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Hard Feelings #3
A Beautiful Distraction
A brand new novel in the New York Times bestselling Hard Feelings series—where nothing’s more dangerous than a bad boy with a broken heart…
First Sergeant Rafe Murano did everything to the extreme. He trained harder, he fought harder, and, unfortunately, he loved harder. And falling for the wrong woman nearly destroyed him.
Home from a deployment, and without his missions to consume him, Murano is ravaged by memories of his heartbreak. So he drinks until he’s numb and drowns himself in meaningless one-night stands. But they only take the edge off…
Until he meets Fallon.
Haunted by her past, Fallon Kelly knows all too well about the desperate desire for an escape. So when she sees the tatted-up bad boy who’s one punch away from a ride in the back of a squad car, she offers a distraction—one that quickly becomes an addiction.
Little does she know, this bad boy can love so hard, it can break her…
First Sergeant Rafe Murano did everything to the extreme. He trained harder, he fought harder, and, unfortunately, he loved harder. And falling for the wrong woman nearly destroyed him.
Home from a deployment, and without his missions to consume him, Murano is ravaged by memories of his heartbreak. So he drinks until he’s numb and drowns himself in meaningless one-night stands. But they only take the edge off…
Until he meets Fallon.
Haunted by her past, Fallon Kelly knows all too well about the desperate desire for an escape. So when she sees the tatted-up bad boy who’s one punch away from a ride in the back of a squad car, she offers a distraction—one that quickly becomes an addiction.
Little does she know, this bad boy can love so hard, it can break her…
272 pages, Paperback
First published May 6, 2014
21 people are currently reading
1684 people want to read
About the author
Kelsie Leverich
8 books668 followersNew York Times bestselling author, Kelsie Leverich, lives in Indiana where she spends her days behind the chair at her salon helping women feel beautiful, and spends her nights, (once the kids are fast asleep and her hunky boyfriend is binging Netflix) dreaming up Happily-Ever-After’s.
Kelsie’s busy life is fueled by coffee and Cabernet, and she embraces her chaos with day-dreams and romance novels as allies. She is most definitely not a morning person, has a soft spot for animals, loves musicals, hates seafood, and thinks laundry is the source of all evil.
Kelsie writes emotional, gritty, toe-curling love stories, but she also writes playful, lighthearted, sexy love stories as well. Either way, you can always find passion at the heart of her books, and her life.
Kelsie’s busy life is fueled by coffee and Cabernet, and she embraces her chaos with day-dreams and romance novels as allies. She is most definitely not a morning person, has a soft spot for animals, loves musicals, hates seafood, and thinks laundry is the source of all evil.
Kelsie writes emotional, gritty, toe-curling love stories, but she also writes playful, lighthearted, sexy love stories as well. Either way, you can always find passion at the heart of her books, and her life.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 108 reviews
May 13, 2014
4.5 Stars
I loved Feel the Rush so I was excited to pick up A Beautiful Distraction and it did not disappoint. Smoking hot, tender and addictive!
Rafe Murano is back home from deployment and without a mission to distract him he’s drowning his heartache in alcohol and women. I met Rafe in the last book, and knew his heart was in a twist over a married woman. I wasn’t happy about that situation, but no one is perfect, and Rafe started up with Bridgette (the married woman) before he knew she was attached. He regrets her and the fact that it made him “the other man”. It’s been more than a year, still, Rafe fell hard, and so he continues in his destructive spiral until he lays eyes on Fallon. She captivates him like no other woman; her pull draws him in like a magnet.
“When I taste you, I’m tasting you. I’m not chasing some fucking distraction. This”—he moved his lips to hers—“is you. And goddammit, Fallon, I want you.”
Fallon is the queen of keeping people at arm’s length. She’s felt the hurt and devastation from loving too much and losing. Fallon has a strict set of rules concerning men and hookups, definitely not relationships, but one look at Rafe and she knows she’s in trouble. Fallon knows she’s about to break every rule she’s made, and I loved “seeing” her do it.
Fallon had so much hurt inflicted from her family. Basically she was their show pony when she was their perfect prima ballerina, but when she got in trouble and threatened to embarrass them, she was cut off, and shoved out the door without a backward glance. Rafe’s family is unexpected to Fallon: big, loving and demonstrative and it’s easy to see how Rafe turned out to be the loving, passionate man that he is; a man who Fallon can’t help but let in and love.
Rafe is so intense and passionate when he grabs hold of love, and I just love a guy who can be so consumed by emotion and feel so deeply.
"He's a Murano. He'll love you so fiercely you'll question every other love you've felt before him, and no other love will ever compare after him."
I was a goner over Rafe quickly in spite of my initial hesitations knowing he had an affair with a married woman. I seriously wanted to strangle Bridgette for putting him through the ringer even though it was his fault as well. Rafe is fully over Bridgette’s manipulations once she comes back into the picture, and Fallon is clearly the only woman for him. Thankfully, Bridgette’s presence in the book is minimal. Fallon encased her heart in ice as a protective barrier, but I was relieved that she didn’t constantly push Rafe away. Both Rafe and Fallon seemed to recognize the vulnerability in each other and each attempted to soothe and assure the other. Like Rafe said “she just fit”, they just fit each other.
This romance was beautiful, emotional, seriously hot, and just completely lovely! Kelsie Leverich has just moved to my “automatic-buy” list.
A copy was provided by NAL Trade in exchange for an honest review.
I loved Feel the Rush so I was excited to pick up A Beautiful Distraction and it did not disappoint. Smoking hot, tender and addictive!
Rafe Murano is back home from deployment and without a mission to distract him he’s drowning his heartache in alcohol and women. I met Rafe in the last book, and knew his heart was in a twist over a married woman. I wasn’t happy about that situation, but no one is perfect, and Rafe started up with Bridgette (the married woman) before he knew she was attached. He regrets her and the fact that it made him “the other man”. It’s been more than a year, still, Rafe fell hard, and so he continues in his destructive spiral until he lays eyes on Fallon. She captivates him like no other woman; her pull draws him in like a magnet.
“When I taste you, I’m tasting you. I’m not chasing some fucking distraction. This”—he moved his lips to hers—“is you. And goddammit, Fallon, I want you.”
Fallon is the queen of keeping people at arm’s length. She’s felt the hurt and devastation from loving too much and losing. Fallon has a strict set of rules concerning men and hookups, definitely not relationships, but one look at Rafe and she knows she’s in trouble. Fallon knows she’s about to break every rule she’s made, and I loved “seeing” her do it.
Fallon had so much hurt inflicted from her family. Basically she was their show pony when she was their perfect prima ballerina, but when she got in trouble and threatened to embarrass them, she was cut off, and shoved out the door without a backward glance. Rafe’s family is unexpected to Fallon: big, loving and demonstrative and it’s easy to see how Rafe turned out to be the loving, passionate man that he is; a man who Fallon can’t help but let in and love.
Rafe is so intense and passionate when he grabs hold of love, and I just love a guy who can be so consumed by emotion and feel so deeply.
"He's a Murano. He'll love you so fiercely you'll question every other love you've felt before him, and no other love will ever compare after him."
I was a goner over Rafe quickly in spite of my initial hesitations knowing he had an affair with a married woman. I seriously wanted to strangle Bridgette for putting him through the ringer even though it was his fault as well. Rafe is fully over Bridgette’s manipulations once she comes back into the picture, and Fallon is clearly the only woman for him. Thankfully, Bridgette’s presence in the book is minimal. Fallon encased her heart in ice as a protective barrier, but I was relieved that she didn’t constantly push Rafe away. Both Rafe and Fallon seemed to recognize the vulnerability in each other and each attempted to soothe and assure the other. Like Rafe said “she just fit”, they just fit each other.
This romance was beautiful, emotional, seriously hot, and just completely lovely! Kelsie Leverich has just moved to my “automatic-buy” list.
A copy was provided by NAL Trade in exchange for an honest review.
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May 13, 2014DNF at page 136/360, therefore, no rating.
This book started out so strong that I was sure I was going to love it, but when it comes out that Rafe, I got mad. Then when I learned that he I stopped being angry at him. In fact, I felt sorry for him and was thrilled when he Then, when I read that he was I was like – wait… whaaaaaat? It was here I tossed the book aside, threw my hands in the air, and was done.
It might be that at some point in the story Rafe redeems himself. Or it might be that something comes out that would explain how he was justified in . And, it might be that had I kept reading I would have loved it. It might also just be wishful thinking on my part.
This is definitely a case of loving the way the author tells a story, but not loving the story being told.
I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
April 29, 2014
3.5 Stars
When First Sergeant Rafe Murano does anything, he does it to the extreme...especially when it comes to feeling. He comes from a long line of men who fall and fall hard.
But Rafe fell for the wrong woman and had his heart shattered. Now he's looking for his peace of mind at the bottom of his whiskey glass and spending his nights with any willing woman...or 2.
Fallon Kelly doesn't want to feel at all. A girl that had it all at one point; rich parents, a promising ballet career lost it all with one mistake. Everyone that she though loved her turned their back on her. On her own since 17, she doesn't rely on anyone but herself. A successful owner of the most popular burlesque club in town, she likes her shoes designer and her men disposable.
I really liked Fallon's character. It's always nice to read about a heroine that extremely comfortable in her own skin, confident, and isn't afraid of a sexual relationship with a man...so long as it doesn't lead to more. And the men she's been with in the past know the score.
Rafe may have a rule of no repeat offenders, but Fallon doesn't mind it...so long as they don't spend the night. So what happens when a man that feels too much meets a woman that doesn't want to feel at all?
Rafe was a character that I had a hard time connecting to, to be honest. He had every element that usually appeals to me, tatted, motorcycle riding military man? Winning combination. Make that man just a little bit broken, and my pervy little heart is in lust.
But there was one very big thing that kept me from ever truly connecting with him. Obviously that all stopped before he met Fallon, but still. It's tough for me o connect to a hero that would do that. I like my alpha's strong and while Rafe had that...he also came off as weak. It was a bit of a role reversal with the way he and Fallon are. Fallon wants a physical relationship only, while Rafe is pursuing more.
But the way he pursued it? Well, you'll be getting zero complaints about that from me.
I'm not sure quite what it was, but I never truly got that connection between them. The story was incredibly well written and melt your panties off steamy. But there was just something missing that would bring it to a solid 4 or 5 star read for me.
This was my first book by Kelsie Leverich and it certainly won't be my last. Her writing style draws you in, and the story keeps you interested.
There were a few times I found myself getting a little bored, but overall I really liked it. I'd gladly read the next book in the series and if you're OK with what I mention in my spoiler, I'd definitely recommend the book.
***ARC given to Dirty Girl Romance blog in exchange for an honest review***
For more reviews visit
He was a confusing, compelling contradiction. He absorbed her hidden emotions yet at the same time made her feel. He was dangerous, yet his nearness alone gave her a sense of security she'd never experienced. He was a stranger.
A beautiful distraction.
When First Sergeant Rafe Murano does anything, he does it to the extreme...especially when it comes to feeling. He comes from a long line of men who fall and fall hard.
But Rafe fell for the wrong woman and had his heart shattered. Now he's looking for his peace of mind at the bottom of his whiskey glass and spending his nights with any willing woman...or 2.
Fallon Kelly doesn't want to feel at all. A girl that had it all at one point; rich parents, a promising ballet career lost it all with one mistake. Everyone that she though loved her turned their back on her. On her own since 17, she doesn't rely on anyone but herself. A successful owner of the most popular burlesque club in town, she likes her shoes designer and her men disposable.
I really liked Fallon's character. It's always nice to read about a heroine that extremely comfortable in her own skin, confident, and isn't afraid of a sexual relationship with a man...so long as it doesn't lead to more. And the men she's been with in the past know the score.
Rafe may have a rule of no repeat offenders, but Fallon doesn't mind it...so long as they don't spend the night. So what happens when a man that feels too much meets a woman that doesn't want to feel at all?
Rafe was a character that I had a hard time connecting to, to be honest. He had every element that usually appeals to me, tatted, motorcycle riding military man? Winning combination. Make that man just a little bit broken, and my pervy little heart is in lust.
But there was one very big thing that kept me from ever truly connecting with him. Obviously that all stopped before he met Fallon, but still. It's tough for me o connect to a hero that would do that. I like my alpha's strong and while Rafe had that...he also came off as weak. It was a bit of a role reversal with the way he and Fallon are. Fallon wants a physical relationship only, while Rafe is pursuing more.
But the way he pursued it? Well, you'll be getting zero complaints about that from me.
I'm not sure quite what it was, but I never truly got that connection between them. The story was incredibly well written and melt your panties off steamy. But there was just something missing that would bring it to a solid 4 or 5 star read for me.
This was my first book by Kelsie Leverich and it certainly won't be my last. Her writing style draws you in, and the story keeps you interested.
There were a few times I found myself getting a little bored, but overall I really liked it. I'd gladly read the next book in the series and if you're OK with what I mention in my spoiler, I'd definitely recommend the book.
***ARC given to Dirty Girl Romance blog in exchange for an honest review***
For more reviews visit
May 6, 2014
Hi, I'm the Author of the Hard Feelings series. In this story we are introduced to Fallon, a fiercely independent women who is keen on keeping everyone in her life at arms length, even those she truly cares about.
We met Rafe Murano in Feel the Rush. He is a sexy tattooed soldier who has had his heart broken in the past and the pain and anger it caused still lingers around him.
It's a sexy, emotional story about two people ashamed of the past that haunts them who find a distraction in each other when those skeletons emerge. All the while learning acceptance, forgiveness, and love.
I can't wait for you to read it!
May 15, 2014
ENTER TO WIN SIGNED COPIES HERE http://www.romanceaddictbookblog.com/...
**ARC provided by author in exchange for honest review**
What can I say? This book wasn’t like anything I thought it would be. I haven’t read any other books by this author, and after reading A Beautiful Distraction I am sitting here wondering why the hell I haven’t. This is a well-written story of love when you least expect it. It’s how opposites attract, it’s how a woman finally lets love in, and it’s how a man finds out what true love is. This hearfelt tale was the perfect combination of sexy and cute, and I highly recommend it.
“If anything he wanted to go back, to use his missions to fill the void and distract him from his fucking ravaged heart. He yearned for the fight, the constant sharp of edge of war, the adrenaline that would invade the vacancy in his heart as it surged through his veins. He needed it.”
A Beautiful Distraction alternates POVs between Rafe and Fallon, which I always enjoy. I really enjoyed watching them fall in love. I think the story went slower than I’m used to, taking it’s time with their backstories and building up to their first meeting. Rafe is on leave and has been on multiple tours in the past eleven years. He is haunted by things he did while on duty, but mostly he is able to keep it locked up. His real problem is his heartbreak over a woman. I can’t say much without spoiling it, but, ugh, I hate her—she is nothing but trouble throughout the course of the book. But the alpha way he comes onto Fallon? *faints*. He’s the strong and silent type, but his love for Fallon shines through his resilience and the way he steadily breaks through all her walls.
“It had never been this good. Felt this good. She’d never craved or needed the affection he was providing her body. But he’d made her desirous for him. And the consequences were teetering along terrifying. If she wanted him like this—this much, this quickly—then she was already in trouble.”
Fallon is one of the most independent and strongest heroines I’ve ever encountered. She owns an exclusive and tasteful club. She was kicked out and disowned by her family when she was just a teenager, and since then she has become a kick-ass woman. Her strength and no-nonsense manner reminded me much of myself. She focuses solely on her club—until Rafe shows up to see her dance one night. I definitely enjoyed seeing Rafe break through all her defenses. No matter how frustrating it was to watch her continually deny her and Rafe’s connection, it was great to see how and why she is the way she is.
“He also knew that whatever was between them was heavy, it was insane, and fast, and uncontrollably real. It didn’t take him long to realize he was a goner, he knew the first thing in the morning he woke up next to her. He just hadn’t realized how far and how fast he’d go when it came to her.”
You might be thinking this is your typical romance where they have insta-love and he chases her because she refuses to acknowledge her growing feelings for him. It’s not, at least in my opinion it’s not. I thought it was a refreshing change of pace from what I normally read. Sure they have the insta-pull when the see each other at Fallon’s club, but they weren’t instantly in love. We watch them develop a relationship that goes farther than just sex. Oh and the sex is hotttt. It was fantastic and explosive. There’s an actual plot to the story—it even shows the importance of family and it has lots of delicious plot twists. All in all, I think I need to go back and maybe read the books that are prior to A Beautiful Distraction in this series of standalones.
“I don’t know, Rafe. God, I want to let you. I want to love you the way you deserve to be loved. But I don’t know how.”
“You don’t need to know how. That’s what you’ve got me for. Fuck, babe. I’m not going to let you walk away from me because you’re scared. Let me love you until you don’t know anything other than my love for you. You won me gorgeous. My heart already belongs to you. You just need to give me yours.”
**ARC provided by author in exchange for honest review**
What can I say? This book wasn’t like anything I thought it would be. I haven’t read any other books by this author, and after reading A Beautiful Distraction I am sitting here wondering why the hell I haven’t. This is a well-written story of love when you least expect it. It’s how opposites attract, it’s how a woman finally lets love in, and it’s how a man finds out what true love is. This hearfelt tale was the perfect combination of sexy and cute, and I highly recommend it.
“If anything he wanted to go back, to use his missions to fill the void and distract him from his fucking ravaged heart. He yearned for the fight, the constant sharp of edge of war, the adrenaline that would invade the vacancy in his heart as it surged through his veins. He needed it.”
A Beautiful Distraction alternates POVs between Rafe and Fallon, which I always enjoy. I really enjoyed watching them fall in love. I think the story went slower than I’m used to, taking it’s time with their backstories and building up to their first meeting. Rafe is on leave and has been on multiple tours in the past eleven years. He is haunted by things he did while on duty, but mostly he is able to keep it locked up. His real problem is his heartbreak over a woman. I can’t say much without spoiling it, but, ugh, I hate her—she is nothing but trouble throughout the course of the book. But the alpha way he comes onto Fallon? *faints*. He’s the strong and silent type, but his love for Fallon shines through his resilience and the way he steadily breaks through all her walls.
“It had never been this good. Felt this good. She’d never craved or needed the affection he was providing her body. But he’d made her desirous for him. And the consequences were teetering along terrifying. If she wanted him like this—this much, this quickly—then she was already in trouble.”
Fallon is one of the most independent and strongest heroines I’ve ever encountered. She owns an exclusive and tasteful club. She was kicked out and disowned by her family when she was just a teenager, and since then she has become a kick-ass woman. Her strength and no-nonsense manner reminded me much of myself. She focuses solely on her club—until Rafe shows up to see her dance one night. I definitely enjoyed seeing Rafe break through all her defenses. No matter how frustrating it was to watch her continually deny her and Rafe’s connection, it was great to see how and why she is the way she is.
“He also knew that whatever was between them was heavy, it was insane, and fast, and uncontrollably real. It didn’t take him long to realize he was a goner, he knew the first thing in the morning he woke up next to her. He just hadn’t realized how far and how fast he’d go when it came to her.”
You might be thinking this is your typical romance where they have insta-love and he chases her because she refuses to acknowledge her growing feelings for him. It’s not, at least in my opinion it’s not. I thought it was a refreshing change of pace from what I normally read. Sure they have the insta-pull when the see each other at Fallon’s club, but they weren’t instantly in love. We watch them develop a relationship that goes farther than just sex. Oh and the sex is hotttt. It was fantastic and explosive. There’s an actual plot to the story—it even shows the importance of family and it has lots of delicious plot twists. All in all, I think I need to go back and maybe read the books that are prior to A Beautiful Distraction in this series of standalones.
“I don’t know, Rafe. God, I want to let you. I want to love you the way you deserve to be loved. But I don’t know how.”
“You don’t need to know how. That’s what you’ve got me for. Fuck, babe. I’m not going to let you walk away from me because you’re scared. Let me love you until you don’t know anything other than my love for you. You won me gorgeous. My heart already belongs to you. You just need to give me yours.”
August 13, 2016
3-3.5 Fallon and Rafe Stars
Fallon is a tough cookie. She’s a stripper and she owns the club she strips at. She’s had a hard past and she doesn’t let anyone get to her. She has her rules and she doesn’t do relationships.
Rafe is a First Sergeant and is back from deployment. He’s hurt because of his ex and he doesn’t trust women easily. When Fallon and Rafe meet, their chemistry is undeniable. Rafe is okay with Fallon’s rules and is willing be at arm’s length… until he starts to have serious feelings.
Review
I liked A Beautiful Distraction. The overall plot and idea was good. You have the tough Heroine stripper (and we all know I love a good stripper book), mixed with a tough military guy. The beginning was a touch slow for me and it was a little hard to get into. Once I got into the Fallon and Rafe dynamics, it started to pick up.
There’s a lot of tug and pull between the two main characters. Fallon is a bit frustrating at times because she is so stubborn. Yes, she is hurt from past pains so that is why she is so guarded, but so is Rafe, so I couldn’t really sympathize too much with. I had mixed feelings with Fallon because I like how strong she was, but I was turned off by how much she pushed Rafe away.
Rafe is a great guy and he has his hang-ups, but I felt like he was really trying to work with Fallon and work on getting over his hurt from his ex. The steam was great though. Rafe is kind of alpha and gets a little jealous with Fallon and her dancing (I love my alpha males). There are some cute moments like when Fallon meets Rafe’s family and she interacts with them.
The ending is a roller coaster of emotions and it’s a lot of drama. If you like a book with a lot of tension, then this one is for you.
An ARC was provided in exchange for an honest review
Series Order
REVIEW | AMAZON
REVIEW | AMAZON
AMAZON
For more reviews, http://jacquelinereads.blogspot.com
Fallon is a tough cookie. She’s a stripper and she owns the club she strips at. She’s had a hard past and she doesn’t let anyone get to her. She has her rules and she doesn’t do relationships.
Rafe is a First Sergeant and is back from deployment. He’s hurt because of his ex and he doesn’t trust women easily. When Fallon and Rafe meet, their chemistry is undeniable. Rafe is okay with Fallon’s rules and is willing be at arm’s length… until he starts to have serious feelings.
Review
I liked A Beautiful Distraction. The overall plot and idea was good. You have the tough Heroine stripper (and we all know I love a good stripper book), mixed with a tough military guy. The beginning was a touch slow for me and it was a little hard to get into. Once I got into the Fallon and Rafe dynamics, it started to pick up.
There’s a lot of tug and pull between the two main characters. Fallon is a bit frustrating at times because she is so stubborn. Yes, she is hurt from past pains so that is why she is so guarded, but so is Rafe, so I couldn’t really sympathize too much with. I had mixed feelings with Fallon because I like how strong she was, but I was turned off by how much she pushed Rafe away.
Rafe is a great guy and he has his hang-ups, but I felt like he was really trying to work with Fallon and work on getting over his hurt from his ex. The steam was great though. Rafe is kind of alpha and gets a little jealous with Fallon and her dancing (I love my alpha males). There are some cute moments like when Fallon meets Rafe’s family and she interacts with them.
The ending is a roller coaster of emotions and it’s a lot of drama. If you like a book with a lot of tension, then this one is for you.
An ARC was provided in exchange for an honest review
Series Order
REVIEW | AMAZON
REVIEW | AMAZON
AMAZONFor more reviews, http://jacquelinereads.blogspot.com
May 7, 2014
1 star - DNF
I like the plot, so I chose this instead of the 400+ books that I haven't read yet...and I'm disappointed....
At chapter 2, I found myself skipping a few lines, then continued doing it til chapter 7. I stopped around 30% of the story, I couldn't take it anymore.
This is written in 3rd person POV, and I'm not a fan of it, only a few authors were able to please me with that kind of writing... I feel detached to the characters!!!
I don't find it exciting and I feel like there's nothing to look forward to. Sorry :(
I like the plot, so I chose this instead of the 400+ books that I haven't read yet...and I'm disappointed....
At chapter 2, I found myself skipping a few lines, then continued doing it til chapter 7. I stopped around 30% of the story, I couldn't take it anymore.
This is written in 3rd person POV, and I'm not a fan of it, only a few authors were able to please me with that kind of writing... I feel detached to the characters!!!
I don't find it exciting and I feel like there's nothing to look forward to. Sorry :(
October 25, 2015
*4.5 Stars Overall*
Hard feelings abound when a family-oriented hero, who will risk all to protect women, meets an independent heroine who believes she is incapable of love. The third book in the Hard Feelings series, A Beautiful Distraction can be read on a stand-alone basis as each novel centers around the love life of different characters. Add in Abby Craden's sensual narration, and you have the perfect recipe for a solid audiobook for lovers of contemporary romances.
First Sergeant Rafe Murano is reeling from devastating break-up. Although he knows he shouldn't have, he fell in love with a married woman, and it nearly broke him. To his credit, he didn't know she was married when they started the affair, but then again he should have walked away as soon as he learned of that fact. For a man who believes in family first and who puts his all into everything, including his love, it leaves him bereft of all good feelings. Consumed with grief, he drinks himself numb and spends his nights with one or more different women trying to forget his pain. But he never allots more than one night to each. That is until he meets Fallon.
Fallon Kelly has never known unconditional love. She was raised by a rich family who had very strict expectations of acceptable behavior, and a well defined road-map for her life. A family who abandoned her at an early age when she failed to follow their approved path. But, what doesn't kill you, makes you stronger and Fallon rises from near poverty to the independent businesswoman that she is today. The owner of her own elite burlesque club, Fallon is used to entertaining "headliners" (rich businessmen, politicians and well-known entertainers and athletes), and has very strict standards for those that will be allowed in her club, as well as, the standards that she expects from her employees. For example, anyone caught fighting in her club is automatically precluded from ever returning. She also adheres to a strict code of personal conduct, vowing never to fall in love or even to allow a man to spend the night. That is until she meets Rafe.
When Rafe is caught punching a headliner in defense of one of her dancers, Fallon breaks all her rules, and helps him escape from her club before the police arrive. Recognizing his overwhelming need for an escape, Fallon decides to provide him with a "beautiful distraction," but they soon find that one night is not enough. Can a family man like Rafe, a man who loves with everything he has, ever accept a woman like Fallon who has built walls around her heart; and can his natural sense of protection when it comes to women ever allow him to accept Fallon if she continues dancing?
With over 100 audiobooks under her belt, Abby Craden is an experienced narrator, and it shows. Her distinctive style was perfect for this title. Blending just the right mix of aristocratic and sensual undertones, Ms. Craden's portrayal of Fallon was dead on. Additionally, the slightly deeper, raspy voice that she lent Rafe sounded like a true broody male and adhered to its description in the book. Perhaps where Ms. Craden's performance excelled the most, however, was in her highly titillating reenactment of the highly sensual, love scenes. Wow, did that sound genuine, and it greatly enhanced the steaminess thereof!
I would have given the narration an A, but for the fact that Ms. Craden's voices for a few of the secondary characters were not very different from the main ones. Additionally, one of the secondary characters is described as having a New Jersey accent, and I'm not even sure that any attempt was made to capture this. All that said, the roles affected were very minor, and therefore do not detract much. I also advise anyone considering listening to this title to sound sample it before buying. As although I enjoyed Ms. Craden's portrayal, it is fairly unique and I know that sometimes raspy intonations are not loved by everyone.
All in all, I enjoyed this book. Both the story and the narration are solid. Without providing any spoilers, I will say that there are a couple of things that I may have written differently, including one that I'm not sure that a protective hero like Rafe would have accepted. But I chalk these up to author's prerogative, and do not think they greatly detract from the story. If you enjoy contemporary romances with characters that need to resolve past issues in order to find love, plus like your bed scenes of a hotter nature, then you should give A Beautiful Distraction a listen!
Grades/Ratings:
Narration: B
Book Content: B+
Steam Factor: For Your Burning Ears Only
Violence: Minimal (some fist fighting)
Publisher: Blackstone Audio
Title: A Beautiful Distraction: Hard Feelings, Book #3
Author: Kelsie Leverich
Narrator: Abby Craden
Unabridged Length: 9 hours and 16 minutes
Genre: Contemporary Romance
Source: A big thank you to Audiobook Jukebox for providing this review copy in exchange for an honest review.
Hard feelings abound when a family-oriented hero, who will risk all to protect women, meets an independent heroine who believes she is incapable of love. The third book in the Hard Feelings series, A Beautiful Distraction can be read on a stand-alone basis as each novel centers around the love life of different characters. Add in Abby Craden's sensual narration, and you have the perfect recipe for a solid audiobook for lovers of contemporary romances.
First Sergeant Rafe Murano is reeling from devastating break-up. Although he knows he shouldn't have, he fell in love with a married woman, and it nearly broke him. To his credit, he didn't know she was married when they started the affair, but then again he should have walked away as soon as he learned of that fact. For a man who believes in family first and who puts his all into everything, including his love, it leaves him bereft of all good feelings. Consumed with grief, he drinks himself numb and spends his nights with one or more different women trying to forget his pain. But he never allots more than one night to each. That is until he meets Fallon.
Fallon Kelly has never known unconditional love. She was raised by a rich family who had very strict expectations of acceptable behavior, and a well defined road-map for her life. A family who abandoned her at an early age when she failed to follow their approved path. But, what doesn't kill you, makes you stronger and Fallon rises from near poverty to the independent businesswoman that she is today. The owner of her own elite burlesque club, Fallon is used to entertaining "headliners" (rich businessmen, politicians and well-known entertainers and athletes), and has very strict standards for those that will be allowed in her club, as well as, the standards that she expects from her employees. For example, anyone caught fighting in her club is automatically precluded from ever returning. She also adheres to a strict code of personal conduct, vowing never to fall in love or even to allow a man to spend the night. That is until she meets Rafe.
When Rafe is caught punching a headliner in defense of one of her dancers, Fallon breaks all her rules, and helps him escape from her club before the police arrive. Recognizing his overwhelming need for an escape, Fallon decides to provide him with a "beautiful distraction," but they soon find that one night is not enough. Can a family man like Rafe, a man who loves with everything he has, ever accept a woman like Fallon who has built walls around her heart; and can his natural sense of protection when it comes to women ever allow him to accept Fallon if she continues dancing?
With over 100 audiobooks under her belt, Abby Craden is an experienced narrator, and it shows. Her distinctive style was perfect for this title. Blending just the right mix of aristocratic and sensual undertones, Ms. Craden's portrayal of Fallon was dead on. Additionally, the slightly deeper, raspy voice that she lent Rafe sounded like a true broody male and adhered to its description in the book. Perhaps where Ms. Craden's performance excelled the most, however, was in her highly titillating reenactment of the highly sensual, love scenes. Wow, did that sound genuine, and it greatly enhanced the steaminess thereof!
I would have given the narration an A, but for the fact that Ms. Craden's voices for a few of the secondary characters were not very different from the main ones. Additionally, one of the secondary characters is described as having a New Jersey accent, and I'm not even sure that any attempt was made to capture this. All that said, the roles affected were very minor, and therefore do not detract much. I also advise anyone considering listening to this title to sound sample it before buying. As although I enjoyed Ms. Craden's portrayal, it is fairly unique and I know that sometimes raspy intonations are not loved by everyone.
All in all, I enjoyed this book. Both the story and the narration are solid. Without providing any spoilers, I will say that there are a couple of things that I may have written differently, including one that I'm not sure that a protective hero like Rafe would have accepted. But I chalk these up to author's prerogative, and do not think they greatly detract from the story. If you enjoy contemporary romances with characters that need to resolve past issues in order to find love, plus like your bed scenes of a hotter nature, then you should give A Beautiful Distraction a listen!
Grades/Ratings:
Narration: B
Book Content: B+
Steam Factor: For Your Burning Ears Only
Violence: Minimal (some fist fighting)
Publisher: Blackstone Audio
Title: A Beautiful Distraction: Hard Feelings, Book #3
Author: Kelsie Leverich
Narrator: Abby Craden
Unabridged Length: 9 hours and 16 minutes
Genre: Contemporary Romance
Source: A big thank you to Audiobook Jukebox for providing this review copy in exchange for an honest review.
May 3, 2014
I have totally fallen in love with this series and couldn't wait to get my hands on the next installment, A Beautiful Distraction, which is Rafe Murano and Fallon Kelly's story. We met and got a glimpse of Rafe Murano's life in Feel The Rush, so I couldn't wait to see how Kelsie Leverich was going to develop and make me fall in love with this broody, hot, alpha male soldier. Fallon is new to the series and I really liked her character - she's an alpha female in her own regard, and the perfect match for Murano, having a certain air about her that exudes confidence. While A Beautiful Distraction is part of the Hard Feelings Series, it is a companion novel and can be read as a standalone. While the books all revolve around the hottest of the HOT military guys, each story is unique and captivating in its own regard, which Leverich demonstrates once again in this most recent installment that has a bit of a darker feel to it than the previous novels, but is still smexy as sin. Murano is in a dark place after returning from his last tour of duty. He is still trying to forget the woman that broken his heart, drowning himself in booze and women, and Mr. Bad Boy Sex on a Stick is irresistible to pretty much all of them. Fallon Kelly owns one of the most prestigious burlesque clubs in the country and has her own riches to rags to riches story which has left her broken, yet determined and focused, with walls and rules in place that would deter even the man of steel. Well, when Fallon meets Rafe Murano, she has finally discovered her kryptonite, because this badass sexy soldier can tear down, melt, and squeeze through even the best-constructed walls.
The characters - well I totally fell in love with them. It was also great to see some of the characters from the previous two novels make an appearancel, as well as some new ones, and they all add so much to the story. Both Fallon and Rafe have unspoken, yet painful pasts. I read the book over two evenings, and didn't want to put it down. If you are a contemporary romance fan, then A Beautiful Distraction and the entire Hard Feelings series are a must read, and I think you will thoroughly enjoy them.
The characters - well I totally fell in love with them. It was also great to see some of the characters from the previous two novels make an appearancel, as well as some new ones, and they all add so much to the story. Both Fallon and Rafe have unspoken, yet painful pasts. I read the book over two evenings, and didn't want to put it down. If you are a contemporary romance fan, then A Beautiful Distraction and the entire Hard Feelings series are a must read, and I think you will thoroughly enjoy them.
May 9, 2014
An emotional, intense, and enjoyable read, A Beautiful Distraction was a wonderful romance. I really liked this book. From the sweet and hot romance, to the deep emotions, this book was great.
Fallon was a lovely heroine. She was strong, independent, and definitely a survivor. I got a little annoyed that her tendency to run away from emotional entanglements almost cost her the love of her life, but, otherwise, I really liked her.
Rafe was absolutely amazing. Very sweet and very devoted to the woman he loved. When he felt, he felt deep and wasn't afraid to show it. He was wonderful and I totally adored him.
The romance was great. The heat level between Fallon and Rafe was off the carts hot. Tons of sexy steaminess with these two. But, they were also very sweet together, with how they both fully accepted each other. I thought they were a lovely couple.
The plot was well paced and, though I wasn't totally hooked, I was kept interested the entire way through. I really enjoyed the story and I thought the ending was perfect.
A Beautiful Distraction was a wonderful romance. I really enjoyed reading this lovely book. With the hot romance and intense emotions, this book was fantastic. Romance lovers, this is a book you'll want to check out.
*I received a complimentary copy from the publisher in exchange for an honest review
Fallon was a lovely heroine. She was strong, independent, and definitely a survivor. I got a little annoyed that her tendency to run away from emotional entanglements almost cost her the love of her life, but, otherwise, I really liked her.
Rafe was absolutely amazing. Very sweet and very devoted to the woman he loved. When he felt, he felt deep and wasn't afraid to show it. He was wonderful and I totally adored him.
The romance was great. The heat level between Fallon and Rafe was off the carts hot. Tons of sexy steaminess with these two. But, they were also very sweet together, with how they both fully accepted each other. I thought they were a lovely couple.
The plot was well paced and, though I wasn't totally hooked, I was kept interested the entire way through. I really enjoyed the story and I thought the ending was perfect.
A Beautiful Distraction was a wonderful romance. I really enjoyed reading this lovely book. With the hot romance and intense emotions, this book was fantastic. Romance lovers, this is a book you'll want to check out.
*I received a complimentary copy from the publisher in exchange for an honest review
Want to read
May 6, 2014"Nothing’s more dangerous than a bad boy with a broken heart…" <-- I like the sound of this!!!
First Sergeant Rafe Murano did everything to the extreme. He trained harder, he fought harder, and, unfortunately, he loved harder. And falling for the wrong woman nearly destroyed him.
Home from a deployment, and without his missions to consume him, Murano is ravaged by memories of his heartbreak. So he drinks until he’s numb and drowns himself in meaningless one-night stands. But they only take the edge off…
Until he meets Fallon.
Haunted by her past, Fallon Kelly knows all too well about the desperate desire for an escape. So when she sees the tatted-up bad boy who’s one punch away from a ride in the back of a squad car, she offers a distraction—one that quickly becomes an addiction.
Little does she know, this bad boy can love so hard, it can break her…
First Sergeant Rafe Murano did everything to the extreme. He trained harder, he fought harder, and, unfortunately, he loved harder. And falling for the wrong woman nearly destroyed him.
Home from a deployment, and without his missions to consume him, Murano is ravaged by memories of his heartbreak. So he drinks until he’s numb and drowns himself in meaningless one-night stands. But they only take the edge off…
Until he meets Fallon.
Haunted by her past, Fallon Kelly knows all too well about the desperate desire for an escape. So when she sees the tatted-up bad boy who’s one punch away from a ride in the back of a squad car, she offers a distraction—one that quickly becomes an addiction.
Little does she know, this bad boy can love so hard, it can break her…
January 1, 2015
I read this books, two consecutive times... not because i needed to do it, but because i wanted it to last more, because it was that good that i was refusing to finish it and putting it down... i love Kelsie... and this series is one of my favorites ...
June 5, 2014
Damn if I thought I loved the first two books in the series I don't even know what to think of this one. I'm in disgustingly completely body taken over love with Rafael Murano. Sigh..
In love.. The true kind.
In love.. The true kind.
January 3, 2020
2.5 stars *SPOILERS*
Overall, I don’t know that this was a bad book... I guess I just had pieces that didn’t jive with me so it became a lower rating, if that makes sense? Let’s go through the areas I had problems with...
1. Overuse of pet names. I’m all for using pet names for a significant other. It can add another dimension to the relationship, something just between the couple. However, this book overused it times infinity. I don’t think the hero could say a sentence without one in it (babe and gorgeous seemed to be his go to’s). There’s a fine line with pet names where just the right amount is special and lovable but if you cross the line, at best it breaks down any closeness between the characters and at worst it comes off as sleazy. Makes you question if he even knows her name.
2. Massive drama.
3. Vices. I get it. Humans are flawed. But the people in this book, primarily the hero, had issues that needed to be worked on. He drinks so much I’m surprised his liver isn’t pickled. Every time he has a set back, he drinks and drinks heavily. He also drove a couple times while drunk. Huge no no. I’m fine with a book having flawed characters such as this as long as the issues are worked on. These however weren’t even brought up as a concern.
4. Randomly the author switched from third person to first person It was weird. I thought I had switched books accidentally.
There were definitely some sweet moments that saved this from being a 1 star or even a DNF but it wasn’t enough to salvage the book.
Overall, I don’t know that this was a bad book... I guess I just had pieces that didn’t jive with me so it became a lower rating, if that makes sense? Let’s go through the areas I had problems with...
1. Overuse of pet names. I’m all for using pet names for a significant other. It can add another dimension to the relationship, something just between the couple. However, this book overused it times infinity. I don’t think the hero could say a sentence without one in it (babe and gorgeous seemed to be his go to’s). There’s a fine line with pet names where just the right amount is special and lovable but if you cross the line, at best it breaks down any closeness between the characters and at worst it comes off as sleazy. Makes you question if he even knows her name.
2. Massive drama.
3. Vices. I get it. Humans are flawed. But the people in this book, primarily the hero, had issues that needed to be worked on. He drinks so much I’m surprised his liver isn’t pickled. Every time he has a set back, he drinks and drinks heavily. He also drove a couple times while drunk. Huge no no. I’m fine with a book having flawed characters such as this as long as the issues are worked on. These however weren’t even brought up as a concern.
4. Randomly the author switched from third person to first person It was weird. I thought I had switched books accidentally.
There were definitely some sweet moments that saved this from being a 1 star or even a DNF but it wasn’t enough to salvage the book.
July 13, 2014
I have read all of Kelsie’s books and this is by far her best work yet. It has a little bit of sweet, a little bit of emotions and sass and a whole lot of sexiness.
Rafe Murano has jus returned home from deployment and after having his heard broken be someone who thought was his one and only he has sworn off the idea of the forever kind of love. The kind of love that will make your heart flutter and your breath falter when you are in the mere presence of that one person.
Fallon Kelly has a past most would never experience and through all the ups and downs she has found her way in life and made a name for herself. Running one of the most high class and respected Burlesque clubs in the area she guards her heart from anyone and anything knowing that she is not capable of loving, that ability was taken away from her 8 years ago when at 17 her family disowned her and left her to fend for herself. Fallon grew into a beautifully strong and independent woman who is snarky, classy, and brass. She speaks her mind and doesn’t give a damn what anyone has to say about it. “At arms length” is her motto and she has lived by her strict rules she set for herself years ago until one night a bitter and heartbroken soldier stepped foot into her club and from that moment on she knew that her walls were crumbling and soon she would be faced the fast she has worked too hard to forget.
When their eyes first collided with each other they instintly knew that they would be each other’s distractions from the ugliness and pains that lingers through them with every breath they take. The chemistry between Rafe and Fallon was undeniable from the very beginning and only intensified overtime. Fallon had a strict set of rules when it came to the opposite sex and Rafe found himself having her break every single one of them.
The one emotion that seemed to never let up during A Beautiful Distraction was fear. Fear of falling too fast and having his heartbreak all over again. Fear of Fallon letting her walls down and not being able to love Rafe the way he deserves to be loved. They both have secrets from their past they aren’t proud of and both are trying to work through them. They both walk around not needing anyone or anything but the truth is, they both need each other in order to overcome their past and move on with their future.
Okay so lets talk about the sex – yes sex! And holy sugar snap there is A LOT of that, and not the boring missionary, wham bam thank ya ma’am but the kind that makes your toes curl, your panties soaked and that leave you breathless. If the Army taught our soldiers how to try their woman but husband totally missed out on that course. Rafe is the type of guy that falls quickly and loves freely and openly because ever ounce of strength he possessives and let’s face it, who doesn’t want that? He has a dirty bedroom voice that makes me shiver just to read about it. He pulls and pulls Fallon to open up and share her emotions because he isn’t the type to turn around and run when things get tricky, he fights and he fights hard. Rafe will break Fallon down and build her back up stronger than before and he won’t stop until she truly gives her heart to him and love him, the true kind.
Rafe is a very intense character that you can’t help but want to be the woman that he claims his undying love too. He loves and he loves hard.
Being with her made him fight every natural attribute he possessed. Rafe didn’t share his woman. He made her his and only his. He took care of her, loved her, cherished her, protected her. It was branded in his bones. It’s what his father’s blood had encrypted in his soul. What he and his brothers held in their hearts. They loved their women hard. Fiercely, Passionately, Profoundly.
Fallon exudes confidents when it comes her dancing but that is her distractions from the thoughts that run rapid in her rain on instant replay. After meeting Rafe she slowly starts to find out that not only is she distracting herself from her past with Rafe she starts to realize that she needs another distraction from Rafe because there is more to them than just sex and that terrifies her. She needs Rafe for more than just a distraction she needs him like a woman needs a man but is too scared and unsure of herself that she won’t grab it. She isn’t afraid of him hurting her because she knows he never intentionally would but she is shattered knowing that her past has the weight and ability to crush him.
“This is fuckin’ insane, babe, God. I know it is.” His teeth nibbled her chin, then her bottom lip, before he lowered her head back down to look at her. “But I’m here. You, me --- I don’t know what the hell this is. But I’m here. You need me, you name it, I’m here. You know that, right?
When feelings start to spike and more than just sex and lust start to flow between Fallon and Rafe will it be Rafe’s past; the case that changed his whole out look on life and love be the reason that Fallon and Rafe’s relationship is doomed before it truly begins or will Fallon’s insecurities when it comes to her ability to love crumpled their budding relationship leaving Rafe to pick up another broken heart this time not sure if there will be any pieces left to put back together.
“And, Fallon,” she said, her steps halting as she spun back around to face her. “We’ve both become experts on the way a man looks when he wants something. But Rafe, baby --- that man doesn’t just look at you like he wanted you right then and there in the middle of the road in every delicious way a man could want a woman. He looked at you like he needed you. In the way a woman wants to be needed. In the way a woman deserves to be needed. And bay, I’d say that man is exactly what you need.”
When the reason behind Rafe’s broken heart pays him a visit, it threatens to destroy everything he has built with Fallon. And when the hidden truths from Fallons past are now brought into the future, Rafe and Fallon quickly learn that the person behind her broken heart and trust issues has been under Rafe’s nose the entire time. Will Fallon and Rafe finally confront their pasts and look forward to the future with each other; or will the heartache and trust issues be too much to bare leaving them nothing to each except A Beautiful Distraction from life.
Kelsie Leverich blows me away with every novel she puts out and A Beautiful Distraction is by far her best book yet. You will fall in love with the intensity and love that Rafe has radiating off of him just wanted for “the true kind”. All I admired Fallon’s strength and her ability to over come the shitty had that life dealt her when she was younger and very proud of her character by living by her rules and not giving a crap about what others thing of her. This is truly a romantic sexy love story about learning to not only how to forgive yourself but learning to bury the past and leave it in the past and look forward to a much brighter future. Kelsie I absolutely adore your cute country butt and I can’t wait to read your next book.
Rafe Murano has jus returned home from deployment and after having his heard broken be someone who thought was his one and only he has sworn off the idea of the forever kind of love. The kind of love that will make your heart flutter and your breath falter when you are in the mere presence of that one person.
Fallon Kelly has a past most would never experience and through all the ups and downs she has found her way in life and made a name for herself. Running one of the most high class and respected Burlesque clubs in the area she guards her heart from anyone and anything knowing that she is not capable of loving, that ability was taken away from her 8 years ago when at 17 her family disowned her and left her to fend for herself. Fallon grew into a beautifully strong and independent woman who is snarky, classy, and brass. She speaks her mind and doesn’t give a damn what anyone has to say about it. “At arms length” is her motto and she has lived by her strict rules she set for herself years ago until one night a bitter and heartbroken soldier stepped foot into her club and from that moment on she knew that her walls were crumbling and soon she would be faced the fast she has worked too hard to forget.
When their eyes first collided with each other they instintly knew that they would be each other’s distractions from the ugliness and pains that lingers through them with every breath they take. The chemistry between Rafe and Fallon was undeniable from the very beginning and only intensified overtime. Fallon had a strict set of rules when it came to the opposite sex and Rafe found himself having her break every single one of them.
The one emotion that seemed to never let up during A Beautiful Distraction was fear. Fear of falling too fast and having his heartbreak all over again. Fear of Fallon letting her walls down and not being able to love Rafe the way he deserves to be loved. They both have secrets from their past they aren’t proud of and both are trying to work through them. They both walk around not needing anyone or anything but the truth is, they both need each other in order to overcome their past and move on with their future.
Okay so lets talk about the sex – yes sex! And holy sugar snap there is A LOT of that, and not the boring missionary, wham bam thank ya ma’am but the kind that makes your toes curl, your panties soaked and that leave you breathless. If the Army taught our soldiers how to try their woman but husband totally missed out on that course. Rafe is the type of guy that falls quickly and loves freely and openly because ever ounce of strength he possessives and let’s face it, who doesn’t want that? He has a dirty bedroom voice that makes me shiver just to read about it. He pulls and pulls Fallon to open up and share her emotions because he isn’t the type to turn around and run when things get tricky, he fights and he fights hard. Rafe will break Fallon down and build her back up stronger than before and he won’t stop until she truly gives her heart to him and love him, the true kind.
Rafe is a very intense character that you can’t help but want to be the woman that he claims his undying love too. He loves and he loves hard.
Being with her made him fight every natural attribute he possessed. Rafe didn’t share his woman. He made her his and only his. He took care of her, loved her, cherished her, protected her. It was branded in his bones. It’s what his father’s blood had encrypted in his soul. What he and his brothers held in their hearts. They loved their women hard. Fiercely, Passionately, Profoundly.
Fallon exudes confidents when it comes her dancing but that is her distractions from the thoughts that run rapid in her rain on instant replay. After meeting Rafe she slowly starts to find out that not only is she distracting herself from her past with Rafe she starts to realize that she needs another distraction from Rafe because there is more to them than just sex and that terrifies her. She needs Rafe for more than just a distraction she needs him like a woman needs a man but is too scared and unsure of herself that she won’t grab it. She isn’t afraid of him hurting her because she knows he never intentionally would but she is shattered knowing that her past has the weight and ability to crush him.
“This is fuckin’ insane, babe, God. I know it is.” His teeth nibbled her chin, then her bottom lip, before he lowered her head back down to look at her. “But I’m here. You, me --- I don’t know what the hell this is. But I’m here. You need me, you name it, I’m here. You know that, right?
When feelings start to spike and more than just sex and lust start to flow between Fallon and Rafe will it be Rafe’s past; the case that changed his whole out look on life and love be the reason that Fallon and Rafe’s relationship is doomed before it truly begins or will Fallon’s insecurities when it comes to her ability to love crumpled their budding relationship leaving Rafe to pick up another broken heart this time not sure if there will be any pieces left to put back together.
“And, Fallon,” she said, her steps halting as she spun back around to face her. “We’ve both become experts on the way a man looks when he wants something. But Rafe, baby --- that man doesn’t just look at you like he wanted you right then and there in the middle of the road in every delicious way a man could want a woman. He looked at you like he needed you. In the way a woman wants to be needed. In the way a woman deserves to be needed. And bay, I’d say that man is exactly what you need.”
When the reason behind Rafe’s broken heart pays him a visit, it threatens to destroy everything he has built with Fallon. And when the hidden truths from Fallons past are now brought into the future, Rafe and Fallon quickly learn that the person behind her broken heart and trust issues has been under Rafe’s nose the entire time. Will Fallon and Rafe finally confront their pasts and look forward to the future with each other; or will the heartache and trust issues be too much to bare leaving them nothing to each except A Beautiful Distraction from life.
Kelsie Leverich blows me away with every novel she puts out and A Beautiful Distraction is by far her best book yet. You will fall in love with the intensity and love that Rafe has radiating off of him just wanted for “the true kind”. All I admired Fallon’s strength and her ability to over come the shitty had that life dealt her when she was younger and very proud of her character by living by her rules and not giving a crap about what others thing of her. This is truly a romantic sexy love story about learning to not only how to forgive yourself but learning to bury the past and leave it in the past and look forward to a much brighter future. Kelsie I absolutely adore your cute country butt and I can’t wait to read your next book.
April 30, 2014
With each new book, I fall more in love with this series. These tough, but vulnerable military guys and the women they love just get inside my heart so quickly. Each story is different with new sets of characters and new situations, but my enjoyment just grows. In this latest story, a minor character, Rafe Murano, from the last book gets his own story. This could definitely be read as a standalone since this series of books are only loosely tied together.
Rafe Murano was the guy who picked the wrong woman to give his heart to and now he has to find a way to pick up the pieces. He needs a distraction. One night he walks into a classy burlesque club and locks eyes with just the woman to do the job. Normally, he is the one who cuts and runs with no backward glance when it comes to women these days, but Fallon takes barricading her feelings and shoving people away to a whole new level and he decides that she is worth the effort to crack through her hard icy shell to the vulnerable passionate woman he knows is there.
Fallon has come a long ways from the night her parents through her out of her home and their rich, pretentious lives. She went from a penniless, homeless teenager to now owning her own place and making her own rules. She still dances, but for her own gratification and she kept her taste for elegance about her even in her club. It's all about control and keeping people at arm's length for her until the night the stranger locked eyes with her when she is up on the stage. He makes her feel and he makes her want.
But she admitted it and accepted it. The way he held her captive with his eyes felt like he was truly touching her, containing her- holding her. And if he looked away, she was afraid she would beg him to look back. pp. 74-75 Fallon from A Beautiful Distraction
Rafe doesn't know what this is between them, but he's not giving it up easily. He does the unprecedented thing and brings Fallon to his army buddy's barbeque to hang with his friends and then he invites her to come for Sunday dinner with the Muranos when he escorts her to NYC. He is falling hard and it's his wise dad that gives him the push he needs to allow it to happen.
"There are women, women like your momma that give their heart freely...But then there are women who guard their heart, women like Tilly. They make a man fight for it, want to make sure he deserves it, can keep it safe. Those women hide their love, protect it themselves. But if she lets you hold her for everyone to see, she's giving you the chance to earn her love, to protect her heart. You get that son, she'll love you in the small moments." pp. 255-256 Pop from A Beautiful Distraction
Fallon is so far outside her comfort zone that she is terrified. She acknowledges that Rafe has broken through and has her heart, but she knows that she doesn't deserve his after meeting his wonderful family and feeling just in a short time what it is like to be loved and cherished by such a man. She has no idea how to love and how to love him so she feels she only has one course of action and his distaste to see her dance for the crowds gives her the excuse she needs to push him away.
"His love runs strong and deep, Fallon. So does his anger. But they go hand in hand. The only thing that triggers his hatred is love. He's a passionate man. He's a loyal man. A protective man. He doesn't give his love out easily. But when he does, its intense." p.274 Tilly from A Beautiful Distraction
The plot on this one is character and relationship-driven. The two main characters have their pasts to overcome and the catalyst for this to happen is what they come to mean to each other. The story winds gently through their initial attraction and passion to a tentative relationship. Their feelings are the easy part, but its getting past Fallon's hang-ups that came about because of her heartbreaking past that add the tension in things. Rafe has his troubles, but once he meets Fallon, he can get past them. Her issues aren't the most horrific out there, but they aren't things that can be dismissed either. There is some tug o' war going on in the romance, but it wasn't frustrating because it wasn't over the top and it fit the characters' circumstances. I loved these two together and felt they were worth it even if in spite of the difficulties, it wasn't that hard to read their story.
I really admired Fallon. She was a compassionate and understanding soul and it is a result of her past heartbreaks that put her through the fires and remake her into someone stronger and yet more tender. She can be merciful and loyal to a friend who slipped up with drugs. She can hear about Rafe's past exploits with women and one big screw up with a married woman and be so understanding. She can take the vitriol of a small-minded woman who throws what she does for a living in her face. Did I like seeing her pushing Rafe away? No, but it made sense that she would be a tough sell on love.
Rafe was a delight to read about too. He screwed up and gave his heart where he shouldn't and he lets it eat him up so that he hits bottom with the flings and the booze, but then he gets up, dusts off and goes for it all again with Fallon. This guys heart was huge and there isn't an ounce of insecurity in him. He's a fighter and a protector even if he has to fight and protect Fallon from herself. I loved that he just kept coming back and he never really threw her issues up in her face. It didn't hurt that he could make her writhe with passion in his bed and make her happy because for the first time someone put Fallon first.
I do have to also mention Rafe's family. The Muranos particularly his dad were just salt of the earth. These guys and Tilly just made a scene sparkle when they were in it. I laughed so hard when Rafe's dad handed him his butt and chuckled over Marco and his cakes working his wiles with the women. Such a beautiful family that like Fallon, I envy and would love to hang out with.
All in all, another fabulous installment in the series that I can heartily recommend to military and contemporary romance fans who like a bit of challenge to the characters and a lot of spice and heat to the romance.
My thanks to Penguin Group for the opportunity to read this book in exchange for my honest review.
Rafe Murano was the guy who picked the wrong woman to give his heart to and now he has to find a way to pick up the pieces. He needs a distraction. One night he walks into a classy burlesque club and locks eyes with just the woman to do the job. Normally, he is the one who cuts and runs with no backward glance when it comes to women these days, but Fallon takes barricading her feelings and shoving people away to a whole new level and he decides that she is worth the effort to crack through her hard icy shell to the vulnerable passionate woman he knows is there.
Fallon has come a long ways from the night her parents through her out of her home and their rich, pretentious lives. She went from a penniless, homeless teenager to now owning her own place and making her own rules. She still dances, but for her own gratification and she kept her taste for elegance about her even in her club. It's all about control and keeping people at arm's length for her until the night the stranger locked eyes with her when she is up on the stage. He makes her feel and he makes her want.
But she admitted it and accepted it. The way he held her captive with his eyes felt like he was truly touching her, containing her- holding her. And if he looked away, she was afraid she would beg him to look back. pp. 74-75 Fallon from A Beautiful Distraction
Rafe doesn't know what this is between them, but he's not giving it up easily. He does the unprecedented thing and brings Fallon to his army buddy's barbeque to hang with his friends and then he invites her to come for Sunday dinner with the Muranos when he escorts her to NYC. He is falling hard and it's his wise dad that gives him the push he needs to allow it to happen.
"There are women, women like your momma that give their heart freely...But then there are women who guard their heart, women like Tilly. They make a man fight for it, want to make sure he deserves it, can keep it safe. Those women hide their love, protect it themselves. But if she lets you hold her for everyone to see, she's giving you the chance to earn her love, to protect her heart. You get that son, she'll love you in the small moments." pp. 255-256 Pop from A Beautiful Distraction
Fallon is so far outside her comfort zone that she is terrified. She acknowledges that Rafe has broken through and has her heart, but she knows that she doesn't deserve his after meeting his wonderful family and feeling just in a short time what it is like to be loved and cherished by such a man. She has no idea how to love and how to love him so she feels she only has one course of action and his distaste to see her dance for the crowds gives her the excuse she needs to push him away.
"His love runs strong and deep, Fallon. So does his anger. But they go hand in hand. The only thing that triggers his hatred is love. He's a passionate man. He's a loyal man. A protective man. He doesn't give his love out easily. But when he does, its intense." p.274 Tilly from A Beautiful Distraction
The plot on this one is character and relationship-driven. The two main characters have their pasts to overcome and the catalyst for this to happen is what they come to mean to each other. The story winds gently through their initial attraction and passion to a tentative relationship. Their feelings are the easy part, but its getting past Fallon's hang-ups that came about because of her heartbreaking past that add the tension in things. Rafe has his troubles, but once he meets Fallon, he can get past them. Her issues aren't the most horrific out there, but they aren't things that can be dismissed either. There is some tug o' war going on in the romance, but it wasn't frustrating because it wasn't over the top and it fit the characters' circumstances. I loved these two together and felt they were worth it even if in spite of the difficulties, it wasn't that hard to read their story.
I really admired Fallon. She was a compassionate and understanding soul and it is a result of her past heartbreaks that put her through the fires and remake her into someone stronger and yet more tender. She can be merciful and loyal to a friend who slipped up with drugs. She can hear about Rafe's past exploits with women and one big screw up with a married woman and be so understanding. She can take the vitriol of a small-minded woman who throws what she does for a living in her face. Did I like seeing her pushing Rafe away? No, but it made sense that she would be a tough sell on love.
Rafe was a delight to read about too. He screwed up and gave his heart where he shouldn't and he lets it eat him up so that he hits bottom with the flings and the booze, but then he gets up, dusts off and goes for it all again with Fallon. This guys heart was huge and there isn't an ounce of insecurity in him. He's a fighter and a protector even if he has to fight and protect Fallon from herself. I loved that he just kept coming back and he never really threw her issues up in her face. It didn't hurt that he could make her writhe with passion in his bed and make her happy because for the first time someone put Fallon first.
I do have to also mention Rafe's family. The Muranos particularly his dad were just salt of the earth. These guys and Tilly just made a scene sparkle when they were in it. I laughed so hard when Rafe's dad handed him his butt and chuckled over Marco and his cakes working his wiles with the women. Such a beautiful family that like Fallon, I envy and would love to hang out with.
All in all, another fabulous installment in the series that I can heartily recommend to military and contemporary romance fans who like a bit of challenge to the characters and a lot of spice and heat to the romance.
My thanks to Penguin Group for the opportunity to read this book in exchange for my honest review.
November 23, 2024
This book…. Ugh! It would have been 5 stars if it wasn’t for the ending. I feel cheated. I feel like there needed to be a chapter between the last and the epilogue. What was Rafe’s status? Did he really let Curt take his patch? Did Curt just get to get away with his actions? I don’t know. It as such an intense story that I just feel like that part of the story deserved something more. I’m glad that Fallon got some closure at least in some ways.
May 9, 2014
Review posted: Happily Ever After - Reads
Blog rating: B+
Fallon to Rafe:
…“I also don’t leave with random assholes who have a taste for blood and are drowning themselves in women and liquor,” she jested.
“Oh yeah – and I suppose that’s how you’re pinning me?”
“Yes, handsome, that’s exactly how I see you. I’ve seen every single walk of man come into my club, and they all want the same thing: a distraction. Whether they need to get away from their boring sex life with their prude wife, unwind from work, or are drinking themselves away from heartaches, they all want a distraction.”
I liked the setup for this story right from the start. Fallon Kelly is the owner of an upscale, exclusive club, Valour, and while some might call it a strip club, it’s clear from the start that’s not at all what Fallon has put together. Her club is very high end, she choreographs the routines for the girls, including a few for herself and while yup, they do take off their clothes, Fallon sees what they sell as seduction and fantasy. She started working at the club when she had nowhere else to go, her parents kicked her out when she was a teen and didn’t fall in line as the perfect daughter they wanted to show off in their upper class, social circles. She had no money, her only possessions fit in a duffle bag but she managed to survive by putting up strong walls and not letting anyone get close enough to love again. She grew up a prima ballerina and when she started dancing at Velour it was a way for her to escape, to become lost in the music and movements and just let everything else go. Now as the club’s co-owner, she still feels that pull on occasion and it’s during one night on stage when she feels someone’s eyes on her and it’s her first introduction to Rafe.
Rafe Murano is currently on leave and is drowning his broken heart in booze and women every, single night. A woman from his past, someone he loved, lied to him in the worst way possible and he was devastated. Rafe loves hard, all the men in his family do and he gave his heart to this woman who just trashed it. Their full story does come out as the book unfolds, so I won’t detail it out, but he’s still reeling from that experience and trying to find a distraction from the feelings he doesn’t want to deal with. Fallon is that distraction. He sees her dance and has an instant attraction to her. They end up meeting later because of another incident and it turns into a romance that starts out as something they both need in order to forget about everything else for their pasts that’s still impacting their present, but quickly turns into something much deeper. Rafe falls hard and fast but he has his work cut out for him to try to break down Fallon’s walls and get her to open herself up to love again.
Camille (Fallon’s business partner) talking to Fallon:
“And, Fallon,” she said, her steps halting as she spun back around to face her. “We’ve both become experts on the way a man looks when he wants something. But Rafe, baby – that man didn’t just look at you like he wanted you right then and there in the middle of the road in every delicious way a man could want a woman. He looked at you liked he needed you. In the way a woman wants to be needed. In the way a woman deserves to be needed. And, baby, I’d say that man is exactly what you need.”
From the start I was hooked into this story. I liked the setup of Fallon as the club owner, the club itself was interesting and a few of the girls and other workers there get some small introductions that made their characters and spots in the overall story add a little more depth. But Rafe and Fallon are the stars of this one and their relationship covers a wide range of emotions: sexy and hot, first and foremost. These two don’t wait long to get down to it and it’s just hot, period. As is usually the case, I couldn’t wait to see each of them break down a little bit, reveal their pasts, the experiences that made them into the people they are today and how the other person was going to help the healing begin. I really enjoyed Rafe. Even having his heart broken by a woman in his past, he still lets himself feel deeply for Fallon and his past doesn’t really stop him from falling hard and fast for her. He doesn’t deny his feelings, but it’s hard and they of course have some bumps along the way. There was just something very alpha about Rafe, but then something so emotional when he’s dealing with the woman that broke him.
There’s one little issue I had at the end regarding Rafe and his job. Honestly, I thought maybe I read over an important detail. I guess it’s not a terribly huge deal but it is a detail (pretty significant considering Rafe’s job) with a loose end that made me stop and think, wait, what happened with that?
This is the first book by Kelsie Leverich I’ve read and I love her story telling. She created an emotional story that’s easy to get into from the start (something I always love and appreciate about any book) and she made me feel so much for both Rafe and Fallon. It’s a very engaging story and one I’d definitely recommend.
Blog rating: B+
Fallon to Rafe:
…“I also don’t leave with random assholes who have a taste for blood and are drowning themselves in women and liquor,” she jested.
“Oh yeah – and I suppose that’s how you’re pinning me?”
“Yes, handsome, that’s exactly how I see you. I’ve seen every single walk of man come into my club, and they all want the same thing: a distraction. Whether they need to get away from their boring sex life with their prude wife, unwind from work, or are drinking themselves away from heartaches, they all want a distraction.”
I liked the setup for this story right from the start. Fallon Kelly is the owner of an upscale, exclusive club, Valour, and while some might call it a strip club, it’s clear from the start that’s not at all what Fallon has put together. Her club is very high end, she choreographs the routines for the girls, including a few for herself and while yup, they do take off their clothes, Fallon sees what they sell as seduction and fantasy. She started working at the club when she had nowhere else to go, her parents kicked her out when she was a teen and didn’t fall in line as the perfect daughter they wanted to show off in their upper class, social circles. She had no money, her only possessions fit in a duffle bag but she managed to survive by putting up strong walls and not letting anyone get close enough to love again. She grew up a prima ballerina and when she started dancing at Velour it was a way for her to escape, to become lost in the music and movements and just let everything else go. Now as the club’s co-owner, she still feels that pull on occasion and it’s during one night on stage when she feels someone’s eyes on her and it’s her first introduction to Rafe.
Rafe Murano is currently on leave and is drowning his broken heart in booze and women every, single night. A woman from his past, someone he loved, lied to him in the worst way possible and he was devastated. Rafe loves hard, all the men in his family do and he gave his heart to this woman who just trashed it. Their full story does come out as the book unfolds, so I won’t detail it out, but he’s still reeling from that experience and trying to find a distraction from the feelings he doesn’t want to deal with. Fallon is that distraction. He sees her dance and has an instant attraction to her. They end up meeting later because of another incident and it turns into a romance that starts out as something they both need in order to forget about everything else for their pasts that’s still impacting their present, but quickly turns into something much deeper. Rafe falls hard and fast but he has his work cut out for him to try to break down Fallon’s walls and get her to open herself up to love again.
Camille (Fallon’s business partner) talking to Fallon:
“And, Fallon,” she said, her steps halting as she spun back around to face her. “We’ve both become experts on the way a man looks when he wants something. But Rafe, baby – that man didn’t just look at you like he wanted you right then and there in the middle of the road in every delicious way a man could want a woman. He looked at you liked he needed you. In the way a woman wants to be needed. In the way a woman deserves to be needed. And, baby, I’d say that man is exactly what you need.”
From the start I was hooked into this story. I liked the setup of Fallon as the club owner, the club itself was interesting and a few of the girls and other workers there get some small introductions that made their characters and spots in the overall story add a little more depth. But Rafe and Fallon are the stars of this one and their relationship covers a wide range of emotions: sexy and hot, first and foremost. These two don’t wait long to get down to it and it’s just hot, period. As is usually the case, I couldn’t wait to see each of them break down a little bit, reveal their pasts, the experiences that made them into the people they are today and how the other person was going to help the healing begin. I really enjoyed Rafe. Even having his heart broken by a woman in his past, he still lets himself feel deeply for Fallon and his past doesn’t really stop him from falling hard and fast for her. He doesn’t deny his feelings, but it’s hard and they of course have some bumps along the way. There was just something very alpha about Rafe, but then something so emotional when he’s dealing with the woman that broke him.
There’s one little issue I had at the end regarding Rafe and his job. Honestly, I thought maybe I read over an important detail. I guess it’s not a terribly huge deal but it is a detail (pretty significant considering Rafe’s job) with a loose end that made me stop and think, wait, what happened with that?
This is the first book by Kelsie Leverich I’ve read and I love her story telling. She created an emotional story that’s easy to get into from the start (something I always love and appreciate about any book) and she made me feel so much for both Rafe and Fallon. It’s a very engaging story and one I’d definitely recommend.
July 24, 2017
3 1/2 stars. Loved the chemistry between Fallon and Rafe!!!! Quick read and great one if you're looking for a romance novel. My only complaint was I felt that Fallon's opening up to Rafe was lacking, even when it was evident she loved him.
March 18, 2018
This book could not get me invested in the characters. One character is so cold and nothing touches her. The other character is a military man knowingly banging another military man's wife. I finished this book, but I regret it.
August 10, 2017
DNF 54% nothing wrong really, just couldn't get into it.
library
July 30, 20210
January 26, 2024
wow what a perfect book. narration by Abby craden was superb
June 4, 2025
Not a great story but it was a quick read with a few good steamy scenes.
May 18, 2014
I reviewed this at MustReadBooksOrDie with my friend Shelley!
Shel: I remember the first book of Kelsie's that I read: The Valentine's Arrangement-- and I remember I loved that she wrote a strong female protagonist. She did that again in A Beautiful Distraction. Court: And I was on board for this one immediately when she mentioned strong female protagonist. Love strong, determined women!
Shel: Fallon is a very determined woman. She owns a burlesque club (and on the rare occasion dances at it), puts up with zero bullshit, takes lovers on her terms and really seems to know who she is. And one thing she is, is uncomfortable with feeling close with anyone. Don't get me wrong, she's friendly and warm and cares about people but she doesn't want to let anyone near her heart..for good reason. I held no judgement for her decision to close herself off, considering her past. I liked Fallon; I appreciated her strength and her pride and her honesty. Even when I didn't like her choices, I understood her need to make them.
Court: Sure, we can understand it, and it definitely wouldn't make for a good story without her being the way she was...but that didn't mean that a few scenes didn't make me shed some tears. Because she did. Fallon has had a hard way to go, that resulted in the hardest of hearts...but whew, she was a badass character that I loved. She stood up for those who deserved it, and dished out her own brand of whoop ass for those who didn't...I think we could all stand to be more like Fallon.
Shel: When we meet Rafe, he's not exactly in the best mental space. He's desperately trying to deal with a very wounded heart by drinking and screwing his troubles away. Only problem? It's not really working. He's determined not to get hurt again and sees no harm in the fun he's having...until he sees Fallon and feels drawn to her. Initially both he, and Fallon, think one night, or a few nights, will take care of the chemistry between them. Really, it just ignites their chemistry only to never see it diminish. And, I'll give Rafe bonus points because once he makes up his mind regarding Fallon, he owns it; I found this a great trait of his.
Court: Rafe. I fell in love with Rafe from the get go. With even the littlest of scenes we see that he loves hard and fights hard. We get a glimpse of how he is with his family, and I for one couldn't wait to see more of them right away. He does drink and screw around a lot, but when he gets what he wants, or might want in his sights...holy shit. I would have swooned for days if it was me he had set his sights on. He is quite the package from the uniform, to the scar on his face, to the tattoos he bears...mmhmmm, our perfect brand of hero. Loved him.
Shel: Just as I loved Fallon for her strength, I loved Rafe for his honesty and willingness to examine his choices. He's also patient with Fallon and tries to understand her mindset. He's definitely not perfect and he has these hotheaded moments, but I really liked him. Court: Yeah. He was a genuine character in that even he is a douchebag sometimes! You'll see...you'll wanna smack their heads together, but it made for some great storytelling.
Shel: Obviously Fallon and Rafe's love story is the centerpiece of the novel, but I enjoyed their side stories and histories, too. Fallon's friends (aka, her family at the club) and Rafe's family provided great insights into their characters. And I loved Rafe's military service and how attentive he was to his soldiers. Court: Yes. You can see that this means a lot to Kelsie Leverich, and I love that. Family, friends and military service are great story plots for us, but I think we can all agree that she does them a great service. Putting some of their issues out there is entirely necessary, and we all need to put forth our gratitude. It is the very least we can do. It's a huge part of this, especially with his friend Wright. More tears!
Shel: The only hiccup I had was at the very beginning..mainly because I was a little confused..or maybe the wording was a little clunky for me... and then there was a flashback at the end that was informative, but the little stylistic shift threw me for a second. These were very minor things, though, and I quickly got over them and thoroughly enjoyed the book. I cannot wait to see who she writes about next. Court: Ditto. We're thrown right in there with a scene from Fallon, then go back to a few hours before and then see things again from an opposite point of view. That surprised me, but things smoothed out and I really, really enjoyed this story. I couldn't stop reading it, shed some tears, had a lot of laughs, and enjoyed some steam. The meat of it made up for the start for me. Check it out and see how it does for you guys!
Shelley: 4 Stars
Courtney: 5 Stars
Shel: I remember the first book of Kelsie's that I read: The Valentine's Arrangement-- and I remember I loved that she wrote a strong female protagonist. She did that again in A Beautiful Distraction. Court: And I was on board for this one immediately when she mentioned strong female protagonist. Love strong, determined women!
Shel: Fallon is a very determined woman. She owns a burlesque club (and on the rare occasion dances at it), puts up with zero bullshit, takes lovers on her terms and really seems to know who she is. And one thing she is, is uncomfortable with feeling close with anyone. Don't get me wrong, she's friendly and warm and cares about people but she doesn't want to let anyone near her heart..for good reason. I held no judgement for her decision to close herself off, considering her past. I liked Fallon; I appreciated her strength and her pride and her honesty. Even when I didn't like her choices, I understood her need to make them.
Court: Sure, we can understand it, and it definitely wouldn't make for a good story without her being the way she was...but that didn't mean that a few scenes didn't make me shed some tears. Because she did. Fallon has had a hard way to go, that resulted in the hardest of hearts...but whew, she was a badass character that I loved. She stood up for those who deserved it, and dished out her own brand of whoop ass for those who didn't...I think we could all stand to be more like Fallon.
Shel: When we meet Rafe, he's not exactly in the best mental space. He's desperately trying to deal with a very wounded heart by drinking and screwing his troubles away. Only problem? It's not really working. He's determined not to get hurt again and sees no harm in the fun he's having...until he sees Fallon and feels drawn to her. Initially both he, and Fallon, think one night, or a few nights, will take care of the chemistry between them. Really, it just ignites their chemistry only to never see it diminish. And, I'll give Rafe bonus points because once he makes up his mind regarding Fallon, he owns it; I found this a great trait of his.
Court: Rafe. I fell in love with Rafe from the get go. With even the littlest of scenes we see that he loves hard and fights hard. We get a glimpse of how he is with his family, and I for one couldn't wait to see more of them right away. He does drink and screw around a lot, but when he gets what he wants, or might want in his sights...holy shit. I would have swooned for days if it was me he had set his sights on. He is quite the package from the uniform, to the scar on his face, to the tattoos he bears...mmhmmm, our perfect brand of hero. Loved him.
Shel: Just as I loved Fallon for her strength, I loved Rafe for his honesty and willingness to examine his choices. He's also patient with Fallon and tries to understand her mindset. He's definitely not perfect and he has these hotheaded moments, but I really liked him. Court: Yeah. He was a genuine character in that even he is a douchebag sometimes! You'll see...you'll wanna smack their heads together, but it made for some great storytelling.
Shel: Obviously Fallon and Rafe's love story is the centerpiece of the novel, but I enjoyed their side stories and histories, too. Fallon's friends (aka, her family at the club) and Rafe's family provided great insights into their characters. And I loved Rafe's military service and how attentive he was to his soldiers. Court: Yes. You can see that this means a lot to Kelsie Leverich, and I love that. Family, friends and military service are great story plots for us, but I think we can all agree that she does them a great service. Putting some of their issues out there is entirely necessary, and we all need to put forth our gratitude. It is the very least we can do. It's a huge part of this, especially with his friend Wright. More tears!
Shel: The only hiccup I had was at the very beginning..mainly because I was a little confused..or maybe the wording was a little clunky for me... and then there was a flashback at the end that was informative, but the little stylistic shift threw me for a second. These were very minor things, though, and I quickly got over them and thoroughly enjoyed the book. I cannot wait to see who she writes about next. Court: Ditto. We're thrown right in there with a scene from Fallon, then go back to a few hours before and then see things again from an opposite point of view. That surprised me, but things smoothed out and I really, really enjoyed this story. I couldn't stop reading it, shed some tears, had a lot of laughs, and enjoyed some steam. The meat of it made up for the start for me. Check it out and see how it does for you guys!
Shelley: 4 Stars
Courtney: 5 Stars
May 2, 2016
Review originally posted at Ramblings From This Chick
A Beautiful Distraction is the newest installment in Kelsie Leverich's Hard Feelings series. I was really excited to read Rafe's story after reading the blurb, and I just knew he was going to be a character that I loved. While I did really like his character, this book was not really what I had been expecting and I was left with mixed feelings about the story.
Rafe is home after another deployment and without things to fill his mind, he is left dwelling on the woman who broke his heart. He fills his time with drinking and women, and he is quick to use his fists when he gets angry. He goes to a club with his friend one night and meets Fallon. Not only is she the club owner, but she is a beautiful dancer as well. He is instantly drawn to her. Fallon has a set of rules that she lives by after her horrible past. When she meets Rafe as he is defending one of her girls, her rules go right out the window. The attraction between them is so strong that she ends up giving into the passion that they are both feeling. Rafe makes Fallon feel more than she has in a long time, and that scares her. Rafe is still trying to get over his heartbreak and hasn't felt anything like what he does for Fallon in a long time. Can they both get over their pasts and take a chance on a future together?
I liked Rafe. He was a really great guy and he felt things so strongly. He looked out for those he cared about and also for those that couldn't look out for themselves. I liked that even though it wasn't always the best way or what he should do, he always seemed to stand up for what was right. He was a total hot head, but he had good intentions behind everything he did. He was sweet and kind, while being completely sexy and commanding. I loved that he wouldn't let Fallon get away with keeping him at a distance, and he was determined to show her that what they had was worth taking a chance on. Fallon was harder for me to like and relate to. At times she was really nice and strong, and at other times she was a bit of a bitch. I thought that she pushed Rafe away a bit too much and she was a little cold at times. I know that she was scared, but it got old after awhile. Especially considering how great he treated her and how he was open and honest with her. He really wore his heart on his sleeve with her, and so it frustrated me to see her continue to do the things she did with him. I thought that they had good chemistry and they had their steamy moments. I liked that Rafe was able to open up to her and really tell her who he was and even share the things that he wasn't proud of. I feel like Fallon didn't really open up to him as much though, and it almost seemed like her sharing with him was more out of default than her choosing to share. He caught her at a weak moment and wouldn't allow her to escape without explaining. I think it hurt the emotional connection that they were forming that she didn't explain herself without being basically forced to. I just didn't find their connection to be as strong or believable because of it.
I also thought that this story was really slow. The first 30% was extremely slow and there were several times that I put the book down and had to walk away. It was really hard for me to get into the story, and there were times that I thought I wasn't going to be able to finish. It started to pick up a bit after the 30% mark, but it still had its slow moments after that. This one just never fully captured my attention, and as much as I liked Rafe there just wasn't a lot that kept me interested. I didn't really find the relationship developing between them to be what I had hoped for and I think that is mostly because of Fallon. I just wasn't able to connect with her and I think that kept me from really being able to root for their relationship. I also thought that everything was a little bit too conveniently connected. With each new character or problem introduced, somehow they were all tied together. It just was a bit too coincidental for my liking. I couldn't believe that it would all happen like that for real, so it really just didn't work for me. As much as I had wanted to love this story, it just never happened. I kept reading and ended up giving this one the rating I did because I really did like Rafe. He was the only reason I stuck with this one and was definitely the highlight of the story. I did like the way things ended up and I thought that it was a good ending. I just wish that I had been able to enjoy the whole book and all of the characters more than just me liking Rafe. I think if you are a fan of this series or Kelsie Leverich you will enjoy this book, and if you like sexy uniformed heroes you might give this one a shot.
**ARC provided by Publisher**
A Beautiful Distraction is the newest installment in Kelsie Leverich's Hard Feelings series. I was really excited to read Rafe's story after reading the blurb, and I just knew he was going to be a character that I loved. While I did really like his character, this book was not really what I had been expecting and I was left with mixed feelings about the story.
Rafe is home after another deployment and without things to fill his mind, he is left dwelling on the woman who broke his heart. He fills his time with drinking and women, and he is quick to use his fists when he gets angry. He goes to a club with his friend one night and meets Fallon. Not only is she the club owner, but she is a beautiful dancer as well. He is instantly drawn to her. Fallon has a set of rules that she lives by after her horrible past. When she meets Rafe as he is defending one of her girls, her rules go right out the window. The attraction between them is so strong that she ends up giving into the passion that they are both feeling. Rafe makes Fallon feel more than she has in a long time, and that scares her. Rafe is still trying to get over his heartbreak and hasn't felt anything like what he does for Fallon in a long time. Can they both get over their pasts and take a chance on a future together?
I liked Rafe. He was a really great guy and he felt things so strongly. He looked out for those he cared about and also for those that couldn't look out for themselves. I liked that even though it wasn't always the best way or what he should do, he always seemed to stand up for what was right. He was a total hot head, but he had good intentions behind everything he did. He was sweet and kind, while being completely sexy and commanding. I loved that he wouldn't let Fallon get away with keeping him at a distance, and he was determined to show her that what they had was worth taking a chance on. Fallon was harder for me to like and relate to. At times she was really nice and strong, and at other times she was a bit of a bitch. I thought that she pushed Rafe away a bit too much and she was a little cold at times. I know that she was scared, but it got old after awhile. Especially considering how great he treated her and how he was open and honest with her. He really wore his heart on his sleeve with her, and so it frustrated me to see her continue to do the things she did with him. I thought that they had good chemistry and they had their steamy moments. I liked that Rafe was able to open up to her and really tell her who he was and even share the things that he wasn't proud of. I feel like Fallon didn't really open up to him as much though, and it almost seemed like her sharing with him was more out of default than her choosing to share. He caught her at a weak moment and wouldn't allow her to escape without explaining. I think it hurt the emotional connection that they were forming that she didn't explain herself without being basically forced to. I just didn't find their connection to be as strong or believable because of it.
I also thought that this story was really slow. The first 30% was extremely slow and there were several times that I put the book down and had to walk away. It was really hard for me to get into the story, and there were times that I thought I wasn't going to be able to finish. It started to pick up a bit after the 30% mark, but it still had its slow moments after that. This one just never fully captured my attention, and as much as I liked Rafe there just wasn't a lot that kept me interested. I didn't really find the relationship developing between them to be what I had hoped for and I think that is mostly because of Fallon. I just wasn't able to connect with her and I think that kept me from really being able to root for their relationship. I also thought that everything was a little bit too conveniently connected. With each new character or problem introduced, somehow they were all tied together. It just was a bit too coincidental for my liking. I couldn't believe that it would all happen like that for real, so it really just didn't work for me. As much as I had wanted to love this story, it just never happened. I kept reading and ended up giving this one the rating I did because I really did like Rafe. He was the only reason I stuck with this one and was definitely the highlight of the story. I did like the way things ended up and I thought that it was a good ending. I just wish that I had been able to enjoy the whole book and all of the characters more than just me liking Rafe. I think if you are a fan of this series or Kelsie Leverich you will enjoy this book, and if you like sexy uniformed heroes you might give this one a shot.
**ARC provided by Publisher**
June 3, 2014
Rafe Murano had turned into a man he never expected to be. That’s because he fell in love with the wrong woman. Bridget was married. Although Rafe can tell himself that he didn’t know that at the beginning, he continued to see her once he learned the truth. For a man who doesn’t share his woman, he found himself desperate for any time she gave him after sneaking away from her husband. Now it’s over and Rafe is left with a broken heart over a woman who was never really his, and using alcohol and one night stands to distract himself from his heartache.
When he arrives at Velour, he doesn’t expect anything more than the same to get him through is night, but from the first moment he sees Fallon dancing on that stage in the burlesque show, he wants more from her than a night of sex. Fallon is happy to give the attractive and intriguing soldier a night of distraction since she too is looking for a distraction from her own. But Fallon has been let down before by those who she loved and she is not looking to get too close to anyone again. She doesn’t like the warm feeling she gets when she is with Rafe or how he makes her feel cherished. She knows that is only a lie. Meeting Rafe’s family only reinforces how screwed up her own upbringing was.
The harder Rafe tries to hold onto Fallon, the harder she fights to retain her independence from the feelings Rafe brings out in her. When Rafe declare he doesn’t was Fallon dancing anymore, she fears she has once again set herself up when she doesn’t measure up to someone else’s standards for her.
Can Rafe and Fallon find a middle ground that will make them both happy, or will they both walk away with a heart so shattered that no distraction will ever help?
THOUGHTS:
I love Fallon’s strength. She is tossed out by her parents as a young teen because her choices do not measure up to their country club lifestyle. She forges on with only $100 in her pocket to make her own way in the world and eventually because the owner of Velour. Fallon was also abandoned by her hand-picked, picture perfect boyfriend because her choices interfered with his life plan. We can see how Fallon looses trust in people and why she resists Rafe, so that he too can’t be disappointed by her once she puts her trust in him. But instead of being cold and heartless, we see how much love and trust she gives to the people that work for her. She takes care of her girls and helps some of them back on their feet after life kicked them around. So it is a little strange how she views these relationships. The girls can be wrong and do disappoint her, but they can’t be disappointed by her. In getting close to Rafe, and especially his declaring that he doesn’t want her dancing in front of other men anymore, he makes her feel that she is once again a failure and a disappointment, and that’s a vulnerability she doesn’t want to feel again.
I am uncertain is Rafe is just the type of man who is attracted to women who are unavailable or is it just bad luck. He falls hard for the married woman, who is a bit of a bitch and a user so I have to ask “what’s the attraction?” and in the end, it is she who breaks it off. Rafe would have continued to see her even though he hated himself for ruining her marriage and for being such a loser to take the few hours a week she would give him. Rafe then turns to drinking and casual sex instead of trying to meet someone else and give them a chance. It is only after seeing Fallon dance with such passion and then spending time with her before the sex that he takes more of an interest in her and the more she fights the commitment, the more he wants from her. So is he one of those guys who always wants the woman he can’t have or is it just bad luck?
Rafe’s family enjoyed the spotlight in this book as well and I found them to be very interesting and enjoyable characters, but sadly I don’t see a reason to be meeting them again. Rafe’s younger brother follows in Rafe’s footsteps by having his heartbroken by a woman and becoming self-destructive. Since this series, so far, is focused on soldiers, I don’t know if we will ever get more from him or how his situation turns out. I hate when we get invested in great secondary characters who won’t be back.
Overall it was another great story by Kelsie Leverich.
Received an ARC from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
See more at http://ebookobsessed.com
When he arrives at Velour, he doesn’t expect anything more than the same to get him through is night, but from the first moment he sees Fallon dancing on that stage in the burlesque show, he wants more from her than a night of sex. Fallon is happy to give the attractive and intriguing soldier a night of distraction since she too is looking for a distraction from her own. But Fallon has been let down before by those who she loved and she is not looking to get too close to anyone again. She doesn’t like the warm feeling she gets when she is with Rafe or how he makes her feel cherished. She knows that is only a lie. Meeting Rafe’s family only reinforces how screwed up her own upbringing was.
The harder Rafe tries to hold onto Fallon, the harder she fights to retain her independence from the feelings Rafe brings out in her. When Rafe declare he doesn’t was Fallon dancing anymore, she fears she has once again set herself up when she doesn’t measure up to someone else’s standards for her.
Can Rafe and Fallon find a middle ground that will make them both happy, or will they both walk away with a heart so shattered that no distraction will ever help?
THOUGHTS:
I love Fallon’s strength. She is tossed out by her parents as a young teen because her choices do not measure up to their country club lifestyle. She forges on with only $100 in her pocket to make her own way in the world and eventually because the owner of Velour. Fallon was also abandoned by her hand-picked, picture perfect boyfriend because her choices interfered with his life plan. We can see how Fallon looses trust in people and why she resists Rafe, so that he too can’t be disappointed by her once she puts her trust in him. But instead of being cold and heartless, we see how much love and trust she gives to the people that work for her. She takes care of her girls and helps some of them back on their feet after life kicked them around. So it is a little strange how she views these relationships. The girls can be wrong and do disappoint her, but they can’t be disappointed by her. In getting close to Rafe, and especially his declaring that he doesn’t want her dancing in front of other men anymore, he makes her feel that she is once again a failure and a disappointment, and that’s a vulnerability she doesn’t want to feel again.
I am uncertain is Rafe is just the type of man who is attracted to women who are unavailable or is it just bad luck. He falls hard for the married woman, who is a bit of a bitch and a user so I have to ask “what’s the attraction?” and in the end, it is she who breaks it off. Rafe would have continued to see her even though he hated himself for ruining her marriage and for being such a loser to take the few hours a week she would give him. Rafe then turns to drinking and casual sex instead of trying to meet someone else and give them a chance. It is only after seeing Fallon dance with such passion and then spending time with her before the sex that he takes more of an interest in her and the more she fights the commitment, the more he wants from her. So is he one of those guys who always wants the woman he can’t have or is it just bad luck?
Rafe’s family enjoyed the spotlight in this book as well and I found them to be very interesting and enjoyable characters, but sadly I don’t see a reason to be meeting them again. Rafe’s younger brother follows in Rafe’s footsteps by having his heartbroken by a woman and becoming self-destructive. Since this series, so far, is focused on soldiers, I don’t know if we will ever get more from him or how his situation turns out. I hate when we get invested in great secondary characters who won’t be back.
Overall it was another great story by Kelsie Leverich.
Received an ARC from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
See more at http://ebookobsessed.com
June 30, 2014
I'm completely falling for Kelsie Leverich and the world she's created with this series. A Beautiful Distraction one of those achingly beautiful stories that had me completely wrapped up and absorbed from page one as a broken and barely holding it together Rafe finds salvation in the arms of an Ice Queen that's tough as nails and desperately needs someone to break down her walls.
So, Fallon and Rafe. It...was not insta-love for me with these two. They took me a some time to get used to. I was loving the writing and the storyline but I just wasn't feeling them exactly. I'm not even sure when it happened but the two completely won me over. They snuck the heck up on me and after that I really wasn't ready to let them go.
Fallon's a bad ass heroine. She's made a life for herself despite being abandoned and kicked out of her home when she was younger. She fought back and made something of herself and she's a bit of an ice queen because of it. She won't let people close because if people get close...they can hurt you and will no doubt turn their back on you. So she throws herself into the burlesque club she owns and makes do with sexual encounters that are just that. Encounters but nothing emotional. And that's how she likes it until Rafe shows up and gets under her skin.
I really didn't think I'd like Rafe at the beginning. He's been nursing a heart break after his married girlfriend (yeah) broke up with him. And I don't know. I just wasn't prepared to like him. But I did. He, again, snuck up on me. He's hurting so much and it was hard to see him suffering so badly. He's also one that loves passionately. Everything he does is full force and he's just a sight to behold. And sexy as hell when he's laying it all out there.
These two together. They were something else. Both are just...broken emotionally and making their way through life the best they can. They've been successful and are dedicated as all get out but their lives are messy and they aren't always great at keeping it together or keeping the hurts they have locked down tight. I really liked them together and how they helped bring out the better sides of the other. The chemistry is excellent and damn the sex scenes are incredibly hot and sexy. Fan yourself good!
My only complaint had to do a bit with the writing. The story flows and is lovely but now and again word usage was just...off. Example-- "She fell easily into the crook of his shoulder and he sheathed around her as she tucked in tight" Hrm. Just places where it took me out because of odd phraseology.
Other than that I loved A Beautiful Distraction. It was an incredibly touching romance I just couldn't put down. At this point I'm definitely a fan of Leverich and won't hesitate to grab up anything she puts out.
Reviewed for herding cats & burning soup.
So, Fallon and Rafe. It...was not insta-love for me with these two. They took me a some time to get used to. I was loving the writing and the storyline but I just wasn't feeling them exactly. I'm not even sure when it happened but the two completely won me over. They snuck the heck up on me and after that I really wasn't ready to let them go.
Fallon's a bad ass heroine. She's made a life for herself despite being abandoned and kicked out of her home when she was younger. She fought back and made something of herself and she's a bit of an ice queen because of it. She won't let people close because if people get close...they can hurt you and will no doubt turn their back on you. So she throws herself into the burlesque club she owns and makes do with sexual encounters that are just that. Encounters but nothing emotional. And that's how she likes it until Rafe shows up and gets under her skin.
I really didn't think I'd like Rafe at the beginning. He's been nursing a heart break after his married girlfriend (yeah) broke up with him. And I don't know. I just wasn't prepared to like him. But I did. He, again, snuck up on me. He's hurting so much and it was hard to see him suffering so badly. He's also one that loves passionately. Everything he does is full force and he's just a sight to behold. And sexy as hell when he's laying it all out there.
He loved the sight of a woman in a kitchen. It wasn't a chauvinistic thing. Not at all. It just reminded him of good. It reminded him of love. Everyone had stupid shit that reminded them of a way they felt at a particular time, and a woman in a kitchen reminded him of early mornings as a kid. Waking up for school and moping down the hallway into the kitchen and seeing his dad drinking his coffee as he hovered behind his mom, helping her make breakfast. It was one of the sappy memories that portrayed what should be. The small, everyday kind of love.
It would probably void his man card and make him a pussy for admitting this, but he wanted that love. The kind that had a man wrapped around a woman's finger at the sight of her messy hair and the red sleep marks indented into her cheek when she woke up. The kind of love that made a man call in sick to work so he could throw her back in his bed. The kind of love that could turn a man on just by watching her walk around in his shirt. The kind of love that could make a man drop to his knees.
These two together. They were something else. Both are just...broken emotionally and making their way through life the best they can. They've been successful and are dedicated as all get out but their lives are messy and they aren't always great at keeping it together or keeping the hurts they have locked down tight. I really liked them together and how they helped bring out the better sides of the other. The chemistry is excellent and damn the sex scenes are incredibly hot and sexy. Fan yourself good!
My only complaint had to do a bit with the writing. The story flows and is lovely but now and again word usage was just...off. Example-- "She fell easily into the crook of his shoulder and he sheathed around her as she tucked in tight" Hrm. Just places where it took me out because of odd phraseology.
Other than that I loved A Beautiful Distraction. It was an incredibly touching romance I just couldn't put down. At this point I'm definitely a fan of Leverich and won't hesitate to grab up anything she puts out.
Reviewed for herding cats & burning soup.
April 29, 2014
I’m a huge, huge fan of this series! I fell in love with Feel the Rush, and went back to read book one, Valentine’s Arrangement. I even heard the audiobooks later on and read the novella. I’ve been looking forward to A Beautiful Distraction ever since I found out that this would be Rafe’s book. Kelsie Leverich has made it on my list of favorite adult romance authors and I will also make room in my TBR when I can get my hands on one of her books!
We met Rafe in Feel the Rush. Even though he wasn’t one of the bigger side characters, his story stood out among the others. Rafe is pretty much heartbroken in Feel the Rush when he finds out that the girl he’s in love with is married, with kids. Even though he didn’t know she was married, he feels horrible for falling her. He tries ending it with her, but the bitch knows exactly how to play Rafe (and his guilt) to keep stringing him along. This time around, Rafe finally broke things off with her but he still has feelings for her. He’s going through the motions, downing himself in alcohol and women. When one of his nights out, brings him to a burlesque club, he’s entranced by one of the dancers, who just so happens to be Fallon, owner of the club. When Rafe defends one of Fallon’s dancers, she helps him get out of her club ebfore the cops can find him. They are both insanely attracted for each other and looking for a distraction, and they find it in each other that night. Only Rafe can’t stop thinking about Fallon and one night turns into more. Rafe is falling for Fallon, and even though she has strong feelings for him, she’s so used to keeping people at a safe distance. Rafe seems to know exactly how to get past all her barriers. Rafe is still battling his feelings of guilt over his ex, which doesn’t help when she shows back up in the picture. But, this time Rafe only wants Fallon, and he will do whatever it takes to prove to her that she can trust him and let him in her heart.
I adored the interaction between Rafe and Fallon. I was already a fan of Rafe’s so it was so easy to like him even more this time around. Fallon isns’t usually the type of girl character I like (guarded) but I really ended up liking Fallon. I liked that she knew exactly what she was getting into with Rafe and that she was so comfortable with her body and sexuality. It’s always nice to see characters like this. I loved that she held her own against Rafe, his brothers, his dad, and his friends. Even that bitch ex of his. Even though I know Leverich can write emotional scenes beautifully, I was not expecting this one. That epilogue just pulled at every single one of my heart strings. Even the ones I keep hidden… I loved it!
Although, I was a little bit bummed that we didn’t get to see any of the characters from the previous books (not any of the main ones at least), we did get to meet some great new characters. I loved Rafe’s family and even Fallon’s dancer friends. The way Kelsie described Fallon’s dance sequences were sexy and seductive. Overall, this had everything I love about romance books! There was so much chemistry between these two, but I also loved the sweet and emotional they shared. I’m not sure if Kelsie plans to continue this series, but I will read anything and everything that she writes! I love her characters and her writing and I may have a crush on her hair :) Another hit in the Hard Feelings series! Definitely and author you need to check out. I just got a copy of this on audiobook and I already look forward to listening to it.
4.5 out of 5 stars!
***
Read full review & more of my reviews at Mostly YA Book Obsessed
We met Rafe in Feel the Rush. Even though he wasn’t one of the bigger side characters, his story stood out among the others. Rafe is pretty much heartbroken in Feel the Rush when he finds out that the girl he’s in love with is married, with kids. Even though he didn’t know she was married, he feels horrible for falling her. He tries ending it with her, but the bitch knows exactly how to play Rafe (and his guilt) to keep stringing him along. This time around, Rafe finally broke things off with her but he still has feelings for her. He’s going through the motions, downing himself in alcohol and women. When one of his nights out, brings him to a burlesque club, he’s entranced by one of the dancers, who just so happens to be Fallon, owner of the club. When Rafe defends one of Fallon’s dancers, she helps him get out of her club ebfore the cops can find him. They are both insanely attracted for each other and looking for a distraction, and they find it in each other that night. Only Rafe can’t stop thinking about Fallon and one night turns into more. Rafe is falling for Fallon, and even though she has strong feelings for him, she’s so used to keeping people at a safe distance. Rafe seems to know exactly how to get past all her barriers. Rafe is still battling his feelings of guilt over his ex, which doesn’t help when she shows back up in the picture. But, this time Rafe only wants Fallon, and he will do whatever it takes to prove to her that she can trust him and let him in her heart.
I adored the interaction between Rafe and Fallon. I was already a fan of Rafe’s so it was so easy to like him even more this time around. Fallon isns’t usually the type of girl character I like (guarded) but I really ended up liking Fallon. I liked that she knew exactly what she was getting into with Rafe and that she was so comfortable with her body and sexuality. It’s always nice to see characters like this. I loved that she held her own against Rafe, his brothers, his dad, and his friends. Even that bitch ex of his. Even though I know Leverich can write emotional scenes beautifully, I was not expecting this one. That epilogue just pulled at every single one of my heart strings. Even the ones I keep hidden… I loved it!
Although, I was a little bit bummed that we didn’t get to see any of the characters from the previous books (not any of the main ones at least), we did get to meet some great new characters. I loved Rafe’s family and even Fallon’s dancer friends. The way Kelsie described Fallon’s dance sequences were sexy and seductive. Overall, this had everything I love about romance books! There was so much chemistry between these two, but I also loved the sweet and emotional they shared. I’m not sure if Kelsie plans to continue this series, but I will read anything and everything that she writes! I love her characters and her writing and I may have a crush on her hair :) Another hit in the Hard Feelings series! Definitely and author you need to check out. I just got a copy of this on audiobook and I already look forward to listening to it.
4.5 out of 5 stars!
***
Read full review & more of my reviews at Mostly YA Book Obsessed
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