first place if I was going to buy what's happening in this book. I haven't read all the Kowalski books, so maybe it was in another one, but it shouldn't be. It's deadly important to this story. It's missing, and sadly so, because I probably would have cared about the relationship if I had that to go on.
And one other thing that really bugged me: when Liz goes to her surrogate mom Rose and tells her that she and Drew are no more because she wants to figure out what she wants from life and he wants her to believe that it's babies now, Rose asks her if she's happy. She says yes, she has a job she loves and she's with family she loves and she's in love with a guy, and Rose tells her that should be enough. That she was stupid and stubborn for wanting to see if there's more. Okay, so maybe Rose is right that being happy with job and home and love is enough to be happy for now, but not giving credence to the fact that Liz might want to be more than a waitress and wife and mom is stupid and stubborn and a recipe for postpartum depression. It's okay for that to be enough. You don't have to be a lawyer or travel the world or be big on YouTube to be happy. But you're allowed to hope and dream and try. Liz is right to want to explore other options, even if she decides not to pursue them. Nobody, neither her pseudo-mom nor her boyfriend, is right to tell her otherwise. That broke my heart a little. Just when I was starting to get a sense of who Liz actually was and who she could be, she was forced to say, "No, you're right, dreams are stupid."
In my heart I really like the concept of the Kowalski books. Just regular people, more or less, falling in love and having fun with family. Helps when you're sick to death of billionaire CEOs. The romance in the everyday appeals to me. Stealing moments amid messy family stuff. Relationships under small-town microscopes. So much to relate to. But maybe not so much passion all the time. And unless there's passion, it's kind of too relatable, and I can just follow my neighbours on Facebook for that.
Neva
Reviewed from ARC. Published by Carina Press December 1, 2013.
Full review at nomdeplumepress.wordpress.com
June 9, 2020
The first two books in Kowalski Family are absolutely my favorite and unlike with the proceeding books It's not that good enough. Thankfully Love a Little Sideways didn't disappoint. It's a great read, that would definitely set your reading mojo.
September 19, 2017
Reunión familiar del batallón de protagonistas anteriores, más su batallón de churumbeles, y de guinda la pareja protagonista obsesionada con el tema hijos...soooo not my kind of book...
June 4, 2015
I am binge listening to this series, and although each book is unique, I have to admit, they are all starting to blend into one big Kowalski-story-of-doom, and it’s hard to distinguish each of the individual pieces to write a comprehensive and distinctive review. With that said, Love a Little Sideways marks a change in the Kowalski Family series, moving from a focus on saving the Northern Star Lodge, which reached its peak in the previous book All He Ever Dreamed.
This time around, the story centers on the return of sister Liz, who ended a long-term relationship and moved back home after a 15 year absence. Back a couple books ago, Liz was home for her eldest brother, Mitch’s wedding, and had a quick hook-up with Mitch’s best friend, Drew Miller. Drew had also recently ended his relationship, a marriage to his high school sweetheart. Telling themselves that it was only a one-time thing, the pair skirt around their mutual attraction for the sake of Mitch and because they wanted different things in life. But when the pair is forced to spend a lot of time together at the Kowalski Family camping trip, they can no longer deny their feelings.
Overall, Love a Little Sideways is a good story, but not nearly my favorite of the Kowalski Family series. As a stand alone, it works, but Drew and Liz’s story really starts way back with Drew’s split in the fourth title of the series. While I liked the pair together, they didn’t seem to have the spark that the previous couples exuded. Possibly because both Drew and Liz have baggage, or because they are convinced it won’t work, but I found myself not as connected to the couple as I would want. And while I loved that the book went back to the campground where the entire series started, I actually missed Whitford and its residents.
I also missed the side stories that have always accompanied each book in the series; Love a Little Sideways only had two POVs - Drew and Liz. Having an additional POV and side story would have helped diffuse the monotony of the constant baby discussion, which grew tiresome after a while. It wasn’t until about the 90% mark of the book that I felt Drew and Liz had a reasonable and real conversation about their lives. But in the end, I still enjoyed the book and will keep coming back for more.
I’ve discussed the narration by Lauren Fortgang in my earlier reviews. Nothing more to add… Great job.
Rating: B
Narration: A
This time around, the story centers on the return of sister Liz, who ended a long-term relationship and moved back home after a 15 year absence. Back a couple books ago, Liz was home for her eldest brother, Mitch’s wedding, and had a quick hook-up with Mitch’s best friend, Drew Miller. Drew had also recently ended his relationship, a marriage to his high school sweetheart. Telling themselves that it was only a one-time thing, the pair skirt around their mutual attraction for the sake of Mitch and because they wanted different things in life. But when the pair is forced to spend a lot of time together at the Kowalski Family camping trip, they can no longer deny their feelings.
Overall, Love a Little Sideways is a good story, but not nearly my favorite of the Kowalski Family series. As a stand alone, it works, but Drew and Liz’s story really starts way back with Drew’s split in the fourth title of the series. While I liked the pair together, they didn’t seem to have the spark that the previous couples exuded. Possibly because both Drew and Liz have baggage, or because they are convinced it won’t work, but I found myself not as connected to the couple as I would want. And while I loved that the book went back to the campground where the entire series started, I actually missed Whitford and its residents.
I also missed the side stories that have always accompanied each book in the series; Love a Little Sideways only had two POVs - Drew and Liz. Having an additional POV and side story would have helped diffuse the monotony of the constant baby discussion, which grew tiresome after a while. It wasn’t until about the 90% mark of the book that I felt Drew and Liz had a reasonable and real conversation about their lives. But in the end, I still enjoyed the book and will keep coming back for more.
I’ve discussed the narration by Lauren Fortgang in my earlier reviews. Nothing more to add… Great job.
Rating: B
Narration: A
January 17, 2014
My Review:
The Kowalski's are going camping again. That first Kowalski book is my absolute favorite so I loved that this one was doing the same thing. Family camping trips with multiple units of the family attending is something I can definitely relate to. But that was also the downfall of this book...there were just a few too many moments that felt like they'd been scalped out of the other books. Not that it was a bad book...look at my rating....it definitely wasn't. There were just a few too many scenes that came out of the other books (pool scenes with kid battles of doom, four-wheeling, dirty scrabble) for my liking and that's why this one doesn't rank up there as an A rated/5 star book.
This book is about Drew and Liz. Honestly, I loved their story...until they went camping...the part I was most looking forward to before I started reading. But I did really like the backstory and the way that the romance between the two of them unfolded. Drew is the town sheriff and best friend to Mitch, Liz's brother. They had an intense moment eight months ago when neither one of them was in a place where they could form a relationship. But now Liz is moving back home and Drew has to come pull her out of a ditch as she pulls into town. Immediately they are thrown together and that happens more and more as time goes by.
They try to stay apart because they want different things with where they are at in their lives, but this is a small town and their families are completely intertwined....and they are the only single people left in the bunch. There's no fighting it. Overall, I loved the book. I stayed up WAY too late finishing it because I couldn't stand to put it down. I just wish the camping section had been done a little bit differently. While all those scenes were fun...I've read them before.
But overall, I would recommend this book whether you've read all the Kowalski books or not. It's highly entertaining fun.
The Kowalski's are going camping again. That first Kowalski book is my absolute favorite so I loved that this one was doing the same thing. Family camping trips with multiple units of the family attending is something I can definitely relate to. But that was also the downfall of this book...there were just a few too many moments that felt like they'd been scalped out of the other books. Not that it was a bad book...look at my rating....it definitely wasn't. There were just a few too many scenes that came out of the other books (pool scenes with kid battles of doom, four-wheeling, dirty scrabble) for my liking and that's why this one doesn't rank up there as an A rated/5 star book.
This book is about Drew and Liz. Honestly, I loved their story...until they went camping...the part I was most looking forward to before I started reading. But I did really like the backstory and the way that the romance between the two of them unfolded. Drew is the town sheriff and best friend to Mitch, Liz's brother. They had an intense moment eight months ago when neither one of them was in a place where they could form a relationship. But now Liz is moving back home and Drew has to come pull her out of a ditch as she pulls into town. Immediately they are thrown together and that happens more and more as time goes by.
They try to stay apart because they want different things with where they are at in their lives, but this is a small town and their families are completely intertwined....and they are the only single people left in the bunch. There's no fighting it. Overall, I loved the book. I stayed up WAY too late finishing it because I couldn't stand to put it down. I just wish the camping section had been done a little bit differently. While all those scenes were fun...I've read them before.
But overall, I would recommend this book whether you've read all the Kowalski books or not. It's highly entertaining fun.
August 6, 2019
Review copy provided by publisher
Why I Read this Book: I absolutely love the Kowalski Family series. This is one of my auto-read series so I get super excited each time a new book comes out.
What I Liked: Recently divorced Drew had been married to someone who lied about wanting kids, which was ultimately a deal breaker for him. And this played such an important role in Drew and Liz’s relationship. It wasn’t quickly brushed off or easily solved. This was something each of them had to think about before deciding on whether or not to proceed with the relationship, especially being that Drew and Liz were each at different stages in their life. Both are starting over but Drew’s clock is ticking; he wants kids and that’s non-negotiable. Liz just moved back to her hometown and is trying to figure out what she wants from life. So it was interesting to see them fight the chemistry and attraction even though it was so strong.
Thanks to the family reunion, I enjoyed ‘catching up’ with the other couples I’ve already read about. There was even dirty Scrabble! As always with a Kowalski Family novel, there are fun times to be had and funny moments to enjoy.
Another thing I like about this series is the small town setting. I’ve always lived in a big city so small town life is foreign to me. I long to live in community where everyone knows everybody and the people band together during tough times, like the gals do in this series.
Memorable Moment:
Oh, Mitch. LOL
Overall Impression: Love a Little Sideways was a fun contemporary romance about two people making a fresh new start in life, and the chaos that erupts around them solely because one is a Kowalski.
Why I Read this Book: I absolutely love the Kowalski Family series. This is one of my auto-read series so I get super excited each time a new book comes out.
What I Liked: Recently divorced Drew had been married to someone who lied about wanting kids, which was ultimately a deal breaker for him. And this played such an important role in Drew and Liz’s relationship. It wasn’t quickly brushed off or easily solved. This was something each of them had to think about before deciding on whether or not to proceed with the relationship, especially being that Drew and Liz were each at different stages in their life. Both are starting over but Drew’s clock is ticking; he wants kids and that’s non-negotiable. Liz just moved back to her hometown and is trying to figure out what she wants from life. So it was interesting to see them fight the chemistry and attraction even though it was so strong.
Thanks to the family reunion, I enjoyed ‘catching up’ with the other couples I’ve already read about. There was even dirty Scrabble! As always with a Kowalski Family novel, there are fun times to be had and funny moments to enjoy.
Another thing I like about this series is the small town setting. I’ve always lived in a big city so small town life is foreign to me. I long to live in community where everyone knows everybody and the people band together during tough times, like the gals do in this series.
Memorable Moment:
“Sometimes my wife talks, but I don’t listen. I just nod. But tell no one.”
Oh, Mitch. LOL
Overall Impression: Love a Little Sideways was a fun contemporary romance about two people making a fresh new start in life, and the chaos that erupts around them solely because one is a Kowalski.
November 27, 2013
This is written as a joint review with my blogmate Kindle Gal...
Kindle Gal: So, Em…I don’t know about you, but I have been waiting a LONG time for this book. Liz Kowalski is the last of the siblings and cousins in this big, awesome family, and ever since her “secret” rendezvous at her oldest brother Mitch’s wedding in Book 5, I just KNEW she had to get her own happily ever after. Thank goodness Shannon Stacey doesn’t disappoint her fans, even though we had to wait 10+ months to get it. {insert whiny reader pout here} But I love this series and this family, and I think this story was worth the wait.
Emily: I’m so excited to be back to do another combo review with you, KG! I too have been waiting for Liz’s story. Liz is the Kowalski I felt I knew the least about, and it was fun getting to know and like her in Love a Little Sideways. And I did, like her that is. She could totally be one of my besties – she is snarky and funny and completely down to earth. Liz is back in her hometown after being gone most her adult life and is not only readjusting to the small town where everyone knows everyone else’s business, but she is also basically starting her life over. She is looking for fun and adventure and to just live life a little. I know you and I tend to be rough on heroines, so I’m curious what you thought about Liz.
[Read the rest of this review on Kindles & Wine.]
Note: We received a copy of this title from the author in exchange for an honest review.
Kindle Gal: So, Em…I don’t know about you, but I have been waiting a LONG time for this book. Liz Kowalski is the last of the siblings and cousins in this big, awesome family, and ever since her “secret” rendezvous at her oldest brother Mitch’s wedding in Book 5, I just KNEW she had to get her own happily ever after. Thank goodness Shannon Stacey doesn’t disappoint her fans, even though we had to wait 10+ months to get it. {insert whiny reader pout here} But I love this series and this family, and I think this story was worth the wait.
Emily: I’m so excited to be back to do another combo review with you, KG! I too have been waiting for Liz’s story. Liz is the Kowalski I felt I knew the least about, and it was fun getting to know and like her in Love a Little Sideways. And I did, like her that is. She could totally be one of my besties – she is snarky and funny and completely down to earth. Liz is back in her hometown after being gone most her adult life and is not only readjusting to the small town where everyone knows everyone else’s business, but she is also basically starting her life over. She is looking for fun and adventure and to just live life a little. I know you and I tend to be rough on heroines, so I’m curious what you thought about Liz.
[Read the rest of this review on Kindles & Wine.]
Note: We received a copy of this title from the author in exchange for an honest review.
December 19, 2013
I love the Kowalski family and it is always a treat to get to visit them once more! This was certainly no exception! I've been curious about Liz and Drew since their interlude at Mitch's wedding, wanting to know if they had something there and boy oh boy do they! From their first meeting when Liz comes home all throughout the book, the sparks just fly between them! I loved Drew's initial thoughts upon seeing her in the car: such a typical male reaction mixed with real emotion. In fact, one of the things I loved most was the fact that Drew was the one that was itching to get married and have kids. It's not often you see the lead male being the one looking for all of that and I just love that about him. I also love Liz's hesitation and her desire to start fresh and find herself before diving in headfirst into something like that. She's a strong female character and a definite member of the Kowalski gene pool! The circling the two of them do around each other was both amusing and tugged at the heartstrings. I felt bad for Drew hiding things from Mitch, but I understood he's fears and concerns. Of course Mitch finds out in one of the worst ways possible...but hey, it's like ripping a bandaid off. The Kowalski family camping trip proved to be as entertaining as one would expect. The kids are crazy, everything happens "of doom" and the family pokes and prods and meddles like any loving family does. I loved seeing Sean and Emma with their baby, Paige being pregnant, Katie and Josh thinking about it. So much happiness and love in that family. And most of all I love that Liz and Drew worked things out, talked things out and realized just how much they love and need each other. Even if it turns their lives a little sideways.
I loved it and I love this series!
I loved it and I love this series!
February 14, 2015
After ending a long-term relationship, Liz Kowalski has decided to move back to her hometown and make a fresh start. But a fresh start didn't include taking up with Police Chief Drew Miller after their one-night-stand at her brother's wedding. Drew had always wanted a family and was looking for a woman who would give him children. He knows Liz isn't interested in a quick marriage and family, but Drew hasn't been able to get her out of his mind since their liaison. There is also the problem of Liz being his best friend's sister. As Drew and Liz try to stay clear of each other, they are constantly thrown together by family and friends. When both of them attend the annual Kowalski camping trip, keeping their hands off of each other keeps getting harder and harder.
This is another winner in Shannon Stacey's Kowaksi Family series. Both Liz and Drew have made appearances in previous books. I was looking forward to their book and it didn't disappoint. I loved that Drew was nervous about his best friend, Mitch, finding out about his relationship with Liz. He worried that Liz wasn't invested in the relationship and he would be giving up his best friend for nothing.
It was great seeing the whole extended Kowalski family at the camping trip. I loved their competitions, especially the water ball of doom. My rating: 4.5 Stars.
This is another winner in Shannon Stacey's Kowaksi Family series. Both Liz and Drew have made appearances in previous books. I was looking forward to their book and it didn't disappoint. I loved that Drew was nervous about his best friend, Mitch, finding out about his relationship with Liz. He worried that Liz wasn't invested in the relationship and he would be giving up his best friend for nothing.
It was great seeing the whole extended Kowalski family at the camping trip. I loved their competitions, especially the water ball of doom. My rating: 4.5 Stars.
February 13, 2014
I was anxious to read Drew & Liz's love story for a while now. They fit perfectly together, but they're hindered by Drew's best friend, who happens to be Liz's big brother. These high school politics get in the way of their attraction and so they fight it, but they cannot stop it and it soon comes to a head and Drew has to decide if he wants to tell Mitch about his feelings for Liz. Liz, meanwhile, recently moved back to live with her family in Maine after years of being in New Mexico, is still trying to find herself and what she wants out of life. She and everyone else knows that recently divorced Drew is anxious to have kids because his childhood sweetheart ex-wife put him off for years before finally admitting she didn't want kids. This can put a lot of pressure on a relationship, but Drew & Liz had chemistry and attraction to spare and it was fun to watch them fall for each other after growing up together. I loved these characters and I really love this series. I cannot wait to get to the next book. If you're looking for a sweet, hot quick read, this is it.
February 22, 2017
Ich liebe den Kowalski-Clan. Diese Familie ist so liebevoll nervig und humorvoll.
Und das Gute ist: man muss die Bücher nicht in der vorgegebenen Reihenfolge lesen. Das habe ich auch nicht und trotzdem kommt man schnell rein.
Die Geschichte ist natürlich zuckersüß, sehr sexy, ein bisschen dramatisch und vor allem bringt sie die Leser mehr als einmal zum Schmunzeln.
Drew hat mir an manchen Stellen nicht so gefallen. Er war viel zu verbissen was gewisse Themen betrifft. Aber Liz war dafür umso sympathischer.
Und das Gute ist: man muss die Bücher nicht in der vorgegebenen Reihenfolge lesen. Das habe ich auch nicht und trotzdem kommt man schnell rein.
Die Geschichte ist natürlich zuckersüß, sehr sexy, ein bisschen dramatisch und vor allem bringt sie die Leser mehr als einmal zum Schmunzeln.
Drew hat mir an manchen Stellen nicht so gefallen. Er war viel zu verbissen was gewisse Themen betrifft. Aber Liz war dafür umso sympathischer.
January 9, 2014
I love the Kowalskis. I was excited to go on another Kowalski Camping Trip of DOOM in this book. I laughed out loud several times while reading.
August 22, 2017
5/5 + Favorito
Melhor livro da série até agora, junto com o primeiro. <3
Melhor livro da série até agora, junto com o primeiro. <3
October 13, 2017
*shrug* Typical Kowalski cuteness, but I wanted to thwack the hero over the head multiple times. I am also not at all convinced at all that they would last more than 2 months as a couple.
August 13, 2016
Received an ARC from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review
This was a really big disappointment for me.
It started so promising ...... two people who have grown up together fall into bed together one day during a wedding expecting it to be a one-time thing but then being forced to confront their attraction when they end up living in the same small town again. However, two major things stopped this story from being enjoyable:
1. He's the best friend of her brother
This is a theme dealt with in many romance novels and I have nothing against this trope ... UNTIL IT IS DONE TO DEATH. Honestly, the amount of times both Liz and Drew mentioned the problem that is Mitch (her brother, his best friend) ..... just get over it already. I don't know whether it's because I am an only child but I am perfectly capable of understanding the friction there BUT NOT TO THE EXTENT IT IS PLAYED OUT IN THIS BOOK. These are 30-something characters. Mitch should have more important things to worry about like Paige. Why would he be so obsessed with his sister's sex life?!?! Shouldn't he be happy that his best friend, and all around good guy and town cop, is taking care of his sister?!
Weirdly enough whilst I didn't like the whole He-Man nature of it, Mitch dealt with the whole thing better than I though. It's definitely weird when he ends up being the one to come out best of the whole mess.
2. He wants children, she doesn't
Having watched Owen/Cristina dance around this for far too many seasons on Grey's Anatomy I have some experience of watching writers deal with this topic and nothing will make me believe that a woman can change her mind about this at all, or definitely not in a blink of an eye. There are exceptions to this (in fandom at least) say if she suddenly finds herself pregnant, having a child suddenly in her custody due to unexpected family death or a near-death experience.
None of these apply to Liz.
Okay, I admit Liz doesn't ever say she doesn't want children full stop but she does repeatedly say she doesn't want them yet. How does one conversation with Rosie (who does admittedly make good points and I can see how that would have helped Liz change her mind eventually) suddenly make her go "yup, actually I am happy with my life as a waitress and let's start having children now" after spending the previous 200 pages claiming she doesn't want children in the near future. At least give her time to mull things over and come to this conclusion, some distance, perhaps sending her off to explore her educational options before she suddenly comes to the realisation that where she would be happiest is having a family with Drew. Give me something to make me believe that her change of heart is believable!
Rant over. This book wasn't actually that bad.
February 26, 2017
Ich gebe zu, ich bin Kowalski- fiziert! Denn seit dem ersten Buch bin ich Fan der Kowalski's, sie sind eine große chaotische Familie mit viel Herzlichkeit, Witz und Charm. Bis jetzt hat mir wirklich jedes Buch gefallen und so war es auch bei diesem hier.
Drew ist Chief bei der Polizei, frisch geschieden, der beste Freund von Mitch Kowalski und er hatte vor kurzem einen One- Night- Stand mit der kleinen Schwester von Mitch. Was an sich kein Problem darstellen sollte, gäbe es da nicht diesen Kodex zwischen den zwei besten Freunden- die kleine Schwester ist tabu, und würde Liz jetzt nicht plötzlich zurück in ihre Heimatstadt ziehen. Denn plötzlich wird beiden klar, dass sie mehr voneinander wollen, jedoch kämpfen beide dagegen an. Bis sie zusammen mit der ganzen Familie Kowalski einen Campingausflug machen.
Liz Kowalski hat sich von ihrem Freund getrennt und will in ihrer Heimatstadt einen Neuanfang starten und sich klar darüber werden, was sie in ihrer Zukunft wirklich will. Doch keineswegs hat sie mit der starken Anziehung zu Drew gerechnet. Die Frage ist nun, was sie möchte, denn keineswegs wollte sie sich in eine neue Beziehung stürzen, vor allem da jeder weiß, dass Drew seine Frau verlassen hat, weil diese keine Kinder wollte. Aber ist Liz denn schon bereit für Kinder? Denn das ist schließlich der größte Wunsch von Drew.
Auch dieser Teil hat mich zu 100% abgeholt, ich mag die lockere, spritzige Schreibweise der Autorin und auch, dass die Prise Herzschmerz nicht fehlt.
Eine klare Leseempfehlung von mir.
Drew ist Chief bei der Polizei, frisch geschieden, der beste Freund von Mitch Kowalski und er hatte vor kurzem einen One- Night- Stand mit der kleinen Schwester von Mitch. Was an sich kein Problem darstellen sollte, gäbe es da nicht diesen Kodex zwischen den zwei besten Freunden- die kleine Schwester ist tabu, und würde Liz jetzt nicht plötzlich zurück in ihre Heimatstadt ziehen. Denn plötzlich wird beiden klar, dass sie mehr voneinander wollen, jedoch kämpfen beide dagegen an. Bis sie zusammen mit der ganzen Familie Kowalski einen Campingausflug machen.
Liz Kowalski hat sich von ihrem Freund getrennt und will in ihrer Heimatstadt einen Neuanfang starten und sich klar darüber werden, was sie in ihrer Zukunft wirklich will. Doch keineswegs hat sie mit der starken Anziehung zu Drew gerechnet. Die Frage ist nun, was sie möchte, denn keineswegs wollte sie sich in eine neue Beziehung stürzen, vor allem da jeder weiß, dass Drew seine Frau verlassen hat, weil diese keine Kinder wollte. Aber ist Liz denn schon bereit für Kinder? Denn das ist schließlich der größte Wunsch von Drew.
Auch dieser Teil hat mich zu 100% abgeholt, ich mag die lockere, spritzige Schreibweise der Autorin und auch, dass die Prise Herzschmerz nicht fehlt.
Eine klare Leseempfehlung von mir.
October 4, 2014
At First Sight: Having spent most of her adult life living in Texas, Liz Kowalski has finally made the choice to return to her hometown in Maine to be closer to her brothers, all of whom are settling down and forming their families there or near by.
She's not exactly ready for the first person she runs into once she's back in town to be police Chief Drew Miller. Drew is her brother Mitch's best friend, he was always around growing up, and last time she was in town they slept together at her brother's wedding. Which both neglected to tell to Mitch.
It was supposed to be a one off- type of thing but with her now living in town (and driving his car, since she crashed hers on her way into town), they are constantly running into each other, and the chemistry that lead them to sleep together before is alive and well, even if the whole thing seems a bit hopeless, since Drew really wants to marry and have kids, like, yesterday; and Liz just got out of a long term relationship that led her no-where and is not trying to figure out who she is and what she's meant to do.
Second Glance: I'm going to start by saying that I really enjoy Shannon Stacey's writing, I enjoy her style and her characters; but I had a few big problems with Love a Little Sideways. The biggest one was the lack of conflict: Drew and Liz are both well into their mid thirties yet they run scared from her brother like they are in high school.
Yes, Drew wants kids and marriage and Liz doesn't right now, but he wasn't a jerk about it or tried to get her pregnant or anything like that, they aren't even together that much on the page - as in they spend more time pinning after each other than as a couple. Yet Liz is always freaking out about how Drew wanted kids. He does, it was stablished in a previous book but he wasn't really pressuring her into getting pregnant tomorrow.
So it really came across as a lack of conflict. Added to the fact that Liz kept wondering what she should do with her life like she was 18, or like being a career waitress wasn't good enough, not because she didn't like it or enjoy it or didn't make enough money, but because her brothers had gone to college and owned their own business.
And so she kept talking about being in Maine as if it was temporary, even though she wasn't sure she wanted to do anything else than what she was already doing. It came off as childish, something I have a hard time forgiving a thirty-something woman for when she's otherwise fairly capable.
Also, I like the other Kowalskis and it's nice to get a shout out here and there, but did I need a whole camping trip with the whole entire Kowalski family? No, I did not. Specially because it felt like a repeat of books past.
Bottom Line: Well, the writing is good but I think it might be time to say good by to the Kowalski clan. This could have been a perfectly lovely story with little conflict, which I would have preferred loads more to what I got which was a BLAND and silly conflict.
She's not exactly ready for the first person she runs into once she's back in town to be police Chief Drew Miller. Drew is her brother Mitch's best friend, he was always around growing up, and last time she was in town they slept together at her brother's wedding. Which both neglected to tell to Mitch.
It was supposed to be a one off- type of thing but with her now living in town (and driving his car, since she crashed hers on her way into town), they are constantly running into each other, and the chemistry that lead them to sleep together before is alive and well, even if the whole thing seems a bit hopeless, since Drew really wants to marry and have kids, like, yesterday; and Liz just got out of a long term relationship that led her no-where and is not trying to figure out who she is and what she's meant to do.
Second Glance: I'm going to start by saying that I really enjoy Shannon Stacey's writing, I enjoy her style and her characters; but I had a few big problems with Love a Little Sideways. The biggest one was the lack of conflict: Drew and Liz are both well into their mid thirties yet they run scared from her brother like they are in high school.
Yes, Drew wants kids and marriage and Liz doesn't right now, but he wasn't a jerk about it or tried to get her pregnant or anything like that, they aren't even together that much on the page - as in they spend more time pinning after each other than as a couple. Yet Liz is always freaking out about how Drew wanted kids. He does, it was stablished in a previous book but he wasn't really pressuring her into getting pregnant tomorrow.
So it really came across as a lack of conflict. Added to the fact that Liz kept wondering what she should do with her life like she was 18, or like being a career waitress wasn't good enough, not because she didn't like it or enjoy it or didn't make enough money, but because her brothers had gone to college and owned their own business.
And so she kept talking about being in Maine as if it was temporary, even though she wasn't sure she wanted to do anything else than what she was already doing. It came off as childish, something I have a hard time forgiving a thirty-something woman for when she's otherwise fairly capable.
Also, I like the other Kowalskis and it's nice to get a shout out here and there, but did I need a whole camping trip with the whole entire Kowalski family? No, I did not. Specially because it felt like a repeat of books past.
Bottom Line: Well, the writing is good but I think it might be time to say good by to the Kowalski clan. This could have been a perfectly lovely story with little conflict, which I would have preferred loads more to what I got which was a BLAND and silly conflict.
November 29, 2013
Happy sigh. Love a Little Sideways by Shannon Stacey is another fun episode featuring the Kowalski family. I wish this series was made into a sitcom or miniseries type movie because they are so entertaining. I am not sure how Shannon can keep all the Kowalski's straight but she does a good job of reminding us readers in each book. I need that even though I have read them all from the beginning, so thank you, Shannon.
In Love a Little Sideways we get to follow Liz Kowalski's life for a little while. She has lived in New Mexico for most of the series so we don't know much about her. Liz has decided it is time to start over. Leaving a guy that was no good for her and just about all her belongings in New Mexico, Liz has decided to come home to Whitford and be closer to her family. That also puts her closer to Police Chief Drew Miller, best friend of her older brother Mitch, newly divorced and the guy she hooked up with on Mitch's wedding night.
Shannon does a really nice job of introducing Liz back into the town of Whitford and of course her family welcomes her back with open arms. The relationship between Drew and Liz is awkward for them which makes it a little awkward for the readers. They aren't sure what to do about their chemistry. Do they go for it or do they remain friends? I liked that awkwardness, though, because the reader is walking through it with them. I felt the same way that Liz did about her relationship with Drew. Unsettled. Confused. Not sure what to do. Oh, and I, too, was getting mad at Drew sometimes just like Liz.
The family reunion camping trip was the highlight of the story. Emotions and tempers ran high during this time when Drew and Liz's relationship was exposed to the family. No one had known what happened the night of Mitch and Paige's wedding. I won't tell you how they all found out because that is a big part of the story. It isn't what I anticipated which made it that much more fun. Boy do those Kowalski's have a temper, including Liz! Once the secret was out, though, Drew and Liz had the freedom to explore their new relationship. It turned out to be very comfortable and easy for them, but there was always something simmering just below the surface that finally came to head. After some sense was knocked into Drew and Liz, we were able to watch them go and get their Happy Ever After.
Love a Little Sideways is a good solid book. The romantic relationship between Drew and Liz does not have as many explosive highs and lows as other books in the series, but part of that is because Drew and Liz have known each other since they were little so the get-to-know-you stage was not there like some. I thoroughly enjoyed the story and would recommend it to anyone that likes contemporary romance. Whether you have read about the Kowalski's from the beginning or are just starting, Love a Little Sideways is a book you don't want to miss.
In Love a Little Sideways we get to follow Liz Kowalski's life for a little while. She has lived in New Mexico for most of the series so we don't know much about her. Liz has decided it is time to start over. Leaving a guy that was no good for her and just about all her belongings in New Mexico, Liz has decided to come home to Whitford and be closer to her family. That also puts her closer to Police Chief Drew Miller, best friend of her older brother Mitch, newly divorced and the guy she hooked up with on Mitch's wedding night.
Shannon does a really nice job of introducing Liz back into the town of Whitford and of course her family welcomes her back with open arms. The relationship between Drew and Liz is awkward for them which makes it a little awkward for the readers. They aren't sure what to do about their chemistry. Do they go for it or do they remain friends? I liked that awkwardness, though, because the reader is walking through it with them. I felt the same way that Liz did about her relationship with Drew. Unsettled. Confused. Not sure what to do. Oh, and I, too, was getting mad at Drew sometimes just like Liz.
The family reunion camping trip was the highlight of the story. Emotions and tempers ran high during this time when Drew and Liz's relationship was exposed to the family. No one had known what happened the night of Mitch and Paige's wedding. I won't tell you how they all found out because that is a big part of the story. It isn't what I anticipated which made it that much more fun. Boy do those Kowalski's have a temper, including Liz! Once the secret was out, though, Drew and Liz had the freedom to explore their new relationship. It turned out to be very comfortable and easy for them, but there was always something simmering just below the surface that finally came to head. After some sense was knocked into Drew and Liz, we were able to watch them go and get their Happy Ever After.
Love a Little Sideways is a good solid book. The romantic relationship between Drew and Liz does not have as many explosive highs and lows as other books in the series, but part of that is because Drew and Liz have known each other since they were little so the get-to-know-you stage was not there like some. I thoroughly enjoyed the story and would recommend it to anyone that likes contemporary romance. Whether you have read about the Kowalski's from the beginning or are just starting, Love a Little Sideways is a book you don't want to miss.
October 17, 2014
Hotness Rating 3 out of 5
In Love a Little Sideways, the 7th book of the Kowalski Family series, by Shannon Stacey we finally get the only girl sibling of the super hot and oh-so-fun Kowalski family. While Liz's story wasn't my favorite of the series it certainly held it's own and had a lot of really good, stand-out parts.
Liz Kowalski left the family lodge years before just as all but one of her brothers had done. Lately, it's all been getting to her. She is missing her home and she feels like she hasn't achieved even half of what her brothers have. None of this bothered her until she came home for the wedding. She spent a lot of time with her brothers and caught up on a lot of family gossip. She even had a quickie with her brother's best friend. Maybe not her finest moment, but it was good and she needed it so bad. It shouldn't have been awkward since she lived halfway across the country. But, now she's decided to move home and she'll see Drew on a regular basis.
Drew Miller is just getting over his divorce. He loved his wife and always thought they were on the same page. Came to find out that she didn't want a family and that's all he's ever wanted. He has every intention of doing better in the future. No more frivolous relationships. He wants a family and will focus on a woman wanting the same thing. Yet, that one encounter with Liz has haunted him. But, Liz is all wrong for him. For one, she is the sister of his best friend and he knows Mitch would not take kindly to Drew hooking up with his baby sister. Two, Liz's life is a mess right now. She doesn't know if she wants to settle where she is or move on. It's certainly no time for her to be thinking of a family. But, damn if he doesn't want her and is finding her too hard to resist.
I love that Liz is able to reinvent herself. She's a strong woman and is just learning that. Drew was all kinds of lovable. My heart broke for him so many times. He so often felt like he had to choose between his wants for the not-so-distant future and what he wants right now and maybe forever. Another great read, Ms. Stacey!
You can find this review and others at www.riverinaromantics.com
In Love a Little Sideways, the 7th book of the Kowalski Family series, by Shannon Stacey we finally get the only girl sibling of the super hot and oh-so-fun Kowalski family. While Liz's story wasn't my favorite of the series it certainly held it's own and had a lot of really good, stand-out parts.
Liz Kowalski left the family lodge years before just as all but one of her brothers had done. Lately, it's all been getting to her. She is missing her home and she feels like she hasn't achieved even half of what her brothers have. None of this bothered her until she came home for the wedding. She spent a lot of time with her brothers and caught up on a lot of family gossip. She even had a quickie with her brother's best friend. Maybe not her finest moment, but it was good and she needed it so bad. It shouldn't have been awkward since she lived halfway across the country. But, now she's decided to move home and she'll see Drew on a regular basis.
Drew Miller is just getting over his divorce. He loved his wife and always thought they were on the same page. Came to find out that she didn't want a family and that's all he's ever wanted. He has every intention of doing better in the future. No more frivolous relationships. He wants a family and will focus on a woman wanting the same thing. Yet, that one encounter with Liz has haunted him. But, Liz is all wrong for him. For one, she is the sister of his best friend and he knows Mitch would not take kindly to Drew hooking up with his baby sister. Two, Liz's life is a mess right now. She doesn't know if she wants to settle where she is or move on. It's certainly no time for her to be thinking of a family. But, damn if he doesn't want her and is finding her too hard to resist.
I love that Liz is able to reinvent herself. She's a strong woman and is just learning that. Drew was all kinds of lovable. My heart broke for him so many times. He so often felt like he had to choose between his wants for the not-so-distant future and what he wants right now and maybe forever. Another great read, Ms. Stacey!
You can find this review and others at www.riverinaromantics.com
August 25, 2016
In the interest of full disclosure, I received an advance reader edition of this book from Carina Press and Net Galley for the purpose of review.
Shannon Stacy really knows how to write a realistic love story. If you enjoy real life romance and have never read one of her books, you should read this author as soon as possible.
This book is part of the Kowalski series. To be honest, I have read books #1 and #2 but I still need to get to the others in this series. I had no problem following this book so I am sure that all of the books in the series can be read as stand alone novels. This book starts of with Liz moving back to town to be closer to family. She slides into a tree and police are called to the scene. The chief of police is none other than Drew, her brother's best friend. Drew and Liz last saw each other when the night they disappeared during her brother's wedding for some time alone. They both had thought it was a one time thing since Liz lived across the country.
The first part of the book is filled with the chemistry between Liz and Drew and some flirting. Since Liz's brother, Mitch, does not know what is going, Drew is determined to resist temptation. Then the whole Kowalski family decides to spend a week camping together and Drew is included since his father is part of the family. Everything blows up when Mitch finds Drew and Liz together. The couple then date openly, have a few issues to work out, but in the end find their Happily Ever After.
Shannon Stacy is able to create character that are very likable and remind you of the type of people you know. These romances are real and they are well written. She also has a wonderful sense of humor that shows up in her work. The scene where we see Drew running around the campground in his underwear barefoot is great . The games of doom were fun as well. I highly recommend this book and this author to all romance fans.
Shannon Stacy really knows how to write a realistic love story. If you enjoy real life romance and have never read one of her books, you should read this author as soon as possible.
This book is part of the Kowalski series. To be honest, I have read books #1 and #2 but I still need to get to the others in this series. I had no problem following this book so I am sure that all of the books in the series can be read as stand alone novels. This book starts of with Liz moving back to town to be closer to family. She slides into a tree and police are called to the scene. The chief of police is none other than Drew, her brother's best friend. Drew and Liz last saw each other when the night they disappeared during her brother's wedding for some time alone. They both had thought it was a one time thing since Liz lived across the country.
The first part of the book is filled with the chemistry between Liz and Drew and some flirting. Since Liz's brother, Mitch, does not know what is going, Drew is determined to resist temptation. Then the whole Kowalski family decides to spend a week camping together and Drew is included since his father is part of the family. Everything blows up when Mitch finds Drew and Liz together. The couple then date openly, have a few issues to work out, but in the end find their Happily Ever After.
Shannon Stacy is able to create character that are very likable and remind you of the type of people you know. These romances are real and they are well written. She also has a wonderful sense of humor that shows up in her work. The scene where we see Drew running around the campground in his underwear barefoot is great . The games of doom were fun as well. I highly recommend this book and this author to all romance fans.
March 26, 2016
too much family meddling can get annoying and most of the story was told during the family reunion where i couldnt keep track of all the characters. i know dating your best friends sister is awkward but everyones scared thought of how mitch will react is absurd. If drew was a great guy then mitch wouldnt have minded coz he knows drew will take care of her. I know they were moving too fast and their serious conversations were too little for a couple who said they get along quite well. Instead of compromising or setting a better schedule one was pushing though he said he wouldnt while the other just keeps freezing and pushing the other away. when the eventual fight came i was with drew. Couldnt understand how liz was self centered and kept thinking about herself when she didnt know what she wanted and gets angry when drew tries to tell her that. I also dont quite agree with the ending.. Yes having a family and friends around you is great but is it fulfilling to work at someplace you know is just temporary and when you havent found your passion and meaning in life? Is settling down and having a family the end game? Why does she have to choose between being happy just in a small town vs finding what you want and going for it? For the most part we dont really know much about liz or what shes good at. we just know she moved far away had a crappy bf with no money saved. And she laments that she feels shes not accomplished enough and rose tells her it should be enough. Hello!! I would have told Liz to not stop dreaming and aim higher. Try to find the balance where she gets to do what she wants and still be with drew. Drew loves her so all he is asking is to stay with him and he is willing to wait when she is ready to have kids.. And i understand that since liz is not thinking or discussing her future its frustrating coz he doesnt know if this is going somewhere or nowhere.. Or maybr drew could have just helped her find her dream and made her feel loved without being too pushy. The start showed so much promise but just fell flat in the end.
April 30, 2014
In Love a Little Sideways by Shannon Stacey, we finally get to see more about Liz and Drew, as you may remember there was an interlude between them at Mitch’s wedding that left (at least me) wondering if there was more to them. Well we now get to find out everything about them.
Drew and Liz have been family friends since kids, well Drew was Mitch’s best friend and therefore a family friend. So when Drew and Liz had their little interlude and she went back to her life in New Mexcio, Drew knew that what happened had to stay Secret unless he wanted to face Mitch and the consequences of his actions.
When Liz returns home to Maine, both Liz and Drew will have to face their actions and make a decision about their relationship. While they have plenty of chemistry, they have different plans for the future and no common goals. But a family camping trip may just force them to make a decision about what they want.
In Love a Little Sideways, things are a little different, Drew is recently divorced and looking to finding the right woman to settle down with and having a family. While Liz wants to experience life and settling down is not in her plans right now.
The chemistry between these two is so hot that they could not stop themselves at Mitch’s wedding, but their loyalty to family and friends are keeping them from making a decision on their relationship status. And it will take a while, so be prepared for a bit of a wait. But don’t worry, if you are a fan of the Kowalski’s and their family of Doom, you will enjoy getting to see them all thanks to the family camping trip to keep you entertained until these two make up their minds.
For a fun, sweet and entertaining read, don’t miss Love a Little Sideways by Shannon Stacey.
Drew and Liz have been family friends since kids, well Drew was Mitch’s best friend and therefore a family friend. So when Drew and Liz had their little interlude and she went back to her life in New Mexcio, Drew knew that what happened had to stay Secret unless he wanted to face Mitch and the consequences of his actions.
When Liz returns home to Maine, both Liz and Drew will have to face their actions and make a decision about their relationship. While they have plenty of chemistry, they have different plans for the future and no common goals. But a family camping trip may just force them to make a decision about what they want.
In Love a Little Sideways, things are a little different, Drew is recently divorced and looking to finding the right woman to settle down with and having a family. While Liz wants to experience life and settling down is not in her plans right now.
The chemistry between these two is so hot that they could not stop themselves at Mitch’s wedding, but their loyalty to family and friends are keeping them from making a decision on their relationship status. And it will take a while, so be prepared for a bit of a wait. But don’t worry, if you are a fan of the Kowalski’s and their family of Doom, you will enjoy getting to see them all thanks to the family camping trip to keep you entertained until these two make up their minds.
For a fun, sweet and entertaining read, don’t miss Love a Little Sideways by Shannon Stacey.
July 22, 2015
My last book in the series! I know I was out of order, but I read what the library had when they had it. I love this family and I will truly miss these books!
So in this installment, Liz Kowalski has come back after living in the west for years with her deadbeat boyfriend. They had broken up and now she's moving back with a job at the Diner and renting the house her brother's new wife vacated when they married. And she's looking forward to some family time.
What she didn't bank on was her car skidding off of the road as soon as she was in town and totaling itself. When police Chief Drew Miller shows up and calls a tow truck for her, she knows things are about to get weird. They last saw each other at her brother's wedding, when she had broken things off w/ her boyfriend and Drew's wife had left him. They had a little quickie upstairs at the lodge and no one but Rose knew about it. And with Mitch being Drew's very best friend, they both think they would be better off staying away from each other.
Not as easy as it sounds, especially when Drew's father is living at the lodge w/ Rose and he is invited to all of the Kowalski events, including their upcoming one week long camping trip. Can these two stay apart or will they give in to what they both want and to hell w/ the "code" of not dating your best friend's sister? And if they can get past all of that, what about Drew wanting a woman who will want marriage and a family fairly quickly, especially when Liz has no idea what she really wants out of her life, except to start over and be happy, but not to be pushed into marriage and a baby just when she ended a long term relationship?
Another good story. I will miss these books!
So in this installment, Liz Kowalski has come back after living in the west for years with her deadbeat boyfriend. They had broken up and now she's moving back with a job at the Diner and renting the house her brother's new wife vacated when they married. And she's looking forward to some family time.
What she didn't bank on was her car skidding off of the road as soon as she was in town and totaling itself. When police Chief Drew Miller shows up and calls a tow truck for her, she knows things are about to get weird. They last saw each other at her brother's wedding, when she had broken things off w/ her boyfriend and Drew's wife had left him. They had a little quickie upstairs at the lodge and no one but Rose knew about it. And with Mitch being Drew's very best friend, they both think they would be better off staying away from each other.
Not as easy as it sounds, especially when Drew's father is living at the lodge w/ Rose and he is invited to all of the Kowalski events, including their upcoming one week long camping trip. Can these two stay apart or will they give in to what they both want and to hell w/ the "code" of not dating your best friend's sister? And if they can get past all of that, what about Drew wanting a woman who will want marriage and a family fairly quickly, especially when Liz has no idea what she really wants out of her life, except to start over and be happy, but not to be pushed into marriage and a baby just when she ended a long term relationship?
Another good story. I will miss these books!
January 30, 2014
It was cute, kind of slow in the beginning. It took a while for me to get into it but it was a nice, sweet love story. Liz Kowalski is homesick and heads back to Maine for good to be with her family. She runs into her brother’s best friend, Drew, and the guy she had a one-night stand with, who happens to be police chief for their small town of Whitford, Maine. He helps her out after she has a car accident. Soon she is seeing him at the restaurant where she works, at her family’s Lodge and out and about in town. Although they both like each other and are definitely interested, they are worried about what her brother and the rest of the family will think if they pursue any kind of relationship. Things get complicated between them when they are stuck together on a family camping trip and no matter how hard they try to fight it, they can’t deny their desire for each other.
Although I was not blown away by it, it was a cute story that would be enjoyed by lovers of contemporary romance.
Although I was not blown away by it, it was a cute story that would be enjoyed by lovers of contemporary romance.
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