Sideswiped

Off the Map #2

by Lia Riley

One of those books I wish I could read for the first time again . . . It's beautiful, heart-wrenching, and something that everyone needs to read for themselves." -BooksbyMigs.com on Upside Down It was only meant to last the summer . . . Talia Stolfi has seen more than her share of loss in her twenty-one years. But then fate brought her Bran Lockhart, and her dark world was suddenly and spectacularly illuminated. So if being with Bran means leaving her colorless SoCal life for rugged and wild Australia, then that's what she'll do. But as much as Talia longs to give herself over completely to a new beginning, the fears of her past are still lurking in the shadows. Bran Lockhart knows that living without the beautiful girl who stole his heart will be torment, so he'll take whatever time with her he can. But even though she has packed up her life in California and is back in his arms for the time being, she can't stay forever. And the remaining time they have together is ticking by way too fast. Though fate seems determined to tear them apart, they won't give up without a fight-because while time may have limits, their love is infinite . . . Book 2 in the OFF THE MAP series

Genres: New Adult, Romance, Contemporary, Contemporary Romance, Mental Illness, College, Australia

384 pages, Kindle Edition

First published October 7, 2014

About the author

Lia Riley is a contemporary romance author. USA Today describes her as "refreshing" and RT Book Reviews calls her books "sizzling and heartfelt." She loves the beach, fresh flowers, foggy redwood forests and a perfect pour over coffee. She is 25% sarcastic, 54% optimistic, and 122% bad at math (good thing she writes happy endings for a living). She and her family live mostly in Northern California.

Visit her at www.liariley.com to learn more.

Reviews

[Lady Vigilante (Feifei) · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5-4 stars!



Earlier this year I was ecstatic that I found this NA author and book 1 in her Off the Map series was a smashing success for me. Everything I loved about the first book was present in this second one: witty dialogue, dry & sarcastic humor, and the return of the likable main characters. As much as I enjoyed most of this book, the ending left me unsatisfied and made me see these lovable characters in a whole different perspective (in a bad way). Nevertheless, I already feel guilty for giving this book lower than a 4 star rating because that’s how much I adore this author’s writing and her sense of humor. I honestly do encourage readers to check out this series despite the minor bumps I had because her characters and writing style is truly a breath of fresh air.

Sideswiped is book 2 in the Off the Map series and continues Bran and Talia’s story after the events of book 1. In the first book, the story was mainly about these two characters falling in love and establishing the groundwork for their relationship. This second book is about them after becoming a couple and the challenges they face from both of their families, school, work, and their own demons. With Talia suffering from extreme OCD and Bran’s past constantly haunting him, I was both super impressed and happy that they took on their obstacles together. There were brief moments of insecurity and jealousy, sure, but they were a team. You couldn’t find a couple more in sync than this one, who matched each other in heart and mind, body and soul.



I can’t delve into the plot much because it’ll spoil book 1 for those that haven’t read it yet but I can say that I laughed a lot while reading. There is an underlying sadness within the story but when pitted against these irresistible, charming, and hilarious characters it’s a perfect match. Unlike most NA characters, Talia and Bran have a radical way of thinking and I can’t begin to tell you how refreshing it is to read a book that’s a smart romance but at the same time is so hot and so emotional.

Up until the last 10% this book was at least a 4 star read for me. I was never bored while reading and the story held my attention but it wasn’t to the point where it was unputdownable. Still, a wonderful read. However, I wasn’t impressed with the last 10% as the author does what she did with book 1’s ending here too: Bran has a momentary lapse in judgment and makes a mistake, something that’s completely out of his character and even more out of the blue in the context of the book (no it’s not cheating). I’m starting to see that while the buildup and main part of the book are the author’s high points, the wrap up and conclusions are not. Only Talia’s fierce determination and unwavering belief that her relationship with Bran could take on anything and they could walk away intact kept me from tearing my hair out.



Going into this series you have to understand that both of these characters are extremely damaged – both with their own quirks – and have been burned repeatedly by their loved ones so while I thought it was ok for Bran to waver a bit and make mistakes, his actions in the last 10% still pissed me off.

This book ends on a high note – not exactly a cliffhanger but it leaves you anticipating the third and final book even more. The author’s writing and the humor present in this book is GOLD and that makes me want to round to 4 stars period, but the minor drama along with the anticlimactic ending makes me want to give it 3.5 stars...so 3.5-4 stars it is.

My review for Upside Down (book 1)

ARC provided by Forever (Grand Central Publishing) via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.

[Whitney Atkinson · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5 Stars

This series is just so much fun. I know it’s probably written for Americans and so there’s lots of Australian stereotypes in here, but the characters and storyline make it so addicting. This is probably the only book I could describe as strictly a fun, lighthearted book. Most NA books deal with rape or traumatizing pasts, and although this book talks about wealth, greed, and the main characters’ mental health issues, it’s still somehow just a really wholesome story that reads like a soap opera but less corny. Idk if that makes sense. It's such a good balance of dealing with serious issues such as the main character's OCD and lighthearted romance. I also adore that this is an actual chronological series rather than a companion series.

I just love these books because they’re some of the most candid books you’ll ever read. It talks about porn, waxing, vibrators, and all that good stuff that’s usually not ~romantic~ enough to put into normal new adult books. It's so sex positive without strictly being about doin the dirty. This book isn’t afraid to confront those topics, and it just adds that much more realness to it. I really enjoy how aware this series is. There’s gay characters (moreso in book one), the main characters are both really big advocates for environmentalism, and there’s conversations about feminism and fulfilling body image expectations that really rocks my world because it doesn’t exist so explicitly in most other NA books. The one downfall to this is that there’s a lot of competition between women where the MC puts down other girls for their appearances or attitudes. Even driven by jealousy, I think it was hypocritical and conflicted with how the MC calls herself a feminist.

My biggest complaint is that this book reads a little bit like a joke. Every other line of dialogue or inner monologue is the characters trying to be quirky and make a joke, and sometimes it gets a giggle out of me, but most of the time, it’s exhausting. There were points where I felt like this was either being written by a 14 year old fanfiction writer or a 50 year old woman trying to write what they think a 20 year old might joke about. It could be so forced I had to close the book and sigh, but I was always able to push past it. The characters have some really meaningful dialogue to make up for it, and somehow their love for each other doesn't come off as cheesy at all.

I really like this series! Alongside Easy by Tammara Webber, it's one of the only enjoyable new adult books I've read, which is saying a lot.

[Lia Riley]

Thank you so much for continuing with Talia and Bran's story. Book 2 is NOT intended as a stand alone so it's highly recommended you read UPSIDE DOWN first. Stay current with all the haps by signing up to the Lia Riley Author Newsletter: http://liariley.us7.list-manage.com/s... or joining my FaceBook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/ourso.... For fun, check out the OFF THE MAP Tumblr page: http://offthemapliariley.tumblr.com.

[Jacqueline's Reads · Rating 4 out of 5]

4 Meant for Each Other Stars

Sideswiped is the second book in the Off the Map series and continues Talia and Bran’s story. Sideswiped picks up where Upside Down leaves off. Talia is back in Australia and is now with Bran again. I really enjoyed Upside Down, but I felt like Bran needed to redeem himself a bit. I felt like he crosses the line a bit and it can be really frustrating.

This series does have some pull-your-hair moments, but I kind of like that. I know you do too. Sideswiped focuses on Talia and Bran as a couple. There are a lot of things they need to work through. First off, Talia continues to struggle with her OCD, but like Upside Down, it’s not as apparent and I kind of wonder if it will be more of a focal point in the future books. I hope so. Bran continues to work on his jealously issues. So the characters still struggle with inner conflicts.

I’ll fight for you… I’ll never stop fighting for you.

If given a choice, I choose you, Talia. I always choose you.

At the same time, Bran is working on his PHD, but Talia is seriously thinking of joining the Peace Corps. Bran doesn’t want a long distance relationship because of his past, but Talia truly feels like they can do it, but she doesn’t know if she wants to be away from him. I really like Talia. I feel like she put her best efforts out there and she gave a lot of herself to Bran.

I liked how Bran and Talia still have issues, but they work together in tackling the problems. I like how serious they are with each other and they both want to bring the relationship to another level. I don’t want to give everything away, but I was completely for this. I liked when it got serious and it moved in a positive direction.

Of course there has to be tension and just like Lia Riley fashion, we get angst! Bran does get a bit frustrating again, as his past issues kind of come back to haunt him and he does what he does best and self-sabotage. I wasn’t happy when he left Talia to drive herself home when she couldn’t drive a stick, yes that was a pull your hair out moment for me.

Like I said, the Off the Map series aren’t easy books to read, but there’s something about them, that makes it completely addictive. There isn’t really a cliffy on this one. You will be left very satisfied, but I am definitely continuing with the series.

I actually got to meet Lia Riley at a book signing. I told her I felt like I was in Australia after reading her books and she told me she lived there (which makes sense). She also told me she did her best to make it feel authentic. I told her I couldn’t tell if it was or wasn’t. I felt completely absorbed in that country. I wished I asked her about her OCD issues since some of it was written in Talia’s personality. Next signing!


An ARC was provided

Upside Down REVIEW | AMAZON
Sideswiped AMAZON

[TeriLyn · Rating 4 out of 5]

**Sideswiped generously provided by the publisher via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.**

4 Sideswiped Stars

Sideswiped, book two in Lia Riley’s Off the Map new adult series, gives us more Bran & Talia excitement – two people destined for greatness fighting to foster the beautiful connection created between them. The story is told from both Bran and Talia’s points of view and the author’s choice to include more of Bran really worked for me. I liked the inner dialogues of both characters. Lia Riley’s writing is as emotional as it is comedic. These two characters together really prove to the reader why we should believe in the beauty of their love. Their banter is witty and fun mixed in with the feelings of angst over their individual futures. This story navigates the pulse of their relationship during a time of confusion over what they each should do with their futures. It’s a question that tests all “new adults” and Riley’s examination of the issue while maintaining their love works really well.

Upside Down focused on the newness of the feelings Bran & Talia experience when it came to each other, Sideswiped takes the newness and makes it a raw and real exploration of the consuming feelings we get after we’ve fallen in love. I enjoyed the complexity of these two characters much more in book two than book one. Reading their fight to be in love and understand each other made the story so fierce. The nuances we learned about their pasts and how those events play out in the present also worked great. Lia Riley excited me to learn more about Bran & Talia. I was rooting for them after book one. I believe in them after book two – after the conflicts they endured. Especially Talia, her growth and the resolute conviction in her decisions is amazing. The ending perplexed me a bit. I’m okay with cliffhangers but something about this ending left me reeling. It’s only slight. Maybe I’m just that excited to read the conclusion to this trilogy. Discovering how Bran & Talia's journey concludes is something I look forward to, I know this author will deliver. If you’re looking for funny, well written new adult romance – Lia Riley is an author to try.

[Charline Focant · Rating 2 out of 5]

C’etait nul. En fait les deux tomes auraient pu n’en faire que un. Tout le livre les deux ne font que se plaindre qu’ils veulent donner un sens à leur vie, s’engager dans un organisme défenseurs des droits humains/ natures mais ne veulent pas se séparer géographiquement. Ils arrêtent pas de se dire qu’ils doivent être sincère l’un avec l’autre mais aucun des deux n’ose dise se qu’il ressent réellement. C’est barbant… le tome ne sert à rien. La deuxième étoile c’est vraiment car ça se lit hyper rapidement sinon pour l’histoire c’est 1…. Brandon fair appel à son père pour la caution de Talia, son père veut l’aider à développer une branche caritative de l’entreprise et de rapprocher de son fils et pourtant ca ne fait que quelque lignes dans le tome. Comme si on essaye de mettre un suspens là où il ne devrait pas en avoir, c’est mal fait. Il y a un tome 3, que je vais lire car je n’aime pas de laisser une série inachevée mais si c’est comme les deux premiers tomes, cela ne sera rien de transcendant. L’autrice aurait pu ne fair qu’un seul tome en évitant certaines redondances de scène.

[Amy Logg · Rating 5 out of 5]

Sideswiped is multi layered book full of humour, heartbreak and emotional depth.

REVIEW:
The story:
Sideswiped picks up right where we left off in Upside Down. Talia is getting ready to pack up her life and move to Tasmania for the remainder of her studies, to be with the man she love, Bran. But their time together appears to have an expiration date, with Talia's visa set to expire within only a few short months. Talia and Bran both have ideas of what will happen, and how they can stay together, but can they agree on a future that will keep them together, or will the world outside their bubble of happiness tear them apart forever?

This book gave me ALL THE FEELS and tore my damn heart out. All the things that these two have to deal with just seems so unfair; Talia's visa expiring, her horrible mother, her OCD, missing her sister, and then there's Bran struggling with his parents, and most importantly trying to hold onto their relationship. Everything that happened in this book, feels like it is a necessary step to what will hopefully become a Happily Ever After in the final book

The characters:
Talia has grown up so much since we first met her. She's focussed on a future that will make both her and Bran happy. It was painful to see her struggling with her OCD - but it was good to see her issues didn't just evaporate overnight. She works so hard to overcome them, and Bran is there to give her the encouragement & support when she needs it. She's growing into a strong confident young woman.

Bran still has a lot of growing up to do. He's running from his past, and trying so hard to be different from his father, and yet struggling to find a way to follow his dreams. He allows his past to affect how he views the world and it's affecting not only his career, but his relationship too.

The romance:
Sideswiped shows us how a real relationship takes hard work and most importantly trust. Bran is still so scared of loosing Talia that he clings onto her for dear life. He doesn't realise that by doing so, he's doing more harm than good. I was so impressed with the decisions Talia makes about their future - she remains strong and makes the difficult chooses that needed to be made for the good of their relationship. This book hurt my heart, but I know these two are destined for each other and will find a way to make their love last.

The Writing:
Lia has a way with words, the dialogue between Bran and Talia has me snort giggling and crying tears of laughter it was that comical! It was reminiscent of an episode of Gilmore Girls…only a little dirtier perhaps! But she has also woven so many other emotional layers into the story, it created and incredibly powerful read.

FINAL WORD:
Sideswiped is multi layered book full of humour, heartbreak and emotional depth. This is one incredible NA series you don't want to miss!

CONTENT:
Sexuality: medium / some sex scenes
Violence: mild
Language: medium / some f words
Drugs & alcohol: medium / main character get extremely drunk

More reviews at The Reading Realm

[Charlotte Black · Rating 5 out of 5]

I feel very blessed to have read this book. Bran and Talia are a tantalisingly perfect couple who face very real hurdles in their 22 to 24 year old lives that isn't normally covered in NA books of late. Firstly, if you haven't read Upside Down then I suggest you pick up a copy pronto.

The story carries on right after the first, with very little left between books. Talia moves on from her life in Santa Cruz. She has a few ideas of what she wants to do now that she's been left without a family home base and Australia plus living with Bran for the next four months is a natural choice. She loves Bran, the only guy, or person in general, who really gets her.

Bran has his own demons. He loves Talia and wants her with him for all time. But he won't do a long distance relationship and early on after her arrival back to Tasmania he realises he's got an uphill battle to keep her by his side. But Bran has his own ambitions in his periphery. Ambitions he's always dreamed of and is passionate about.

Talia and Bran are both realists. They want to live life with meaning. They want to serve a higher purpose. Talia still dreams of joining the Peace Corps and Bran still dreams of travelling to Antarctica for the Sea Alliance. They know their places will be rewarding to them but they also know that time is precious. And for the four months they have together, well, they have to make the most of it.

After living together for a short while Talia and Bran learn so much about each other. They both love the other fiercely, there's a give and take which they adapt to, there's an understanding. But those demons that lurk could be the big catalyst to their own downfall.

So, what to do. Do they succumb to shelving their dreams just to be together or do they compromise? Do the long distance relationship thing while they fulfill their dreams? This book takes you on their journey with surprising gender role reversals. Talia, who suffers from OCD, grows so much from the first book. She knows that her home is with Bran. When they are together she is calm. He helps her through her compulsive ways and puts otherwise complicated actions into perspective.

Who eventually becomes the giver and who becomes the taker of their relationship? The answer may surprise you.

A fantastic sequel in a compelling series, Sideswiped delves deeper into Bran and Talia's already complicated lives with heart-wrenching consequences :)

[Danielle · Rating 3 out of 5]

Oh how I wanted to love this book like I did the last one but I just can't say that. I'm honestly kind of disappointed with Sideswiped. It was so mellow-dramatic and I'm emotionally exhausted now that I've finished.

I loved Bran and Talia in the first book but in this one they both kind of annoyed me. They just kept having the same fight over and over again and by the end of the book I honestly didn't care what happened with them. I just wanted to shake them (especially Bran).

My biggest issue with Sideswiped was Bran. He was just so annoying and whiny in this book. He's constantly running from him problems or hitting something in rage. Gone was the witty and lovable character from Upside Down. I really wanted to shake him and tell him to open his eyes and realize what he was doing.

Honestly Talia didn't bug me all that much and I totally understand where she's coming from and give her props for some of the decisions she makes, though on the other hand, I also wished she would have been honest from the get go.

It just felt like this book was drawn out and a little slow at times. I just would have liked more closure with things and I do hope that we get them with the next book. I will say that Sideswiped definitely can't be read as a stand alone. If you aren't a fan of waiting for answers and like closure when you read I would definitely hold off reading this one until the next book is out. I kind of wished I waited.

[Megan Erickson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Bran and Talia continue to be one of my absolute favorite couples in New Adult. I love Lia's writing style and I want to roll around in her words and purr.

Updated:

I'm obsessed with this couple. They are in my head and my heart and they are REAL to me, dammit. Lia Riley took some amazing themes in this book and explored them. I think that giving things up for the person you love is romantic in theory, but how does that work long term? When the "honeymoon" wears off and the relationship becomes work, are you still going to respect those choices you made to give up your future and your dreams?

Is that other person worth it? Or do you have to take a leap of faith?

I loved Bran in this book. Lia Riley really came into him as a character. He's still broody and pissed off and hurt about things that have happened in the past and that fuels a lot of his decisions. Talia is there to remind him he's only 24, and there is a whole lotta life left.

Talia. Oh man, I have SO much respect for her after this book. She's smart and strong and she doesn't back down to Bran's ultimatum. I'm proud of her.

I cannot wait until the next book. I'm chomping at the bit for it. Lia Riley has created amazing characters in a vivid setting. I'm rooting for this couple all the way.

[Lustful Literature · Rating 3 out of 5]

** MEGAN'S 3.5 STAR REVIEW **

This is the second book in the Off The Map series, this review may contain facts learned in book one. **Please read Upside Down first.**

You have to believe.

Believe what?

That you are loveable.

That I will love you near, that I will love you far.

And so their life together starts….well sort of!

We pick up soon after the end of Upside Down. The moment I see Bran and Talia’s name I remember book 1 thoroughly. I remember their moments. Their connection. Their…juncture. Summer has come and now Talia meets back up with Bran for 4 months. Her visa then expires.

Talia’s out on her own, even though she’s with Bran. It’s her. Her life. Her real. Her struggle. She doesn’t want to depend on Bran other than his heart. She can do this. She has to do this. Bran on the other hand pushes his wants and hopes aside just to have her. Having her is a dream come true.

I am so elated that the same chemistry Talia and Brand shared in Upside Down has continued in Sideswiped. The comical (to me) conversations these two have are pure entertainment for me.

“So can I stroke the new do, or what?”
“Stroke me anywhere. Anytime.”

As known from Upside Down, Talia deals greatly with her OCD. At times they are on lock down and there are times when they spike and soar. Bran does a lot to help her episodes stay low. By just being him. But then those amp up times are where she must learn to deal. On her own. By her choice.

“When Bran is close, my brain quiets. The compulsive urges and distracting thoughts don’t seem to have enough room to take root.” – Talia

It is hard to not compare book 1 and 2 together. However, I really want to. Book 1 for me was perfect. I love the meeting. Those first. The beginning. Although, book 2 obliviously has some first it just wasn’t the same feel at the Upside Down for me. Sideswiped is their next step. The next step. The struggles are still there for Talia as she tries to figure out what she wants in life and for Bran as he tries to put his dream on hold because he wants Talia more. This gives them both fear. Will I be enough? Am I enough? When will the regrets start? Is it a regret now? When will I be better?

So, you read that and you think oh she (she being me) didn’t like this one- WRONG. I did. I do. I just like it differently. You still feel their commitment to one another. They still truly love each other- deeply. You feel that. You feel when one struggles, the other wants to be the end all for him/her. Sideswiped gives us the continual love story. With their doubts and struggles and their ability to work through them. But one thing remains true. They are it for each other. The good and the bad and the in-between. You feel it the moment they are reunited in the airport after the few months separation. You feel it when they talk. When they fight. When they make up.

“If you burn away my bones, my love for him would remain, tattooed in the air.”- Talia

“Ugh. I’m a hot mess. Why do you even like me? -Talia

“I don’t. I f****** love you.” -Bran

“She glows, and I put that light in there.” – Bran

Sideswiped is all about choices. Do you choose you? Will I regret us if I don’t choose me? What about life? Again, as I think I stated in my review of Upside Down, the same this one, the last little bit had me- HAD me. But overall, if I’m honest, at times I did skim. Many times both characters got on my nerves. One part, although I understood the need for it, just seem rushed over without dealing with the feelings. In the end, I didn’t hang on word for word but overall this story, their story was excellent and I am very happy with the ending and what decisions were made and followed through. I can���t wait for their final installment!

“Bran and I are two loose ends who found a way to tie ourselves together.”- Talia

[Emma · Rating 4 out of 5]

Firstly, I have to say I enjoyed the second book more than the first. The character development went from strength to strength :) The dual first person narrative captures the raw emotion beautifully enhanced by the ingenious use of metaphor within the narrative. Lia Riley uses such brilliant turn-of-phrase incorporating a fair amount of sarcasm, exactly my sort of story :)

I especially liked the way in which Lia captured the feeling of one door closing only for another to open. Initially the plot has a fairly pessimistic feel to it, each character struggles with decisions regarding their future as an individual and as a couple – the idea that fate is a bitch providing opportunities at the wrong time making for difficult decisions is a recurring theme throughout. Add in the fact Bran and Talia’s time together is on a deadline due to he visa status, and you can feel the pressure of their choices like a ticking time bomb.

I liked Bran far more in this book, I felt as if I got to know him much better as his barriers lowered due to his deeper relationship with Talia. His vulnerability and issues due to his upbringing endeared him further to me. The depth of emotion he felt within his thoughts added a further dimension to the story, acting as a contradiction to some of his actions. His absolute terror of being without Talia was overshadowed by his utter reluctance to consider a long distance relationship. I did feel as if the solution to the visa was a little predictable. However, Bran explanation to himself and Talia only served to fuel negativity between the couple.

Both Talia and Bran are so caught up in focusing on the future that it overshadows their enjoyment of the present.

I loved being inside Talia’s head, her quirky reaction to things made me smile and want to protect her all at the same time. I absolutely hated the way she was treated by Bran’s family and the subsequent effect it had on her psyche. Talia’s OCD is a constant battle for her, I felt as if it was a physical manifestation of her subconscious worries. Times of stress obviously increase it’s occurrence. Talia is far stronger than she realizes; recognizing her triggers she does remarkable well at managing her symptoms.

The outstanding feature in Side Swiped is the character development. While we were able to understand Bran a lot better, it is Talia’s growth within the story that makes it exceptional.

Be warned there is a humongous cliffhanger at the end of this book that will make you want to beg Lia to know what happens immediately ;)

[Paula Phillips · Rating 5 out of 5]

Ready for more Talia and Bran adventures ? This is one series that I have to say is in my Top Ten series I am loving for 2014. The first book ended with Talia and Bran's shaky goodbyes as she left to head home back to California. Now months later , Talia's family have finally sold their house and are going their separate ways - a much needed break as things haven't been the same since Talia's older sister Pippa died. Heading back to Australia on a four-month visa to finish her PhD and also an added bonus of Bran being there as he finishes his Honours. In Sideswiped, we read as the two of them try their relationship and it starts great but what happens when they both start to set their minds on the What if's down the track and things start to get rocky. Can Talia and Bran's relationship work for the better or will it start to break course when they are both offfered positions of a lifetime in their chosen fields ? Coming from broken homes and lives, this pair has alot to learn about each other and how to understand one another. In parts this book got me really annoyed and I just wanted to scream and shake both Talia and Bran and tell them to Wake Up and Smell the Coffee and Well Talk to each other. Overall though, this was another awesome book by Lia Riley and I am really looking forward to reading Book #3 in the Off the Map Series

[Kim · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is what I want from NA - undamaged, but still powerful and dramatic and above all else romantic and fun!

I love this series.

[NOTE: I may be slightly bias because of the Australian setting. I want to visit Tasmania again!]

4.5/5 stars

[Katie · Rating 4 out of 5]

It was a little slow for me at first. I liked the parts where it was just Talia and Bran and their relationship. I also liked the part with his parents, it wasn't much but would love a POV or early preview of Bran before Talia. I think he would have an interesting story!

[Jen · Rating 4 out of 5]

http://jenuinecupcakes.blogspot.com/2...

[Cindi · Rating 5 out of 5]

Love this series! Can't wait for book 3. Great unique characters with realistic situations they have to overcome. Plus it's like a fun trip to Australia where you get to see a lot of a hot surfer :)

[Miguel · Rating 5 out of 5]

Also posted at The Quirky Reader

INTRODUCTION.

This is not your typical love story. Well, at least for me.

It was about the end of the year when I first read Upside Down by Lia Riley. My expectations were very so-so. I approached this novel just like any New Adult novel I’ve read in the past. That’s not entirely a bad statement; it’s more of I’m already anticipating the usual tropes that come with the genre. That’s it. But what I got was so much more. In other words, I fell in love with the damn book.

Come this year and I decided to reread it to see if what I felt wasn’t a fluke. The good news is that it wasn’t, and the even better news is that I fell in love with the entire series after marathon reading it. Right here, right now, I’m telling you to go read this exciting and exhilarating series. You want to experience something truly beautiful and magical? Then look no further.

THE PLOT.

After her sister’s tragic accident, Natalia Stolfi’s life starts spiraling down. She has obsessive-compulsive disorder and her compulsions have intensified. She flunked out of school because of her constant health scares. So she travels to Australia not only to finish her graduate studies, but to also escape from Santa Cruz and its ghosts.

During her stay there, she meets the surly surfer Brandon Lockhart after an incident that involved koala mascots and crazy jujitsu moves. They constantly bicker with each other, which eventually leads to passionate love.

If you’re a bit wary about the length of this series, don’t worry. Over the course of three books, Lia Riley effectively narrates the ups and downs, and the good and the ugly of a relationship. Talia and Bran don’t necessarily spend the entire trilogy loving each other endlessly; they were met with inevitable life situations such as finding the perfect job opportunities and the downsides of a long-distance relationship. It was something I haven’t seen in a lot of NA novels lately, and I commend Riley for that.

THE CHARACTERS.

Let me tell you, if given the chance, I would fight for Talia and Bran to the bitter end. That’s how emotionally invested I was with them and their relationship.

Talia is hands down the bravest and most spirited heroine I have ever read in NA. She suffered a lot in the past because of her sister’s death and her disorder, but she did not let that get in the way of reaching her dreams. Though there are times she falls down, she always gets back up. And I think Bran’s description of her is perfect:

“How does she walk into the world every day, scared as hell, and not only survive, but also succeed, witty and cute as hell? All I do is sulk around with my black thoughts, replaying a life long lost. This cheeky American with the sad brown eyes has a warrior heart. And maybe it’s selfish, but I want to get as close to that, to her, as possible.”

Bran, on the other hand, is not your typical NA love interest. Before you give me any eye-rolls, let me explain why. When we meet Bran, he’s this surly and blunt character. In fact, I’m tempted to call him an unlikeable love interest for all the crap he did to Talia. But that’s all a façade because deep inside is this broken boy who longs for love but runs away from it, scared to be heartbroken once more. And I also think Talia’s description of him is perfect:

“There are beautiful places inside him, where laughter comes easy, where sweet words appear like surprise. But I also know his bitter valleys. The dark caves where hides his fears, his hurts, and his disillusionments.”

As for the supporting characters, they’re not in the spotlight for too; we are only offered glimpses of their lives and who knows maybe we’ll get their stories someday.

THE WRITING.

If I could describe Lia Riley’s style of writing, I would say offbeat. It’s unusual because it’s refreshingly intelligent and effortlessly witty. She doesn’t write one-dimensionally. Her words are full of depth and packed with a handful of truths from life. And her characters are really intelligent; Talia’s a history buff and Bran’s an advocate for the environment. There are also some really interesting questions raised throughout the series concerning humanity and ecological awareness.

And let me tell you how I just kept on highlighting passage after passage whilst reading. There were so many great lines said that I’m starting to think Riley’s secretly a poet or a philosopher. Ha.

CONCLUSION.

As I turned the last page of the last book, I felt this aching in my heart. But it was a sweet kind of ache; you’re hurt that it’s all over but at the same time glad that it is. Everything was wrapped up neatly and I couldn’t have asked for a more satisfying ending. But I was secretly expecting an epilogue though wherein Talia and Bran are married and have babies and I could go on and on.

All in all, the Off the Map series is a great testament that what is once lost will always be found........but really, go read this series. You won't regret it.

[Marie · Rating 5 out of 5]

This review was originally posted on my blog, Ramblings of a Daydreamer. You can find it, and many more reviews at the blog.

4.5 stars

Upside Down, the first book in the Off the Map series, was emotional, funny, sexy—basically everything New Adult should be. I loved Talia and Bran’s story, and while I was excited to see more of them in Sideswiped, I admit part of me was a bit wary. Sometimes when there’s a series about the same people, it can ruin the feelings you first had for them. You might get tired of the characters, or they go in a direction you don’t like, or any number of other things. So even though I loved these characters and part of me was like GIVE ME ALL THE TALIA AND BRAN, I went into Sideswiped cautiously. I think it’s a testament to Lia Riley’s writing that after reading Sideswiped I love these characters even more and wish I could read about them forever.

It was easy to get invested in Talia and Bran’s love story in Upside Down, and that feeling just grew in Sideswiped. Their relationship is far from perfect, but the love they have for each other is beautiful. The romantic things they say to each other had me alternately swooning and sighing wistfully. Then there were times when they infuriated me so much I wanted to knock their heads together…hard. In many cases, that might make me dislike the book itself, because the characters are just so freaking stupid you wonder how they can function, but that wasn’t the case with Sideswiped. Talia and Bran are so human, so real. They both have issues—together and separately—and they’re legitimate issues people and couples deal with. They make mistakes, they sometimes say things that make you cringe, but it’s REAL, and I love that.

Their struggles were very real and believable—wondering what to do after school; wanting to stay together, but not sure how to make it work; wanting to do things they’re passionate about, but worrying what it would mean for their relationship. I felt for them and wanted things to work out, but wondered how they could. Their situation seemed hopeless at times, and that really came across.

Now, let’s see, what else can I gush about? ;-) This book wasn’t all seriousness and angst though; there was a lot of humour—great banter, plus funny internal dialogue from both characters. I was happy to see more from Bran’s perspective this time around. Dual POV can sometimes be a disaster, but Riley pulled it off seamlessly.

Something else I love: how Riley doesn’t shy away from anything. She puts it all out there. In the first book there’s this part with a vibrator that shocked me because you rarely read about stuff like that. It was funny and sexy and honest. In Sideswiped there’s a scene in a waxing parlour that had me just about rolling. My mouth was hanging open and I ended up in a complete giggle fit. Riley took scenarios that could be totally shocking and possibly uncomfortable and made them hilarious and relatable. I love the overall messages about pleasure and sex. I also love how realistic the sex scenes are. They’re ridiculously hot, but there are small things you don’t often see in sex scenes that make them real, and make them things you can relate to. They’re not just wham-bam-thank-you-ma’am sex scenes, they’re sensual and just SO FREAKING HOT. I appreciated that Talia became more adventurous sexually and enjoyed exploring and knew it was okay to have a healthy, active sex life. There need to be more books like this, where the sex is a natural part of the story and isn’t thrown in as an afterthought or to reach a quota of sexytimes.

Lia Riley is officially one of my favourite voices in New Adult. The world needs more books like this—honest, real, raw, relatable, funny, sexy, and memorable. I was emotionally invested in Sideswiped from beginning to end. It made me laugh, made my heart ache, inspired me, and made me believe that true love really is possible. Even though I’m going to be sad to say goodbye to Talia and Bran, I’m eager to read the conclusion of their story in Inside Out, and then to see what Lia Riley comes up with after that.

[Tina · Rating 5 out of 5]

Lia Riley has done it again. This second installment in the Off the Map series gives us what we want and leaves us begging for more. At the end of UPSIDE DOWN, Talia and Bran reconcile and decide to give the connection between them a fair chance to grow. At the beginning of SIDESWIPED, Talia is moving back to finish up her schooling and start a new life with Bran in Tasmania. As it is with everything Talia and Bran face, it is not easy. The honeymoon phase doesn’t last long enough and they are faced with real decisions and struggles that are unique to their lives and situations. When you bring two broken people together in a relationship, there are bound to be issues and heartache along the way. This book delivers an emotional storyline that will leave you begging for more (in a very good way).
Talia and Bran are a couple of well written and complicated characters. Their personalities are big, they are flawed, emotional and authentic. Talia is such a complex woman. She wants to move on with her life, but her past has had such a strong grip on her mind. She struggles daily with her fear and mental issues and wants nothing more than to be free from the pain and blame of what happened to her sister. She wants to start over in a fresh and real way. This story shows you the way in which she embraces the freedom she desires and how Bran is a key component to her healing. She grows even more in this story, facing her demons head on, because she wants to live in the freedom on the other side. Bran knows her secrets; he knows her pain. He is able to pull her out of the recesses of her mind and help her embrace life completely. Bran is a passionate and somewhat volatile character. He is not violent with Talia but his emotions are explosive. He feels so much and when he denies those emotions for weeks on end, they come bursting forth when an difficult issues arise. Two broken people on the path of healing from their lives and past is a potential recipe for disaster and heartache. Talia and Bran bring out the good and the frustrating in each other. They embrace what they have but never stop looking for more in life together.
This book is an incredible emotional roller coaster. Lia demands a response from the reader and you have no choice but to feel what they feel and walk through their relationship together. Throughout this book, we learn more about Bran and Talia, causing us to become even more invested in their lives. You want to see their relationship work, but two such different people are bound to clash and that is what happens. Their passion is hot. They are seemingly opposites in every way, yet they are perfect for each other, the compliment and sanity the other desperately needs. They have dreams and passions that burn bright in the minds, ones which allow them to embrace who they are and who they want to become. Talia has grown so much and I loved watching her make tough decisions and open her heart to Bran.
I don’t want to give anything specific away, but this book will leave your breathless and wanting more! If you haven’t read this series, then grab your copy of UPSIDE DOWN and dive in today! You will love Talia and fall for Bran, both laughing and shaking your head at their passionate personalities! They are an incredibly flawed couple that you cannot ignore! They will draw you into their story and never let you go. The second installment in the OFF THE MAP series is a full of emotional twists and turns. It is hot, sweet, passionate and real. It gives you everything you want and leaves you ready for more! I cannot wait to read the third book of this series and see what Lia has in store for Talia and Bran!

[Christina · Rating 5 out of 5]

Complimentary copy provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.

Talia and Bran are back again in the second installment of Lia Riley’s Off the Map series. Talia has said goodbye to California and is headed to her new home in Australia to be with her boyfriend, Bran. Their reunion is everything they hoped it would be, but reality soon smacks them in the face when time flies and the expiration of Talia’s visa into the country is set to expire. When Bran comes up with an idea to keep her in the country, Talia begins to question just what it is she is looking for in her relationship with Bran, and whether or not she is willing to put her heart out on the line, or if she should sacrifice her happiness for the greater good.

When the opportunity of a lifetime arises, Brandon immediately dismisses it, knowing that he would be leaving Talia for an entire year. Bran isn’t interested in a long distance relationship and is unwilling to be apart from Talia, especially after their previous break up. But can Talia live with the guilt of Bran giving up his dream? Talia has dreams of her own, how does Bran fit into the picture?

One hilarious footrace later, we square off in the produce aisle at Hill Street Grocer.

“Wait a hot second.”

She grimaces at the bottom of the basket.

“Zucchini is a hard limit for me.”
“What the fuck does that mean?”
“It’s a BDSM term—means a mutually agreed upon prohibited activity.”

I can’t hold back a snort. Jesus, the shit that comes out her mouth sometimes.

“And when exactly were you ever into BDSM?”
“I read a certain book about a Mr. Grey like everyone else on the planet.”

She plucks out the zucchini.

“I don’t read shite.”

I playfully wrestle the vegetable from her grasp.

“Maybe you should.”

Her coy over-the-shoulder grin slays me.

“Could pick up a trick or two.”
“Bloody hell.”

The banter between Bran and Talia is a welcome diversion to the pressing matter of Talia’s immigration status. They are faced with very adult decisions, yet they are still just kids themselves. The easy back and forth between the two reminds us that they are indeed young, yet the decisions that they make in the present very much affect their futures, whether they are together, or apart. Ms. Riley does an excellent job of exploiting all of these conflicting emotions to give further insight into the characters.

We had stood at an abyss. Talia offered to build a bridge but instead I jumped into the blackness. I fell and fell until I realized that with this girl, failure’s never an option. At last I bottomed out and discovered the one thing I never expected.

Hope.

Once again Ms. Riley is able to paint a vivid picture not only with the characters but with the setting as well. The characters further evolve and the layers of their relationship become more difficult. We get a better understanding of how their pasts shaped who they are today and how they have changed in order to avoid the becoming like those they despise. Will their love outlast the obstacles thrown them or will they finally succumb to the pressures facing them?

Sideswiped is the second book in the series so you will definitely want to have read Upside Down first, as there is a lot of background info in that book that will set you up for a better understanding of Sideswiped. I am excited for the final book in the series, Inside Out, with a release date in December 2014. It will be interesting to see if Talia and Bran are able to keep their love alive despite their distance.

[Jillyn · Rating 5 out of 5]

Lia Riley gave me permission to make my review this simple and self explanatory: soughgosdjglndg GO READ IT NOW.

However, for the sake of professionalism and, you know, a review that's actually useful, I will try to collect my myriad of feelings long enough to formulate a review consisting of complete sentences and thoughts. Bear with me.

Sideswiped picks up where Upside Down leaves off, continuing the complicated love story that is Bran and Talia. Proving that love can overcome obstacles, this story takes us back to Australia, where Talia has a temporary visa so that she can continue her school work. Like the first book, this book is duel POV and it completely works. Both voices are distinct and truly capture the character. I was never left wondering who was talking, Riley made it very clear with her writing. This book is a sequel, but there's a quick recap of book one so that if you haven't read the first part, you'll at least have a sense of what's going on. (But, you should totally read Upside Down anyway. It's amazing too.)

I love them. I love getting into Talia's head and seeing the gears turn about her OCD and what she wants out of life. Conversely, I adore Bran. I'm smitten. I love the way he thinks/talks about his love for Talia and the fact that he wants to make a difference in the world. The fact that he's gorgeous and Australian is just a nice little perk. I love that they're both flawed- Talia with her OCD, Bran with his romantic past to name a few reasons- but they don't dwell on it. When they start to feel sorry for themselves, the other one boots them in the ass. They're best when they're together, and I think that's absolutely darling.

Much like Upside Down, this book runs you through a gauntlet of feelings. I felt happy when they were together and in a romantic state of bliss. I laughed at their stupid jokes. I wanted to punch Bran when he made some very, very poor choices. I felt my heart sink when Talia had to make difficult choices of her own. But above everything, I was motivated to keep reading because I was cheering Bran and Talia (Bralia?) on, and I needed to know they would be okay. I read this in one sitting, and my girlfriend received random, rambling texts about "Bran" and "Australia" and "Vajazzling".

I was distraught when I was out of pages. I wouldn't go quite so far as to call it a cliff hanger.... But if you want complete closure and affirmation that life's going to be okay, you may be left a skosh disappointed. Apparently, I'm a bookish masochist because I am okay with this ending, and I will sit here impatiently waiting for the next book in the series.

I recommend this to any lovers of New Adult contemporary romance, any suckers for Australian accents, or anyone who likes a bit of humor in their romance. Thanks so much to Netgalley & Forever for my copy in exchange for my honest review. This review can also be found on my blog, Bitches n Prose.

[Shirley Frances · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5 stars

Sideswiped picks up right where Upside Down left off with Talia back in the States and getting ready to return to Australia to move in with Bran.

The honeymoon is set to continue with Talia and Bran living together and working on their careers, but real life is a bit more complicated and worries, insecurities and ghosts from the past threaten to tear Talia and Bran apart.

As with the first installment in the series, I loved this story because of the range in emotions the author brought to the page. However, I was a bit disappointed that some of Talia and Bran's camaraderie--that thing that made Upside Down such an enjoyable read for me--was lacking.

I understand that this was more of an exploration of how hard it is to make a relationship work. It dealt with the ups and down of a relationship and how real life can get in the middle of it. So yes, I understood that the funny moments and the banter would be kept to a minimum. But for me, that easy camaraderie, the bickering and the easy way Talia and Bran related to each other was what made their relationship so strong. They could deal with the emotional and the obstacles thrown their way and still keep their easy-going rapport.

That said, I still enjoyed this story. Lia Riley didn't hold any punches in bringing the emotions to the page or in challenging Talia and Bran's relationship from all sides.

This time around Talia struggles with the uncertainty of her future in terms of her career and how her decision will affect her relationship with Bran. Thankfully, she has matured enough to recognize that she must follow her own path and has grown confident that what she and Bran share is more than a passing emotion. But her struggle is made more complicated as she tries to get a handle on her disorder and when her biggest obstacle becomes the man she loves.

Bran is stubborn and refuses to compromise. His fear of abandonment, coupled with his previous experience in a relationship, make him reluctant to accept his dream position. A man used to going for what he wants, he struggles with being with Talia completely or pursuing his dream assignment.

As the story progresses, Their love continues to grow but the obstacles thrown their way take their toll on their will to make their relationship work. Talia and Bran confront their demons, withdraw from one another but ultimately decide to go for what they truly want.

Sideswiped is the second book in the Off the Map series and recounts Talia and Bran's the journey of trying to find their place in the world--as individuals and as a couple. Although it can be read as a stand alone, I wouldn't recommend it. This story would not have been as satisfying or heart-warming if I couldn't have experienced how these two came to be together.

All in all, a wonderful story of how two individuals find themselves while still holding on to one another.

[Mikki D · Rating 5 out of 5]

When I read the first installment in the Off the Map Series, Upside Down, I was blown away! I could not believe that it was Lia Riley's debut novel! It left me with a nice little book hangover. I absolutely fell in love with Talia and Bran! When I read the first book, I knew that their journey was far from over.

Talia and Bran never expected to fall in love. One summer was all it took to change their life forever. A new beginning is what she was looking for, and Talia is ready to start a new journey next to Bran. Once she's back in Australia and in Bran's arms, the everyday life catches up fast and things start to get messy. Will Talia and Bran's love be strong enough to survive or will the decisions that have been made will tear them apart?

Addictive characters, fantastic writing style and an overall memorable reading escape! The banter between Talia and Bran is AMAZING!!! Sideswiped was everything I was expecting it to be!

What I loved about this book is that Talia and Bran's relationship grew so much! I can remember how they were at the beginning of the first installment. When I look back, I can't help but cheer for them for all that they have accomplished. Not all life journeys are the same. Sometimes a book will leave me happy by being a standalone novel, and other times I feel like a book really needs more than one installment to leave me satisfied. This series is a perfect example! When I finished reading the first installment it left me in a happy place, but I could not wait to embark on a new journey with Talia and Bran. I wanted to see how they dealt with demons of the past that were still lurking around.

Talia surprise me in this book. I loved how she set her foot down and made a decision that would changer both their lives. Bran was against her decision and he made her understand how he felt. I have to admit that I love Bran, but I wanted to kick his butt more than once while reading Sideswiped! lol!! I understood his POV, but I felt like he did not give Talia a chance to explain the WHY of her life changing decision. He only thought of the consequences of her decision. Deep down I knew that Bran was going to see the reason why Talia made that decision, and he did!

The love that these two have for each other is strong, passionate and heartwarming! They are an incredible couple, and I can't wait to read the last part of their unbelievable journey together! I'm happy that I won't have to wait too long to get my hands on Inside Out, December is just around the corner! :)

I give, Sideswiped, by Lia Riley 4.5 real, thrilling, powerful, romantic stars!

[1-Click Addict Support Group · Rating 5 out of 5]

Oh, to be back in Australia with Bran and Talia!! When I finished Upside Down, all I could think about was when I'd get more of this amazing book couple. I'm relieved, excited and just so damn happy the wait was a) not long and b) is now finally over.

Natalia Stolfi has packed up her American life and headed Down Under so she can be with the man that centers her and lights up her world, Brandon Lockhart.

Bran can't wait to have Talia back by his side where he knows she belongs. Being without his girl was hard, painful and not something he wants to repeat...ever.

But Talia's time in Australia is limited. The future beckons and it's coming too fast. She needs to find a way to hold on to Bran and their love before it's too late.

Oh. My. God. I loved this book. Here's a word I've never used before - despite its popularity - FLOVED. I floved Sideswiped. There, that should illustrate the mad, crazy feels I have for this exceptional book.

Sideswiped picks up a couple of months after the end of Upside Down and jumps straight back into the story. Having Talia and Bran back was like welcoming old friends. Their chemistry, their witty back-and-forth, their insecurities and challenges blanketed me with a warm, fuzzy feeling. One I held onto, despite the ups-and-downs.

Lia Riley has written a remarkable story that I want to crawl inside and take up residence in - and not just because it's set in my home country. It's oh-so-easy to enjoy this couple. Yes, couple. Despite my tendency to fall for male characters, in this case I loved them both equally. Because surly-but-loving Bran would be nothing without his quirky girl, Talia. They're perfect for each other, and for me as a reader. I want to be friends with them. Let's make that happen somehow.

Everything, from the references to places and events I remember from growing up Down Under, to the roller-coaster ending, makes me want even more from Bran, Talia, and this author. The ending teases the third book in this series and once again I'm asking myself, how long do I have to wait??

Sideswiped is the second book in the Off The Map series. Upside Down is also available and you'd be doing yourself a disservice if you didn't read it first. ~ Beth, 5 stars. (I'd give it all the stars in the Southern Cross if it was possible.)

[Stories Unfolded (aka Danielle Olson) · Rating 5 out of 5]

Sideswiped is about finding out who you are and what you want to become. It’s also about making difficult choices and not letting the world influence your decisions. It’s about love and challenges that couples face.

Lia Riley’s second book in the Off The Map Series didn’t disappoint. It continued the story of Bran and Talia, a young couple trying to figure out who they are and what they want to do, while trying to make their relationship work.

When you’re young it’s all about figuring out what to do with your life, but when you throw love into the mix it gets complicated. Then it’s a balancing act of making that person happy and following your dreams. That’s exactly what was going on with Bran and Talia during the second book.

At the end of Upside Down, the first book in the series, Bran flies from Australia to California to win Talia back and ask her to move in with her. Then Sideswiped begins when Talia is traveling back to Australia – to live with Bran and finish her thesis project at the University of Tasmania.

They seemed to be doing fine at the beginning, but as Talia thought about what she would do next, their world together started to change. Bran had the opportunity to work with the Sea Alliance, a marine conservation organization, and Talia secretly applied for the Peace Corps. While Bran was so desperate to keep things the way they were, Talia was wondering if they could make things work and still be able to follow their dreams.

I really enjoyed Sideswiped because the relationship elements were so relatable. It’s hard to be in love with someone when you want to follow your dreams. I had to let a relationship go because we wanted completely different things. I was going places that he wasn’t willing to go and the more we fought, the more I realized we weren’t right for each other. I’m happy that it turned out the way it did because I wouldn’t be where I am today, but that doesn’t mean it can’t work out for others. There are people who can make it work and have the strength to keep fighting – like Bran and Talia.

So far I love the series and I can’t wait for the final book to come out. Thank you to Lia Riley and Forever (Grand Central Publishing) for allowing me to read a copy of this book for an honest review.

[Julie · Rating 2 out of 5]

Check out my other reviews at Little Miss Bookmark!

Have you ever seen The Sandlot? Well, there's a part in the movie where this kid named Squints says the word 'forever' and he makes it drag out ... for-ev-er ... foooorrreeeeevvvvverrrrr. Kinda like that. Well, that word kept popping into my head while I was reading this because it was taking me for-ev-er to get through even a page. Geez.

I absolutely adored the first book in this series (this is the second). I gave it 5 stars and I was positively chomping at the bit to dive into this one. Instead of getting the great story I was imagining, it felt like someone smacked my hand and then hit me across the face with my Kindle. This was not the story that I had envisioned to follow up Upside Down.

I don't even know what to say ... the magic was just gone. I didn't feel any of the spark that I had with the previous book. I found it almost boring. There was a bit of time between the first novel and this one and quite a few things had happened ... I wish that those weren't kept out of the novels. I think that what transpired were important events that if you're going to expand on the first book like that, you really need to include. I would have been interested to see how all of that stuff played out and watched the relationship between Talia and Bran grow. And then after that, I just totally checked out. I don't know if it is because I was upset with the events that we missed or if it was because the book just read as a bit of a snooze-fest.

I was just disappointed. Very disappointed. I almost wish I could go back and not have started this at all because it took away some of the good feelings I had about the previous book ... was it really that good or was I reading it with rose colored glasses? We'll never know. But I'm definitely one of the few that didn't enjoy this one. There are tons of great reviews out there for it and I hope that it works out better for you than it did for me. It's just too bad that it didn't go in a different direction. Sideswiped was definitely 'Off the Map' for me.

[Celeste · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5 stars. I loved it! Full review for the tour.

This book was originally reviewed on The Book Hookup.

4.5 I’m so in love with Bran stars You guys, I love this series. L-O-V-E !

I am not sure exactly what makes it so special to me, but I think it’s the chemistry between Bran and Talia. I’m talking total chemistry on all levels, from the kisses to smexy times, to the he just gets me and she just read my brain feeling that the two of them create. It truly feels like the rest of the world melts away when they are together, and I’m telling you…it was magic and made me feel good all over.

This story picks up almost immediately where book 1 ended, so while it’s established that the two are in love, we now get to see them figure out their love, see how deep it runs, and understand that their love is strong and they will be together forever. It was a real story of a real relationship getting through the initial stages of being in love, you know, that time when couples have to make it work, and I loved watching them come out on top.

Let’s get to the real reason this series is amazing. Bran. Bran is hot, cocky, full of himself, and brooding. I think Talia described him best when she called him a beautiful, angry boy. That sums him up almost entirely. He is indeed loveable although it takes him a long time to believe it too. I loved watching the transformation. And, not only does he realize he is worthy, but he loves Talia as much as she loves him. And when I say he loves her, I ‘m telling you he really loves her. With his whole being and it’s pretty much insanely romantic and I’m swooning as I type this because it was all consuming for him. *takes a breath* I’m telling you my friends, Ms. Riley made magic when she created Bran Lockhart. That is all.

The ending was smooth, it was paced perfectly with the rest of the story and I loved it all. I can’t wait to see the final chapter of their journey as I know Bran and Talia own a piece of my heart too.

Would I rec it? A million times yes!

[Kristen Johnson · Rating 4 out of 5]

My Review: (Spoiler Free - I hope!)

Sideswiped is the second book in the Off the Map Series by Lia Riley, which follow the story of Talia and Bran. In this book, which picks up close to where Upside down ended, Talia is picking up the pieces of her life and trying to let go and move on. She's doing this by moving to Australia of course.

In typical, real world fashion, everything doesn’t go off as planned and while both Bran and Talia are excited and anxious for this reunion, its not everything they hoped it would be. Bran and Talia are still fighting personal ghosts. This shows through in many ways, but most especially in the little fights amongst themselves. It gets to a point, where you know choices have to be made and changes may have to come.

I love Bran’s gifts in the beginning of the story, he definitely tries to be as “perfect” a boyfriend as he can be. I feel like he’s very very afraid of screwing up and/or losing Talia and it can be detrimental to focus too hard on that instead of just being yourself and letting a relationship flow.

Talia can be hilarious at points and sometimes I hurt for her as well. She definitely changes throughout this book, seems to become stronger within. At the start of the book, you can tell she’s hurting over her family situation and she’s trying to play off that hurt by focusing on other stressors in her life, IE her short term Visa.

Though as compelling as Upside down, I felt that Sideswiped had a few different elements to it, but the whole story just pulls you in, dragging you along as you try to assimilate all of the details and gain a full understanding of each and every aspect. I finished the book in one sitting and am ready for book three to be on my kindle RIGHT NOW!

[Tara · Rating 3 out of 5]

At the end of Upside Down, the first book in the Off the Map series, I was left with a sense of… why not just write a fabulous epilogue and end it here? What is there left to tell. What I didn’t realize was, in a sense we were going to go back to the beginning.

In Side Swiped, we spent more time with Talia and Bran as a couple. When she leaves California this time, on a temporary visa, they are constantly on the run from the impending end date on the visa. What will they do? How will they be able to stay together?

We also spend more time with each of them individually and I have to say for me, I really enjoyed Bran more in this book than I did in Upside Down. In the first book, I really had trouble connecting with both characters, and up until the end of this book, he really started to win me over in this book. We get to learn more about him and his family and what he wants out of life. We also learn what he will do when faced with competing priorities.

On the other hand, I still feel a lack of connection to Talia. I’m starting to feel like it just might be me though. Being in a faraway place with a time limit and no answers has triggered a lot of her issues from before Bran…not that OCD ever goes away but in the first book he was the one that soothed her and made her symptoms not as bad. In this book, they are back and stronger than ever.

Sometimes this happens to me in the second book though. It’s hard to live up to the first and it is a pathway to the last…

Then I read the excerpt to the next book at the end of this one, and that might just be what saved the day for me. The third book looks like it might be the best one yet.