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Broken #1
Slide
***Recommended for ages 18+ due to mature situations, sexual content and language***
After surviving a horrific car accident twelve years ago, that claimed the lives of her mother and brother, heiress to the multi-billion dollar Montgomery Empire, Evangeline, promised never to go back to the city filled with memories of her tragic past. However, after an unexpected event, Evangeline reluctantly finds herself back in New York City.
Since the accident, Evangeline has feared the media attention that comes with having the Montgomery name, and would give everything up to bring back her loved ones. Delicate and camera shy, the last person she needs in her life is New York Yankees hotshot, Ryan Fox.
Witty and extremely arrogant, the notorious bad boy is well-versed at playing the game both on and off the field. Ryan isn't fazed by the media circus following his every move and couldn't be anymore different to the quiet, shy girl that is Evangeline. Everything about him screams trouble with a capital T, but it’s away from the cameras that Evangeline begins to see the real man hiding behind the cocky façade— one that is haunted by a dark and terrible secret.
Life led them to one another, but will further events and opening up about their past bring them closer, or tear them apart and have them sliding into darkness all over again?
After surviving a horrific car accident twelve years ago, that claimed the lives of her mother and brother, heiress to the multi-billion dollar Montgomery Empire, Evangeline, promised never to go back to the city filled with memories of her tragic past. However, after an unexpected event, Evangeline reluctantly finds herself back in New York City.
Since the accident, Evangeline has feared the media attention that comes with having the Montgomery name, and would give everything up to bring back her loved ones. Delicate and camera shy, the last person she needs in her life is New York Yankees hotshot, Ryan Fox.
Witty and extremely arrogant, the notorious bad boy is well-versed at playing the game both on and off the field. Ryan isn't fazed by the media circus following his every move and couldn't be anymore different to the quiet, shy girl that is Evangeline. Everything about him screams trouble with a capital T, but it’s away from the cameras that Evangeline begins to see the real man hiding behind the cocky façade— one that is haunted by a dark and terrible secret.
Life led them to one another, but will further events and opening up about their past bring them closer, or tear them apart and have them sliding into darkness all over again?
ebook
First published November 25, 2013
13 people are currently reading
642 people want to read
About the author
Michelle Congdon
12 books103 followersMichelle Congdon resides in Sydney, Australia. She enjoys reading books of all genres, watching way too many movies and TV shows, singing loudly to her favourite tunes, and going on adventures involving food and travel.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 59 reviews
December 29, 2014
ARC PROVIDED FOR BLOG TOUR
REACTION AFTER READING THE BOOK
"You and your irresistible body will be the death of me and my door deep-v-diver."
I liked it. I loved it!!!
Slide was a totally good read. The writing and the progression of the story was very smooth.
And the characters were pretty awesome!
Oh Ryan!
Let me love you!
THE GIST
Evangeline has everything that she could ever ask for.. except for a complete family.
She lost her mother and older brother on a tragic car accident and things were never the same after that. She felt lost. Alone. Unloved. That is before she met Ryan Fox.
Ryan was everything Evangeline shouldn't be hanging around with.
Evie didn't want that. She didn't want people digging up her past. She didn't want people noticing how broken she was. She didn't want anyone's pity.
But was she the only one keeping secrets? Or is Ryan keeping a few secrets of his own.
MEET THE CHARACTERS
Evangeline
I liked Evangeline at some point but there were a couple of times that I found her annoying too.
She was pretty but a little aloof. She didn't want the limelight because she didn't want her past to be talked about in public. She didn't want people looking at her and feeling pity. Her family was very rich. They were very well known in the fashion industry so if something tragic happened to their lives, people will talk about it.
I loved how she was understanding. I loved how she accepted Ryan and everything about him including his family but... I hated that she was untrusting. How can you possibly say you love someone but don't trust them?
Also, she has been so quick to pass judgement on Ryan and it wasn't really funny at all. She would believe someone else's word against the man who she said she loved. Isn't that a bit weird.
Anyways, I liked how she was not head over heels immediately towards Ryan. I liked how she answered back to Ryan on the first few scenes. I liked how she didn't immediately give in to Ryan... Well she did but there were a lot of other things at play which is why she did but.. You got to read it.. I won't be saying anymore. LOL.
Ryan
Oh gosh! I can't believe I fell for another Ryan who's also a baseball player!!
But honestly, this Ryan is far more sexual. LOL. The other Ryan (from Dare You To) was more of the innocent sweet type. This handsome devil however was just smoking with sex and appeal.
How can I even start with this guy? Oh well. He was arrogant at first yes but I guess that's what fame does to you. If you're a really good player and everyone loves you, I think you really just get used to the attention. I didn't cringe one bit during this exchange.
I love my guys full of confidence and Ryan indeed has one!
Ryan's hot and everything but that's not really the thing I loved most about him. I loved his love for his family. The secret that he's been keeping is actually related to his family and I honestly believe what he did was right. I do not judge him whatsoever for this. It was the right decision! It was an accident but he had no other choice. He had to protect his family and that made me cry a little bit.
Also.. I loved that he was persistent. I loved that he wanted to let Evangeline feel and know that he loves him and would do anything for him. I loved that he went out of his way to prove that even though it was risking his future as well.
So selfless.. I am so in love!
*swoon*
ROMANCE
Evangeline + Ryan = Perfect Combination
Oh seriously, this couple is just so perfect for each other. They were compatible in every way.
Both Ryan and Evangeline had a past they must overcome. It wasn't easy for them to tell each other this as it is hard. Traumatic experiences are never easy to talk about but when they did, they were able to support each other. They were able to love each other better.
Also, there wasn't the cliche of the male being super rich and the girl not really. This time, they were both equal and I liked that. They were both technically celebrities. And that was a good change.
FINAL VERDICT
All in all I loved it. But I did notice somethings that could be improved and it would have made this book way more better. I have some more points that I also need to point out obviously. LOL.
1 I thought it ended beautifully but the way towards the ending was a bit of a struggle for me. Did I make sense? What I was trying to say was, towards the end another "should-be" important character was introduced and wasn't given that much closure towards the end. I liked Hawke. I feel that there should have been a love triangle not that I was a fan of that but why would you introduce another male character that the male MC is going to get jealous of without him being given too much exposure. That bothered me a little. He should have been introduced maybe on the middle part of the book and not around 75% towards the end. That didn't work for me.
2 That bitch who threatened Ryan and Evangeline's relationship needs serious help. Arrrgg.. I hate her guts! I hope she burns in hell.
3 The ending was just so good! I loved how everything wrapped up and ended. But like I said, the road to the ending was a bit bumpy and rough for my taste but hey it all worked out in the end.
4 I just wish this was written in both Evangeline and Ryan's POV. I think it would have worked better that way as some scenes on this book would have been more clearer if it was in Ryan's POV.
5 And Ms. Congdon, if you are reading this... Please... Please... Please... Make a book for Hawke. I liked him and he was a good guy so please.. Give him his happily ever after too!!!! :)
This was such a refreshing read and I would recommend it to anyone who would want a sweet and sexy book to read.
REACTION AFTER READING THE BOOK
"You and your irresistible body will be the death of me and my door deep-v-diver."
Slide was a totally good read. The writing and the progression of the story was very smooth.
And the characters were pretty awesome!
Oh Ryan!
Let me love you!
THE GIST
Evangeline has everything that she could ever ask for.. except for a complete family.
" My family came from money, a great deal of it, but that didn't mean we all lived a blissfully perfect life. We had our own heartache and tragedy to bear. It was constantly being in the media eye that taught me to shut myself away. They all wanted to talk about that fateful night many years ago but I refused to speak anyone, other than my therapist - who was still trying hard to mend the pieces together."
She lost her mother and older brother on a tragic car accident and things were never the same after that. She felt lost. Alone. Unloved. That is before she met Ryan Fox.
Ryan was everything Evangeline shouldn't be hanging around with.
" Ryan Fox was a big time player. He had girls worshiping at his feet and he clearly enjoyed every minute of it. He was loved by many fans and was constantly in the public eye - not to mention on giant billboards."
Evie didn't want that. She didn't want people digging up her past. She didn't want people noticing how broken she was. She didn't want anyone's pity.
But was she the only one keeping secrets? Or is Ryan keeping a few secrets of his own.
MEET THE CHARACTERS
Evangeline
I liked Evangeline at some point but there were a couple of times that I found her annoying too.
She was pretty but a little aloof. She didn't want the limelight because she didn't want her past to be talked about in public. She didn't want people looking at her and feeling pity. Her family was very rich. They were very well known in the fashion industry so if something tragic happened to their lives, people will talk about it.
I loved how she was understanding. I loved how she accepted Ryan and everything about him including his family but... I hated that she was untrusting. How can you possibly say you love someone but don't trust them?
Also, she has been so quick to pass judgement on Ryan and it wasn't really funny at all. She would believe someone else's word against the man who she said she loved. Isn't that a bit weird.
Anyways, I liked how she was not head over heels immediately towards Ryan. I liked how she answered back to Ryan on the first few scenes. I liked how she didn't immediately give in to Ryan... Well she did but there were a lot of other things at play which is why she did but.. You got to read it.. I won't be saying anymore. LOL.
Ryan
Oh gosh! I can't believe I fell for another Ryan who's also a baseball player!!
But honestly, this Ryan is far more sexual. LOL. The other Ryan (from Dare You To) was more of the innocent sweet type. This handsome devil however was just smoking with sex and appeal.
How can I even start with this guy? Oh well. He was arrogant at first yes but I guess that's what fame does to you. If you're a really good player and everyone loves you, I think you really just get used to the attention. I didn't cringe one bit during this exchange.
"Do you realize what you've done? You let the one girl willing to sleep with you go and now she hates you."
He snorted, clearly amused by my statement. "I can assure you that there are plenty more waiting, and she'll come back. They always try."
I love my guys full of confidence and Ryan indeed has one!
Ryan's hot and everything but that's not really the thing I loved most about him. I loved his love for his family. The secret that he's been keeping is actually related to his family and I honestly believe what he did was right. I do not judge him whatsoever for this. It was the right decision! It was an accident but he had no other choice. He had to protect his family and that made me cry a little bit.
Also.. I loved that he was persistent. I loved that he wanted to let Evangeline feel and know that he loves him and would do anything for him. I loved that he went out of his way to prove that even though it was risking his future as well.
So selfless.. I am so in love!
*swoon*
ROMANCE
Evangeline + Ryan = Perfect Combination
Oh seriously, this couple is just so perfect for each other. They were compatible in every way.
Both Ryan and Evangeline had a past they must overcome. It wasn't easy for them to tell each other this as it is hard. Traumatic experiences are never easy to talk about but when they did, they were able to support each other. They were able to love each other better.
"Somehow a messed-up girl like me managed to find the perfect messed-up boy. We both shared dark and terriying pasts that were always going to be there, but now instead of trying to battle against the darkness on our own, we had the love and support of each other to help us through it."
Also, there wasn't the cliche of the male being super rich and the girl not really. This time, they were both equal and I liked that. They were both technically celebrities. And that was a good change.
FINAL VERDICT
All in all I loved it. But I did notice somethings that could be improved and it would have made this book way more better. I have some more points that I also need to point out obviously. LOL.
1 I thought it ended beautifully but the way towards the ending was a bit of a struggle for me. Did I make sense? What I was trying to say was, towards the end another "should-be" important character was introduced and wasn't given that much closure towards the end. I liked Hawke. I feel that there should have been a love triangle not that I was a fan of that but why would you introduce another male character that the male MC is going to get jealous of without him being given too much exposure. That bothered me a little. He should have been introduced maybe on the middle part of the book and not around 75% towards the end. That didn't work for me.
2 That bitch who threatened Ryan and Evangeline's relationship needs serious help. Arrrgg.. I hate her guts! I hope she burns in hell.
3 The ending was just so good! I loved how everything wrapped up and ended. But like I said, the road to the ending was a bit bumpy and rough for my taste but hey it all worked out in the end.
4 I just wish this was written in both Evangeline and Ryan's POV. I think it would have worked better that way as some scenes on this book would have been more clearer if it was in Ryan's POV.
5 And Ms. Congdon, if you are reading this... Please... Please... Please... Make a book for Hawke. I liked him and he was a good guy so please.. Give him his happily ever after too!!!! :)
This was such a refreshing read and I would recommend it to anyone who would want a sweet and sexy book to read.
June 26, 2014
Okay, let me start with this: Grrrr and a thousand halfs.
*Okay, whew, deep breath. *
So,( and I swear I'll get to the point in a minute, okay?) a few years ago, I dnf'ed this book where the H and h are running through a forest away from flesh eating zombies, when they decide to stop and have sex,.
Seriously, they have mother fucking zombies after them, they are literally running for their very lives, and these zombies plan on not just killing them but actually eating the flesh right off their fucking bones, and they decide the best way to do save themselves is to stop in the middle of a zombie ridden forest and get it on?!!!
It boggles the mind, right? It just leaves you wondering, who the hell would think that was in any way, a good idea? There's big bad evil villains on your ass ( not in a good way) so that's the perfect time to get laid? how stupid do they think we romance readers are?! That as long as the H and h kiss, and ( depending on if your looking for it or not) occasionally screw like rabbits, that we'll just ignore that total and utter lack of common fucking sense?? Well, that's what the majority of slide reminded me of.
There are no zombies, no death threats, not even a single fucking tree, but the common denominator? The absolute lack of sensible reasoning.
I was going to include a list, of all the dumbass things the characters thought or said but the list got too damn long. With the exception of a small bit in the middle, there was an almost constant string of comments made, or decisions reached that either contradicted themselves, or just left me with a sense of what-the-fuckery. And I was just so damn irritated at the heroine, starting with her fucked up deaf what a. BFF's, her's is a douche, to being waaaay to flirty with a guy right after her( absentee) father dies, to the belief that the paparazzi only lie about her, and no one else, and everything they say about anyone else should be take a a gospel, to making the H apologize when he didn't do a damn thing wrong....oh wait, but the hero! He has sex with his therapist ( to be clear, it's not not while with the h, so no cheating) . Sooo many things wrong with this. First we don't know where she came from, or who hired her ( is she the same one the family hired? If so, when he went pro, wouldn't they, the Yankees, have looked at her credentials?) Or, second if she was a real therapist wouldn't she be worried about, oh I don't know this thing called the standard of ethics? Or more importantly losing her license? And why the hell, did the Hero think it would be perfectly okay to screw her, and then stop screwing her, and then actually tell her his secrets?d eep, dark ones? What kind of moron would think that was a good idea?
Okay, another deep breath. And another grrr and a thousand halfs.
2 stars, I don't know why or how I finished it ...(maybe the very lack of a sex scene with probably Imminent death by zombie only moments away, made it more palatable) but I did, so for that alone it gets an extra star. Having said that. Michelle Congdon has potential!(so much so, that I'll probably read the book from the H's pov, despite my seemingly endless frustration with this book) , she just seriously needs a proofreader to point all the stuff that doesn't make sense, that needs fixing, that goes against stuff that was said earlier, to grilling in plot holes, etc etc etc.... Or if she has one, a better one. Or maybe multiple proofreaders, and editors because seriously, the story issues I mentioned, are only the tip of the fucking iceberg, and I didn't even get to all the typos!
On a side note, if you're looking for a sports romance, this one doesn't really count. Yeah the hero is a ball player, but initially he seems to have way to much time on his hands, and there's really only one baseball scene, iirc.
Also there's a lot of sex scenes. This usually doesn't bother me, but at one point I did think this was erotica, rather then the NA it's billed as. ...there were just so many fully detailed scenes! I started skimming them after I got to the halfway point.
And another side note, well more of a disclaimer, really: I am presently, very Very tired. Freaking exhausted, I can barely stay awake... But I knew I wouldn't be able to sleep til I got this out( so you're welcome) .... I don't think my sleep deprived state would've changed the content of my review, -although maybe there'd have been less cursing,- but please keep that in mind, before letting it influence you.
And any mistakes/grammar issues are more than likely a result of said state ( and a maybe a little bit of laziness)....I'd like to tell you I'll come back and fix it in the morning, but for the sake of being honest, I should probably mention that "little bit of laziness" I mentioned gets mad at my use of "little bit" and wants to change it to "a whole shit load of a lot", so I probably won't change/fix a damn thing :P
December 7, 2013
Giving myself 5 stars. I still can't get enough of Ryan Fox even after I've read the story over and over many times. I cannot wait to share his POV with you all!!
If you haven't already, here are the current links to purchase your copy of Slide. I will add more when they become available. M Xx
Apple US- https://itunes.apple.com/US/book/id75...
Apple AU-
https://itunes.apple.com/au/book/slid...
Amazon US-
http://www.amazon.com/Slide-Broken-Mi...
Amazon AU-
http://www.amazon.com.au/Slide-Broken...
Amazon UK-
http://www.amazon.co.uk/Slide-Broken-...
Barnes and Noble-
http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/slide...
Smashwords-
https://www.smashwords.com/books/view...
If you haven't already, here are the current links to purchase your copy of Slide. I will add more when they become available. M Xx
Apple US- https://itunes.apple.com/US/book/id75...
Apple AU-
https://itunes.apple.com/au/book/slid...
Amazon US-
http://www.amazon.com/Slide-Broken-Mi...
Amazon AU-
http://www.amazon.com.au/Slide-Broken...
Amazon UK-
http://www.amazon.co.uk/Slide-Broken-...
Barnes and Noble-
http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/slide...
Smashwords-
https://www.smashwords.com/books/view...
March 25, 2014
I was deeply relieved when I paused my reading of this book and confirmed it was self published. it just isn't well written or well edited. There's a lot of repetitive phrasing, far too many adjectives/adverbs, and a lot of stuff that just didn't work. Example: How is a first person narrator to know that their face is still bright red when someone looks at them? They might feel heat in their cheeks but unless they're surrounded by mirrors it doesn't make sense. This book is full, so far, of these kinds of sloppy mistakes. The research, in the first third, was poorly done, and I often wondered if the author had ever even seen a show set in NYC. The idea of having a single car crash in which a billionaire's wife wraps a car she's driving around a telephone pole just seems unlikely. As does getting two cabs late at night without having to wait.
I just found the setup completely ridiculous and lacking in emotional weight. This was especially true for the plotline surrounding Evangeline's dad. There was just nothing to make any of his actions make any kind of sense whatsoever. I think, had the prologue dealt with the aftermath of Evangeline's car crash rather than the actual crash - if we saw her feeling lost and lonely and cutoff - this premise would have worked. As it is, everything is told to the reader and that makes Evangeline and all the supporting characters seem like shallow caricatures.
Not to mention that this book seemed to be at least 85% sex.
I should have stopped reading when Ryan says, "I love having sex but I'm not a damn somnophiliac."
Edit: Ok. I'm a glutton for punishment and I read/skimmed all the way to the end. It gets worse. Much worse. And there is absolutely no development of the relationship between the main characters and the ridiculously unresearched tidbits continue to mount. Not to mention the bad writing and editing issues.
I just found the setup completely ridiculous and lacking in emotional weight. This was especially true for the plotline surrounding Evangeline's dad. There was just nothing to make any of his actions make any kind of sense whatsoever. I think, had the prologue dealt with the aftermath of Evangeline's car crash rather than the actual crash - if we saw her feeling lost and lonely and cutoff - this premise would have worked. As it is, everything is told to the reader and that makes Evangeline and all the supporting characters seem like shallow caricatures.
Not to mention that this book seemed to be at least 85% sex.
I should have stopped reading when Ryan says, "I love having sex but I'm not a damn somnophiliac."
Edit: Ok. I'm a glutton for punishment and I read/skimmed all the way to the end. It gets worse. Much worse. And there is absolutely no development of the relationship between the main characters and the ridiculously unresearched tidbits continue to mount. Not to mention the bad writing and editing issues.
February 26, 2014
I was up all night with a sick kid and saw this author do a take over on facebook so I decided to give the book a shot. I was surprised how much I liked it. I adored both characters which doesn't really happen that often for me.
Why only 4 stars? I felt the ending was rushed. The whole making up thing was very rushed. There was one critical question that was never asked. Since I don't know the answer then I assume the worst and takes the rating down.
Overall a enjoyable read for a new to me author!
Why only 4 stars? I felt the ending was rushed. The whole making up thing was very rushed. There was one critical question that was never asked. Since I don't know the answer then I assume the worst and takes the rating down.
Overall a enjoyable read for a new to me author!
November 14, 2013
WAIT UNTILL YOU MEET RYAN....
OMG Face hurts from smiling way too much at his cheekiness
LOVED THIS ONE.. Review to come!
OMG Face hurts from smiling way too much at his cheekiness
LOVED THIS ONE.. Review to come!
December 4, 2013
4 Tight Baseball Pants Stars
Is there anything better than baseball season? The smell of fresh cut grass, the pop of the ball in the glove, the hot dogs, cracker jacks and tight baseball pants. I mean come on...what says spring more than a hot body in a pair of tight white pants? I do love me some baseball. And so does Michelle Congdon apparently.
Evangeline has had a lonely life. Her dad is a gazillionaire but has ignored her since her mother and brother died in a car accident. An accident that she was the sole survivor. She has been raised in by her grandparents and has been sheltered. Sheltered from the press who hounded her after the accident. She has tried to live her life out of the public eye. Now she has been called to NYC to say goodbye to the father who forgot her.
Ryan is a hot stud baseball player whose picture is on the side of buses. I mean it doesn't get much more in the public eye than those huge billboards in Times Square. Think David Beckham in his underwear........Oops sorry. I was thinking of David Beckham in his underwear. Zoned out a bit on you. Ryan is good looking, well known and about as arrogant as can be. I mean annoyingly arrogant. He passes charming arrogant and just keeps going.
When Ryan and Evangeline meet there is flirting and kissing but Evie is guarded. She wants to stay under the radar and this guy is radar magnet.
It's impossible to be invisible, Evangeline. Everything about you wants to shine. You're a burning star fighting against the darkness of shadows.
Evie and Ryan have a great romance despite the fact that he is a known as a player on and off the field. She helps him overcome his demons and he gives her the confidence she never had. But can a Yankee change his stripes? Is he still being a player? Will the paparazzi leave them alone or help her see what happens when she is not around?
This is a sexy read. A touch of angst. I liked the characters even though Ryan came off as a bit much. He is both romantic and a attention hound. The next book is going to be from Ryan's POV. That should be interesting.
Is there anything better than baseball season? The smell of fresh cut grass, the pop of the ball in the glove, the hot dogs, cracker jacks and tight baseball pants. I mean come on...what says spring more than a hot body in a pair of tight white pants? I do love me some baseball. And so does Michelle Congdon apparently.
Evangeline has had a lonely life. Her dad is a gazillionaire but has ignored her since her mother and brother died in a car accident. An accident that she was the sole survivor. She has been raised in by her grandparents and has been sheltered. Sheltered from the press who hounded her after the accident. She has tried to live her life out of the public eye. Now she has been called to NYC to say goodbye to the father who forgot her.
Ryan is a hot stud baseball player whose picture is on the side of buses. I mean it doesn't get much more in the public eye than those huge billboards in Times Square. Think David Beckham in his underwear........Oops sorry. I was thinking of David Beckham in his underwear. Zoned out a bit on you. Ryan is good looking, well known and about as arrogant as can be. I mean annoyingly arrogant. He passes charming arrogant and just keeps going.
When Ryan and Evangeline meet there is flirting and kissing but Evie is guarded. She wants to stay under the radar and this guy is radar magnet.
It's impossible to be invisible, Evangeline. Everything about you wants to shine. You're a burning star fighting against the darkness of shadows.
Evie and Ryan have a great romance despite the fact that he is a known as a player on and off the field. She helps him overcome his demons and he gives her the confidence she never had. But can a Yankee change his stripes? Is he still being a player? Will the paparazzi leave them alone or help her see what happens when she is not around?
This is a sexy read. A touch of angst. I liked the characters even though Ryan came off as a bit much. He is both romantic and a attention hound. The next book is going to be from Ryan's POV. That should be interesting.
May 1, 2014
My original thought of this book was 4 stars, but after reading some of the other reviews I changed it to 5. Why? Because some of your reviews, quite frankly, pissed me off.
Let's take a moment to remember why we read, shall we? I read because I honestly love it. I love being so engulfed in a story that I literally can't tell the difference between reality and fiction. I love, for a few short hours, living a completely different life. I also love supporting indie authors who have put their heart and soul into something so that I can continue to do what I love, which is to read. With that being said, and excuse my French, but who gives a flying fuck that the author (who is Australian, mind you) doesn't completely understand the dynamics of baseball or who may not know that you can't catch a cab in NYC on a weekend night easily? Obviously Jessica, the therapist, is lacking in morals or she wouldn't be sleeping with her client then attempting to black mail him. That has nothing to do with the author not doing enough research. In my opinion, those of you who are nitpicking these small details then giving lowball ratings because of it have forgotten why we read. And it's sad. And I felt the need to give this book as many stars as I could in order to make up for your slack as a book lover. You, my friend, are Peter Banning and I am Peter Pan.
I loved this story. It was emotional and intriguing and unputdownable. I laughed out loud at times and felt heartbroken at others. I loved the characters, especially Ryan! Oh he was delectable indeed! I thought Evie was a great female lead, even though I wanted to yell at her for her decisions sometimes! The only remark I kept having throughout the whole book was holy cow I wish I knew what Ryan was thinking. And what does our fabulous author tell us on the final page?!?! Ahhhhhh Ryan's POV is in the works!
So thank you Michelle! Thanks for creating a great story and characters! And I look so forward to reading more!
As for Peter Banning, if you're reading this, just know that we will always welcome you back in Neverland! ;)
Let's take a moment to remember why we read, shall we? I read because I honestly love it. I love being so engulfed in a story that I literally can't tell the difference between reality and fiction. I love, for a few short hours, living a completely different life. I also love supporting indie authors who have put their heart and soul into something so that I can continue to do what I love, which is to read. With that being said, and excuse my French, but who gives a flying fuck that the author (who is Australian, mind you) doesn't completely understand the dynamics of baseball or who may not know that you can't catch a cab in NYC on a weekend night easily? Obviously Jessica, the therapist, is lacking in morals or she wouldn't be sleeping with her client then attempting to black mail him. That has nothing to do with the author not doing enough research. In my opinion, those of you who are nitpicking these small details then giving lowball ratings because of it have forgotten why we read. And it's sad. And I felt the need to give this book as many stars as I could in order to make up for your slack as a book lover. You, my friend, are Peter Banning and I am Peter Pan.
I loved this story. It was emotional and intriguing and unputdownable. I laughed out loud at times and felt heartbroken at others. I loved the characters, especially Ryan! Oh he was delectable indeed! I thought Evie was a great female lead, even though I wanted to yell at her for her decisions sometimes! The only remark I kept having throughout the whole book was holy cow I wish I knew what Ryan was thinking. And what does our fabulous author tell us on the final page?!?! Ahhhhhh Ryan's POV is in the works!
So thank you Michelle! Thanks for creating a great story and characters! And I look so forward to reading more!
As for Peter Banning, if you're reading this, just know that we will always welcome you back in Neverland! ;)
December 1, 2013
enjoyed! Loved Ryan :) full review to follow...
This book was originally reviewed on The Book Hookup.
**I received a copy of this book for the tour, but that did not influence the review**
First Thoughts: 4 stars! Ryan Fox himself was a 5 star though. ;) Slide is a great, sexy contemporary read to add to your collection!
Plot, Pacing and Style: When we first meet Evangeline and Ryan they both seem to have it all: money, fame, and good looks. However, we all know that what we see isn’t always reality. Both of these characters have some serious demons to deal with, and once they start to share their secrets with each other they both begin to heal.
The pacing in this book was really good; I never felt bored or found the plot going in circles. The story kept moving ahead by giving the reader just a little bit more every chapter and I couldn’t help but turn the page. This book was told only from Evangeline’s POV, so everything we learned was on her time.
The MCs: I loved Ryan Fox. That is all. He is every woman’s dreampiece of man meat. I actually pictured Derek Jeter the entire book, and yes, it worked for me. ;) He oozed confidence on almost every level, except to himself, which made him so believable to me as he battled his own inner demons. It was as if he overcompensated on the outside to deal with his past. I also loved his persistence, he never gave up on Evangeline but gave her space when she needed it. He also embraced his own feelings really well, and was never afraid that it would make him less masculine… and I loved him for it.
I went back and forth about my feelings for Evangeline. Sometimes I really liked her, and other times I wanted to strangle her for being foolish. The situation with Jessica was very obvious and all the conclusions that Evangeline jumped to were ridiculous. However, it actually made me love Ryan more because he put up with it.
As far as secondary characters go, I really didn’t care for Evangeline’s best friend Derek at all. Ryan hit the nail on the head with that one when he said he didn’t care for him either and was selfish. He didn’t really add any support to the story, or Evangeline for that matter, but maybe he had always been in her life so that’s why she still kept him as a close friend. I would have rather seen Connor, or even Gabriella as her supporting friend here.
Romance /Chemistry: It was immediate. And H-O-T. I think Mr. Fox had one thing on the brain and that was sex sex sex.
Title/Cover: I’m not sure I’m in love with either, but at the same time don’t dislike them. The title must be about baseball? But I’m not sure. The girl on the cover is attractive, but not how I pictured Evangeline.
Ending:We got a great HEA that was still really real. Very well done. :) Gripes/suggestions: Some of the writing was a little rough in the beginning, it just didn’t flow or draw me in. However, it got much smoother as the story went on and I really grew to love the story and the characters. I think Ms. Congdon found her groove and the whole thing took off so nicely.
There was also a weird little sexy scene in the beginning, when Evangeline cooked dinner for Ryan. Honestly, it was so dirty and I’m not sure if the point was to get the reader turned on, or show that Ryan Fox is one kinky mofo. If it was to show that Ryan was kinky I can make peace with it. Kind of. Not really sure. I do know Ryan is definitely naughty, *cough and I liked that about him a lot cough*. If you know about my preferred reading style, it’s actually all the build up and talk, not the actual sex scenes themselves. Final Thoughts/Rec It? Yes! Will I read book 2? Well, in case you don’t know it’s going to be Slide from Ryan’s POV. Do I need to read the story again? Not really, but oh mah gawd I would love to hear thereally dirty thoughts that run through his brain.
This book was originally reviewed on The Book Hookup.
**I received a copy of this book for the tour, but that did not influence the review**
First Thoughts: 4 stars! Ryan Fox himself was a 5 star though. ;) Slide is a great, sexy contemporary read to add to your collection!
Plot, Pacing and Style: When we first meet Evangeline and Ryan they both seem to have it all: money, fame, and good looks. However, we all know that what we see isn’t always reality. Both of these characters have some serious demons to deal with, and once they start to share their secrets with each other they both begin to heal.
The pacing in this book was really good; I never felt bored or found the plot going in circles. The story kept moving ahead by giving the reader just a little bit more every chapter and I couldn’t help but turn the page. This book was told only from Evangeline’s POV, so everything we learned was on her time.
The MCs: I loved Ryan Fox. That is all. He is every woman’s dream
I went back and forth about my feelings for Evangeline. Sometimes I really liked her, and other times I wanted to strangle her for being foolish. The situation with Jessica was very obvious and all the conclusions that Evangeline jumped to were ridiculous. However, it actually made me love Ryan more because he put up with it.
As far as secondary characters go, I really didn’t care for Evangeline’s best friend Derek at all. Ryan hit the nail on the head with that one when he said he didn’t care for him either and was selfish. He didn’t really add any support to the story, or Evangeline for that matter, but maybe he had always been in her life so that’s why she still kept him as a close friend. I would have rather seen Connor, or even Gabriella as her supporting friend here.
Romance /Chemistry: It was immediate. And H-O-T. I think Mr. Fox had one thing on the brain and that was sex sex sex.
Title/Cover: I’m not sure I’m in love with either, but at the same time don’t dislike them. The title must be about baseball? But I’m not sure. The girl on the cover is attractive, but not how I pictured Evangeline.
Ending:We got a great HEA that was still really real. Very well done. :) Gripes/suggestions: Some of the writing was a little rough in the beginning, it just didn’t flow or draw me in. However, it got much smoother as the story went on and I really grew to love the story and the characters. I think Ms. Congdon found her groove and the whole thing took off so nicely.
There was also a weird little sexy scene in the beginning, when Evangeline cooked dinner for Ryan. Honestly, it was so dirty and I’m not sure if the point was to get the reader turned on, or show that Ryan Fox is one kinky mofo. If it was to show that Ryan was kinky I can make peace with it. Kind of. Not really sure. I do know Ryan is definitely naughty, *cough and I liked that about him a lot cough*. If you know about my preferred reading style, it’s actually all the build up and talk, not the actual sex scenes themselves. Final Thoughts/Rec It? Yes! Will I read book 2? Well, in case you don’t know it’s going to be Slide from Ryan’s POV. Do I need to read the story again? Not really, but oh mah gawd I would love to hear the
December 19, 2013
The reason I read romance novels is because they provide a light interlude between my usual mystery / thrillers. They are supposed to be simple and most of the time we already know what's coming... But well, Slide changed all that for me a bit.
First we meet Evangeline who has eluded the spotlight that comes with her family name and her past by staying away from her hometown. Forced to come back under not so pleasant situation, she just wants a normal life. On the other hand we meet Ryan, star Player (in every sense of that word) who lives his life in the very spotlight that Evangeline has always evaded. But in his case there are ghosts in the cupboard of his past too. When they come together there's only fireworks... Together they fight the demons of their past and handle the side-effects of being in the spotlight.
The first thing that stands out in this story is its characters and their strength. Its two people, equal in every way, finding their way to each other. Its not a story of a charming billionaire coming to the rescue of his very ordinary princess or a next door girl rescuing a dark brooding hero from the shadows of his past. Its a story of two people who are of equal status when it comes to money, power, strength and even baggage. The other thing that I liked about it that Evangeline and Ryan didn't go for the 'Love at first sight' formula. They lusted after each other, but it was with time that they fell for each other. The characters in the book, including the protagonists, were well fleshed out and I just loved Ryan's family and Evangeline's brother. The narration is crisp and has an air of no-nonsense as Michelle dives straight into working the connection between the protagonists.
Its hot and it is fun with the additional advantage of featuring two very strong characters as its lead. If you love reading romance, this book should be next on your reading list.
First we meet Evangeline who has eluded the spotlight that comes with her family name and her past by staying away from her hometown. Forced to come back under not so pleasant situation, she just wants a normal life. On the other hand we meet Ryan, star Player (in every sense of that word) who lives his life in the very spotlight that Evangeline has always evaded. But in his case there are ghosts in the cupboard of his past too. When they come together there's only fireworks... Together they fight the demons of their past and handle the side-effects of being in the spotlight.
The first thing that stands out in this story is its characters and their strength. Its two people, equal in every way, finding their way to each other. Its not a story of a charming billionaire coming to the rescue of his very ordinary princess or a next door girl rescuing a dark brooding hero from the shadows of his past. Its a story of two people who are of equal status when it comes to money, power, strength and even baggage. The other thing that I liked about it that Evangeline and Ryan didn't go for the 'Love at first sight' formula. They lusted after each other, but it was with time that they fell for each other. The characters in the book, including the protagonists, were well fleshed out and I just loved Ryan's family and Evangeline's brother. The narration is crisp and has an air of no-nonsense as Michelle dives straight into working the connection between the protagonists.
Its hot and it is fun with the additional advantage of featuring two very strong characters as its lead. If you love reading romance, this book should be next on your reading list.
January 5, 2014
4.5*
Enjoyed reading. Strong characters, good storyline. At times didn't want to put it down as wanting to keep reading to see where things were heading. A bit of drama & only a small amount of time wasted with non communication. But otherwise worth reading.
Enjoyed reading. Strong characters, good storyline. At times didn't want to put it down as wanting to keep reading to see where things were heading. A bit of drama & only a small amount of time wasted with non communication. But otherwise worth reading.
Read
December 30, 2018These tales, of young 'innocent' meeting and falling for famous actors/singers/athletes/ millionaires are our modern fairytales, this tale as been repeated over and over and over again, and as such it is very difficult to bring something new to the genre......So the 'talent' in an author lies in them trying to find something new to bring to this party! Ms Congdon hasn't done this, this story is so full of cliche and regurgitated nonsense that a good eye-roll is the only satisfaction left to the reader. The hero, who is supposedly charming, is actually annoyingly, childishly punchable while the heroine needs a spine, pronto.
If modern fairytales are your thing give this one a wide breadth, nothing new to be seen here folks!
If modern fairytales are your thing give this one a wide breadth, nothing new to be seen here folks!
October 17, 2024
Heiress meets baseball star
December 1, 2013
This book was originally reviewed on The Book Hookup.
**I received a copy of this book for the tour, but that did not influence the review**
First Thoughts: 4 stars! Ryan Fox himself was a 5 star though. ;) Slide is a great, sexy contemporary read to add to your collection!
Plot, Pacing and Style: When we first meet Evangeline and Ryan they both seem to have it all: money, fame, and good looks. However, we all know that what we see isn’t always reality. Both of these characters have some serious demons to deal with, and once they start to share their secrets with each other they both begin to heal.
The pacing in this book was really good; I never felt bored or found the plot going in circles. The story kept moving ahead by giving the reader just a little bit more every chapter and I couldn’t help but turn the page. This book was told only from Evangeline’s POV, so everything we learned was on her time.
The MCs: I loved Ryan Fox. That is all. He is every woman’s dreampiece of man meat. I actually pictured Derek Jeter the entire book, and yes, it worked for me. ;) He oozed confidence on almost every level, except to himself, which made him so believable to me as he battled his own inner demons. It was as if he overcompensated on the outside to deal with his past. I also loved his persistence, he never gave up on Evangeline but gave her space when she needed it. He also embraced his own feelings really well, and was never afraid that it would make him less masculine… and I loved him for it.
I went back and forth about my feelings for Evangeline. Sometimes I really liked her, and other times I wanted to strangle her for being foolish. The situation with Jessica was very obvious and all the conclusions that Evangeline jumped to were ridiculous. However, it actually made me love Ryan more because he put up with it.
As far as secondary characters go, I really didn’t care for Evangeline’s best friend Derek at all. Ryan hit the nail on the head with that one when he said he didn’t care for him either and was selfish. He didn’t really add any support to the story, or Evangeline for that matter, but maybe he had always been in her life so that’s why she still kept him as a close friend. I would have rather seen Connor, or even Gabriella as her supporting friend here.
Romance /Chemistry: It was immediate. And H-O-T. I think Mr. Fox had one thing on the brain and that was sex sex sex.
Title/Cover: I’m not sure I’m in love with either, but at the same time don’t dislike them. The title must be about baseball? But I’m not sure. The girl on the cover is attractive, but not how I pictured Evangeline.
Ending:We got a great HEA that was still really real. Very well done. :) Gripes/suggestions: Some of the writing was a little rough in the beginning, it just didn’t flow or draw me in. However, it got much smoother as the story went on and I really grew to love the story and the characters. I think Ms. Congdon found her groove and the whole thing took off so nicely.
There was also a weird little sexy scene in the beginning, when Evangeline cooked dinner for Ryan. Honestly, it was so dirty and I’m not sure if the point was to get the reader turned on, or show that Ryan Fox is one kinky mofo. If it was to show that Ryan was kinky I can make peace with it. Kind of. Not really sure. I do know Ryan is definitely naughty, *cough and I liked that about him a lot cough*. If you know about my preferred reading style, it’s actually all the build up and talk, not the actual sex scenes themselves. Final Thoughts/Rec It? Yes! Will I read book 2? Well, in case you don’t know it’s going to be Slide from Ryan’s POV. Do I need to read the story again? Not really, but oh mah gawd I would love to hear thereally dirty thoughts that run through his brain.
**I received a copy of this book for the tour, but that did not influence the review**
First Thoughts: 4 stars! Ryan Fox himself was a 5 star though. ;) Slide is a great, sexy contemporary read to add to your collection!
Plot, Pacing and Style: When we first meet Evangeline and Ryan they both seem to have it all: money, fame, and good looks. However, we all know that what we see isn’t always reality. Both of these characters have some serious demons to deal with, and once they start to share their secrets with each other they both begin to heal.
The pacing in this book was really good; I never felt bored or found the plot going in circles. The story kept moving ahead by giving the reader just a little bit more every chapter and I couldn’t help but turn the page. This book was told only from Evangeline’s POV, so everything we learned was on her time.
The MCs: I loved Ryan Fox. That is all. He is every woman’s dream
I went back and forth about my feelings for Evangeline. Sometimes I really liked her, and other times I wanted to strangle her for being foolish. The situation with Jessica was very obvious and all the conclusions that Evangeline jumped to were ridiculous. However, it actually made me love Ryan more because he put up with it.
As far as secondary characters go, I really didn’t care for Evangeline’s best friend Derek at all. Ryan hit the nail on the head with that one when he said he didn’t care for him either and was selfish. He didn’t really add any support to the story, or Evangeline for that matter, but maybe he had always been in her life so that’s why she still kept him as a close friend. I would have rather seen Connor, or even Gabriella as her supporting friend here.
Romance /Chemistry: It was immediate. And H-O-T. I think Mr. Fox had one thing on the brain and that was sex sex sex.
Title/Cover: I’m not sure I’m in love with either, but at the same time don’t dislike them. The title must be about baseball? But I’m not sure. The girl on the cover is attractive, but not how I pictured Evangeline.
Ending:We got a great HEA that was still really real. Very well done. :) Gripes/suggestions: Some of the writing was a little rough in the beginning, it just didn’t flow or draw me in. However, it got much smoother as the story went on and I really grew to love the story and the characters. I think Ms. Congdon found her groove and the whole thing took off so nicely.
There was also a weird little sexy scene in the beginning, when Evangeline cooked dinner for Ryan. Honestly, it was so dirty and I’m not sure if the point was to get the reader turned on, or show that Ryan Fox is one kinky mofo. If it was to show that Ryan was kinky I can make peace with it. Kind of. Not really sure. I do know Ryan is definitely naughty, *cough and I liked that about him a lot cough*. If you know about my preferred reading style, it’s actually all the build up and talk, not the actual sex scenes themselves. Final Thoughts/Rec It? Yes! Will I read book 2? Well, in case you don’t know it’s going to be Slide from Ryan’s POV. Do I need to read the story again? Not really, but oh mah gawd I would love to hear the
December 19, 2013
***I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.***
Slide was sooo not what I was expecting....it was sooo much more! I was expecting a sweet, steamy romantic read, but it was so much deeper. One of the author's quotes sums up the book perfectly to me when Evangeline says, "Somehow a messed-up girl like me managed to find the perfect messed-up boy. We both shared dark and terrifying pasts that were always going to be there, but now instead of trying to battle against the darkness on our own, we had the love and support of each other to help us through it."
Evangeline is a wealthy heiress who has returned to New York City to see her estranged father who is dying. She hasn't seen him in years after her mother and an older brother were killed in a horrific car accident. Evangeline was the only survivor, and she has lived her life thinking her father blamed her and hated her for their devastating loss. While in New York, she meets sexy, womanizing, New York Yankee baseball player, Ryan Fox, at a club. While waiting for a cab to take her home, she gets the news that her father has died. She hasn't even gotten the chance to make peace with him. She is devastated, and Ryan just happens to be there to comfort her as she deals with the horrible news. This is the beginning of their hot, tumultuous love story. As she allows herself to spend more time with him, she sees another side to him. She sees a kindred spirit in Ryan. He carries a pain in his soul just as she does. But, as they begin to trust each other and fall in love, other factors interfere with their relationship. And when Evangeline receives news that will forever change her life, will they rely on each other or be torn apart?
I loved both Evangeline and Ryan. They made my list of favorite book couples. Ryan is the whole package. He is hot and sexy. Even though, he comes across as really cocky and full of himself, he really is a teddy bear. I loved his relationship with his mother and sisters. He believes in Evangeline, and he helps her believe in herself. They truly complement each other. It was wonderful seeing how much she grows from the beginning of the book until the end. I saw that we will get a book from Ryan's perspective which I am really looking forward to. However, I would love to see more books about Ryan's sisters. I will be adding Michelle Congdon to my list of new authors to watch for!
Some of my favorite quotes:
Ryan: "I got it (a tattoo) so everyone knows that I belong to you. So that the whole world can see the name of the girl who not only owns my body and my soul, but every piece of my heart; the only girl who was able to tear down my walls and wasn't afraid of the real man she found hiding inside."
Evangeline: "Every part of me ached seeing Ryan like this. This was a man I never imagined to see this way. I'd always pictured him as a god, unaffected by the mere feelings that often controlled many of us regular humans but yet here he was just as fragile and as easily broken like the rest of us."
Slide was sooo not what I was expecting....it was sooo much more! I was expecting a sweet, steamy romantic read, but it was so much deeper. One of the author's quotes sums up the book perfectly to me when Evangeline says, "Somehow a messed-up girl like me managed to find the perfect messed-up boy. We both shared dark and terrifying pasts that were always going to be there, but now instead of trying to battle against the darkness on our own, we had the love and support of each other to help us through it."
Evangeline is a wealthy heiress who has returned to New York City to see her estranged father who is dying. She hasn't seen him in years after her mother and an older brother were killed in a horrific car accident. Evangeline was the only survivor, and she has lived her life thinking her father blamed her and hated her for their devastating loss. While in New York, she meets sexy, womanizing, New York Yankee baseball player, Ryan Fox, at a club. While waiting for a cab to take her home, she gets the news that her father has died. She hasn't even gotten the chance to make peace with him. She is devastated, and Ryan just happens to be there to comfort her as she deals with the horrible news. This is the beginning of their hot, tumultuous love story. As she allows herself to spend more time with him, she sees another side to him. She sees a kindred spirit in Ryan. He carries a pain in his soul just as she does. But, as they begin to trust each other and fall in love, other factors interfere with their relationship. And when Evangeline receives news that will forever change her life, will they rely on each other or be torn apart?
I loved both Evangeline and Ryan. They made my list of favorite book couples. Ryan is the whole package. He is hot and sexy. Even though, he comes across as really cocky and full of himself, he really is a teddy bear. I loved his relationship with his mother and sisters. He believes in Evangeline, and he helps her believe in herself. They truly complement each other. It was wonderful seeing how much she grows from the beginning of the book until the end. I saw that we will get a book from Ryan's perspective which I am really looking forward to. However, I would love to see more books about Ryan's sisters. I will be adding Michelle Congdon to my list of new authors to watch for!
Some of my favorite quotes:
Ryan: "I got it (a tattoo) so everyone knows that I belong to you. So that the whole world can see the name of the girl who not only owns my body and my soul, but every piece of my heart; the only girl who was able to tear down my walls and wasn't afraid of the real man she found hiding inside."
Evangeline: "Every part of me ached seeing Ryan like this. This was a man I never imagined to see this way. I'd always pictured him as a god, unaffected by the mere feelings that often controlled many of us regular humans but yet here he was just as fragile and as easily broken like the rest of us."
December 15, 2013
If Ryan Fox decides he wants you. he isn't going to let you off so easily. What Ryan Fox wants, Ryan Fox gets.
Books that contain sportsman are on my list of books that I love to read. Sport is one of the few constants in my life. I love it. So when I read the synopsis for Slide and saw that our male lead was a baseball player I jumped at the chance to review it. Baseball is not one of our most popular sports here in Australia, or if is it's not reached my radar as yet. But I wasn't about to let that stop me. And Slide doesn't bombard you with baseball slang or the complexities of the sport, making it an easy and enjoyable read.
Ryan Fox is used to woman throwing themselves at him. He can have any woman he wants and usually does. He's never been in a serious relationship. They're just not for him. That is until a chance meeting with Evangeline Montgomery. Both having well known names, Ryan lives his life in the public eye, where Evangeline does everything possible to stay hidden from their scrutiny.
Both of these characters have things in their past that haunt them. Things that have made them the people that they are today. They're not looking for someone to save them. They just try to get through each day as best as they can. But love has a way of finding you when you aren't even looking for it. Love can heal. Love can accept. And love can make your demons a little bit easier to carry, with the help of some acceptance. How will they handle the secrets that they are each carrying around?
Slide was quite a steady paced read. There wasn't action and drama on every page but it built at a nice, even pace, building in intensity towards the end third of the book. I felt that the story lost it's way a little bit at about two thirds of the way through and I was left a little bit perplexed by some of the thoughts and decisions of Evangeline. It's really hard to discuss what was happening without giving away spoilers, since it's such a huge part of the story, but I found myself constantly questioning her choices. Then I found myself wondering why Ryan didn't fight harder. He just seemed to give up.
Evangeline had moments of being shy and reserved, but cocky and confident Ryan knew how to bring out Evangeline's more assertive side. Attracted to each other from the get go, they had some really hot and steamy moments. Any great love story has hurdles to overcome and Ryan and Evangeline have their fair share. Will the demons from their past and the choices that they make for the future allow them to forge a life together?
Likeable characters and an easy writing style made this an enjoyable read. Personally, there were periods when I didn't quite feel the connection between the characters, but then there were other times when it was so perfect. But the angst and drama throughout the story kept me interested.
Books that contain sportsman are on my list of books that I love to read. Sport is one of the few constants in my life. I love it. So when I read the synopsis for Slide and saw that our male lead was a baseball player I jumped at the chance to review it. Baseball is not one of our most popular sports here in Australia, or if is it's not reached my radar as yet. But I wasn't about to let that stop me. And Slide doesn't bombard you with baseball slang or the complexities of the sport, making it an easy and enjoyable read.
Ryan Fox is used to woman throwing themselves at him. He can have any woman he wants and usually does. He's never been in a serious relationship. They're just not for him. That is until a chance meeting with Evangeline Montgomery. Both having well known names, Ryan lives his life in the public eye, where Evangeline does everything possible to stay hidden from their scrutiny.
Both of these characters have things in their past that haunt them. Things that have made them the people that they are today. They're not looking for someone to save them. They just try to get through each day as best as they can. But love has a way of finding you when you aren't even looking for it. Love can heal. Love can accept. And love can make your demons a little bit easier to carry, with the help of some acceptance. How will they handle the secrets that they are each carrying around?
Slide was quite a steady paced read. There wasn't action and drama on every page but it built at a nice, even pace, building in intensity towards the end third of the book. I felt that the story lost it's way a little bit at about two thirds of the way through and I was left a little bit perplexed by some of the thoughts and decisions of Evangeline. It's really hard to discuss what was happening without giving away spoilers, since it's such a huge part of the story, but I found myself constantly questioning her choices. Then I found myself wondering why Ryan didn't fight harder. He just seemed to give up.
Evangeline had moments of being shy and reserved, but cocky and confident Ryan knew how to bring out Evangeline's more assertive side. Attracted to each other from the get go, they had some really hot and steamy moments. Any great love story has hurdles to overcome and Ryan and Evangeline have their fair share. Will the demons from their past and the choices that they make for the future allow them to forge a life together?
Likeable characters and an easy writing style made this an enjoyable read. Personally, there were periods when I didn't quite feel the connection between the characters, but then there were other times when it was so perfect. But the angst and drama throughout the story kept me interested.
January 4, 2016
Evie or Evangeline survived an accident twelve years back. But the experience remained a nightmare to her as she lost her mother and elder brother in it and eventually her father Rupert Montgomery , a business tycoon, left her in the custody of her grandparents. Since then she became shy, introvert and even the very thought of media and public exposure gave her a shudder and panic attack. The only solace she had was her friend Derek. Evangeline was compelled to come to New York to settle other family matters where she met Ryan Fox , an extremely handsome Yankee baseball player. Ryan was always full of himself and annoyingly arrogant and the most notorious womanizer NY had ever witnessed. In a crux , Ryan was poles apart from Evie and knowing that full well, Evie fell in love with him and Ryan found her 'ultimate woman' in Evie.
But Ryan had a dark past , a secret which he never shared with anybody except his family. As they came closer ,Evie revealed her secrets , her panic attacks ,her guilt-feeling for that fretful accident to Ryan and found him to be the most compassionate and supportive man she ever met. Things happened in a way that she came to know of Ryan in some other ways and found him vulnerable enough to softer emotions. It became a dilemma for her whether she would stand by him or left him. The time they spent together,had wild sex tormented her all the way as she discovered that she loved this awkwardly handsome metro-sexual man with all his virtues and vices. The story of Slide revolves around love and romance and obstacles of life which everybody has to face irrespective of his/her social status. It is a flag-bearer to the saying " love rules the world ".
Pros : The way Michelle Congdon has developed the character is quite realistic and the array of emotions which the protagonists show up through the novel throw an insight to their inner selves. Her way of story-telling is enthralling . The side-kicks like Derek,Connor, Amelie, Serafin,Gabriel also play their roles in an impeccable manner. The author wants to tell a sweet story of love and she tells it flawlessly. It is only through true love that one can find happiness . Mutual trust and support is the foundation of this love. I enjoyed reading the book and find it quite recommendable .
Cons : The story sometimes seems to revolve around the same series of events especially the very feelings of Evie on seeing Ryan or being touched by him is monotonous. Moreover, having crazy sex is the perpetual remedy to all their problems . Another thing I would like to point out that the mentioned accident of Evie's life turns out to be '' just an accident''....the plot would have been better had it been some really dark secret or clandestine enmity of business rivals behind it.
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But Ryan had a dark past , a secret which he never shared with anybody except his family. As they came closer ,Evie revealed her secrets , her panic attacks ,her guilt-feeling for that fretful accident to Ryan and found him to be the most compassionate and supportive man she ever met. Things happened in a way that she came to know of Ryan in some other ways and found him vulnerable enough to softer emotions. It became a dilemma for her whether she would stand by him or left him. The time they spent together,had wild sex tormented her all the way as she discovered that she loved this awkwardly handsome metro-sexual man with all his virtues and vices. The story of Slide revolves around love and romance and obstacles of life which everybody has to face irrespective of his/her social status. It is a flag-bearer to the saying " love rules the world ".
Pros : The way Michelle Congdon has developed the character is quite realistic and the array of emotions which the protagonists show up through the novel throw an insight to their inner selves. Her way of story-telling is enthralling . The side-kicks like Derek,Connor, Amelie, Serafin,Gabriel also play their roles in an impeccable manner. The author wants to tell a sweet story of love and she tells it flawlessly. It is only through true love that one can find happiness . Mutual trust and support is the foundation of this love. I enjoyed reading the book and find it quite recommendable .
Cons : The story sometimes seems to revolve around the same series of events especially the very feelings of Evie on seeing Ryan or being touched by him is monotonous. Moreover, having crazy sex is the perpetual remedy to all their problems . Another thing I would like to point out that the mentioned accident of Evie's life turns out to be '' just an accident''....the plot would have been better had it been some really dark secret or clandestine enmity of business rivals behind it.
Read the original review here :
http://maniparna5002.wordpress.com/20...
January 23, 2014
A guilt ridden, shy and emotionally messed up girl and a baseball star playboy who unlike the girl loves the limelight. Slide is Michelle's new book in the market and is the story of two completely unsuitable people who fall in love but each has something to hide and reasons to run as far away as possible from each other. But even though everything tells them otherwise their hearts connect at first sight. :)
Can these two find love and overcome all odds to find peace with each other?
Can they trust each other and unburden the dark burdens they have been carrying all their lives?
Can "love conquer all" or are they just empty words?
Come meet Evangeline and Ryan in this touching and riveting story of love, sacrifices and above all trust in the ones we love.
Slide engaged me from the first and I cant say that I lost interest for even a second while reading the book. Ryan and Evangeline are not your typical protagonists. They are people who have been hurt and have secrets that doesn't allow them to come close to anyone! Each has built up walls around them and even though they may seem confident and carefree they are far from any of these.
The writing style of Michelle is straight forward and crisp. She takes the reader and plunges him into the world of Ryan and Evangeline where he feels and experiences each emotion felt by the protagonists. I was able to connect to Evangeline and Ryan and could feel their pain, insecurities, vulnerabilities and doubts. Their longing for each other and then their fear of disclosing too much and thus, losing even the little that they had was so heartfelt.
The characterization is good and each character plays it's part well. I was amused and totally loved Derek, Evangeline's best friend, who is full of life and believes in partying hard. Evangeline's brother, Connor is the serious and responsible type who endeared himself to me through his over protectiveness and care for his sister. Ryan's family was cute and I felt their pain as if it was my own. Ryan and Evangeline are each sketched expertly and their interactions are funny and very sensuous.
All in all, I enjoyed reading Slide and recommend it everyone. A different kind of love story with lively and very real characters who will make you fall in love with them. I give Slide a 4 out of 5. The book is now released and available in the market. Recommended for adults only as the book contains explicit sexual content and language.
I received an ARC of the book from the author and book r3vi3w Tours and I am very thankful to them. The above review is my honest and unbiased opinion and in no way influenced.
Can these two find love and overcome all odds to find peace with each other?
Can they trust each other and unburden the dark burdens they have been carrying all their lives?
Can "love conquer all" or are they just empty words?
Come meet Evangeline and Ryan in this touching and riveting story of love, sacrifices and above all trust in the ones we love.
Slide engaged me from the first and I cant say that I lost interest for even a second while reading the book. Ryan and Evangeline are not your typical protagonists. They are people who have been hurt and have secrets that doesn't allow them to come close to anyone! Each has built up walls around them and even though they may seem confident and carefree they are far from any of these.
The writing style of Michelle is straight forward and crisp. She takes the reader and plunges him into the world of Ryan and Evangeline where he feels and experiences each emotion felt by the protagonists. I was able to connect to Evangeline and Ryan and could feel their pain, insecurities, vulnerabilities and doubts. Their longing for each other and then their fear of disclosing too much and thus, losing even the little that they had was so heartfelt.
The characterization is good and each character plays it's part well. I was amused and totally loved Derek, Evangeline's best friend, who is full of life and believes in partying hard. Evangeline's brother, Connor is the serious and responsible type who endeared himself to me through his over protectiveness and care for his sister. Ryan's family was cute and I felt their pain as if it was my own. Ryan and Evangeline are each sketched expertly and their interactions are funny and very sensuous.
All in all, I enjoyed reading Slide and recommend it everyone. A different kind of love story with lively and very real characters who will make you fall in love with them. I give Slide a 4 out of 5. The book is now released and available in the market. Recommended for adults only as the book contains explicit sexual content and language.
I received an ARC of the book from the author and book r3vi3w Tours and I am very thankful to them. The above review is my honest and unbiased opinion and in no way influenced.
April 16, 2014
3.75 stars
Evangeline survived a horrible accident when she was a child only to be plagued with nightmares and panic attacks. After being pushed away by her father who is distraught over losing her mother, Evangeline and her brother Conner move to California to live with their grand parents.
12 years later, Evangeline finds herself returning to New York and the life she left behind to see her father before he dies but once there realizes she can't do it and goes out with her best friend instead. While out, she meets Ryan, handsome, cocky and determined, Evangeline knows he is the kind of heartbreaker she absolutely doesn't need in her life.
But Ryan is persistent and there for her when she gets word that her father has passed away without her having a chance to say goodbye. She soon learns just how connected they are and that Ryan's past is just as dark and filled with tragedy as hers.
Evangeline finds herself falling for Ryan the more time she spends with him but when his past comes back to haunt them can she trust him with her heart?
This was a good read but as much as I wanted it to be, it wasn't a great one. It is a story about a young woman and man dealing with their pasts and trying to find a way to trust their heart to another. Ryan is a baseball player but this is not a baseball story...his baseball career is a very small part of this story. I liked the build up to their coming together and how they share openly with each other (most of the time). There is passion and heat but a couple of times it feels a little overdone. The story is told entirely from Evangeline's POV and I think if it had been alternating POVs it would have been a more rounded story. There is also the twist...if you can call it that which was pretty predictable...totally saw it coming.
My thoughts:
Quick hook or slow starter? 3.5 (I was off and on...it kept me reading but I wasn't hooked)
Character development: 4
Level of Romance between characters: 4
Passion/Heat level: 3.5(these two are hot for each other from the start but it takes a little time for them to come together.)
Angst/Heartbreak: 3.75 (these two both have dark pasts and a lot to get past)
Cliffhanger?: Nope, this is the first in a series but the story is wrapped up with an epilogue.
Overall I did like it and would read more from this author. Excited to hear there will be a novella from Ryan's POV.
I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Evangeline survived a horrible accident when she was a child only to be plagued with nightmares and panic attacks. After being pushed away by her father who is distraught over losing her mother, Evangeline and her brother Conner move to California to live with their grand parents.
12 years later, Evangeline finds herself returning to New York and the life she left behind to see her father before he dies but once there realizes she can't do it and goes out with her best friend instead. While out, she meets Ryan, handsome, cocky and determined, Evangeline knows he is the kind of heartbreaker she absolutely doesn't need in her life.
But Ryan is persistent and there for her when she gets word that her father has passed away without her having a chance to say goodbye. She soon learns just how connected they are and that Ryan's past is just as dark and filled with tragedy as hers.
Evangeline finds herself falling for Ryan the more time she spends with him but when his past comes back to haunt them can she trust him with her heart?
This was a good read but as much as I wanted it to be, it wasn't a great one. It is a story about a young woman and man dealing with their pasts and trying to find a way to trust their heart to another. Ryan is a baseball player but this is not a baseball story...his baseball career is a very small part of this story. I liked the build up to their coming together and how they share openly with each other (most of the time). There is passion and heat but a couple of times it feels a little overdone. The story is told entirely from Evangeline's POV and I think if it had been alternating POVs it would have been a more rounded story. There is also the twist...if you can call it that which was pretty predictable...totally saw it coming.
My thoughts:
Quick hook or slow starter? 3.5 (I was off and on...it kept me reading but I wasn't hooked)
Character development: 4
Level of Romance between characters: 4
Passion/Heat level: 3.5(these two are hot for each other from the start but it takes a little time for them to come together.)
Angst/Heartbreak: 3.75 (these two both have dark pasts and a lot to get past)
Cliffhanger?: Nope, this is the first in a series but the story is wrapped up with an epilogue.
Overall I did like it and would read more from this author. Excited to hear there will be a novella from Ryan's POV.
I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
December 25, 2013
Slide is a contemporary romance book that would engage a look of you into being a fan of the series, but unfortunately I only liked this book. I didn’t love it and it wasn’t one of my favorite books. It was just a simple like.
Let me tell you at first why would many of you love it; a super-hot superstar at the Yankees. A beautiful broken heroine. A hot sex scenes. Upper east side life. Amazing side characters. All that would lead you to like the novel.
Evie lost her mother and her older brother at an accident and after that, her father sent her and her brother to live with her grandmother and never once asked about her (hate that guy). But then her father got ill and requested that his daughter to visit him, so she went to New York, the place she swore never to step a foot into ever again. After celebrating with her friend in New York at a club, she meets Ryan Fox, the guy with the hazel eyes and a body to die for.
Ryan fox is an arrogant millionaire a$$hole, but a hero you would love. He is a Yankees player and a guy that loves his family so much and would do a lot for them. He has a secret that can destroy him in public, but once you take a deep look at it you find that it makes him more human than ever or maybe more of an angel. He is also a passionate and patient lover. I think the one thing I loved in this novel maybe Ryan.
Slide is one of those novels that could have gotten a five stars from me, but there was this major problem. It was cheesy. I felt like this novel wasn’t fluent, like it was pushed to be a contemporary romance book. First I found that Ryan and Evie fell in love and even in Lust so fast and I couldn’t understand why and when did that happen. I found Evie so naïve and I didn’t like that about her. The romance was so cliché, I don’t know how to tell you what I felt except to tell you that I rolled my eyes so much in this book. There was a lot of drama put just for the sake of drama not because it was in the plot, you know.
Overall, this book might be great for a lot of you, but to me I found it predictable. But I think I enjoyed it, even though I rolled my eyes too much in it. It was fun reading it. If you are looking for a typical contemporary romance book, then Slide is the book for you.
Let me tell you at first why would many of you love it; a super-hot superstar at the Yankees. A beautiful broken heroine. A hot sex scenes. Upper east side life. Amazing side characters. All that would lead you to like the novel.
Evie lost her mother and her older brother at an accident and after that, her father sent her and her brother to live with her grandmother and never once asked about her (hate that guy). But then her father got ill and requested that his daughter to visit him, so she went to New York, the place she swore never to step a foot into ever again. After celebrating with her friend in New York at a club, she meets Ryan Fox, the guy with the hazel eyes and a body to die for.
Ryan fox is an arrogant millionaire a$$hole, but a hero you would love. He is a Yankees player and a guy that loves his family so much and would do a lot for them. He has a secret that can destroy him in public, but once you take a deep look at it you find that it makes him more human than ever or maybe more of an angel. He is also a passionate and patient lover. I think the one thing I loved in this novel maybe Ryan.
Slide is one of those novels that could have gotten a five stars from me, but there was this major problem. It was cheesy. I felt like this novel wasn’t fluent, like it was pushed to be a contemporary romance book. First I found that Ryan and Evie fell in love and even in Lust so fast and I couldn’t understand why and when did that happen. I found Evie so naïve and I didn’t like that about her. The romance was so cliché, I don’t know how to tell you what I felt except to tell you that I rolled my eyes so much in this book. There was a lot of drama put just for the sake of drama not because it was in the plot, you know.
Overall, this book might be great for a lot of you, but to me I found it predictable. But I think I enjoyed it, even though I rolled my eyes too much in it. It was fun reading it. If you are looking for a typical contemporary romance book, then Slide is the book for you.
April 19, 2015
After reading the blurb on the back of this book I was excited to read it! Pretty much anything having to do with baseball, I’m there! However, this book just wasn’t anything special. It starts out ok, and then once she meets Ryan Fox it’s just sex every couple of pages. I swear 90% of this book is just a sex scene. I would rather not have to read explicit material in every chapter. I feel like anything having the “New Adult” tag/categorization attached to it is just key for people in their 20’s having sex, with a slight plot surrounding it. Ugh! Yes, I am a “New Adult” I suppose, but I for one do not find these types of books interesting. I want to have a love story that I can actually fall in love with, with slight sexual material (if need be). I realize that sex is something that people in their 20’s do, however it doesn’t need to be the focus of “New Adult” books for them to be good.
Moving past the sex portion of the book, I have another issue. This author obviously knows nothing about baseball. There weren’t that many baseball related plot points, unfortunately….or fortunately as it would seem. After seeing that this book was about baseball, I was excited. But it wasn’t really a part of this book at all. Ryan Fox could have been any kind of athlete and it really wouldn’t have affected the storyline. So that sucked. But once I understood that this author doesn’t know anything about baseball I was almost relieved that she hadn’t attempted to describe the game itself at length. What she did decide to put into the storyline she butchered. I am a sports fan, and baseball is MY sport! So when she defiled facts about the way the MLB worked, it just wasn’t working for me! For those who don’t know anything about baseball it wouldn’t be an issue, but I don’t understand why this author would write about something that she hasn’t researched properly and doesn’t seem to know anything about.
Overall: This book wasn’t really what I was expecting it to be, BUT it wasn’t the worst book I’ve ever read. Take out most of the unnecessary explicit scenes, and have the author do some research on the baseball aspect of the story and then this book might be a worthwhile read… Hey, at least made it through the whole thing, so there’s that. ⋆⋆ 2 stars
Moving past the sex portion of the book, I have another issue. This author obviously knows nothing about baseball. There weren’t that many baseball related plot points, unfortunately….or fortunately as it would seem. After seeing that this book was about baseball, I was excited. But it wasn’t really a part of this book at all. Ryan Fox could have been any kind of athlete and it really wouldn’t have affected the storyline. So that sucked. But once I understood that this author doesn’t know anything about baseball I was almost relieved that she hadn’t attempted to describe the game itself at length. What she did decide to put into the storyline she butchered. I am a sports fan, and baseball is MY sport! So when she defiled facts about the way the MLB worked, it just wasn’t working for me! For those who don’t know anything about baseball it wouldn’t be an issue, but I don’t understand why this author would write about something that she hasn’t researched properly and doesn’t seem to know anything about.
Overall: This book wasn’t really what I was expecting it to be, BUT it wasn’t the worst book I’ve ever read. Take out most of the unnecessary explicit scenes, and have the author do some research on the baseball aspect of the story and then this book might be a worthwhile read… Hey, at least made it through the whole thing, so there’s that. ⋆⋆ 2 stars
November 24, 2013
I received a copy of this book in return for an honest review.
Firstly I love the cover, the paparazzi lens and flashes in the background with the beautiful Evie in the forefront immediately grabs your attention and draws you into reading this story.
The story between Evangline and Ryan rolls along at what I describe as a gentle pace. This isn't a book full of revelations and hold your breath moments. I hate and won't use the word predictable but it's very easy to guess everything as you progress through their story. It's unhurried pace is pleasant but a little more action would have taken it up a notch.
Evangline is likeable and although she's a rich heiress she come's across a gentle character, a person that sees good and bad but always errs towards the good. You feel for her straight away with what happened in New York and I have to say what happens further in the book when she is reading was a real tearful moment.
Ryan, ah now Ryan I got a little confused with Ryan's character, he's projected by the media as a complete womaniser, then when he talks to Evie he says he is not but then mentions strings of one night stands. He says he's never had a girlfriend and only the one night stands but then his family portray him as someone slightly different to that and then there's his secret which is what I felt wasn't a revelation, it was easy to summise what it was. There is no denying his easy manner and his audaciousness makes major smile moments throughout. He's an atheletic mega star baseball player, an 'eight' pack hunk who will have many, many, many eating from his hand just like Evie couldn't help doing.
There was one character that stuck in my mind and I really liked and that was Gabriel, as a secondary character she doesn't star much but when she does her anger, her trauma and her deep seated protective need shine through, I connected with her even though she wasn't nice to Evie. I felt she had the most personality of all of the characters.
There were typos and grammatical errors but I hope because this was an ARC copy that these will have been dispensed with before public release.
Firstly I love the cover, the paparazzi lens and flashes in the background with the beautiful Evie in the forefront immediately grabs your attention and draws you into reading this story.
The story between Evangline and Ryan rolls along at what I describe as a gentle pace. This isn't a book full of revelations and hold your breath moments. I hate and won't use the word predictable but it's very easy to guess everything as you progress through their story. It's unhurried pace is pleasant but a little more action would have taken it up a notch.
Evangline is likeable and although she's a rich heiress she come's across a gentle character, a person that sees good and bad but always errs towards the good. You feel for her straight away with what happened in New York and I have to say what happens further in the book when she is reading was a real tearful moment.
Ryan, ah now Ryan I got a little confused with Ryan's character, he's projected by the media as a complete womaniser, then when he talks to Evie he says he is not but then mentions strings of one night stands. He says he's never had a girlfriend and only the one night stands but then his family portray him as someone slightly different to that and then there's his secret which is what I felt wasn't a revelation, it was easy to summise what it was. There is no denying his easy manner and his audaciousness makes major smile moments throughout. He's an atheletic mega star baseball player, an 'eight' pack hunk who will have many, many, many eating from his hand just like Evie couldn't help doing.
There was one character that stuck in my mind and I really liked and that was Gabriel, as a secondary character she doesn't star much but when she does her anger, her trauma and her deep seated protective need shine through, I connected with her even though she wasn't nice to Evie. I felt she had the most personality of all of the characters.
There were typos and grammatical errors but I hope because this was an ARC copy that these will have been dispensed with before public release.
August 7, 2014
Check out more of my reviews on my blog www.gemmareadstoomuchforittomenormal....
3.5 stars
Slide is book #1 in the Broken series and the first thing I have read by this author. I was lucky enough to have been given a review copy of this in exchange for an honest review so here goes...
I wasn’t entirely sure what to expect from this book, the blurb is a bit angsty so I had prepared myself for a roller coaster ride.
I was pleasantly surprised to find that this book is actually a happy story with an uplifting vibe.
I LOVE Ryan, he’s cocky and full of himself but on him that’s sexy and endearing. I never at any point thought god what an idiot, he just made me chuckle. And really what is better than a sexy, confident man who can make you laugh!!!
I liked Evangeline although I found her a bit weak (not an engaging quality) and I wanted at times to shake her a bit.
For me this book peaked a bit too early on and all of the good drama was dealt with in the middle of the story. I didn’t really appreciate the fake pregnancy story I would have preferred for them to spend a bit more time dealing with their issues.
I’m not sure where the author is planning to go with this series but I would love to read more about Hawke, he seemed absolutely adorable and I would love to see him find a nice girl to love.
Was it just me or did Ryan’s mom know that Evangeline was pregnant right when she came to visit????
What was going on with the psycho girl therapist??? We never found out how she got tickets to sit in the family seating.
I think this group of characters has the potential to make an amazing series, I love a good ensemble and with this group there is enough diversity to make a lot of different, interesting stories.
This book is an easy sunny day read that I finished quickly and I enjoyed the HEA, I think it had massive potential to be deeper and grittier because I’m not sure we ever really got to know the actual characters. For this reason I’m rating this book as 3.5 stars!
3.5 stars
Slide is book #1 in the Broken series and the first thing I have read by this author. I was lucky enough to have been given a review copy of this in exchange for an honest review so here goes...
I wasn’t entirely sure what to expect from this book, the blurb is a bit angsty so I had prepared myself for a roller coaster ride.
I was pleasantly surprised to find that this book is actually a happy story with an uplifting vibe.
I LOVE Ryan, he’s cocky and full of himself but on him that’s sexy and endearing. I never at any point thought god what an idiot, he just made me chuckle. And really what is better than a sexy, confident man who can make you laugh!!!
I liked Evangeline although I found her a bit weak (not an engaging quality) and I wanted at times to shake her a bit.
For me this book peaked a bit too early on and all of the good drama was dealt with in the middle of the story. I didn’t really appreciate the fake pregnancy story I would have preferred for them to spend a bit more time dealing with their issues.
I’m not sure where the author is planning to go with this series but I would love to read more about Hawke, he seemed absolutely adorable and I would love to see him find a nice girl to love.
Was it just me or did Ryan’s mom know that Evangeline was pregnant right when she came to visit????
What was going on with the psycho girl therapist??? We never found out how she got tickets to sit in the family seating.
I think this group of characters has the potential to make an amazing series, I love a good ensemble and with this group there is enough diversity to make a lot of different, interesting stories.
This book is an easy sunny day read that I finished quickly and I enjoyed the HEA, I think it had massive potential to be deeper and grittier because I’m not sure we ever really got to know the actual characters. For this reason I’m rating this book as 3.5 stars!
December 12, 2013
In the world of fame, fortune and freakishly intrusive paparazzi things aren't always what they seem. Gazillionaire heiresses might be sexy, fashionable (duh) and look outwardly happy - but this might not be the case. Sexy, superstar sport stars might come across as players (cos they are), and look like the have all the confidence in the world (cos they do) but that doesn't always mean that their lives are hunky dory either. And when you put two famous, rich celebs together - what do you get? Slide of course.
Follow Evie and Ryan's love story through trials, tribulations and trust issues. Evangeline does not want to love Ryan, she doesn't completely want to give into him but she might not have a say in it because the heart wants what it wants. Yes Ryan might be an arrogant a-hole, but he also has a secret that hurts. A secret that might make him just that little more human in your eyes.
I loved reading about the other side. A while back I went through a Mills 'n Boons phase and I am sure you all know that they LOVE have the billionaire man and his mistress (I think that might be a title to one of them). So it was so nice to read a book where both of them where rich, famous and in the lime light (how ever little Evangeline liked it). It was an interesting look into a world that very few of us are familiar with.
Watching the two mc's grow together (despite pesky perky biatches) was also a rather great delight. I loved that it wasn't smooth sailing (cos who likes to read that?) and I thoroughly enjoyed the extra characters (although I would have liked a bit more of that).
And can I just say I am sooooo amped to read Ryan's POV? Hurry up Ms Congdon. Your fans are waiting!
Follow Evie and Ryan's love story through trials, tribulations and trust issues. Evangeline does not want to love Ryan, she doesn't completely want to give into him but she might not have a say in it because the heart wants what it wants. Yes Ryan might be an arrogant a-hole, but he also has a secret that hurts. A secret that might make him just that little more human in your eyes.
I loved reading about the other side. A while back I went through a Mills 'n Boons phase and I am sure you all know that they LOVE have the billionaire man and his mistress (I think that might be a title to one of them). So it was so nice to read a book where both of them where rich, famous and in the lime light (how ever little Evangeline liked it). It was an interesting look into a world that very few of us are familiar with.
Watching the two mc's grow together (despite pesky perky biatches) was also a rather great delight. I loved that it wasn't smooth sailing (cos who likes to read that?) and I thoroughly enjoyed the extra characters (although I would have liked a bit more of that).
And can I just say I am sooooo amped to read Ryan's POV? Hurry up Ms Congdon. Your fans are waiting!
December 2, 2013
***slight spoiler alert***
I must say it was ok. There were definitely some writing issues/editing issues from me. In the first few chapters I found the writing kind of weird in the sense that it was written in present tense but used passed tense words at times as well (this got better later in the book but there was still some confusion with American terminology, this is not something that bothers me though, just thought i'd mention it).
Ok to the actual story, like I mentioned in my update, the story wasn't original for me (probably because I am an avid reader). I usually rate my books with the additional question of: Will I re-read this book? The answer: No. This isn't the type of book that will stick with me.
Let me try to explain why. The characters, I don't think there was enough actual character development for me to fully connect with them, I can't pinpoint what exactly was missing. It seemed as if the question to all their problems was sex. I think half the book was just sex. Then there was the whole condom situation, it was just obvious she was going to get pregnant. The whole Hawke situation I found ridiculous and unnecessary. The fact that Ryan wasn't extremely upset she kept the pregnancy from him, and he had to leave in the middle of the game when he could have gone before or after? (It's not like he found out about it in the middle of the game).
Anyway, hopefully that helps, as for a cliffhanger, the story is not confirmed to have finished as at the end it is mentioned there will be one written in Ryan's POV.
I must say it was ok. There were definitely some writing issues/editing issues from me. In the first few chapters I found the writing kind of weird in the sense that it was written in present tense but used passed tense words at times as well (this got better later in the book but there was still some confusion with American terminology, this is not something that bothers me though, just thought i'd mention it).
Ok to the actual story, like I mentioned in my update, the story wasn't original for me (probably because I am an avid reader). I usually rate my books with the additional question of: Will I re-read this book? The answer: No. This isn't the type of book that will stick with me.
Let me try to explain why. The characters, I don't think there was enough actual character development for me to fully connect with them, I can't pinpoint what exactly was missing. It seemed as if the question to all their problems was sex. I think half the book was just sex. Then there was the whole condom situation, it was just obvious she was going to get pregnant. The whole Hawke situation I found ridiculous and unnecessary. The fact that Ryan wasn't extremely upset she kept the pregnancy from him, and he had to leave in the middle of the game when he could have gone before or after? (It's not like he found out about it in the middle of the game).
Anyway, hopefully that helps, as for a cliffhanger, the story is not confirmed to have finished as at the end it is mentioned there will be one written in Ryan's POV.
April 23, 2014
3.5 star review
Ok, this book had so much potential. Anytime you take a sexy athlete with looks good enough to grace billboards and the ego to go with it, you know it can be entertaining. Ryan played that part well. Evie was the typical heroine who didn't know what makes her so special with the gay gorgeous best friend. So even though the book has all the right elements, it didn't all quite come together the way it should.
Trust me, I don't mind angst in stories and often times I love it. I also love the broken characters who find healing with each other. Now Ryan and Evie both have their own issues, why they feel so comfortable with each other I have no idea. There are parts to the story I found myself annoyed because things didn't add up and aspects of the storyline were either too predictable or similar to other stories. I also had big issues with the moral implications of the storyline with Jessica. That is just wrong!!!!
Despite all this, the book made for a quick read and I was eager to find out what was going to happen for our hero and heroine. I really don't think I will read Ryan's POV because I am worried I will not be happy with getting further details of Ryan returning to his darker moments when he and Evie were apart. Seriously, I cannot believe she did not want further details after that comment. At least the Epilogue leaves the impression that all turns out well, and for that I am grateful.
I received a copy of the book in exchange for an honest review
Ok, this book had so much potential. Anytime you take a sexy athlete with looks good enough to grace billboards and the ego to go with it, you know it can be entertaining. Ryan played that part well. Evie was the typical heroine who didn't know what makes her so special with the gay gorgeous best friend. So even though the book has all the right elements, it didn't all quite come together the way it should.
Trust me, I don't mind angst in stories and often times I love it. I also love the broken characters who find healing with each other. Now Ryan and Evie both have their own issues, why they feel so comfortable with each other I have no idea. There are parts to the story I found myself annoyed because things didn't add up and aspects of the storyline were either too predictable or similar to other stories. I also had big issues with the moral implications of the storyline with Jessica. That is just wrong!!!!
Despite all this, the book made for a quick read and I was eager to find out what was going to happen for our hero and heroine. I really don't think I will read Ryan's POV because I am worried I will not be happy with getting further details of Ryan returning to his darker moments when he and Evie were apart. Seriously, I cannot believe she did not want further details after that comment. At least the Epilogue leaves the impression that all turns out well, and for that I am grateful.
I received a copy of the book in exchange for an honest review
December 3, 2014
I know nothing about Baseball and I have no desire to learn anything about it either, but I know a good book when I read it and this is a good book!
Evangeline was had everything she could have possibly wished for growing up, or so it would seem but she has missed so much following the death of her mother and brother. Her father’s money means nothing when it has meant that she has missed out on his love and support. Grandparents are all well and good but what little girl doesn’t want the love and attention of her father?
But when she is called to New York, she comes across Ryan, the super talented a, media darling Baseball player.
I mean Ryan is huge, his face is plastered all over the advertising hoardings but this man has an ego to match, he is good and he knows it!!
When the media recluse meets the media whore, there has to be a compromise somewhere, but who is going to change their stance?
The story follows the pair of them as they develop a relationship, Evie helping Ryan with some of the issues that plague him and him trying to help bring her out of her shell and blossom with confidence.
But can they really overcome his past and will they survive the scrutiny of the ever present media?
The story is an easy read but that is not to say that it will not cause you more than its fair share of anguish. You will be torn at times with regards to the fact that you will really want to scream at both Evie and Ryan.
The story wavers through a sea of emotions, the characters are not only really loveable but they did make me laugh.
Great work.
Evangeline was had everything she could have possibly wished for growing up, or so it would seem but she has missed so much following the death of her mother and brother. Her father’s money means nothing when it has meant that she has missed out on his love and support. Grandparents are all well and good but what little girl doesn’t want the love and attention of her father?
But when she is called to New York, she comes across Ryan, the super talented a, media darling Baseball player.
I mean Ryan is huge, his face is plastered all over the advertising hoardings but this man has an ego to match, he is good and he knows it!!
When the media recluse meets the media whore, there has to be a compromise somewhere, but who is going to change their stance?
The story follows the pair of them as they develop a relationship, Evie helping Ryan with some of the issues that plague him and him trying to help bring her out of her shell and blossom with confidence.
But can they really overcome his past and will they survive the scrutiny of the ever present media?
The story is an easy read but that is not to say that it will not cause you more than its fair share of anguish. You will be torn at times with regards to the fact that you will really want to scream at both Evie and Ryan.
The story wavers through a sea of emotions, the characters are not only really loveable but they did make me laugh.
Great work.
December 5, 2013
Evie was the heiress to the multi-billion dollar Montgomery Empire after a horrific accident claimed the lives of her mother and brother. for the past 12-years, she swore never to return to the place that filled with memories of her tragic past. however, hearing her father's death brought Evie back. to make matter worst, she met with Ryan, a handsome Yankees player. he was confident and well-known for his playboy attitude. but after getting to know him a few days more, Evie began to see the real man hiding behind that confident façade.
i received the e-book from the author on November 27, 2013. for more than half of the book, the romance between the duo was more than enough to held my absolute attention. when the mysteries started revealing itself, the book became even more delicious and hard to put down. while their romance had the power of heightening my senses, their heartache were also terrifyingly contagious. for more than once, i found myself struggling to return to my usual self after flipping through chapters after chapters. despite having the celebrity background for its characters, the book was so emotionally engaging, which i was quite surprise to find. with such a satisfying end to the story, i couldn't stop wondering what the second book will be about!
my review: here
i received the e-book from the author on November 27, 2013. for more than half of the book, the romance between the duo was more than enough to held my absolute attention. when the mysteries started revealing itself, the book became even more delicious and hard to put down. while their romance had the power of heightening my senses, their heartache were also terrifyingly contagious. for more than once, i found myself struggling to return to my usual self after flipping through chapters after chapters. despite having the celebrity background for its characters, the book was so emotionally engaging, which i was quite surprise to find. with such a satisfying end to the story, i couldn't stop wondering what the second book will be about!
my review: here
April 12, 2014
I received. Copy of this book for an honest review.
Humm, let me start if by saying this was a good book, there were parts I didn't feel we're stressed enough but after I read the whole book they didn't seem to matter.
We meet evie in a very sad way and my heart broke for get, no one should have to go tru what she did. It's hard to write a review because I never know what could be spoiler and what won't be so I'm not going to go to indepth on what took her back to New York, but yet again bad things happen and she breaks again.
We meet Ryan and let me say I thought he wa going to be a jerk tru this whole boom but he really wasn't, he was funny!
" I’m sorry if you genuinely just found out that your boyfriend was into guys,” he said raising both hands up in defeat. “I’d be more than happy to offer my services, if it would help make him jealous. What do you need me to do, grope you? Whisper sweet things in your ear? Or make out with you? Hell, we could do all three if you want."
I'm mean really!! That cracked me up!
I was able to figure out what was going to happe. But the way it was brought up made it even better then I had thought. Tru had there twists and turns and some of it wa highly annoying and I wanted to scream at Ryan but in the end it all worked out for me (and them)
Overall this story rocked and I'm glad I read it.
Humm, let me start if by saying this was a good book, there were parts I didn't feel we're stressed enough but after I read the whole book they didn't seem to matter.
We meet evie in a very sad way and my heart broke for get, no one should have to go tru what she did. It's hard to write a review because I never know what could be spoiler and what won't be so I'm not going to go to indepth on what took her back to New York, but yet again bad things happen and she breaks again.
We meet Ryan and let me say I thought he wa going to be a jerk tru this whole boom but he really wasn't, he was funny!
" I’m sorry if you genuinely just found out that your boyfriend was into guys,” he said raising both hands up in defeat. “I’d be more than happy to offer my services, if it would help make him jealous. What do you need me to do, grope you? Whisper sweet things in your ear? Or make out with you? Hell, we could do all three if you want."
I'm mean really!! That cracked me up!
I was able to figure out what was going to happe. But the way it was brought up made it even better then I had thought. Tru had there twists and turns and some of it wa highly annoying and I wanted to scream at Ryan but in the end it all worked out for me (and them)
Overall this story rocked and I'm glad I read it.
November 29, 2013
Slide is one of those feel good novels that I would read when I am down in dumps. Michelle Congdon's venture into the world of fiction has had a good start. From the delectable Ryan Fox to the perfect Evangeline, everything and everyone in this début novel is designed to please. Fast paced and slick Ryan Fox the hero of Slide might just develop a fan following amongst the young adult readers.
I would have enjoyed more if there was more of a mystery behind the various deaths in the novel because in the beginning there were hints that the deaths were not just accidental. However after the slight build up of suspense the story changes its course. Elaborating on the suspense element might have added a little more depth to the story.
This was also the first time that I realized, I am older than the protagonists! It did come as a shock but adult contemporary novels are often written with a certain age group in mind. However, are present day 22 year olds thinking of marriage? Slide and its issues felt like going back in time. Other than the presence of cellular phones, Slide could have been an Adult Contemporary Novel from the 1980s. But, as I have mentioned before, Slide is a wonderful book to pick when you need lift.
I would have enjoyed more if there was more of a mystery behind the various deaths in the novel because in the beginning there were hints that the deaths were not just accidental. However after the slight build up of suspense the story changes its course. Elaborating on the suspense element might have added a little more depth to the story.
This was also the first time that I realized, I am older than the protagonists! It did come as a shock but adult contemporary novels are often written with a certain age group in mind. However, are present day 22 year olds thinking of marriage? Slide and its issues felt like going back in time. Other than the presence of cellular phones, Slide could have been an Adult Contemporary Novel from the 1980s. But, as I have mentioned before, Slide is a wonderful book to pick when you need lift.
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