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The Return of the Rebel
The guy from the wrong side of the tracks…
Being promoted should be a dream come true, only it means working closely with Cleo's childhood crush, Jax Monroe. Jax may no longer be the rebel she remembers, but he still gets her heart racing like no other.
Jax cares too much about Cleo to let her get too close—but keeping his distance is proving impossible! As Jax reveals the extent of what he's been through, will Cleo show him that some things are too precious to put off until tomorrow?
Being promoted should be a dream come true, only it means working closely with Cleo's childhood crush, Jax Monroe. Jax may no longer be the rebel she remembers, but he still gets her heart racing like no other.
Jax cares too much about Cleo to let her get too close—but keeping his distance is proving impossible! As Jax reveals the extent of what he's been through, will Cleo show him that some things are too precious to put off until tomorrow?
256 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published January 1, 2014
8 people are currently reading
830 people want to read
About the author
Jennifer Faye
302 books2,348 followersAward-winning author, Jennifer Faye pens fun, heartwarming contemporary romances with rugged cowboys, sexy billionaires and enchanting royalty. With more than a million books sold, she is internationally published with books translated into more than a dozen languages. She is a two-time winner of the RT Book Reviews Reviewers' Choice Award, the CataRomance Reviewers' Choice Award, named a TOP PICK author, and been nominated for numerous other awards. Now living her dream, she resides with her very patient husband and two spoiled cats. When she's not plotting out her next romance, you can find her curled up with a mug of tea and a book. Jennifer loves to hear from readers—you can contact her via her website.
And be sure to follow Jennifer for the latest on sales via Bookbub.
And be sure to follow Jennifer for the latest on sales via Bookbub.
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Displaying 1 - 25 of 25 reviews
October 8, 2014
They say, "Without a bit of Drama, life is way boring". Although I'm not a great believer of dramas in a relationship, but then again, whom can I blame after all Harlequin Books scream DRAMA!
I won The Return of the Rebel by Jennifer Faye in a giveaway on her blog. And here I'm trying to write a decent review for this book. So a huge thanks to the author for sending me over a copy of her book.
The narration is done by the two protagonist of this book, Cleo and Jax. Cleo is working as Host in a posh Las Vegas Casino. One day she finds her long-time crush, Joe Monroe from her small hometown, Wyoming. Back then, Jax was famous for his troubles and was thus called the Bad Boy. Seeing him after all those years, certainly Cleo wells up with all her past emotions. And as by luck, she ends up being Jax's casino host. Certainly they had a lot of catching up to do. But the more Cleo gets closer to Jax, the more Jax pushes her back by shutting the windows of his heart as tightly as possible. Since Jax had a dark past and some grave secrets about himself, so he doesn't want Cleo to end up with him. Suddenly, a killer shows up on the Casino, and Cleo ends up being hurt very badly. So they take off and hide themselves in a movie-star's condo. And after so much action and drama, Cleo and Jax had a fairytale ending indeed.
The book can be finished reading within a day, since it has got a quite fast pace. From the very beginning, the author has managed to get us hooked in to the plot right from the start, since along with the drama, the author has added some amount of mystery into this book. Cleo is a very sweet girl, blaming herself all the way for her father's death, still in love with her crush, loves knitting, and any man will definitely fall for her. Then there is Jax, a true gentleman, who is always broody, mysterious from the very start, and yeah very intriguing. I liked Jax the most. Always keeping to him, never letting Cleo, get closer to his heart or looking into his past demons. And of course, he's terribly hot. And other than these two characters, we can see Cleo's friend, Robyn as the true and loyal friend and Cleo's brother, as very dominating over Cleo, Kurt and her mom, still holding grudges against her daughter for her husband's death. The author has unfolded the twists and turns of the mysteries very slowly and more peeling each layer of mystery at a time. Other than this, it’s quite evident that the author has a natural way of representing her stories to her readers. Although, it was a Harlequin Romance, but I still found this book, quite compelling. Also not to mention about those adrenaline-rushing chase scenes, which you’ll fall for.
I think while Cleo and Jax was going to make love for the first time, the drama could have been avoided to make it too predictable. Because from the beginning, we are seeing that Jax is certainly very repulsive towards Cleo, so he could have let himself go for a little while. I liked how still having feelings for Cleo, Jax, manages hard not to let Cleo know about his true intentions, owing to the fact that Cleo is always drooling over him. Certainly Jax is the only character to look out for in this book.
This book is a perfect read on a very gloomy, dark afternoon. And let yourself fall in love with his tall, dark handsome guy for a while. So romance novel lovers might fall for the plot and other genre lovers can give this book a try.
I won The Return of the Rebel by Jennifer Faye in a giveaway on her blog. And here I'm trying to write a decent review for this book. So a huge thanks to the author for sending me over a copy of her book.
The narration is done by the two protagonist of this book, Cleo and Jax. Cleo is working as Host in a posh Las Vegas Casino. One day she finds her long-time crush, Joe Monroe from her small hometown, Wyoming. Back then, Jax was famous for his troubles and was thus called the Bad Boy. Seeing him after all those years, certainly Cleo wells up with all her past emotions. And as by luck, she ends up being Jax's casino host. Certainly they had a lot of catching up to do. But the more Cleo gets closer to Jax, the more Jax pushes her back by shutting the windows of his heart as tightly as possible. Since Jax had a dark past and some grave secrets about himself, so he doesn't want Cleo to end up with him. Suddenly, a killer shows up on the Casino, and Cleo ends up being hurt very badly. So they take off and hide themselves in a movie-star's condo. And after so much action and drama, Cleo and Jax had a fairytale ending indeed.
The book can be finished reading within a day, since it has got a quite fast pace. From the very beginning, the author has managed to get us hooked in to the plot right from the start, since along with the drama, the author has added some amount of mystery into this book. Cleo is a very sweet girl, blaming herself all the way for her father's death, still in love with her crush, loves knitting, and any man will definitely fall for her. Then there is Jax, a true gentleman, who is always broody, mysterious from the very start, and yeah very intriguing. I liked Jax the most. Always keeping to him, never letting Cleo, get closer to his heart or looking into his past demons. And of course, he's terribly hot. And other than these two characters, we can see Cleo's friend, Robyn as the true and loyal friend and Cleo's brother, as very dominating over Cleo, Kurt and her mom, still holding grudges against her daughter for her husband's death. The author has unfolded the twists and turns of the mysteries very slowly and more peeling each layer of mystery at a time. Other than this, it’s quite evident that the author has a natural way of representing her stories to her readers. Although, it was a Harlequin Romance, but I still found this book, quite compelling. Also not to mention about those adrenaline-rushing chase scenes, which you’ll fall for.
I think while Cleo and Jax was going to make love for the first time, the drama could have been avoided to make it too predictable. Because from the beginning, we are seeing that Jax is certainly very repulsive towards Cleo, so he could have let himself go for a little while. I liked how still having feelings for Cleo, Jax, manages hard not to let Cleo know about his true intentions, owing to the fact that Cleo is always drooling over him. Certainly Jax is the only character to look out for in this book.
This book is a perfect read on a very gloomy, dark afternoon. And let yourself fall in love with his tall, dark handsome guy for a while. So romance novel lovers might fall for the plot and other genre lovers can give this book a try.
June 30, 2014
I really enjoyed the first book I read by Faye which was why when asked to review this one I didn't hesitate.
Let me tell you, I may have liked her first book, but I loved this one. This was such a good read and believe it or not I have been in a book slump when it comes to romances, which is ridiculous and unheard of for me but I was and this pulled me right out of it. In fact, I read this in a single sitting.
I love these type of romances, where the characters already knew each other, grew up together and were friends. The friends to lovers trope is one I will never get tired of and Faye managed to put a spin on this that kept it exciting and romantic and just plain fun.
I loved the witty banter, the heart felt talks, and of course the sexual tension. There is always just enough hint of what will happen later on to keep you interested without telling too much as to make you blush or feel uncomfortable.
I always love how fleshed out her characters are and how you instantly fall in love with them.
I was a fan before of Faye's work but I am a fan for life now.
Let me tell you, I may have liked her first book, but I loved this one. This was such a good read and believe it or not I have been in a book slump when it comes to romances, which is ridiculous and unheard of for me but I was and this pulled me right out of it. In fact, I read this in a single sitting.
I love these type of romances, where the characters already knew each other, grew up together and were friends. The friends to lovers trope is one I will never get tired of and Faye managed to put a spin on this that kept it exciting and romantic and just plain fun.
I loved the witty banter, the heart felt talks, and of course the sexual tension. There is always just enough hint of what will happen later on to keep you interested without telling too much as to make you blush or feel uncomfortable.
I always love how fleshed out her characters are and how you instantly fall in love with them.
I was a fan before of Faye's work but I am a fan for life now.
July 18, 2014
It has been awhile since I've read a Harlequin Romance, but this book reminded me, why I have to pick one up every now and then. I actually think the last Harlequin Romance I read was her, Safe In The Tycoon's arms, which was a fantastic read.
This one was just as good. And its a sweet romance. Sometimes you can get a bit of overkill on the smut and that's why I will always buy one or two books from the Romance line.
I love stories where people revisit old loves/crushes and that's what this book is. Oh and if you love a bad boy, Jax is rather hot reformed one. Though I'm not sure he really ever was a bad boy, more of a misunderstood one that needed some TLC.
Cleo is a Ranch girl with big dreams, dreams that keep her estranged from her family. I liked the drama that involved her family and that fact that Jennifer didn't have everything fixed at the end of the story. It made things more "real."
Jax and Cleo are really well developed characters that you really fall for. Oh and Jax has a secret he's keeping from Cleo, and though that causes him to make some pretty stupid decisions, it also makes you love him all the more.
A fun quick read. Jennifer Faye is now on my must read list
This one was just as good. And its a sweet romance. Sometimes you can get a bit of overkill on the smut and that's why I will always buy one or two books from the Romance line.
I love stories where people revisit old loves/crushes and that's what this book is. Oh and if you love a bad boy, Jax is rather hot reformed one. Though I'm not sure he really ever was a bad boy, more of a misunderstood one that needed some TLC.
Cleo is a Ranch girl with big dreams, dreams that keep her estranged from her family. I liked the drama that involved her family and that fact that Jennifer didn't have everything fixed at the end of the story. It made things more "real."
Jax and Cleo are really well developed characters that you really fall for. Oh and Jax has a secret he's keeping from Cleo, and though that causes him to make some pretty stupid decisions, it also makes you love him all the more.
A fun quick read. Jennifer Faye is now on my must read list
July 15, 2014
At age fourteen, Cleo had the most painful, most obvious schoolgirl crush on her big brother's best friend: the dangerous, brooding Jax Monroe—and to be honest, she's always been in love with him, even after he left town without a word. Now, she's finally up on her feet with a handsomely paying casino job and the determination to make amends with her estranged mother, so it's a shock—and not even a pleasant one—when, after all these years, Jax comes barreling back into her life.
I was attracted to the "reunited after childhood" storyline of this novel but it was far from dramatic and really just didn't hit the spot for me. The plot revolving around the cute badboy all grown up is normally my thing—I love myself a reformed hero!—but the two main characters are so shallow and so irritatingly boring that I didn't like or sympathize with either of them.
Regarding the romance element, what Jax and Cleo feel for each other is definitely instalove; with poor relationship development, stilted dialogue, and absolutely no chemistry, the "romance" is unrealistic and mundane. There's nothing that stands out to me about this couple, nothing that makes me swoon or ache or smile. They're both just there, taking up space. The Return of the Rebel is a VERY chaste romance, very PG with no steam or sex at all; sure, it's sweet, but it's also rather flavorless. It didn't seem much like a romance novel to me, other than the (rather undeserved) happy ending.
My biggest issue with this book was Faye's tendency to draw out the blandest, most clichéd literary devices and conventions in her writing. She is not a bad writer; while not immensely commendable, her style is smooth, straightforward, and it gets the job done. However, her prose is full of trite metaphors and stereotypical romance tropes (the cool best friend, the loving but troubled family, the helpless heroine, the hero who instantly falls in love with her for no reason at all) that I had a hard time tolerating. At the climax of Cleo and Jax's emotional connection (or whatever constitutes for it), Cleo says, verbatim:
Deep stuff, isn't it?
And of course, the last line is "I will always love you." Who didn't see that coming?
Pros
Easy, short-length novel // Quick, light read that doesn't make you think too much
Cons
Boring // Wordy and rambles off on irrelevant tangents about furniture and pets and clothing that contribute exactly nothing to the story // Characters are all two-dimensional, hard to like, and rather unintelligent-sounding // Romance is not romantic // No sexual tension... or sex, for that matter // Very formulaic, unoriginal // Flat, unmemorable
Verdict
The Return of the Rebel was not terribly unpalatable; it has a linear storyline and Cleo has a somewhat intriguing backstory that made it a quick, watery read. I was mostly annoyed by how dull the characters, insipid the plot, and unextraordinary the writing is. While Jennifer Faye's newest release serves as a quick, lighthearted, surface-skimming romance novel, I personally don't think it's anything to write home about.
Rating: 5 out of 10 hearts (3 stars): Doesn't particularly light any of my fires; I feel indifferent about this book.
Source
Complimentary copy provided by author via tour publicist in exchange for an honest and unbiased review (thank you, Jennifer and Tasty Book Tours!).
I was attracted to the "reunited after childhood" storyline of this novel but it was far from dramatic and really just didn't hit the spot for me. The plot revolving around the cute badboy all grown up is normally my thing—I love myself a reformed hero!—but the two main characters are so shallow and so irritatingly boring that I didn't like or sympathize with either of them.
Regarding the romance element, what Jax and Cleo feel for each other is definitely instalove; with poor relationship development, stilted dialogue, and absolutely no chemistry, the "romance" is unrealistic and mundane. There's nothing that stands out to me about this couple, nothing that makes me swoon or ache or smile. They're both just there, taking up space. The Return of the Rebel is a VERY chaste romance, very PG with no steam or sex at all; sure, it's sweet, but it's also rather flavorless. It didn't seem much like a romance novel to me, other than the (rather undeserved) happy ending.
My biggest issue with this book was Faye's tendency to draw out the blandest, most clichéd literary devices and conventions in her writing. She is not a bad writer; while not immensely commendable, her style is smooth, straightforward, and it gets the job done. However, her prose is full of trite metaphors and stereotypical romance tropes (the cool best friend, the loving but troubled family, the helpless heroine, the hero who instantly falls in love with her for no reason at all) that I had a hard time tolerating. At the climax of Cleo and Jax's emotional connection (or whatever constitutes for it), Cleo says, verbatim:
"[Life is] kinda like looking at a glass of water. You can either view it as a glass half-full or half-empty. I choose to look at it half-full."
Deep stuff, isn't it?
And of course, the last line is "I will always love you." Who didn't see that coming?
Pros
Easy, short-length novel // Quick, light read that doesn't make you think too much
Cons
Boring // Wordy and rambles off on irrelevant tangents about furniture and pets and clothing that contribute exactly nothing to the story // Characters are all two-dimensional, hard to like, and rather unintelligent-sounding // Romance is not romantic // No sexual tension... or sex, for that matter // Very formulaic, unoriginal // Flat, unmemorable
Verdict
The Return of the Rebel was not terribly unpalatable; it has a linear storyline and Cleo has a somewhat intriguing backstory that made it a quick, watery read. I was mostly annoyed by how dull the characters, insipid the plot, and unextraordinary the writing is. While Jennifer Faye's newest release serves as a quick, lighthearted, surface-skimming romance novel, I personally don't think it's anything to write home about.
Rating: 5 out of 10 hearts (3 stars): Doesn't particularly light any of my fires; I feel indifferent about this book.
Source
Complimentary copy provided by author via tour publicist in exchange for an honest and unbiased review (thank you, Jennifer and Tasty Book Tours!).
July 25, 2016
This story is about Cleo, our heroine who grew up in small Wyoming town on her family's ranch. Cleo wants to spread her wings and see what else is out there. After attending an Ivy League college on the east coast she gets a job at a casino in Las Vegas. Cleo's family wants her to move back home. Her father ends up getting killed in an accident while on the phone arguing with Cleo to come back home. At the funeral, Cleo's mom lays into her and tells her to leave that the accident was all her fault. Two years have passed and Cleo finds out from her oldest brother that the ranch is in financial ruins because her dad paid for her college by using the equity in the ranch. Cleo goes in to her boss and asks to be made a Casino Host because they make a lot more money than an accountant. Her boss gives her one chance. Some big time whale is coming for a few weeks and doesn't want his identity known.
The next day Cleo spots Jax Monroe at the casino checking in pretending to be Joe Smith. Jax was the rebel bad boy from back home whom Cleo had the biggest crush on and her oldest brother's best friend. As the two of them are arguing, Cleo's boss comes up and introduces her to the person she is going to be a casino host for. Jax is not sure he can handle having Cleo as his hostess...he's had the hots for her since they were younger but made a promise to her brother to keep his hands off. They both agree to make a go of it and then that's when the fun begins. Jax has a few secrets from his past that he doesn't want Cleo to know about. Cleo has one big secret that she doesn't want Jax to know. As they spend more time together things start heating up. Secrets are revealed and they are thrown together because of certain circumstances.
I love the brother's best friend trope...one of my favorites. This was a fun, flirty, quick read. I really enjoyed both of the character's back stories and the little bit of suspense to the story.
The next day Cleo spots Jax Monroe at the casino checking in pretending to be Joe Smith. Jax was the rebel bad boy from back home whom Cleo had the biggest crush on and her oldest brother's best friend. As the two of them are arguing, Cleo's boss comes up and introduces her to the person she is going to be a casino host for. Jax is not sure he can handle having Cleo as his hostess...he's had the hots for her since they were younger but made a promise to her brother to keep his hands off. They both agree to make a go of it and then that's when the fun begins. Jax has a few secrets from his past that he doesn't want Cleo to know about. Cleo has one big secret that she doesn't want Jax to know. As they spend more time together things start heating up. Secrets are revealed and they are thrown together because of certain circumstances.
I love the brother's best friend trope...one of my favorites. This was a fun, flirty, quick read. I really enjoyed both of the character's back stories and the little bit of suspense to the story.
June 6, 2014
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'The Return of the Rebel' is a lovely sweet romance with memorable, likeable characters and a plot with dangerous undercurrents.
Cleo the only girl in a family of ranchers knows their lifestyle is not for her. Las Vegas is the polar opposite of Hope Springs but Cleo weighed down by other people's expectations and a tragic secret is determined to make a new life there. Serendipity brings her face to face with Jax her teenage crush and now the client she must impress to succeed.
Jax left Hope Springs without a backward glance, anxious to leave behind tragic memories and the feeling of never being good enough. Luck and hard work made him wealthy beyond his expectations but illness and an impending court case leave him more vulnerable than he would choose.
Danger forces Cleo into close proximity with Jax rekindling her teenage crush into love. Unfortunately Jax's inner doubts and the fallout of his secrets jeopardize their fledgling relation.
Powerful romance, great characters and a strong thread of suspense make this story a pleasure to read.
I received an ARC from the author in exchange for an honest review.
Jennifer Faye
July 4, 2014
This is my fourth Jennifer Faye book and I can honestly say that I have truly loved them all. Jennnifer Faye has such a talent for writing those feel good romances that just warm your heart and make you smile, and The Return of the Rebel certainly falls into that category.
The main characters, Cleo and Jax, are unknowingly thrust together as a result of Cleo's job. To say it takes them by surprise is an understatement, especially since Jax is trying to keep a low profile because of some things going on his life.....things which add a little danger to the story. Jax is Cleo's first crush, first love, even though he was too old for her back then. Seeing him again stirs up all kinds of feelings she doesn't want to have. For Jax, seeing Cleo again brings up memories he had tried to bury, and stirs up feelings for an all grown-up Cleo that he's having a hard time resisting. Both have secrets that are haunting them, causing them to have reservations about pursing any kind of long-term relationship. Despite this, the chemistry between them is undeniable and this former bad boy and the girl next door can't deny it, no matter how hard they try.
The Return of the Rebel is a sweet, fun, heartwarming romance with a little touch of suspense thrown it. The story is told from a third person point of view and you get both Cleo and Jax's perspectives, which I enjoyed. Jennifer Faye has a wonderful writing style that flows beautifully, and The Return of the Rebel is well-written, interesting, and kept my attention the entire time. If you are a fan of contemporary romance, then Jennifer Faye's The Return of the Rebel falls into that classic heartwarming romance category that Harlequin is so famous for.
The main characters, Cleo and Jax, are unknowingly thrust together as a result of Cleo's job. To say it takes them by surprise is an understatement, especially since Jax is trying to keep a low profile because of some things going on his life.....things which add a little danger to the story. Jax is Cleo's first crush, first love, even though he was too old for her back then. Seeing him again stirs up all kinds of feelings she doesn't want to have. For Jax, seeing Cleo again brings up memories he had tried to bury, and stirs up feelings for an all grown-up Cleo that he's having a hard time resisting. Both have secrets that are haunting them, causing them to have reservations about pursing any kind of long-term relationship. Despite this, the chemistry between them is undeniable and this former bad boy and the girl next door can't deny it, no matter how hard they try.
The Return of the Rebel is a sweet, fun, heartwarming romance with a little touch of suspense thrown it. The story is told from a third person point of view and you get both Cleo and Jax's perspectives, which I enjoyed. Jennifer Faye has a wonderful writing style that flows beautifully, and The Return of the Rebel is well-written, interesting, and kept my attention the entire time. If you are a fan of contemporary romance, then Jennifer Faye's The Return of the Rebel falls into that classic heartwarming romance category that Harlequin is so famous for.
July 3, 2014
Cleo Sinclair is in for the surprise of her lifetime when her newly promoted position brings her face to face with her one time childhood crush Jax Monroe. Any hope that Cleo would be immune to the man Jax had become is crushed from the minute his very presence sets her senses on high alert, even when on Jax’s part the feelings do not seem to be reciprocated.
Jax might want to be indifferent where Cleo is concerned but the childhood memories of both of them together had always stayed with him. Having always been off limits, Jax’s mind would like to continue thinking along the same lines where Cloe is concerned but her beauty and kindness even back then doesn’t make things any easier.
A little bit of danger and mayhem sets the ball rolling and sets the course for the journey of discovery that both Cleo and Jax take towards finding the love of their lives in each other. Low on sensuality, The Return of the Rebel is recommended for those readers who likes “clean” romances with a dollop of an ex-bad boy hero!
Rating = 3.75/5
Caliber SEAL: GOOD READ
For more reviews & quotes, visit www.maldivianbookreviewer.com
Jax might want to be indifferent where Cleo is concerned but the childhood memories of both of them together had always stayed with him. Having always been off limits, Jax’s mind would like to continue thinking along the same lines where Cloe is concerned but her beauty and kindness even back then doesn’t make things any easier.
A little bit of danger and mayhem sets the ball rolling and sets the course for the journey of discovery that both Cleo and Jax take towards finding the love of their lives in each other. Low on sensuality, The Return of the Rebel is recommended for those readers who likes “clean” romances with a dollop of an ex-bad boy hero!
Rating = 3.75/5
Caliber SEAL: GOOD READ
For more reviews & quotes, visit www.maldivianbookreviewer.com
Read
January 12, 2016"Faye’s romance tugs at the heartstrings and the surprising element of suspense is the perfect addition to make this one fly off the shelves. Readers will be engaged from start to finish as they try to unearth secrets alongside the bold characters" (RT Book Reviews). 4 1/2 stars TOP PICK!
June 24, 2014
Loved it, was so exciting and just love the cat in it and how a man never wants to deal with the litter box so funny.
June 13, 2014
I received this book from a goodreads giveaway. I absolutely enjoyed it! It was very well written. Max and Cleo have a ton of chemistry. I will recommend to others!
May 15, 2014
This review will be posted on Night Owl Review web site in the near future.
January 28, 2024
The Return of the Rebel is a very entertaining childhood crush on a bad boy to happily ever after. Cleo left her small town life of farming to go to college and find her true passion. She is currently working in a casino in Las Vegas and has been promoted to hostess for a high roller. As she is waiting to meet her new client, she sees the guy who broke her heart and left town years ago. She confronts him and as she is berating him, her boss informs her that Jax is her new client. Jax grew up with an abusive father and when he was able, he left town to go to college and make a new life. He is now wealthy and respected but life can throw some curve balls. Jax is dealing with health issues and also hiding out until he can testify against his embezzling partner. As Cleo and Jax spend time together, they are growing closer although Jax is still trying to keep his distance and protect Cleo from the danger surrounding him. This was a great story with a little drama, intrigue, cuteness and love. The characters are relatable and lovable.
December 5, 2015
2.5 'it was okay' Stars
I won this signed ARC from the author via goodreads first reads giveaway contest.
ABOUT THE BOOK
Title: The Return of the Rebel
Series: Stand-alone
Author: Jennifer Faye
Release Date: July 1st 2014
Rating: 2.5 Stars
Cliffhanger: No
Writing Style: Third Person POV
Character Development: The Heroine (Cleo) and the Hero (Jax) were fine. Not that great, just good and none of them were annoying.
HEA:
MY REVIEW
First of all thanks to goodreads and the author for giving me this Signed ARC paperback
So here I am giving my very honest review.
Cleo and Jax are childhood friends. Cleo is Jax's bestfriend's baby sister. And she has a major crush on him since she was a teenager. But Jax can't love her more than just a friend because that time she was still so young. Jax is 5 years senior. And besides, her big brother is a very protective brother, so he asked Jax to stay away from his baby sister because everybody knows that Jax is a bad boy.
Cleo's family is a rancher. She is the only daughter of the family. Her family wants her to be a rancher, marry a local guy and stay there forever. But Cleo has her own dreams she wants to reach. So she left Hope Springs and went to Las Vegas.
Jax also had family problems and he ends up leaving Hope Springs as well. Before he left, Cleo who has a major crush on him kissed him on the lips. But he didn't react. Cleo feel so sad by the rejection. But actually she still has that crush on him even after all those years.
Maybe it's a destiny that Jax accidentally meets Cleo again in Vegas.
And there, their story begins.
Both of them realizes that they're actually in love. But Jax refused the feeling because he has many problems. And he doesn't want her to be involved. But Cleo keeps convincing him that they both can through it together. So how's their story ends?
Honestly, I kinda hard to rate this book. I like the idea of childhood crush reunion. I was expecting a sweet, lovely reunion but I can't find it in this book.
It's a bit confusing for me because too much problems with unclear closure. I mean, the problems themselves didn't really detail described by the author.
And the characters. I know they both have difficult problems. But their acts are confusing. Once Jax acts and convinces himself that he loves Cleo, and then he tries to go away from her. And so does Cleo.
The fact that this book is written in third person POV making it worse. I don't really like third person POV books
I won this signed ARC from the author via goodreads first reads giveaway contest.
ABOUT THE BOOK
Title: The Return of the Rebel
Series: Stand-alone
Author: Jennifer Faye
Release Date: July 1st 2014
Rating: 2.5 Stars
Cliffhanger: No
Writing Style: Third Person POV
Character Development: The Heroine (Cleo) and the Hero (Jax) were fine. Not that great, just good and none of them were annoying.
HEA:
MY REVIEW
First of all thanks to goodreads and the author for giving me this Signed ARC paperback
So here I am giving my very honest review.
Cleo and Jax are childhood friends. Cleo is Jax's bestfriend's baby sister. And she has a major crush on him since she was a teenager. But Jax can't love her more than just a friend because that time she was still so young. Jax is 5 years senior. And besides, her big brother is a very protective brother, so he asked Jax to stay away from his baby sister because everybody knows that Jax is a bad boy.
Cleo's family is a rancher. She is the only daughter of the family. Her family wants her to be a rancher, marry a local guy and stay there forever. But Cleo has her own dreams she wants to reach. So she left Hope Springs and went to Las Vegas.
Jax also had family problems and he ends up leaving Hope Springs as well. Before he left, Cleo who has a major crush on him kissed him on the lips. But he didn't react. Cleo feel so sad by the rejection. But actually she still has that crush on him even after all those years.
Maybe it's a destiny that Jax accidentally meets Cleo again in Vegas.
And there, their story begins.
Both of them realizes that they're actually in love. But Jax refused the feeling because he has many problems. And he doesn't want her to be involved. But Cleo keeps convincing him that they both can through it together. So how's their story ends?
Honestly, I kinda hard to rate this book. I like the idea of childhood crush reunion. I was expecting a sweet, lovely reunion but I can't find it in this book.
It's a bit confusing for me because too much problems with unclear closure. I mean, the problems themselves didn't really detail described by the author.
And the characters. I know they both have difficult problems. But their acts are confusing. Once Jax acts and convinces himself that he loves Cleo, and then he tries to go away from her. And so does Cleo.
The fact that this book is written in third person POV making it worse. I don't really like third person POV books
April 4, 2022
I enjoyed this romance and I received this free from the author. I voluntarily chose to review this story and I gave it a 4.5* rating. There was a lot going on in this story to keep you interested with a little mystery to it. There is also a little danger to it with a few surprises to it. A nice interesting ending.
July 11, 2014
Posted on What I'm Reading
I was lucky enough to get a chance to read Jennifer Faye's latest book The Return of the Rebel. I have to say that it's one of my favorite out all of Jennifer's books. Each of her stories tend to be sweet and leave you with a fuzzy feeling. However, this story was a little different from the previous novels she has written. Yes, it still leaves fuzzy sweet feelings, but there's a little hint of danger. I guess that is bound to happen when you have a story set in Vegas. That's right a Vegas story.
Both Jax and Cleo made there escape from there hometown Hope Springs, Wyoming never believing they would see each other again. Now I made it sound like they left together, which they didn't. Actually Jax left when he was about 18, and never looked back. Cleo had to make her big escape, so could avoid living the rancher's life. She never felt like that was the life with her.
Spring forward, Cleo is working at for a casino host and she finally gets her chance. However, her chance is in a form of a former crush. Of course this adds a bit of a complication. Jax is trying to keep a low profile, because some issues back in New York. Anyway, trouble seems to follow Jax and he manages to drag Cleo in.
As I said The Return of the Rebel is a little different, but it still has the same elements that make this a Jennifer Faye story. You have Jax who is a reformed bad boy, but he always feels that no one could look past his Hope Springs-self. Cleo has her insecurities even though she sweet, smart, and beautiful. She tries to be herself, but she feels that no one wants to love her as herself. As she puts it:
People couldn't love her as is. They always wanted her to be more outgoing, more compliant, more something. There was always an area where she fell short in their eyes.
I felt bad for Cleo. There were times in the story, I had tears falling for Cleo, because she viewed herself as the black sheep of the family. There's more to that.
I loved this story, because you have two misfits in a sense. No one really understands them, but they seem to understand one another. However, you have Jax who is afraid to let Cleo in for a couple reasons: 1) Best friend's sister 2) The past and other things. Overall, a great feel good book with a little action, and you might leak out a few tears. So, if you are looking for a quick read that is going to leave you with a warm fuzzy feeling, you might give The Return of the Rebel a go.
Copy provided by author via Tasty Book Tours
I was lucky enough to get a chance to read Jennifer Faye's latest book The Return of the Rebel. I have to say that it's one of my favorite out all of Jennifer's books. Each of her stories tend to be sweet and leave you with a fuzzy feeling. However, this story was a little different from the previous novels she has written. Yes, it still leaves fuzzy sweet feelings, but there's a little hint of danger. I guess that is bound to happen when you have a story set in Vegas. That's right a Vegas story.
Both Jax and Cleo made there escape from there hometown Hope Springs, Wyoming never believing they would see each other again. Now I made it sound like they left together, which they didn't. Actually Jax left when he was about 18, and never looked back. Cleo had to make her big escape, so could avoid living the rancher's life. She never felt like that was the life with her.
Spring forward, Cleo is working at for a casino host and she finally gets her chance. However, her chance is in a form of a former crush. Of course this adds a bit of a complication. Jax is trying to keep a low profile, because some issues back in New York. Anyway, trouble seems to follow Jax and he manages to drag Cleo in.
As I said The Return of the Rebel is a little different, but it still has the same elements that make this a Jennifer Faye story. You have Jax who is a reformed bad boy, but he always feels that no one could look past his Hope Springs-self. Cleo has her insecurities even though she sweet, smart, and beautiful. She tries to be herself, but she feels that no one wants to love her as herself. As she puts it:
People couldn't love her as is. They always wanted her to be more outgoing, more compliant, more something. There was always an area where she fell short in their eyes.
I felt bad for Cleo. There were times in the story, I had tears falling for Cleo, because she viewed herself as the black sheep of the family. There's more to that.
I loved this story, because you have two misfits in a sense. No one really understands them, but they seem to understand one another. However, you have Jax who is afraid to let Cleo in for a couple reasons: 1) Best friend's sister 2) The past and other things. Overall, a great feel good book with a little action, and you might leak out a few tears. So, if you are looking for a quick read that is going to leave you with a warm fuzzy feeling, you might give The Return of the Rebel a go.
Copy provided by author via Tasty Book Tours
July 9, 2014
Review Originally Posted at: Book Freak
He was the guy from her past, from the wrong side of the tracks and the guy who broke her heart. She should be happy getting promoted and receiving a substantial amount of money because she needed it badly, but Cleo wasn’t so sure as her excitement plummets a little bit when her childhood crush, Jax Monroe suddenly came back into his life as her new VIP client. He may have changed a lot, which includes being a hotshot big time who can gamble a whole lot of money, but he was still the boy who captured her heart when she was young.
Cleo was Kurt’s baby sister, thus off limits to Jax. He cared for her a lot, that’s why he kept on keeping her at arm’s length. It would keep her safe, and save her from heartbreak from an unknown future with him. But keeping his hands off her, and trying to avoid her seemed to be a difficult task. Jax had so much on his plate, and a past he wasn’t THAT willing to share to the girl who invaded his thoughts since they were young.
Cleo loved him since then, and was willing to do anything to be with him. I hated to see Jax kept on stepping back from the obvious attraction and emotion that they have for each other. Just as when Cleo thought Jax was coming into his senses, he would decide that she deserves better. When would he ever realize he was all that she ever wanted?
It was short, sweet, a little frustrating at times, but definitely worth the read especially when those secrets are being revealed, and everyone was getting their happy ending. Sometimes, it is better to take the risk than not experiencing the rush at all. I loved how Cleo gave it her all, and showed Jax that she can handle anything he would throw her way.
•Complimentary Copy was given in exchange for an honest review.•
More of my reviews at http://reviewsofabookmaniac.blogspot.com
He was the guy from her past, from the wrong side of the tracks and the guy who broke her heart. She should be happy getting promoted and receiving a substantial amount of money because she needed it badly, but Cleo wasn’t so sure as her excitement plummets a little bit when her childhood crush, Jax Monroe suddenly came back into his life as her new VIP client. He may have changed a lot, which includes being a hotshot big time who can gamble a whole lot of money, but he was still the boy who captured her heart when she was young.
Cleo was Kurt’s baby sister, thus off limits to Jax. He cared for her a lot, that’s why he kept on keeping her at arm’s length. It would keep her safe, and save her from heartbreak from an unknown future with him. But keeping his hands off her, and trying to avoid her seemed to be a difficult task. Jax had so much on his plate, and a past he wasn’t THAT willing to share to the girl who invaded his thoughts since they were young.
Cleo loved him since then, and was willing to do anything to be with him. I hated to see Jax kept on stepping back from the obvious attraction and emotion that they have for each other. Just as when Cleo thought Jax was coming into his senses, he would decide that she deserves better. When would he ever realize he was all that she ever wanted?
It was short, sweet, a little frustrating at times, but definitely worth the read especially when those secrets are being revealed, and everyone was getting their happy ending. Sometimes, it is better to take the risk than not experiencing the rush at all. I loved how Cleo gave it her all, and showed Jax that she can handle anything he would throw her way.
•Complimentary Copy was given in exchange for an honest review.•
More of my reviews at http://reviewsofabookmaniac.blogspot.com
July 3, 2014
Hotness Rating 2 out of 5
I love Jennifer Faye! Her books just make me feel all good and gooey. The Return of the Rebel is no different. Jax and Chloe have tons of obstacles and past hurts to overcome, but if anyone can do it it's them.
Jax Monroe was tired of being known as the town loser, so when he had a chance to get away he did. He not only escaped the town, he thrived. Finding out his business partner was embezzling wasn't fun, but Jax did the right thing by turning him in. But, now he's getting threats ordering him to not testify. Jax figures it would be best if he found a great hotel and casino in Vegas and just lie low until after the trial.
Chloe knows what the old saying means when they say you can't go home again. She moved to Las Vegas to escape the confines of what her family expected of her, but she had never thought it would tear her world apart. Her father died in a terrible accident and her mother blames her for it. Now, she gets a call saying the family ranch is in trouble and they need Chloe's help to bring the loan up to date. Her whole fate is in the hands of a high roller that's coming into town. The more he gambles and the happier he is the more money Chloe will make to send home to her family.
Chloe has had a crush on Jax for as long as she can remember, so when he turns out to be the high roller that's directly responsible for not only her helping her family, but keeping her job she is not so sure of how this will all turn out. Jax broke her heart and just left town without looking back.
You can find this review and others at www.riverinaromantics.com
I love Jennifer Faye! Her books just make me feel all good and gooey. The Return of the Rebel is no different. Jax and Chloe have tons of obstacles and past hurts to overcome, but if anyone can do it it's them.
Jax Monroe was tired of being known as the town loser, so when he had a chance to get away he did. He not only escaped the town, he thrived. Finding out his business partner was embezzling wasn't fun, but Jax did the right thing by turning him in. But, now he's getting threats ordering him to not testify. Jax figures it would be best if he found a great hotel and casino in Vegas and just lie low until after the trial.
Chloe knows what the old saying means when they say you can't go home again. She moved to Las Vegas to escape the confines of what her family expected of her, but she had never thought it would tear her world apart. Her father died in a terrible accident and her mother blames her for it. Now, she gets a call saying the family ranch is in trouble and they need Chloe's help to bring the loan up to date. Her whole fate is in the hands of a high roller that's coming into town. The more he gambles and the happier he is the more money Chloe will make to send home to her family.
Chloe has had a crush on Jax for as long as she can remember, so when he turns out to be the high roller that's directly responsible for not only her helping her family, but keeping her job she is not so sure of how this will all turn out. Jax broke her heart and just left town without looking back.
You can find this review and others at www.riverinaromantics.com
July 17, 2014
4 stars This book was given to me for an honest review.
This is my first time reading this author, and I have to stay I love her happily ever after story. I like that it was more of a sister longing after a brothers best friend, but it was more than that. Cleo in essence was jaxs best frienfpd because they had secrets, but they were too young to realize. Cleo, even though she is a strong character sbe was still in turmoil so it made her a very likable herion. Jax the bad boy, wrong side od town made him spoon worthy and the drama that comes with him makes him even more appealing. It was nice to have a little suspense in the book, but I also thought there could be a little more angst to the book. The characters were good and liked that there was a storyline to it. I definetly liked that it was in las vegas, nice change of pace in the books that I read. The descriptions were good and you felt like that you could envision the places they were. The only thing with all honesty that I could have used was more background on the families and how everything came together when they were young. Not to say that you didn't get pieces of that story, I just wanted more.
I usually go into a synopsis, but really it is a great book to read. I really like this author a truly would like to read more from her. This is a quick read, so take time at the beach, on vacation, or just an afternoon and sit and read. This author is truly a great writer. Sent from my NOOK
This is my first time reading this author, and I have to stay I love her happily ever after story. I like that it was more of a sister longing after a brothers best friend, but it was more than that. Cleo in essence was jaxs best frienfpd because they had secrets, but they were too young to realize. Cleo, even though she is a strong character sbe was still in turmoil so it made her a very likable herion. Jax the bad boy, wrong side od town made him spoon worthy and the drama that comes with him makes him even more appealing. It was nice to have a little suspense in the book, but I also thought there could be a little more angst to the book. The characters were good and liked that there was a storyline to it. I definetly liked that it was in las vegas, nice change of pace in the books that I read. The descriptions were good and you felt like that you could envision the places they were. The only thing with all honesty that I could have used was more background on the families and how everything came together when they were young. Not to say that you didn't get pieces of that story, I just wanted more.
I usually go into a synopsis, but really it is a great book to read. I really like this author a truly would like to read more from her. This is a quick read, so take time at the beach, on vacation, or just an afternoon and sit and read. This author is truly a great writer. Sent from my NOOK
July 17, 2014
4.6 Star
Cleo & Jax grew up in a small town. When they grew up they both left town to pursue there dreams. Cleo is working in a casino and comes across Jax who is going by a different name.
Cleo is going to try and figure out what is going on with Jax. Jax is trying to hide part of himself and not be attracted to Cleo.
A few twists and a great romance will keep you turning the pages.
Jennifer writes a funny sweet romance that will have you falling for both the characters in the story.
Cleo & Jax grew up in a small town. When they grew up they both left town to pursue there dreams. Cleo is working in a casino and comes across Jax who is going by a different name.
Cleo is going to try and figure out what is going on with Jax. Jax is trying to hide part of himself and not be attracted to Cleo.
A few twists and a great romance will keep you turning the pages.
Jennifer writes a funny sweet romance that will have you falling for both the characters in the story.
June 29, 2014
4 stars
Sweet romance with a bit of angst. Great summer read; pacing is fast and it held my attention the entire book. Wish there had been more about the court case, instead of it taking place entirely in the background.
Sweet romance with a bit of angst. Great summer read; pacing is fast and it held my attention the entire book. Wish there had been more about the court case, instead of it taking place entirely in the background.
December 22, 2014
This was my first book by this author, and maybe even Harlequin. I thought it was a great book. It is a story about Cleo working with her childhood crush. It's a cute little love/romance with a little bit of drama.
October 8, 2014
Review to come
November 12, 2015
Jennifer Faye's 4th novel is steamy, a little suspenseful, and hard to put down. This is a fantastic summer read.
August 23, 2014
This is a story of unrequited love going back to Cleo being a young teen. When they meet up again the sparks fly. Jennifer Faye wrote a really good book that I recommend.
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