What do you think?
Rate this book
Love of My Life #3
Picturing Perfect
Hadley Foster has been through a lot in her twenty-two the death of her beloved father, her mother’s descent into mental illness, and the loss of her soulmate, Jason Kelly, from whom she walked away years ago. Despite all this, Hadley has remained hopeful and optimistic about life. She has been with upstanding investment banker Tucker for six years, and the future looks bright―until a trip to Europe with her best friend brings a series of events no one could have foreseen. Suddenly the brilliant future she has envisioned for herself seems to shatter before her eyes. She is faced with a stark move on again, or pick up the pieces. Back home, nerdy but handsome Jason Kelly is now a successful writer who could have anything―and anyone―he wants. But deep down, he still misses his beloved “Haddie” and dreams of winning her back. When destiny leads their paths to cross once more, Hadley and Jason must confront not only their painful past, but what the future may hold for them both.
317 pages, Paperback
First published June 11, 2013
102 people are currently reading
2955 people want to read
About the author
Melissa Brown
30 books1,036 followersI have always been fascinated with books----ever since I was a little girl sitting in front of my record player, following along with my huge 12x12 storybooks.
I'm a pop culture maniac, Potterhead and Disney fanatic. I write new adult romance, contemporary romance and romantic suspense.
Instagram @melbrownie77
Facebook:
https://www.facebook.com/MelissaBrown...
I'm a pop culture maniac, Potterhead and Disney fanatic. I write new adult romance, contemporary romance and romantic suspense.
Instagram @melbrownie77
Facebook:
https://www.facebook.com/MelissaBrown...
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 243 reviews
March 2, 2016
My bestie recommended this one to me, because it is a best friend’s brother book and those books are my jam. Then this past weekend she drops a bomb on me and of course I was jumping in.
Hadley grew up having a crush on Jason, her best friend’s brother. but for the last six years she has been in a committed relationship. Little does she know that Jason has always had feelings for her, too. Now when it seems timing is finally going to line up Hadley has a bomb dropped on her.
I loved how Jason was so easy going, but wasn’t a pushover, because Jason is really just easy going when it comes to Hadley. He is willing to just about anything to see her happy and I loved that. Jason is seriously the perfect book boyfriend. I liked how mature the characters were, it allowed for a sweet read that wasn’t marred with miscommunication or unnecessary drama.
If you are looking for a book that’s sweet and low on angst I absolutely recommend. While this isn’t as suspenseful as some of Melissa Brown’s other books it was absolutely perfect for what I was looking for. So when you are in the mood for something sweet and light, definitely jump in!
Teaser created by me with stock images purchased from depositphotos.
Hadley grew up having a crush on Jason, her best friend’s brother. but for the last six years she has been in a committed relationship. Little does she know that Jason has always had feelings for her, too. Now when it seems timing is finally going to line up Hadley has a bomb dropped on her.
I loved how Jason was so easy going, but wasn’t a pushover, because Jason is really just easy going when it comes to Hadley. He is willing to just about anything to see her happy and I loved that. Jason is seriously the perfect book boyfriend. I liked how mature the characters were, it allowed for a sweet read that wasn’t marred with miscommunication or unnecessary drama.
If you are looking for a book that’s sweet and low on angst I absolutely recommend. While this isn’t as suspenseful as some of Melissa Brown’s other books it was absolutely perfect for what I was looking for. So when you are in the mood for something sweet and light, definitely jump in!
“Once in a while, in the middle of an ordinary life…love gives us a fairy tale.”
Teaser created by me with stock images purchased from depositphotos.
July 8, 2020
I am so in love with Jason Kelly!!! This was the sweetest romance about two of the most lovable characters I have read in a long time. Sometimes, after all the darker and crazier things I read, I just want a nice love story. If you are looking for that, this is the perfect read for you.
Jason and Hadley have known each other for a long time. Hadley’s best friend Auden is Jason’s little sister. Hadley has had a crush on Jason since she was young.
Jason Kelly. My very first crush and my best friends older brother.Haddie has always been that girl for Jason. For the longest, she was the off limits girl. Younger than him, his little sisters best friend, she was unattainable. When the time came that he was ready, she was dating someone else. But she’s never left his mind, or his heart.
For some reason, things always came back to Hadley. My Haddie.
Jason and Hadley finally come back into each others lives. Both are single... maybe it’s their time? If only it were that easy...
Now let me talk about the main characters. Jason Kelly the swooniest of the swoony, quite possibly the sweetest book boyfriend ever. This guy was perfect. I love that he’s a little geeky with his fun tshirts and glasses. How he treated Haddie, and everyone for that matter was just amazing. Then there is Hadley Foster. A heroine with a huge heart that didn’t annoy me one bit. She was loving, kind and considerate. A great match for someone like Jason. I also loved watching her with her 'clients'. It kept a huge smile on my face!
There’s more I want to say about these two, but it would be spoilerish so you need to just read it for yourself. Picture Perfect was a beautiful romance with a wonderful message. It’s one I would highly recommend!
Read
July 20, 2016I'm proud of this one. Can't wait to share Jason Kelly with everyone :)
April 27, 2014
Picturing Perfect is one of the worst books I've ever read. It is so formulaic, & I predicted 99% of the scenes before they occurred. And don't even get me started on the heroine. She did possess "some" admirable qualities: she was a good mother, she was principled & she worked with folks with cognitive disabilities. Sadly, her redeeming qualities ended there. She was an incredibly annoying character whose overall stupidity & poor decision-making skills made me cringe. In the book's opening chapters, she was a 22-year old woman who was expecting a baby, but she didn't even know how to fill out medical forms at the doctor's office (without her mother's help). Since she didn't know what to do, she ended up checking every single box on the form. This incident was the most "minor" in a long stream of stupidities. She made some colossally stupid mistakes throughout the course of the novel (and one, in particular, towards the novel's end) which made me dislike her even more.
In addition to featuring an insipid heroine, this novel also features some of the worst writing that I've ever come across. Consider just about every scenario that could possibly go wrong w/ an unplanned pregnancy, & I guarantee that the author included it in this novel. The author is fond of using cliches, & the level of writing in this novel is too elementary for the New Adult/Contemporary genre. I could have read & comprehended this novel as a 3rd grader.... So, in short, if you have a low tolerance for stupid heroines, formulaic plots, cliches & VERY bad writing, then this novel is definitely not for you. Your time would be better spent elsewhere. *1/5 stars*
In addition to featuring an insipid heroine, this novel also features some of the worst writing that I've ever come across. Consider just about every scenario that could possibly go wrong w/ an unplanned pregnancy, & I guarantee that the author included it in this novel. The author is fond of using cliches, & the level of writing in this novel is too elementary for the New Adult/Contemporary genre. I could have read & comprehended this novel as a 3rd grader.... So, in short, if you have a low tolerance for stupid heroines, formulaic plots, cliches & VERY bad writing, then this novel is definitely not for you. Your time would be better spent elsewhere. *1/5 stars*
May 31, 2013
This was one of those books that I was still reading at 2:30 am while hiding in the playroom so I wouldn't wake my husband. I just couldn't put it down. I felt so connected to the characters I sighed many times, actually had tears running down my face at least twice (the sign of a great book to me), and a big smile crossed my face at the ending.
I fell in love with Jason, he's a wonderful man. Anyone would be lucky to have him in his life. Tucker needs his a$$ kicked. His actions (and his mother's) frustrated me. He demonstrated just how selfish and immature he was throughout the entire book.
My favorite quote from the book that gave me something to think about was "Six out of Seven Dwarves are not Happy?"
And the quote that summed up the book could be, "Just because things aren't as you pictured them, doesn't mean they're any less perfect."
And the one that made me smile, "Once in a while, in the middle of an ordinary life...love gives us a fairy tale."
This book was provided to by as an ARC by the author as part of a Facebook/Rafflecopter giveaway.
I fell in love with Jason, he's a wonderful man. Anyone would be lucky to have him in his life. Tucker needs his a$$ kicked. His actions (and his mother's) frustrated me. He demonstrated just how selfish and immature he was throughout the entire book.
My favorite quote from the book that gave me something to think about was "Six out of Seven Dwarves are not Happy?"
And the quote that summed up the book could be, "Just because things aren't as you pictured them, doesn't mean they're any less perfect."
And the one that made me smile, "Once in a while, in the middle of an ordinary life...love gives us a fairy tale."
This book was provided to by as an ARC by the author as part of a Facebook/Rafflecopter giveaway.
September 3, 2016
Check out my other reviews at Reading Books Like a Boss
I received an ARC from the author in exchange for an honest review.
“Just because things aren’t as you pictured them, doesn’t mean they’re any less perfect.”
Picturing Perfect was a cute, heartwarming story and the perfect summer read. I adored the characters in this novel and their journey to find love and happiness. This is my first Melissa Brown novel, but certainly not my last. I will most definitely read the other novels in her “Love of my Life” series, especially since I know Jason Kelly will be in them. Please note that you do not have to have read the other books to enjoy Picturing Perfect.
What I love most about Hadley is her resilience and determination. Despite being put in rather unfortunate circumstances repeatedly, she comes out shining. Her father passed away of pancreatic cancer, which led her mother to go into a deep depression. As a result, Hadley lost her mother’s comfort and friendship. After a trip backpacking around Europe, Hadley develops a severe case pneumonia, and since she is unable to teach, Hadley is without a job.
If that’s not enough, her boyfriend, Tucker, (sidenote: I can’t say his name without it dripping with disgust and hatred) is a complete loser. Tucker is more concerned with his appearances, his career, and with himself than his relationship with Hadley. And don’t even get me started on his evil mother. Hadley, you deserve better! Hadley ends up pregnant with his baby, and when she works up the nerve to tell Tucker (ugh), his knee-jerk reaction is to encourage her to get an abortion.
“Tucker was my safe place for three years, my secure dock in a sea of indecision as I dealt with my father’s illness and death. And now I had to sink or swim. It was time to let go and move on. Slowly, I pushed off from the dock that was Tucker Montgomery and prepared to swim…praying I wouldn’t drown.”
Things start looking up for Hadley after she gets a new job at a Sunnydale Association, a center that teaches lifeskills to developmentally disabled adults. What started out as a temporary job because she was too sick to return to teaching, becomes something more. She is a natural with working with her students and becomes fast friends with her co-workers.
Enter Jason Kelly. Hadley has been in love with her Jason Kelly, her best friend, Auden’s, brother since she was a teenager. Little did she know, that Jason’s feelings were reciprocated, but neither of them had a chance to tell each other how they felt. As adults, they get their chance. Their relationship was reminiscent of Harper and he-who-shall-remain-nameless (to avoid any spoilers) in Taking Chances. Jason Kelly is the perfect man. There, I said it. He stepped up to the plate when Tucker (eww) wouldn’t. He supported Hadley through her pregnancy and beyond when the child wasn’t even his. His dedication and devotion to Hadley was remarkable and incredibly touching.
“Thats the most beautiful thing I’ve ever read,” I said.
The red t-shirt simply said, “Once in a while, in the middle of an ordinary life…love gives us a fairy tale.”
“It’s how I feel,” he said, swallowing hard. “I think I”ve been in love with you since I was fifteen years old.”
Sometimes life just happens and things don’t turn out the way you plan. This is something Hadley learned and the end result was more than she could likely have dreamed. If you’re looking for a cute summer read that will make you feel like you’ve been surrounded by a warm hug, this is for you.
_________________________
Find more of my reviews and other bookish things here:
✥ My blog Reading Books Like a Boss
✥ Like on Facebook
✥ Follow on Twitter
June 22, 2013
4.5 stars
Picturing Perfect was without a doubt, my favorite in this collection. I say collection, because you really don't need to read the other books to follow along with this one. Although, I did love seeing Evan and Kate again. Picturing Perfect is the story about friends, who've finally found the right time to be together. They just have a few obstacles to overcome first.
I really liked Hadley. It's obvious that she's pregnant by looking at the cover, so I'm not spoiling anything by saying that I could relate to her as a woman and a mother. She didn't have a perfect pregnancy. She had a few scares along the way.While I didn't have the same issues during my pregnancies, I was high risk, so I could relate to her anxiety about making sure the baby was ok. Then, after her baby was born, I got a bit nostalgic. It made me miss those infant moments for a split second. But, one of the best parts about all of this was the fact that Jason was right there beside her the whole time.
Jason is truly a special guy. Hadley and Jason have loved each other since they were young, but they never dated. Once Jason found out that Hadley was involved with Terrible Tucker, he backed off. Now, the timing is right. Sure, she's carrying another man's child, but his love for her out weighs that fact. I loved the chemistry between them. There was an ease because they've know each other so long, but I could also feel the attraction. And can I just say that Jason was so sweet with the baby. I was on board with Jason immediately, but I just love seeing a guy who loves his child. For all intents and purposes, Jason was Marty's (the baby) father. It's was so sweet.
Just a few little things that I wanted to mention. I am an absolute fanatic about 80's movies. I loved all the 80's movie and music references. I also loved Jason's t-shirt collection. I have a thing for t-shirts myself. Neither one of these things were critical to the book, but it did give insight to the characters for me. It gave me one more thing to relate to them. It also made me laugh.
Overall, I really enjoyed this one. It's romantic, but it's also very realistic. Relatable. Hadley and Jason are such a great couple and they had a good foundation of friendship to build on. It wasn't heavy on drama, but it's a lovely heartfelt romance. I definitely recommend this one.
Quotes:
~She was right, though. Can't Buy Me Love is one of my favorite movies. And I've had a soft spot for Patrick Dempsey ever since he rode Cindy Mancini away on his lawn mower.-Loc 221
~"Is it a total guy move if I think that's pretty awesome?"
"That you were my first kiss? Why?" I smiled, the tension lessening with each laugh that came from his beautiful mouth. He squeezed my hand in his.
"Because I'm planning to be your last."-Loc 2598
~He was mine. And I was his. It'd taken us way too long to get there through all the madness we had both created. But we were there. And I refused to go back to a life without him. It'd all been worth it. All of it.-Loc 2950
Picturing Perfect was without a doubt, my favorite in this collection. I say collection, because you really don't need to read the other books to follow along with this one. Although, I did love seeing Evan and Kate again. Picturing Perfect is the story about friends, who've finally found the right time to be together. They just have a few obstacles to overcome first.
I really liked Hadley. It's obvious that she's pregnant by looking at the cover, so I'm not spoiling anything by saying that I could relate to her as a woman and a mother. She didn't have a perfect pregnancy. She had a few scares along the way.While I didn't have the same issues during my pregnancies, I was high risk, so I could relate to her anxiety about making sure the baby was ok. Then, after her baby was born, I got a bit nostalgic. It made me miss those infant moments for a split second. But, one of the best parts about all of this was the fact that Jason was right there beside her the whole time.
Jason is truly a special guy. Hadley and Jason have loved each other since they were young, but they never dated. Once Jason found out that Hadley was involved with Terrible Tucker, he backed off. Now, the timing is right. Sure, she's carrying another man's child, but his love for her out weighs that fact. I loved the chemistry between them. There was an ease because they've know each other so long, but I could also feel the attraction. And can I just say that Jason was so sweet with the baby. I was on board with Jason immediately, but I just love seeing a guy who loves his child. For all intents and purposes, Jason was Marty's (the baby) father. It's was so sweet.
Just a few little things that I wanted to mention. I am an absolute fanatic about 80's movies. I loved all the 80's movie and music references. I also loved Jason's t-shirt collection. I have a thing for t-shirts myself. Neither one of these things were critical to the book, but it did give insight to the characters for me. It gave me one more thing to relate to them. It also made me laugh.
Overall, I really enjoyed this one. It's romantic, but it's also very realistic. Relatable. Hadley and Jason are such a great couple and they had a good foundation of friendship to build on. It wasn't heavy on drama, but it's a lovely heartfelt romance. I definitely recommend this one.
Quotes:
~She was right, though. Can't Buy Me Love is one of my favorite movies. And I've had a soft spot for Patrick Dempsey ever since he rode Cindy Mancini away on his lawn mower.-Loc 221
~"Is it a total guy move if I think that's pretty awesome?"
"That you were my first kiss? Why?" I smiled, the tension lessening with each laugh that came from his beautiful mouth. He squeezed my hand in his.
"Because I'm planning to be your last."-Loc 2598
~He was mine. And I was his. It'd taken us way too long to get there through all the madness we had both created. But we were there. And I refused to go back to a life without him. It'd all been worth it. All of it.-Loc 2950
June 11, 2013
<3 I am in LOVE! FAVE BOOK of 2013!!! <3
So this is the third book by the wonderfully talented Author, Melissa Brown. And readers, it is HER BEST BOOK TO DATE! I have read Bouquet Toss, and loved it. I have yet to read Champagne Toast, I know I suck at life, so please don't stone me. But I can redeem myself by saying Picturing Perfect is a story near and dear to my heart, that I love. And it is a story, you my reader friend, do not want to pass up...Pinky promise!
From the minute I started this book, I knew Hadley and I would be best friends. I knew I was in love with her, and knew that I couldn't wait to see how this book was going to pan out. Hadley is rich in character and very carefree. To me she is a gem that will forever be ingrained in my heart. I can relate with all things Hadley. She hasn't had an easy path to walk down in certain aspects of her life. And now life has taken a turn for the unexpected. I walked a mile in Hadley's shoes while reading this book. I know exactly what she is feeling. Fear, uncertainty, betrayal, pain, and heartache. And now we are left to see if she can overcome the obstacle of the unknown. Will someone be there to help pick her up when she is down??
So I know you've probably already met the wonderfully handsome, geeky Mr. Jason Kelly....but I hadn't and I was immediately in Jason Kelly Heaven. He is a man after my own heart. In fact, he reminds me a lot of my Hubster. Their characteristics are quite similar. Jason melts me. Just totally turns me into a pile of goo...and I say that a lot about male characters, but Jason Kelly is a different story for me. He is funny, sweet, charming, and down right SWOONALICIOUS! He is his own brand of yummy! He just has this way with him about everything. He is the quiet hero...really honestly he is. He could not be anymore perfect to me.
Hadley is besties with Jason's sister. So they have a back-story. A sweet one at that, but I won't dive into that sea of lovely, I will let you experience that yourself. So Jason and Hadley, in my eyes, are soul mates. They may not be together, but they share a great deal of looks, touches, and a bit of flirting. If circumstances had been different I think that Hadley and Jason would have been an item from the get. But that didn't happen, so now Hadley is left to deal with some heavy issues....so now all Hadley really needs is someone to fall back on, and I like to think Jason is the man to do the job. Ok he is the man to do the job. So now we are left wondering what will happen for these two who have had some crazy curveballs thrown at them. Can this help bring them together in a way they never have been before? Or will this just the brother/sister type relationship, you'd expect from a besties family member?
Oh Melissa,I just love you to pieces. I love this book, and I LOVE Hadley and Jason. If I didn't mention this before, I am going to again, Hadley and Jason will forever hold a special place in my heart. Picturing Perfect is a story of new beginnings, love, loss, and finding out the true meaning of life. I went through a wave of emotions while reading this book. I was laughing, crying, cringing, crying some more, and crying even more. I didn't expect this book to hit so close to home for me, but it did and it was beautiful. If you have not read any of Author Melissa Brown's other novels, please do yourself a favor a do so right now. You do not know what you are missing. Also, BUY this book....like right this second. P.S. Buy stock in tissues, because you will need them.
So this is the third book by the wonderfully talented Author, Melissa Brown. And readers, it is HER BEST BOOK TO DATE! I have read Bouquet Toss, and loved it. I have yet to read Champagne Toast, I know I suck at life, so please don't stone me. But I can redeem myself by saying Picturing Perfect is a story near and dear to my heart, that I love. And it is a story, you my reader friend, do not want to pass up...Pinky promise!
From the minute I started this book, I knew Hadley and I would be best friends. I knew I was in love with her, and knew that I couldn't wait to see how this book was going to pan out. Hadley is rich in character and very carefree. To me she is a gem that will forever be ingrained in my heart. I can relate with all things Hadley. She hasn't had an easy path to walk down in certain aspects of her life. And now life has taken a turn for the unexpected. I walked a mile in Hadley's shoes while reading this book. I know exactly what she is feeling. Fear, uncertainty, betrayal, pain, and heartache. And now we are left to see if she can overcome the obstacle of the unknown. Will someone be there to help pick her up when she is down??
So I know you've probably already met the wonderfully handsome, geeky Mr. Jason Kelly....but I hadn't and I was immediately in Jason Kelly Heaven. He is a man after my own heart. In fact, he reminds me a lot of my Hubster. Their characteristics are quite similar. Jason melts me. Just totally turns me into a pile of goo...and I say that a lot about male characters, but Jason Kelly is a different story for me. He is funny, sweet, charming, and down right SWOONALICIOUS! He is his own brand of yummy! He just has this way with him about everything. He is the quiet hero...really honestly he is. He could not be anymore perfect to me.
Hadley is besties with Jason's sister. So they have a back-story. A sweet one at that, but I won't dive into that sea of lovely, I will let you experience that yourself. So Jason and Hadley, in my eyes, are soul mates. They may not be together, but they share a great deal of looks, touches, and a bit of flirting. If circumstances had been different I think that Hadley and Jason would have been an item from the get. But that didn't happen, so now Hadley is left to deal with some heavy issues....so now all Hadley really needs is someone to fall back on, and I like to think Jason is the man to do the job. Ok he is the man to do the job. So now we are left wondering what will happen for these two who have had some crazy curveballs thrown at them. Can this help bring them together in a way they never have been before? Or will this just the brother/sister type relationship, you'd expect from a besties family member?
Oh Melissa,I just love you to pieces. I love this book, and I LOVE Hadley and Jason. If I didn't mention this before, I am going to again, Hadley and Jason will forever hold a special place in my heart. Picturing Perfect is a story of new beginnings, love, loss, and finding out the true meaning of life. I went through a wave of emotions while reading this book. I was laughing, crying, cringing, crying some more, and crying even more. I didn't expect this book to hit so close to home for me, but it did and it was beautiful. If you have not read any of Author Melissa Brown's other novels, please do yourself a favor a do so right now. You do not know what you are missing. Also, BUY this book....like right this second. P.S. Buy stock in tissues, because you will need them.
June 25, 2013
I thought this cover was very pretty… and like a moth to a flame I was drawn to it. She looks so sad, yet beautiful.
So as a “One Click Addict” I bought it, cos it’s so freaking easy too! .
I had no idea that the Hero Jason was Jason from “Champagne Toast”
In saying that. It didn’t matter. This is a stand alone, Evan and Kate from Champagne Toast do make an appearance, but you don’t have to have read their book. (Personally I really liked Champagne Toast, so should read that too if you get the chance. )
What do you do when your perfectly planned life doesn’t go the way you planned it too?
Her Mum and Dad were supposed to be around forever
Her Boyfriend Tucker, is supposed to become a big investment banker, she would be a teacher.
They would get engaged, get married have children.
That doesn’t happen.
Her Father gets sick and passes away from Cancer, Tucker is her rock during this time.
Her Mother then decided to “check out” of life once he goes.
Tucker becomes the investment banker.
She gets Pneumonia and has to give up her job at a high school, but begins working with Disability Clients in a great centre.
She falls pregnant.
Tucker doesn’t propose. He breaks up with her.
The love of her life Jason is back in the scene and declares he wants her and doesn’t care how he gets her.
See far from perfect?
This story is told in joint POV’s between Hadley and Jason.
It has flashbacks from the past as well as the now.
It’s beautifully written to the point of being sickly sweet at times.
It has it’s ups and it’s downs, twists and turns.
Break ups and make ups
I liked that the main focus was on the friendship turned relationship with Hadley and Jason as they don’t even kiss until she has had the baby.
Oh and Jason’s awesome T-Shirts!
But all in all we get a wonderfully sappy HEA.
So as a “One Click Addict” I bought it, cos it’s so freaking easy too! .
I had no idea that the Hero Jason was Jason from “Champagne Toast”
In saying that. It didn’t matter. This is a stand alone, Evan and Kate from Champagne Toast do make an appearance, but you don’t have to have read their book. (Personally I really liked Champagne Toast, so should read that too if you get the chance. )
What do you do when your perfectly planned life doesn’t go the way you planned it too?
Her Mum and Dad were supposed to be around forever
Her Boyfriend Tucker, is supposed to become a big investment banker, she would be a teacher.
They would get engaged, get married have children.
That doesn’t happen.
Her Father gets sick and passes away from Cancer, Tucker is her rock during this time.
Her Mother then decided to “check out” of life once he goes.
Tucker becomes the investment banker.
She gets Pneumonia and has to give up her job at a high school, but begins working with Disability Clients in a great centre.
She falls pregnant.
Tucker doesn’t propose. He breaks up with her.
The love of her life Jason is back in the scene and declares he wants her and doesn’t care how he gets her.
See far from perfect?
This story is told in joint POV’s between Hadley and Jason.
It has flashbacks from the past as well as the now.
It’s beautifully written to the point of being sickly sweet at times.
It has it’s ups and it’s downs, twists and turns.
Break ups and make ups
I liked that the main focus was on the friendship turned relationship with Hadley and Jason as they don’t even kiss until she has had the baby.
Oh and Jason’s awesome T-Shirts!
But all in all we get a wonderfully sappy HEA.
January 12, 2019
Very sweet story.
And Jason was perfection personified. For real. (dreamy sigh) I rate this book overall as 3 stars but he deserves at least 1,000 stars. Hell, he deserves *all* the stars. All of them!
And Jason was perfection personified. For real. (dreamy sigh) I rate this book overall as 3 stars but he deserves at least 1,000 stars. Hell, he deserves *all* the stars. All of them!
Read
September 18, 2021DNF 67%
June 22, 2013
Hadley had her life planned out. She went off to college and started working on her teaching degree. She had the perfect life. The perfect friend, the perfect boyfriend and life was exactly what she thought it was supposed to be. But things got complicated fast.
Hadley and her long time boyfriend Tucker are drifting apart. When he asks her to go with him to a B&B for New years, Hadley hopes that they can rekindle their flame. Unfortunately, all she discovers is that he has not changed. That one night leads to consequences that will last a lifetime.
Tucker is a young investment banker. He comes from "old money". Tucker is a preppy guy who wants the perfect life. His family does not really approve of Hadley. He is not ready to be a father and when Hadley comes to him and says she is pregnant, things do not go well. Secrets are revealed, and Hadley discovers that Tucker may not have been all that he once seemed.
Growing up, Hadley and Auden were best friends. Hadley always had a thing for Auden's older brother Jason. They had many interactions but Hadley knew it could never be. Jason grew up and became a best selling author. A chance meeting with Hadley rekindles the attraction but the timing could not be worse.
"The right guy gets the girl remember? I'm going to show you who that guy is."-Jason
Jason proves his feelings to Hadley and stays by her side throughout her pregnancy. He is there for her even when she is sure he shouldn't be. Jason is a down to earth good guy. He is thoughtful, romantic, and a bit quirky. Jason and Hadley both have a thing for 80's music and movies.
Along comes baby Marty and Jason falls in love. He didn't plan to be a Dad, but sometimes life gives us what we need and not what we want. The problem is, he is not Marty's father, and he and Hadley are not really together.
Hadley and her long time boyfriend Tucker are drifting apart. When he asks her to go with him to a B&B for New years, Hadley hopes that they can rekindle their flame. Unfortunately, all she discovers is that he has not changed. That one night leads to consequences that will last a lifetime.
Tucker is a young investment banker. He comes from "old money". Tucker is a preppy guy who wants the perfect life. His family does not really approve of Hadley. He is not ready to be a father and when Hadley comes to him and says she is pregnant, things do not go well. Secrets are revealed, and Hadley discovers that Tucker may not have been all that he once seemed.
Growing up, Hadley and Auden were best friends. Hadley always had a thing for Auden's older brother Jason. They had many interactions but Hadley knew it could never be. Jason grew up and became a best selling author. A chance meeting with Hadley rekindles the attraction but the timing could not be worse.
"The right guy gets the girl remember? I'm going to show you who that guy is."-Jason
Jason proves his feelings to Hadley and stays by her side throughout her pregnancy. He is there for her even when she is sure he shouldn't be. Jason is a down to earth good guy. He is thoughtful, romantic, and a bit quirky. Jason and Hadley both have a thing for 80's music and movies.
Along comes baby Marty and Jason falls in love. He didn't plan to be a Dad, but sometimes life gives us what we need and not what we want. The problem is, he is not Marty's father, and he and Hadley are not really together.
Hadley wants Jason in her life but they have so much history and she is afraid. Life has thrown her a curve ball and she has no idea what to do.
This book was so sweet! I absolutely adored Jason. He is the epitome of the perfect guy. He could have been plucked from a John Hughes movie. This was slightly out of my genre. It was quite tame. I tend to read more erotic romance but this one was well worth the read. It was adorable and I could relate to the characters. There was enough to keep me interested and wondering what was going to happen next.
I would recommend this to anyone looking for a sweet contemporary romance with a mild steam factor and a major sweet factor.
4 Super Sweet Stars
June 17, 2013
So you are home and flipping through the cable guide and you happen upon that one movie…the one movie that watch over and over again. You can start it at 5 or 50 minutes in and you will still watch it. You know it by heart. Heck you even own it but you decide at that moment you need to watch it again commercials be damned! When I read a Melissa Brown book I get that feeling! Hopping on for a lawnmower ride into the sunset, testing the neighbors’ noise tolerance with a boom box placed above your head or kissing “the guy” over your one and only birthday cake rates right there with finishing a Melissa Brown books! In Picturing Perfect, book three of the Love of My Life series, I am hearing the strings while walking into that school dance in hope of getting the guy and I am ready to pick the book back up at page 1 or even page 101!
Score one for the nerdy boys with Picturing Perfect. We got a taste of Jason in Champagne Toast and I am guessing after that you never looked at a graphic t-shirt the same way again because I know I don’t. Even though Jason had sights on Kate in Champagne Toast his heart was taken a very long time ago by none other than his baby sister’s best bud Hadley. As always time is no one’s friend and each of them have found paths to follow that lacked what they needed most, each other. When life throws them back together they are forced to deal with the issues of the past and what the future may bring. Both Hadley and Jason have created a life without each other based on miss understands and once the truth is laid out will they both be able to see what was in front of them all along?
Ok I LOVED THIS BOOK!!!! Oh wait…did I say I loved it…no I live for this book! I so fell for Jason in Champagne Toast because he is so the guy I want! Sweet, yummy, kind, and just an all-around good person. There are parts in this book that I awww’ed out loud and said to myself why can’t real guys be like book boyfriends! SO NOT FAIR!!! Thank you Melissa Brown for creating these men! Let’s not forget about the girls! Hadley is just perfect! I so related to her! She was strong and although life may not have been perfect she pulled herself up and did what was best for her. With Hadley and Jason Melissa has created two characters that not only have you cheering their every move but characters you want to call your best friend. This is a beautiful modern love story that proves love doesn’t have to be perfect to be real. Some call Melissa Brown the Queen of Romance but it is so much more than that. After reading Picturing Perfect I found that she not only gives us love but she gives us hope. Hope for change and finding what makes you happy. Creating stories that you want to read over and over again! I am so looking forward to book four in the Love of My Life Series that I maybe stalking her till I get it and after you read Picturing Perfect you may be doing the same!!
Score one for the nerdy boys with Picturing Perfect. We got a taste of Jason in Champagne Toast and I am guessing after that you never looked at a graphic t-shirt the same way again because I know I don’t. Even though Jason had sights on Kate in Champagne Toast his heart was taken a very long time ago by none other than his baby sister’s best bud Hadley. As always time is no one’s friend and each of them have found paths to follow that lacked what they needed most, each other. When life throws them back together they are forced to deal with the issues of the past and what the future may bring. Both Hadley and Jason have created a life without each other based on miss understands and once the truth is laid out will they both be able to see what was in front of them all along?
Ok I LOVED THIS BOOK!!!! Oh wait…did I say I loved it…no I live for this book! I so fell for Jason in Champagne Toast because he is so the guy I want! Sweet, yummy, kind, and just an all-around good person. There are parts in this book that I awww’ed out loud and said to myself why can’t real guys be like book boyfriends! SO NOT FAIR!!! Thank you Melissa Brown for creating these men! Let’s not forget about the girls! Hadley is just perfect! I so related to her! She was strong and although life may not have been perfect she pulled herself up and did what was best for her. With Hadley and Jason Melissa has created two characters that not only have you cheering their every move but characters you want to call your best friend. This is a beautiful modern love story that proves love doesn’t have to be perfect to be real. Some call Melissa Brown the Queen of Romance but it is so much more than that. After reading Picturing Perfect I found that she not only gives us love but she gives us hope. Hope for change and finding what makes you happy. Creating stories that you want to read over and over again! I am so looking forward to book four in the Love of My Life Series that I maybe stalking her till I get it and after you read Picturing Perfect you may be doing the same!!
July 3, 2013
If you are looking for a feel good read Picturing Perfect by Melissa Brown is exactly what you are looking for! This amazing heartwarming read will keep you turning the pages as it certainly did for me! Picturing Perfect is my favourite Melissa Brown book yet!!!!! It's been a while since I came home from work and started a book and had it finished by the time I went to bed (of course bed time was around 2:30am! But then you all know what I'm talking about). My heart was completely committed to Picturing Perfect from the moment I started it, beautiful characters and beautiful story.
Melissa Brown knows how to create fabulous characters that touch your heart and Picturing Perfect was no exception. Hadley's relationship with Tucker is at a crossroads when something life altering happens. Jason has always had feelings for Hadley but he knows she's in a relationship. When the opportunity finally presents itself will Jason finally man-up or will it be too late?? Hadley is a beautiful, loveable character although I wanted to kick her in the ass for staying with an asshat like Tucker! Hadley has a big heart and always puts the needs of others above her own. A really lovely character I won't soon forget. Tucker is Hadley's boyfriend, he is a selfish ass who I wish would have been hit by a Mac truck, but then that's just me ;-) Loved how Melissa Brown has created someone I could despise so strongly… Ok I really wanted to take his manhood away! Auden is Hadley's best friend, and I loved how devoted of a friend she is to Hadley. Finally there is Jason… Mmmmmm! He.Is.Dreamy!!!! I love how gentle natured he is without being weak. He's warm, funny and will do anything for those he cares about. Also, Jason isn't big buff and tattooed which is kind of refreshing since it seems lately every Book Boyfriend is massive and covered in tatts. I promise ladies Jason will melt your heart!
I enjoyed the storyline in Picturing Perfect especially Hadley's job and the people she worked with! Kudos to Ms. Brown for writing this into the storyline and doing so beautifully! I also enjoyed the movie and music references that were incorporated into the story, AWESOME! Now I need to find me some of those awesome t-shirts :-) There is some angst in the story but nothing that will leave you feeling drained and destroyed. Picturing Perfect is one of those stories that will have you feeling a little edgy but in the end will leave your heart feeling so full that you will want to read it over and over again.
Melissa Brown knows how to create fabulous characters that touch your heart and Picturing Perfect was no exception. Hadley's relationship with Tucker is at a crossroads when something life altering happens. Jason has always had feelings for Hadley but he knows she's in a relationship. When the opportunity finally presents itself will Jason finally man-up or will it be too late?? Hadley is a beautiful, loveable character although I wanted to kick her in the ass for staying with an asshat like Tucker! Hadley has a big heart and always puts the needs of others above her own. A really lovely character I won't soon forget. Tucker is Hadley's boyfriend, he is a selfish ass who I wish would have been hit by a Mac truck, but then that's just me ;-) Loved how Melissa Brown has created someone I could despise so strongly… Ok I really wanted to take his manhood away! Auden is Hadley's best friend, and I loved how devoted of a friend she is to Hadley. Finally there is Jason… Mmmmmm! He.Is.Dreamy!!!! I love how gentle natured he is without being weak. He's warm, funny and will do anything for those he cares about. Also, Jason isn't big buff and tattooed which is kind of refreshing since it seems lately every Book Boyfriend is massive and covered in tatts. I promise ladies Jason will melt your heart!
I enjoyed the storyline in Picturing Perfect especially Hadley's job and the people she worked with! Kudos to Ms. Brown for writing this into the storyline and doing so beautifully! I also enjoyed the movie and music references that were incorporated into the story, AWESOME! Now I need to find me some of those awesome t-shirts :-) There is some angst in the story but nothing that will leave you feeling drained and destroyed. Picturing Perfect is one of those stories that will have you feeling a little edgy but in the end will leave your heart feeling so full that you will want to read it over and over again.
July 30, 2013
My Tucker, Hayden and Jason:
Hayden had her whole life perfectly planned out. Marriage with her boyfriend Tucker, teaching carrier and later children. However, fate has different plans for her. Firstly, health problems get into the way of her carrier. Secondly her first crush from teenage years, Jason, comes back to her life. And together with unexpected pregnancy, things are really going to change for Hadley...
I had one major problem with this book - I did not feel it. Don't take me wrong, Picturing Perfect is nicely written story but it just didn't work for me. Guess I have been reading too much contemporary romance lately and I could not find anything exciting in this story. Drama was almost non existent as well as angst and story wasn't holding my attention. Fortunatelly, there was no intense love triangle so I was still able to enjoy reading it.
I didn't like Hayden and Tucker together, they seemed to be forced, their relationship lacked passion. They were simply boring. Moreover, I really could not like Tucker. On contrary, Jason seemed too bood to be true. I mean, do the guys like him really exist? So patient, loving and unselfish. But who deserve Hadley and her love the most?
*Copy provided by author as an exchange for honest review*
MORE REVIEWS ON MY BLOG Reading Is My Breathing
Hayden had her whole life perfectly planned out. Marriage with her boyfriend Tucker, teaching carrier and later children. However, fate has different plans for her. Firstly, health problems get into the way of her carrier. Secondly her first crush from teenage years, Jason, comes back to her life. And together with unexpected pregnancy, things are really going to change for Hadley...
I had one major problem with this book - I did not feel it. Don't take me wrong, Picturing Perfect is nicely written story but it just didn't work for me. Guess I have been reading too much contemporary romance lately and I could not find anything exciting in this story. Drama was almost non existent as well as angst and story wasn't holding my attention. Fortunatelly, there was no intense love triangle so I was still able to enjoy reading it.
I didn't like Hayden and Tucker together, they seemed to be forced, their relationship lacked passion. They were simply boring. Moreover, I really could not like Tucker. On contrary, Jason seemed too bood to be true. I mean, do the guys like him really exist? So patient, loving and unselfish. But who deserve Hadley and her love the most?
*Copy provided by author as an exchange for honest review*
MORE REVIEWS ON MY BLOG Reading Is My Breathing
June 14, 2013
Review originally posted on Talk Supe
4.5 Stars!
"The right guy gets the girl remember? I'm going to show you who that guy is."
I have learned a few things from reading Melissa Brown books. One: Melissa Brown writes some pretty swoon worthy heroes. Two: my love for 80s music and romantic comedies will never die. Three: I want to have a love story just as wonderful as one of Brown’s books.
Hadley Foster’s life has seamlessly been happy and “perfect” for the first eighteen years of her life. Things start to crumble during her first semester in college when she loses one important person in her life and desperately holds on to another who is slowly disappearing in front of her. She’s been with her boyfriend, Tucker, since high school but after six years of dating the love between them slowly starts waning. Just when Hadley is starting a new job that she has come to love over a short period of time she’s reunited with her childhood crush, Jason Kelly, and is hit with something unexpected that changes the plans she had envisioned for herself.
"I know ours is not the typical boy-meets-girl story. But, I love you. And I have for most of my life."
Jason “T-Shirt Guy” Kelly is not your typical romance hero. Of course he’s sweet, funny, and downright irresistible but it’s his ordinary-ness that makes him so charming. Jason is just the type of guy you want to meet and have in your real life. We first met Jason in Champagne Toast, and since our first meeting I instantly fell in love with his character. Jason is an Indie author who has a penchant for wearing quirky and funny t-shirts; hence his nickname. There’s just something about his easy and laid back attitude and realness that makes you gravitate towards him and he gives you a sense of peace and contentedness that I haven’t felt with many male protagonists.
Like Jason, Hadley is a true and genuine person from the very beginning. She’s young with a real hunger to start off the life she’s been planning for herself. She faces some difficult circumstances and decisions that make you stop for a second and ask, “What would you do if you were her?” For a twenty-two year old, I thought Hadley handled herself perfectly and I stood by the decisions she'd made. I also loved that she is a real fan of 80s music and romantic comedies. I could totally see myself spending a weekend with her watching John Hughes movies and listening to 80s pop music.
Jason was already a good guy to begin with but when you see his strength and determination when he steps up to a role he hadn’t imagined happening really makes you think of him as a real hero. Ugh! I cannot even tell you how freaking awesome I thought he was in Picturing Perfect. Hadley and Jason's story isn't your typical girl-meets-boy. They each had a past. A history they shared and a future that's based on love, friendship, and absolute trust. I just loved seeing Hadley and Jason’s romance blossom from a secret childhood crush to one that is so pure and sweet.
"That was my first kiss…like ever."
"That was your first kiss?"
"You couldn't tell?" My eyes widened in utter surprise.
"You seemed nervous, yeah. But, I had no idea," he said with a laugh. "Is it a total guy move if I think that's pretty awesome?"
"That you were my first kiss? Why?" I smile, the tension lessening with each laugh that came from his beautiful mouth. He squeezed my hand in his.
"Because I'm planning to be your last."
What I really have come to love about Melissa Brown’s books is that she writes about normal people who have incredible love stories that transcends through time. Brown’s writing will have you laughing, crying, swooning, and craving for a sweet romance like Hadley and Jason’s story. If you are a fan of contemporary romance or simply a hopeless romantic, then you most definitely will want to read Picturing Perfect and the rest of Brown’s Love of My Life series.
** ARC provided by author for an honest review
4.5 Stars!
"The right guy gets the girl remember? I'm going to show you who that guy is."
I have learned a few things from reading Melissa Brown books. One: Melissa Brown writes some pretty swoon worthy heroes. Two: my love for 80s music and romantic comedies will never die. Three: I want to have a love story just as wonderful as one of Brown’s books.
Hadley Foster’s life has seamlessly been happy and “perfect” for the first eighteen years of her life. Things start to crumble during her first semester in college when she loses one important person in her life and desperately holds on to another who is slowly disappearing in front of her. She’s been with her boyfriend, Tucker, since high school but after six years of dating the love between them slowly starts waning. Just when Hadley is starting a new job that she has come to love over a short period of time she’s reunited with her childhood crush, Jason Kelly, and is hit with something unexpected that changes the plans she had envisioned for herself.
"I know ours is not the typical boy-meets-girl story. But, I love you. And I have for most of my life."
Jason “T-Shirt Guy” Kelly is not your typical romance hero. Of course he’s sweet, funny, and downright irresistible but it’s his ordinary-ness that makes him so charming. Jason is just the type of guy you want to meet and have in your real life. We first met Jason in Champagne Toast, and since our first meeting I instantly fell in love with his character. Jason is an Indie author who has a penchant for wearing quirky and funny t-shirts; hence his nickname. There’s just something about his easy and laid back attitude and realness that makes you gravitate towards him and he gives you a sense of peace and contentedness that I haven’t felt with many male protagonists.
Like Jason, Hadley is a true and genuine person from the very beginning. She’s young with a real hunger to start off the life she’s been planning for herself. She faces some difficult circumstances and decisions that make you stop for a second and ask, “What would you do if you were her?” For a twenty-two year old, I thought Hadley handled herself perfectly and I stood by the decisions she'd made. I also loved that she is a real fan of 80s music and romantic comedies. I could totally see myself spending a weekend with her watching John Hughes movies and listening to 80s pop music.
Jason was already a good guy to begin with but when you see his strength and determination when he steps up to a role he hadn’t imagined happening really makes you think of him as a real hero. Ugh! I cannot even tell you how freaking awesome I thought he was in Picturing Perfect. Hadley and Jason's story isn't your typical girl-meets-boy. They each had a past. A history they shared and a future that's based on love, friendship, and absolute trust. I just loved seeing Hadley and Jason’s romance blossom from a secret childhood crush to one that is so pure and sweet.
"That was my first kiss…like ever."
"That was your first kiss?"
"You couldn't tell?" My eyes widened in utter surprise.
"You seemed nervous, yeah. But, I had no idea," he said with a laugh. "Is it a total guy move if I think that's pretty awesome?"
"That you were my first kiss? Why?" I smile, the tension lessening with each laugh that came from his beautiful mouth. He squeezed my hand in his.
"Because I'm planning to be your last."
What I really have come to love about Melissa Brown’s books is that she writes about normal people who have incredible love stories that transcends through time. Brown’s writing will have you laughing, crying, swooning, and craving for a sweet romance like Hadley and Jason’s story. If you are a fan of contemporary romance or simply a hopeless romantic, then you most definitely will want to read Picturing Perfect and the rest of Brown’s Love of My Life series.
** ARC provided by author for an honest review
October 7, 2014
this is sweet vanilla romance at its best.Melissa Brown has the great ability to give u a feel good story with male characters who honestly are too good to be true. Her men are patient, supportive, sweet, and just down right good...perfect princes in a fairy tale, lol! I loved Champagne Toast so I was really looking forward to this. Although I liked it, it didn't keep me up at night.
This is the story of Jason, the quirky writer who befriends Kate in Champagne Toast. He has had feelings for his sister's BFF Hadley forever. Hadley obviously feels the same, but life events and lots of miscommunication have kept them apart until a chance meeting at a coffee shop. Hadley is in a bit of a predicament, but Jason plans on waiting her out and winning her over! Together they are very sweet. There is very little drama to make you edgy, but there is one douchy ex who will make any woman's skin crawl
Overall, this was a sweet romance story with mild heat Congrats Melissa Brown on another good read in this series. Maybe I need to cleanse my system from all those bad alphas I have been engaged with for awhile to better appreciate this, lol!
This is the story of Jason, the quirky writer who befriends Kate in Champagne Toast. He has had feelings for his sister's BFF Hadley forever. Hadley obviously feels the same, but life events and lots of miscommunication have kept them apart until a chance meeting at a coffee shop. Hadley is in a bit of a predicament, but Jason plans on waiting her out and winning her over! Together they are very sweet. There is very little drama to make you edgy, but there is one douchy ex who will make any woman's skin crawl
Overall, this was a sweet romance story with mild heat Congrats Melissa Brown on another good read in this series. Maybe I need to cleanse my system from all those bad alphas I have been engaged with for awhile to better appreciate this, lol!
June 2, 2013
I have read both of Melissa's other books and as much as I love them this one is definitely my favorite! I planned on only reading a few chapters today but I ended up reading the whole book. I could not put it down :). I just loved Haddie and Jason. They were so cute together and all the things they did for each other, especially when they were young, was adorable. Usually I don't care for a lot of flashbacks in books but I loved these ones. I would say more but I don't want to give too much away. And Jason...talk about major swoon. The fact he's a dork makes him just that much more swoon worthy haha. Loved this book. I recommend you all get it when it comes out :).
March 31, 2014
The characters were endearing, the plot was insightful and the narrative voice was consistent. A chick lit book wrapped up in an ethical look at a woman's ability to choose, Picturing Perfect was a quick read with a deep thought: When it comes to motherhood, what is more important, the state of the child's life or the state of the mother's life after birth?
Slightly unrealistic and cheesy at times, Picturing Perfect could have had a bit more depth as far as Hadley's best friend, Auden. I never quite understood why she was so sad, but my love of Jason kept me going. I wanted a happy ending, and Melissa Brown delivered it. Thanks for curing my tragic Divergent series hangover.
Slightly unrealistic and cheesy at times, Picturing Perfect could have had a bit more depth as far as Hadley's best friend, Auden. I never quite understood why she was so sad, but my love of Jason kept me going. I wanted a happy ending, and Melissa Brown delivered it. Thanks for curing my tragic Divergent series hangover.
June 18, 2013
Rating: 3.5
If you're looking for a sweet chick-lit then this one is for you. No surprises in this book--the storyline was orginal--but it was sweet nonetheless. Written with dual POVs and flashbacks, the story is about Jason & Hadley holding a torch for one another since they were kids, but never had the balls to act on their feelings. Time went by and they lost contact until a circumstance brought them back together.
BTW, I <3 the geeky statements on his t-shirts (especially the one that says "Six out of Seven Dwarves are not Happy?"). I want one! ;-P
If you're looking for a sweet chick-lit then this one is for you. No surprises in this book--the storyline was orginal--but it was sweet nonetheless. Written with dual POVs and flashbacks, the story is about Jason & Hadley holding a torch for one another since they were kids, but never had the balls to act on their feelings. Time went by and they lost contact until a circumstance brought them back together.
BTW, I <3 the geeky statements on his t-shirts (especially the one that says "Six out of Seven Dwarves are not Happy?"). I want one! ;-P
June 18, 2013
4 Stars!!
Beautiful, wonderful, heart warming story of young love and how it's never too late for second chances. Love, love, love Jason Kelly and all his shirts with funny sayings (he first made his appearance in "Champagne Toast").
Beautiful, wonderful, heart warming story of young love and how it's never too late for second chances. Love, love, love Jason Kelly and all his shirts with funny sayings (he first made his appearance in "Champagne Toast").
April 21, 2013
Melissa really knows her craft. A romantic tale that stirs the soul makes for one great novel. Turning pages comes easily when you fall in love with her characters. having had the privilege of reading this novel early, I highly recommended it to any of you who love a good romance.
May 30, 2013
Loved this book!!! Jason is as good as it gets - the absolute perfect hero! Definitely swoon worthy for all the things he says and does just right. A sweet story about a love that was just MEANT TO BE!
June 13, 2013
Super cute read. I love Jason.
June 17, 2013
***3.75 Stars****
May 6, 2019
2.5 stars rounded up. Available to read and listen via Kindle Unlimited. I chose to listen to the audio and I felt like the narrators were pretty good. Cute, "feel good" romance all in all. This book can definitely stand alone in fact I could not tell in any way that this was a series. I never even caught any hints that there was a story or even 2 ahead of this one which is pretty awesome since I think I'm pretty good at picking up on those usually.
I had a couple issues that kept me from really loving this. First off the story itself was a really simple 2nd chance romance with a really interesting little twist that I think might have worked a little better, for me, if the lay out had been a little different maybe? Throughout the story presently taking place we get intermittent flashbacks over and over of the times the FMC and MMC spent together that made them like each other to begin with. The little flashbacks were cute really but I think that I would have liked it better if maybe we had gotten all those episodes out of the way before starting in the "present." If that makes sense. The flashbacks the way they happened just kind of threw me all out of the "now" of things and were a little distracting. By the time we FINALLY get to a date between our FMC and MMC the last thing I was wanting to read about were some flashbacks from the early teens.. Now to explain that FINALLY there. We had a really slow moving plot with a kind of wishy washy female that kept throwing us back to square one right about the time we were getting to a finish line.. At one point I thought we were about to get our HEA only to realize I was only 70% into the book. I immediately thought, Uuuugggghhhhh.
I was not the biggest fan of the FMC, Hadley, mostly because she seemed way to naive and kind of immature, not in the annoying immature way, more so like the like literally not mature enough way. She gave me early teen vibes even before the flashbacks started. I felt like she was well rounded though showing a wide variety of emotions and reactions however her go to of course seemed to be the back and forth indecision state. I really would have liked to see mother hood bring out the woman in her and though I felt she had her priorities straight in a really weird and unfortunate situation the back and forth was like OMG come on already. Our MMC, Jason, on the other hand was perfection on the freaking page. Too good if you ask me. That boy needed some flaws or else all the women will be getting the high expectations. I loved him really. Sweet, sentimental, responsible, hard working, loves to take care of his woman even with no appreciation... I could go on and on. Yea he was amazing.
All in all a decent read that may have taken just little to long to really get to the end.
I had a couple issues that kept me from really loving this. First off the story itself was a really simple 2nd chance romance with a really interesting little twist that I think might have worked a little better, for me, if the lay out had been a little different maybe? Throughout the story presently taking place we get intermittent flashbacks over and over of the times the FMC and MMC spent together that made them like each other to begin with. The little flashbacks were cute really but I think that I would have liked it better if maybe we had gotten all those episodes out of the way before starting in the "present." If that makes sense. The flashbacks the way they happened just kind of threw me all out of the "now" of things and were a little distracting. By the time we FINALLY get to a date between our FMC and MMC the last thing I was wanting to read about were some flashbacks from the early teens.. Now to explain that FINALLY there. We had a really slow moving plot with a kind of wishy washy female that kept throwing us back to square one right about the time we were getting to a finish line.. At one point I thought we were about to get our HEA only to realize I was only 70% into the book. I immediately thought, Uuuugggghhhhh.
I was not the biggest fan of the FMC, Hadley, mostly because she seemed way to naive and kind of immature, not in the annoying immature way, more so like the like literally not mature enough way. She gave me early teen vibes even before the flashbacks started. I felt like she was well rounded though showing a wide variety of emotions and reactions however her go to of course seemed to be the back and forth indecision state. I really would have liked to see mother hood bring out the woman in her and though I felt she had her priorities straight in a really weird and unfortunate situation the back and forth was like OMG come on already. Our MMC, Jason, on the other hand was perfection on the freaking page. Too good if you ask me. That boy needed some flaws or else all the women will be getting the high expectations. I loved him really. Sweet, sentimental, responsible, hard working, loves to take care of his woman even with no appreciation... I could go on and on. Yea he was amazing.
All in all a decent read that may have taken just little to long to really get to the end.
March 17, 2018
This book was exactly the heartwarming, friends-to-lovers read I needed. I’d been missing this series for years and I’m glad I picked it back up. Life takes us on unexpected adventures and Hadley’s journey shows that her supports mean everything to her. Not everyone has a healthy support system, but she most definitely has a great team. I love how Melissa incorporated Hadley’s job into the storyline. It provided you with a broader view of her character and her nurturing side. I enjoyed this read albeit a few years late, but I can’t wait to read the next in this series.
January 14, 2019
Amazing and riveting
This book was captivating and interesting and romantic! It had me laughing, crying, and even getting angry at the characters. It is a must read!!!
This book was captivating and interesting and romantic! It had me laughing, crying, and even getting angry at the characters. It is a must read!!!
June 19, 2013
"The right guy gets the girl, remember? I'm going to show you who that guys is."
This is the third book by Melissa Brown and I have to say that I think that this one may be the best one yet. Don't get me wrong I loved Bouquet Toss and Champagne toast but there was a wonderful sweetness to Hadley and Jason's story and I simply fell in love with them both.
Hadley has always dreamed of having the perfect life with the perfect husband, a child and a beautiful house. At one time this dream included her boyfriend of 6 years, Tucker. But lately their relationship seems to be slowly breaking apart. Tucker isn't the sweet man that she fell in love with all those years ago. The man who was there for her when her father died, doesn't seem to exist any more. When her best friend's brother appears back in her life she can't stop herself from thinking about him. Hadley has been in love with Jason since she was a little girl. And now that she has seen him again, those feelings for him have resurfaced. With her relationship on the rocks, Hadley wonders if there is a chance that Jason has the same feelings for her. Can Hadley finally get her wish and be with Jason? Then life throws Hadley a curve ball that she never saw coming, one that she is not sure how she is going to handle on her own. She knows that any feelings that she has for Jason need to be put aside right now and she needs to deal with the issue that life has thrown her way. But Jason Kelly has other plans. His plan is to finally show Hadley how he feels about her.
I loved Jason Kelly in Champagne Toast and fell in love with him even more in this one. Jason Kelly is handsome, cute and adorable, sweet and maybe just a tad bit geeky but he is just perfect. He is everything Hadley needs right now. Jason and Hadley have a history together, being that his sister is her best friend. Hadley has always been in love with Jason, but what Hadley never knew was that Jason has always wanted her. Any woman that he has dated has never compared to her. But she has had a boyfriend for the past 6 yrs so Jason put his feelings aside and moved on. But now that things between Hadley and Tucker aren't as perfect as they once were, he decides that it is time to confess to Hadley how he really feels. But right now Hadley is dealing with some heavy issues of her own, and is in need of someone to be there for her, to care for her and to love her. Jason is exactly that person, but will she let him? After all these years of wanting Jason Kelly will she finally embrace the love that he has for her, or will fear cause her to push him away?
I love Jason and Hadley together. Jason is sweet and caring and wants to take care of Hadley in every way. He is patient with her and knows that they need to take things slow. You can see how much he loves her. Jason gets her, he understands her and in a way I think they are soul mates who have found each other again after all these years. Jason and Hadley were meant to be together. The feelings that they have for each other have been there since they were teenagers. You get a glimpse of the sweet moments they shared together when they were kids, through flashbacks, which I loved. I loved Hadley as the heroine. She was dealt a tough hand over the last few years but she managed to get through it. And now she is faced with yet another obstacle, but she holds her head high and is determined to make it work, to get through it, even if she has to do it on her own. She is strong and confident and determined and I admired her for her strength.
Melissa Brown has done such a wonderful job with this story. It is a sweet romance that will melt your heart. You will fall completely in love with Jason and Hadley and their story. There story will make you laugh, cry, and warm your heart. Her relationship with her best friend Auden is so real and so genuine, it's a friendship that most people can relate to. Tucker and his mother weren't exactly my favorite people, and there were moments when I wanted to just slap the both of them, but Hadley handled herself like a gem. Picturing Perfect is a must read and one that will leave you smiling in the end. Wonderful job by Melissa Brown.
I received an arc in exchange for an honest review
This is the third book by Melissa Brown and I have to say that I think that this one may be the best one yet. Don't get me wrong I loved Bouquet Toss and Champagne toast but there was a wonderful sweetness to Hadley and Jason's story and I simply fell in love with them both.
Hadley has always dreamed of having the perfect life with the perfect husband, a child and a beautiful house. At one time this dream included her boyfriend of 6 years, Tucker. But lately their relationship seems to be slowly breaking apart. Tucker isn't the sweet man that she fell in love with all those years ago. The man who was there for her when her father died, doesn't seem to exist any more. When her best friend's brother appears back in her life she can't stop herself from thinking about him. Hadley has been in love with Jason since she was a little girl. And now that she has seen him again, those feelings for him have resurfaced. With her relationship on the rocks, Hadley wonders if there is a chance that Jason has the same feelings for her. Can Hadley finally get her wish and be with Jason? Then life throws Hadley a curve ball that she never saw coming, one that she is not sure how she is going to handle on her own. She knows that any feelings that she has for Jason need to be put aside right now and she needs to deal with the issue that life has thrown her way. But Jason Kelly has other plans. His plan is to finally show Hadley how he feels about her.
I loved Jason Kelly in Champagne Toast and fell in love with him even more in this one. Jason Kelly is handsome, cute and adorable, sweet and maybe just a tad bit geeky but he is just perfect. He is everything Hadley needs right now. Jason and Hadley have a history together, being that his sister is her best friend. Hadley has always been in love with Jason, but what Hadley never knew was that Jason has always wanted her. Any woman that he has dated has never compared to her. But she has had a boyfriend for the past 6 yrs so Jason put his feelings aside and moved on. But now that things between Hadley and Tucker aren't as perfect as they once were, he decides that it is time to confess to Hadley how he really feels. But right now Hadley is dealing with some heavy issues of her own, and is in need of someone to be there for her, to care for her and to love her. Jason is exactly that person, but will she let him? After all these years of wanting Jason Kelly will she finally embrace the love that he has for her, or will fear cause her to push him away?
I love Jason and Hadley together. Jason is sweet and caring and wants to take care of Hadley in every way. He is patient with her and knows that they need to take things slow. You can see how much he loves her. Jason gets her, he understands her and in a way I think they are soul mates who have found each other again after all these years. Jason and Hadley were meant to be together. The feelings that they have for each other have been there since they were teenagers. You get a glimpse of the sweet moments they shared together when they were kids, through flashbacks, which I loved. I loved Hadley as the heroine. She was dealt a tough hand over the last few years but she managed to get through it. And now she is faced with yet another obstacle, but she holds her head high and is determined to make it work, to get through it, even if she has to do it on her own. She is strong and confident and determined and I admired her for her strength.
Melissa Brown has done such a wonderful job with this story. It is a sweet romance that will melt your heart. You will fall completely in love with Jason and Hadley and their story. There story will make you laugh, cry, and warm your heart. Her relationship with her best friend Auden is so real and so genuine, it's a friendship that most people can relate to. Tucker and his mother weren't exactly my favorite people, and there were moments when I wanted to just slap the both of them, but Hadley handled herself like a gem. Picturing Perfect is a must read and one that will leave you smiling in the end. Wonderful job by Melissa Brown.
I received an arc in exchange for an honest review
June 19, 2013
"The right guy gets the girl, remember? I'm going to show you who that guys is."
This is the third book by Melissa Brown and I have to say that I think that this one may be the best one yet. Don't get me wrong I loved Bouquet Toss and Champagne toast but there was a wonderful sweetness to Hadley and Jason's story and I simply fell in love with them both.
Hadley has always dreamed of having the perfect life with the perfect husband, a child and a beautiful house. At one time this dream included her boyfriend of 6 years, Tucker. But lately their relationship seems to be slowly breaking apart. Tucker isn't the sweet man that she fell in love with all those years ago. The man who was there for her when her father died, doesn't seem to exist any more. When her best friend's brother appears back in her life she can't stop herself from thinking about him. Hadley has been in love with Jason since she was a little girl. And now that she has seen him again, those feelings for him have resurfaced. With her relationship on the rocks, Hadley wonders if there is a chance that Jason has the same feelings for her. Can Hadley finally get her wish and be with Jason? Then life throws Hadley a curve ball that she never saw coming, one that she is not sure how she is going to handle on her own. She knows that any feelings that she has for Jason need to be put aside right now and she needs to deal with the issue that life has thrown her way. But Jason Kelly has other plans. His plan is to finally show Hadley how he feels about her.
I loved Jason Kelly in Champagne Toast and fell in love with him even more in this one. Jason Kelly is handsome, cute and adorable, sweet and maybe just a tad bit geeky but he is just perfect. He is everything Hadley needs right now. Jason and Hadley have a history together, being that his sister is her best friend. Hadley has always been in love with Jason, but what Hadley never knew was that Jason has always wanted her. Any woman that he has dated has never compared to her. But she has had a boyfriend for the past 6 yrs so Jason put his feelings aside and moved on. But now that things between Hadley and Tucker aren't as perfect as they once were, he decides that it is time to confess to Hadley how he really feels. But right now Hadley is dealing with some heavy issues of her own, and is in need of someone to be there for her, to care for her and to love her. Jason is exactly that person, but will she let him? After all these years of wanting Jason Kelly will she finally embrace the love that he has for her, or will fear cause her to push him away?
I love Jason and Hadley together. Jason is sweet and caring and wants to take care of Hadley in every way. He is patient with her and knows that they need to take things slow. You can see how much he loves her. Jason gets her, he understands her and in a way I think they are soul mates who have found each other again after all these years. Jason and Hadley were meant to be together. The feelings that they have for each other have been there since they were teenagers. You get a glimpse of the sweet moments they shared together when they were kids, through flashbacks, which I loved. I loved Hadley as the heroine. She was dealt a tough hand over the last few years but she managed to get through it. And now she is faced with yet another obstacle, but she holds her head high and is determined to make it work, to get through it, even if she has to do it on her own. She is strong and confident and determined and I admired her for her strength.
Melissa Brown has done such a wonderful job with this story. It is a sweet romance that will melt your heart. You will fall completely in love with Jason and Hadley and their story. There story will make you laugh, cry, and warm your heart. Her relationship with her best friend Auden is so real and so genuine, it's a friendship that most people can relate to. Tucker and his mother weren't exactly my favorite people, and there were moments when I wanted to just slap the both of them, but Hadley handled herself like a gem. Picturing Perfect is a must read and one that will leave you smiling in the end. Wonderful job by Melissa Brown.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 243 reviews