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2B Trilogy #2
As Long As You Love Me
Most people dream about getting out of Sharon, Nebraska, but after three years away, Lauren Barrett is coming home. She has her reasons—missing her family, losing her college scholarship. But then there's the reason Lauren can't admit to anyone: Rob Conrad, her best friend's older brother.
Football prowess and jaw-dropping good looks made Rob a star in high school. Out in the real world, his job and his relationships are going nowhere. He's the guy who women love and leave, not the one who makes them think of forever—until Lauren comes back to town, bringing old feelings and new dreams with her.
Because the only thing more important than figuring out where you truly belong is finding the person you were meant to be with.
Football prowess and jaw-dropping good looks made Rob a star in high school. Out in the real world, his job and his relationships are going nowhere. He's the guy who women love and leave, not the one who makes them think of forever—until Lauren comes back to town, bringing old feelings and new dreams with her.
Because the only thing more important than figuring out where you truly belong is finding the person you were meant to be with.
332 pages, Paperback
First published September 30, 2014
61 people are currently reading
2807 people want to read
About the author
Ann Aguirre
82 books7,068 followersNew York Times and USA Today bestselling author Ann Aguirre has been a clown, a clerk, a savior of stray kittens, and a voice actress, not necessarily in that order. She grew up in a yellow house across from a cornfield, but now she lives in Mexico with her family. She writes all kinds of genre fiction, but she has an eternal soft spot for a happily ever after.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 304 reviews
September 30, 2014
Second book in Ann Aguirre new adult series was everything I wanted it to be and so much better from the previous one. Characters, writing, story - there is everything you need for a good new adult novel.
As Long As You Love Me ( yes, it is another Backstreet Boys song) focuses on Lauren, one of the characters from the I Want It That Way. After failing all her classes and losing a scholarship, she returns back home - but the thing is Lauren is not the kind of girl we thought she was. And that is the main reason why I liked her so much. She felt more real and less like a character from a book. Reading about Rob, our leading man of the story, in the book summary, you have already build up certain expectations, right? Well, cross them all. Yes, he is gorgeous, he was a high school jock, but Ann Aguirre decided to avoid whole stereotype about perfect bad boy - including ever famous bad boy falls for good girl and changes his ways plot. Nope! You will be surprised. I know that I was.
I will have to stop here or else there is danger of me spoiling the book for you, but let me just tell you this. I think that even hard core new adult haters will like As Long As You Love Me. It hits the shelves on September 30th, so mark it in your calendar and let me know what you thought about it.
***Copy of this book was provided by publisher, Harlequin HQN, in exchange for an honest review. Thank you!***
As Long As You Love Me ( yes, it is another Backstreet Boys song) focuses on Lauren, one of the characters from the I Want It That Way. After failing all her classes and losing a scholarship, she returns back home - but the thing is Lauren is not the kind of girl we thought she was. And that is the main reason why I liked her so much. She felt more real and less like a character from a book. Reading about Rob, our leading man of the story, in the book summary, you have already build up certain expectations, right? Well, cross them all. Yes, he is gorgeous, he was a high school jock, but Ann Aguirre decided to avoid whole stereotype about perfect bad boy - including ever famous bad boy falls for good girl and changes his ways plot. Nope! You will be surprised. I know that I was.
I will have to stop here or else there is danger of me spoiling the book for you, but let me just tell you this. I think that even hard core new adult haters will like As Long As You Love Me. It hits the shelves on September 30th, so mark it in your calendar and let me know what you thought about it.
***Copy of this book was provided by publisher, Harlequin HQN, in exchange for an honest review. Thank you!***
May 4, 2018
As Long As You Love Me es el segundo libro de la trilogia 2B escrita por la autora Ann Aguirre y narra la historia de Lauren y Rob ( amiga y hermano de Nadia, la protagonista del primer libro ).
En ocasiones como esta me alegro muchisimo de ser tan cabezota como dice mi madre, ya que si no fuera tan obstinada no le hubiera dado una oportunidad a esta novela y eso hubiera sido un grave error, puesto que As Long As You Love Me es una historia absolutamente fantastica!
La forma tan superficial en la que conocemos a Lauren en el primer libro hizo que yo me hiciera una idea suya equivocada, pense que seria una protagonista frivola, inmadura y poco profunda pero la verdad es que es muuuy distinta a como yo la imaginaba.
La historia de Rob y Lauren me sorprendio muy gratamente, inicie la lectura con bajas expectativas, principalmente porque el libro anterior no fue todo lo que esperaba y pense que esta segunda parte continuaria en la misma linea pero para nada es asi, esta novela es conmovedora y hermosa.
Con esta segunda parte la autora consiguio meterme en su bolsillo, a partir de ahora no dejare pasar la oportunidad de leer mas libros suyos y espero poder disfrutar pronto de la tercera y ultima novela de esta trilogia, la cual narrara la historia de Max.
En conclusion, As Long As You Love Me es una historia sencilla con algunos toques muy poco habituales, pero lo que realmente me conquisto mientras leia fue la personalidad de la pareja protagonista, no son para nada tipicos ( sobretodo Rob ).
Si quieres leer algo tierno, romantico y no tan cliche, este es tu libro, te aseguro que te dejara con una sonrisa enorme al terminarlo.
P.D : Rob acaba de entrar a mi lista de BookBoyfriends, es simplemente perfecto, el es un buen ejemplo de que a veces los chicos buenos son irresistibles!
4 Estrellas!!
Read
August 24, 2015Smart, sexy, quick read. Review to come.
August 31, 2014
***Review posted on The Eater of Books! blog***
As Long As You Love Me by Ann Aguirre
Book Two of the 2B trilogy
Publisher: Harlequin HQN
Publication Date: September 30, 2014
Rating: 4 stars
Source: eARC from NetGalley
***Warning: this book contains mature subject matter, and is for the eyes of mature readers***
Summary (from Goodreads):
Most people dream about getting out of Sharon, Nebraska, but after three years away, Lauren Barrett is coming home. She has her reasons—missing her family, losing her college scholarship. But then there's the reason Lauren can't admit to anyone: Rob Conrad, her best friend's older brother.
Football prowess and jaw-dropping good looks made Rob a star in high school. Out in the real world, his job and his relationships are going nowhere. He's the guy who women love and leave, not the one who makes them think of forever—until Lauren comes back to town, bringing old feelings and new dreams with her.
Because the only thing more important than figuring out where you truly belong is finding the person you were meant to be with.
What I Liked:
It's possible that I liked this one more than I liked the first book. I really liked the first book! But this one - this one seemed more like "my style". Not quite, but closer than the first one. Rob is not what I expected, to be honest. I'm not sure what I expected, but certainly not this sweet, kind man.
This book starts when Lauren moves out of Mount Albion, which isn't at the end of book one. It's somewhere in the second half. Honestly, I forgot about this, so when Lauren was talking about Nadia breaking up with Ty in the very beginning of this book, I was like whaaaaa?!!? But then I realized that this occurred in the second half of book one. Makes sense.
Anyway. So. Lauren is back home. Her mom is dating some guy named Stuart (totally okay with Lauren), Rob is still dating Avery (hopeless feelings), and Lauren is struggling to find a job, so she can buy a car, pay for her online classes... Lauren meets Rob in the grocery store. They start hanging out, fixing a house that he bought to flip. Rob breaks up with Avery (you'll have to read to see why) - but Lauren would never announce her feelings to Rob. Unless Rob noticed her?
Like I said before, I wasn't sure what to expect from Rob. I didn't like that he was with Avery in book one - but I understand him now. Rob is such a sweetheart. He's four years older than Nadia and Lauren, and he's got confidence issues. No one thinks he's good enough, smart enough, but he's hot enough. He's good-looking enough for anything. They don't see his talent with making furniture and remodeling houses and construction projects. Rob is super hot, super physical, super sweet, and super honest. He's every girl's dream, without seeming cliche.
I like Lauren. She has her quirks (crowds, drinking to cope, etc.), but she's highly organized, detailed-oriented, tech-savvy. She's a genius - but since she failed out of college (on purpose though) and came home, everyone thinks she's knocked up or stupid (or both). But she works hard to get a job, take classes, etc. Lauren is a good person, and she's been completely in love with Rob since they were teens. Good thing he's been in love with her for quite some time - not as long as she had been. but long enough.
One of the things that I like more about this book than the last book is how fast the romance/relationship gets started. Lauren and Rob already know each other, but sparks start to fly from when they meet in the grocery when Lauren first comes home. Something specific happens, and Rob breaks up with Avery. Then it's all Lauren and Rob. It's not insta-love by any means, but I like that the buildup for them to state their feelings and get together didn't take long. But then, the intimacy... that took a while. I approve though - it was fun to watch the two of them get sexually frustrated!
I love the romance. The relationship is built beautifully - you can see the trust and love crafted into the romance. It's not just physical with these two, it's not just about them being friends since they were young... all of that is great, but they also love each other, and I like how this is developed.
The conflict/climax is well-crafted as well! It's not drama-filled and angst-ridden and cliche. Okay, there is heartbreak and angst, but the time apart is very much needed and well-spent. Distance definitely made the hearts grow fonder, in this case.
I like the diversity of situations in which Aguirre places her characters. It's not just college females who got abused or raped or hurt somehow. It's not just college males who beat people up in the past or drink a lot. There are twenty-somethings, for one, with little children. There are twenty-somethings with real jobs and real lives. There are twenty-somethings with controlling, ignorant, cold parents. There are twenty-somethings with a single parent who is dating. Not every college student's life (or New Adult's life) is cookie-cutter perfect with a side of brokenness or hurt or rape or whatever. I like that!
Basically, I enjoyed this book! I love that Aguirre can create imperfect characters without them being broken, beautiful romances without unnecessary drama, and really great New Adult contemporary romance novels without me vomiting in disgust! That's actually a high compliment. Heh.
What I Did Not Like:
I can't think of anything at the moment - but this one is getting a solid four stars!
Would I Recommend It:
Yes! I love Aguirre's books, but I'm really enjoying her New Adult books. Coming from the New Adult who hates New Adult books, this is a big deal. So. Read book one, at the very least! But I also really liked book two, possibly more than book one.
Rating:
4 stars. So far so good! I'm not Courtney's biggest fan (thinking of book three), and I'm not sure about how I feel about her ending up with Max... but I like Max a lot!
As Long As You Love Me by Ann Aguirre
Book Two of the 2B trilogy
Publisher: Harlequin HQN
Publication Date: September 30, 2014
Rating: 4 stars
Source: eARC from NetGalley
***Warning: this book contains mature subject matter, and is for the eyes of mature readers***
Summary (from Goodreads):
Most people dream about getting out of Sharon, Nebraska, but after three years away, Lauren Barrett is coming home. She has her reasons—missing her family, losing her college scholarship. But then there's the reason Lauren can't admit to anyone: Rob Conrad, her best friend's older brother.
Football prowess and jaw-dropping good looks made Rob a star in high school. Out in the real world, his job and his relationships are going nowhere. He's the guy who women love and leave, not the one who makes them think of forever—until Lauren comes back to town, bringing old feelings and new dreams with her.
Because the only thing more important than figuring out where you truly belong is finding the person you were meant to be with.
What I Liked:
It's possible that I liked this one more than I liked the first book. I really liked the first book! But this one - this one seemed more like "my style". Not quite, but closer than the first one. Rob is not what I expected, to be honest. I'm not sure what I expected, but certainly not this sweet, kind man.
This book starts when Lauren moves out of Mount Albion, which isn't at the end of book one. It's somewhere in the second half. Honestly, I forgot about this, so when Lauren was talking about Nadia breaking up with Ty in the very beginning of this book, I was like whaaaaa?!!? But then I realized that this occurred in the second half of book one. Makes sense.
Anyway. So. Lauren is back home. Her mom is dating some guy named Stuart (totally okay with Lauren), Rob is still dating Avery (hopeless feelings), and Lauren is struggling to find a job, so she can buy a car, pay for her online classes... Lauren meets Rob in the grocery store. They start hanging out, fixing a house that he bought to flip. Rob breaks up with Avery (you'll have to read to see why) - but Lauren would never announce her feelings to Rob. Unless Rob noticed her?
Like I said before, I wasn't sure what to expect from Rob. I didn't like that he was with Avery in book one - but I understand him now. Rob is such a sweetheart. He's four years older than Nadia and Lauren, and he's got confidence issues. No one thinks he's good enough, smart enough, but he's hot enough. He's good-looking enough for anything. They don't see his talent with making furniture and remodeling houses and construction projects. Rob is super hot, super physical, super sweet, and super honest. He's every girl's dream, without seeming cliche.
I like Lauren. She has her quirks (crowds, drinking to cope, etc.), but she's highly organized, detailed-oriented, tech-savvy. She's a genius - but since she failed out of college (on purpose though) and came home, everyone thinks she's knocked up or stupid (or both). But she works hard to get a job, take classes, etc. Lauren is a good person, and she's been completely in love with Rob since they were teens. Good thing he's been in love with her for quite some time - not as long as she had been. but long enough.
One of the things that I like more about this book than the last book is how fast the romance/relationship gets started. Lauren and Rob already know each other, but sparks start to fly from when they meet in the grocery when Lauren first comes home. Something specific happens, and Rob breaks up with Avery. Then it's all Lauren and Rob. It's not insta-love by any means, but I like that the buildup for them to state their feelings and get together didn't take long. But then, the intimacy... that took a while. I approve though - it was fun to watch the two of them get sexually frustrated!
I love the romance. The relationship is built beautifully - you can see the trust and love crafted into the romance. It's not just physical with these two, it's not just about them being friends since they were young... all of that is great, but they also love each other, and I like how this is developed.
The conflict/climax is well-crafted as well! It's not drama-filled and angst-ridden and cliche. Okay, there is heartbreak and angst, but the time apart is very much needed and well-spent. Distance definitely made the hearts grow fonder, in this case.
I like the diversity of situations in which Aguirre places her characters. It's not just college females who got abused or raped or hurt somehow. It's not just college males who beat people up in the past or drink a lot. There are twenty-somethings, for one, with little children. There are twenty-somethings with real jobs and real lives. There are twenty-somethings with controlling, ignorant, cold parents. There are twenty-somethings with a single parent who is dating. Not every college student's life (or New Adult's life) is cookie-cutter perfect with a side of brokenness or hurt or rape or whatever. I like that!
Basically, I enjoyed this book! I love that Aguirre can create imperfect characters without them being broken, beautiful romances without unnecessary drama, and really great New Adult contemporary romance novels without me vomiting in disgust! That's actually a high compliment. Heh.
What I Did Not Like:
I can't think of anything at the moment - but this one is getting a solid four stars!
Would I Recommend It:
Yes! I love Aguirre's books, but I'm really enjoying her New Adult books. Coming from the New Adult who hates New Adult books, this is a big deal. So. Read book one, at the very least! But I also really liked book two, possibly more than book one.
Rating:
4 stars. So far so good! I'm not Courtney's biggest fan (thinking of book three), and I'm not sure about how I feel about her ending up with Max... but I like Max a lot!
August 29, 2015
28/8 - What is it with modern romances being told from the first person POV?! This is the third romance I've read this month told in the first person, and I would say generally, I'm not a fan. One was okay, one was 'not offensive' and I would describe this one as not good (not the whole book, specifically the first person POV). I did not like Lauren or her internal monologue. She frequently reminds us that she's been in love with Rob since before she knew what her feelings meant, but I don't feel any of that emotion in her 'voice'. She says the words, but to me she comes across like a wooden actor simply repeating the words on the script. Same goes for Rob, but it's possibly worse because of the Lauren POV. We hear what she says and thinks but obviously we can't hear what Rob thinks. We can only hear what he says and have to take it for granted that he's speaking from the heart and telling the truth. And since he's not particularly demonstrative I just didn't feel the love from him either. There is no visible love in this book.
The only thing I did like about this book was Lauren's relationship with Rob's ex-girlfriend, Avery. I liked the way they were able to (mostly) avoid the usual female rivals relationship and actually become friends. But that was only a small part of the book and it certainly couldn't make up for a lacklustre depiction of the hero and heroine's love for each other. I would probably 'impulse borrow' either of the other two books in the series (pick them up without realising that I'd read a book from the series and not enjoyed it), but I definitely won't be searching them out or putting them on hold.
The only thing I did like about this book was Lauren's relationship with Rob's ex-girlfriend, Avery. I liked the way they were able to (mostly) avoid the usual female rivals relationship and actually become friends. But that was only a small part of the book and it certainly couldn't make up for a lacklustre depiction of the hero and heroine's love for each other. I would probably 'impulse borrow' either of the other two books in the series (pick them up without realising that I'd read a book from the series and not enjoyed it), but I definitely won't be searching them out or putting them on hold.
January 18, 2021
'¿Vale la pena esperar?'
'Siempre. Mientras me ames… y sepa que volverás a mí'.
•Mi opinión puede contener Spoilers
•Esta destinada a ser un descargo personal no para que alguien más lea pero si lo haces y te ofende, me disculpo porque sé lo que es que te guste un libro y otros lo critiquen
As long as you love me de Anne Aguirre Trilogía 2B libro 2
Argumento:
La mayoría de las personas sueñan con salir de Sharon, Nebraska, pero
después de tres años lejos, Lauren Barrett regresa a casa. Tiene sus motivos: la pérdida de su familia, de su beca universitaria. Pero además existe el motivo que Lauren no puede admitirle a nadie: Rob Conrad, el hermano mayor de su mejor amiga.
La destreza en el fútbol y la buena apariencia hicieron a Rob una estrella en la secundaria. En el mundo real, su trabajo y sus relaciones no van a ninguna parte. Es el hombre al que las mujeres aman y abandonan, no el que las hace pensar en un para siempre... hasta que Lauren vuelve a la ciudad, trayendo viejos sentimientos y nuevos sueños con ella.
Porque lo único más importante que averiguar dónde pertenece realmente uno es encontrar a la persona con la que estábamos destinados.
Mí humilde opinión:
As long as you love me es un libro que cuenta una historia de amor sencilla y dulce con algo de angustia. No hay mucho más que eso.
A diferencia del libro anterior, se centra en los personajes principales.
Rob (hermano de Nadia, libro 1) y Lauren (mejor amiga de Nadia) son personajes realistas con vidas realistas. Me gusta esto porque no se teje una fantasía en su historia, es creíble, muestra lo malo y bueno en la vida de ambos.
Este libro habla de las inseguridades, miedos, sueños, la familia, amistad y el amor. Sobre dos personas que a pesar de conocerse de toda la vida, se juntan mucho después, se enamoran y sanan juntos.
Me gustó y disfruté de la contrucción lenta del romance y el desarrollo de cada uno de los personajes.
El aspecto inseguro de Rob me sorprendió de buena manera porque no leo a muchos protagonistas masculinos frágiles. Me gustó ver su crecimiento hasta llegar a ser un hombre con seguridad en sí mismo. Era un tipo bueno, protector, considerando y... Un constructor musculoso, con jeans, camisa de franela y cinturón de herramientas? Sexy!
Me encantó Lauren, no me pasó en su aparición en el primer libro pero sentí curiosidad por lo que guardaba a Nadia.
Creo que ella es una persona nada egoísta y lo prueba a lo largo de la historia empezando por cómo ayuda a Rob y luego las amistades que hace como por ejemplo Avery.
Lauren me pareció increíble porque estaba dispuesta a dejar ir a Rob para que consiga su sueño. Eso la hizo una heroína fuerte a pesar de todos los problemas que ella misma arrastraba con su anciedad social. Al final se da cuenta que necesita ayuda y lo resuelve.
Rob y Lauren juntos me gustaron, tenían una fuerte conexión y buena química, no por las nubes pero buena. Miraban por el otro y como pareja estuvo bueno, se veían unidos.
Los personajes secundarios también me gustaron, sobre todo el grupo de amigas nuevas que hizo Lauren después de llegar a su casa.
Esta vez sí valió la pena la angustia para ver su final feliz. No me había pasado con Nadia y Ty. Lauren y Rob hicieron un círculo perfecto hasta alcanzar su final feliz.
El tercer libro es el de Max y con lo que pasó entre él y Lauren en el primer libro, quiero que él también consiga su HEA.
Want to read
July 16, 2014did anyone else sing this title out loud? And I'm not talking about Justin Bieber.
January 5, 2020
Lauren is back in her hometown, escaping the crippling social anxiety which caused college failure, where she runs into Rob, local high school football star turned local carpenter. This is a lovely story of an unrequited, second chance romance of two ordinary people. It is incredibly well written, although I agree with other reviewers who point out the poor pacing of having the biggest main conflict and resolution come so late in the story. This book makes me truly glad an author I typically associate with kick-ass female urban fantasy and scifi decided to branch out to new adult romance. Note: This is the second book in a trilogy. I haven't read book 1 but had no trouble following this story without the background.
November 24, 2014
Four Stars: A heartfelt, slow burning romance with lots of feels.
Lauren is relieved to be back home in Sharon, Nebraska. Even though she knows the town is whispering about the fact that she dropped out of school and returned to this small, podunk town, Lauren could care less. Yes, she lost her scholarship, drank too much and almost screwed up her life, but for once in her life, Lauren feels comfortable. She has a plan to enroll in online college courses and get a job. What isn't a part of her plan is to start crushing on her long time, childhood crush Rob, who just so happens to be her best friend Nadia's big brother. When Rob enlists Lauren to help with his house remodeling project, their attraction becomes undeniable. Can Lauren go home and find love?
What I Liked:
*This is the way more NA books should be. This is a beautiful, heartfelt romance that is slow moving and lovely. There are so many great feel good moments in this one, and not a lot of drama. I loved that this one was realistic. If you want a fabulous NA on the light and fluffy side, this is the one to read.
*The romance was just perfect. It is born between a long time attraction between two life long friends. Lauren crushed on Rob for years as he was the gorgeous, high school star football player, but the problem was he was her best friend's older brother so Rob saw Lauren as a kid sister. As the two come back together, they reestablish their friendship and then the sparks fly. I loved how slow moving this one was. There was no insta love or hurried sex scenes, it takes its sweet time to build. It was just what I was hoping for. I especially enjoyed when the two revealed how they felt about it each other through the years. So adorable.
*Lauren and Rob are fabulous characters. I liked that they both battled with some self esteem issues, but together they reach for their goals and become their best selves. Rob is a true gentleman, kind and caring. I liked how he always took into consideration other people's feelings, and how he did his best to do the right thing when it came to his ex girlfriend. I also appreciated that even though he was the popular athlete in high school, that he struggled with his confidence. It isn't until Lauren comes along that he starts to believe himself. Lauren has her own issues. She suffers from social anxiety and depression. I liked seeing how she worked through her problems. I also loved how even though she dropped out of college, she didn't slink home in shame. Instead she sets new goals and fashions a plan for her life. Both of these characters are likable and easy to relate to.
*One of the highlights for me was when Lauren decides to friend Rob's ex girlfriend, the town mean girl. Even though the friendship gets off to a rocky start (they have a food tussle in the convenience store), the two girls end up becoming close friends, to the point where they are able to share deep dark secrets. I loved how mature Lauren was and how she reached out.
*This is book two in the series, but it can be read as a stand alone since it is a companion novel. You get a complete story with no loose ends. I love that about this series.
And The Not So Much:
*I appreciated that this book for the most part steered away from the overly dramatic tropes that we are so familiar with in NA, however, there was one sticky point for me and that was the fact that just when the romance takes off and everything is going great, there is this big dramatic stumble that irritated me. I hated that the characters decided to be stupid and act immaturely. There was a similar situation in the first book, and I am not a fan of throwing in one last hurdle toward the end.
*I was expecting a little more from Nadia considering that she practically abandoned Lauren while they were at college and that she had never fully reached out and repaired the damage in her relationship with Rob. Unfortunately, Nadia only makes brief appearances. She does fix things with Lauren, but I wanted more from her when it comes to Rob.
*I thought there would be a bit more focus on Nadia and Rob's father and his illness. It is mentioned, but I was hoping for more detail. Even though I was happy that Rob reached for his dream, I was left wondering how he could abandon his parents like that.
As Long As You Love Me was a sweet, feel good romance that avoids the drama and angst associated with NA. This book has realistic characters tackling real life problems. I loved the romance, the story and the friendships. At the end, I had a big smile on my face. If you are in the mood for a terrific romance, grab this one.
Favorite Quotations:
"Sometimes I hated my brain and would happily trade if for a beard of bees."
I received a copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own and I was not compensated for this review.
Posted@Rainy Day Ramblings.
Lauren is relieved to be back home in Sharon, Nebraska. Even though she knows the town is whispering about the fact that she dropped out of school and returned to this small, podunk town, Lauren could care less. Yes, she lost her scholarship, drank too much and almost screwed up her life, but for once in her life, Lauren feels comfortable. She has a plan to enroll in online college courses and get a job. What isn't a part of her plan is to start crushing on her long time, childhood crush Rob, who just so happens to be her best friend Nadia's big brother. When Rob enlists Lauren to help with his house remodeling project, their attraction becomes undeniable. Can Lauren go home and find love?
What I Liked:
*This is the way more NA books should be. This is a beautiful, heartfelt romance that is slow moving and lovely. There are so many great feel good moments in this one, and not a lot of drama. I loved that this one was realistic. If you want a fabulous NA on the light and fluffy side, this is the one to read.
*The romance was just perfect. It is born between a long time attraction between two life long friends. Lauren crushed on Rob for years as he was the gorgeous, high school star football player, but the problem was he was her best friend's older brother so Rob saw Lauren as a kid sister. As the two come back together, they reestablish their friendship and then the sparks fly. I loved how slow moving this one was. There was no insta love or hurried sex scenes, it takes its sweet time to build. It was just what I was hoping for. I especially enjoyed when the two revealed how they felt about it each other through the years. So adorable.
*Lauren and Rob are fabulous characters. I liked that they both battled with some self esteem issues, but together they reach for their goals and become their best selves. Rob is a true gentleman, kind and caring. I liked how he always took into consideration other people's feelings, and how he did his best to do the right thing when it came to his ex girlfriend. I also appreciated that even though he was the popular athlete in high school, that he struggled with his confidence. It isn't until Lauren comes along that he starts to believe himself. Lauren has her own issues. She suffers from social anxiety and depression. I liked seeing how she worked through her problems. I also loved how even though she dropped out of college, she didn't slink home in shame. Instead she sets new goals and fashions a plan for her life. Both of these characters are likable and easy to relate to.
*One of the highlights for me was when Lauren decides to friend Rob's ex girlfriend, the town mean girl. Even though the friendship gets off to a rocky start (they have a food tussle in the convenience store), the two girls end up becoming close friends, to the point where they are able to share deep dark secrets. I loved how mature Lauren was and how she reached out.
*This is book two in the series, but it can be read as a stand alone since it is a companion novel. You get a complete story with no loose ends. I love that about this series.
And The Not So Much:
*I appreciated that this book for the most part steered away from the overly dramatic tropes that we are so familiar with in NA, however, there was one sticky point for me and that was the fact that just when the romance takes off and everything is going great, there is this big dramatic stumble that irritated me. I hated that the characters decided to be stupid and act immaturely. There was a similar situation in the first book, and I am not a fan of throwing in one last hurdle toward the end.
*I was expecting a little more from Nadia considering that she practically abandoned Lauren while they were at college and that she had never fully reached out and repaired the damage in her relationship with Rob. Unfortunately, Nadia only makes brief appearances. She does fix things with Lauren, but I wanted more from her when it comes to Rob.
*I thought there would be a bit more focus on Nadia and Rob's father and his illness. It is mentioned, but I was hoping for more detail. Even though I was happy that Rob reached for his dream, I was left wondering how he could abandon his parents like that.
As Long As You Love Me was a sweet, feel good romance that avoids the drama and angst associated with NA. This book has realistic characters tackling real life problems. I loved the romance, the story and the friendships. At the end, I had a big smile on my face. If you are in the mood for a terrific romance, grab this one.
Favorite Quotations:
"Sometimes I hated my brain and would happily trade if for a beard of bees."
I received a copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own and I was not compensated for this review.
Posted@Rainy Day Ramblings.
November 10, 2014
3.5-4 stars
New Adult is certainly looking up. Or maybe I've been more willing to give it a chance? Whatever the case, there have been several NA books added to my favorites list this year, and I'm optimistic about some of the directions it's heading in. Sure, I've been a fan of heavier, even angsty, books in the past - Easy by Tammara Webber and The Sea of Tranquility by Katja Millay come immediately to mind - but I'm excited that lighter ones are becoming more popular as well. I fell in love with the first book in Cora Carmack's new series, All Lined Up, and I was beyond happy to read a romance with so little relationship drama. I'm also thrilled that popular YA authors are giving the genre a try - Jennifer Armentrout of course has been doing it for a while, but also Sarah Alderson, Veronica Rossi, now Ann Aguirre, and Liz Czucas next year. I love it. A sexier, more grown up version of YA sounds exactly like my cup of tea - it's just the actual books haven't been very appealing... until recently.
Read the rest of my review at Love at First Page.
New Adult is certainly looking up. Or maybe I've been more willing to give it a chance? Whatever the case, there have been several NA books added to my favorites list this year, and I'm optimistic about some of the directions it's heading in. Sure, I've been a fan of heavier, even angsty, books in the past - Easy by Tammara Webber and The Sea of Tranquility by Katja Millay come immediately to mind - but I'm excited that lighter ones are becoming more popular as well. I fell in love with the first book in Cora Carmack's new series, All Lined Up, and I was beyond happy to read a romance with so little relationship drama. I'm also thrilled that popular YA authors are giving the genre a try - Jennifer Armentrout of course has been doing it for a while, but also Sarah Alderson, Veronica Rossi, now Ann Aguirre, and Liz Czucas next year. I love it. A sexier, more grown up version of YA sounds exactly like my cup of tea - it's just the actual books haven't been very appealing... until recently.
Read the rest of my review at Love at First Page.
September 10, 2014
I enjoyed this novel considerably less than its predecessor, likely because it read merely as a love story opposed to a tale belonging to the New Adult genre. Moreover, I found the conflict--while certainly important--to emerge too late in the story line. We spend more than 75% of the novel believing our characters are working through certain issues only to uncover an entire back story much later. Yet, that being said, As Long As You Love Me is certainly a worthwhile read. Much like its predecessor, it still fails to break new ground in the New Adult genre but its strong female friendships, gentle romance, and tight-knit family bonds make it a tale to enjoy, if not quite remember.
October 31, 2017
This series reads like candy. When I finished I Want It That Way, I had two questions: what happened to Lauren add what happened to Max? Luckily, the author seemed to know we would want more and thus the second book focuses on Lauren.
Having purposely flunked out of college, Lauren returns home labeled a failure. And after alienating her best friend, she really has no one to talk to. Enter her best friends brother, Rob, who Lauren has been crushing on since a teen. Now all grown up, Lauren starts to wonder if Rob will ever see her as more than his little sisters friend.
I think I liked this book a little more than the first. Definitely in the beginning I was full on loving it. I liked watching Rob and Lauren get to know each other as adults and seeing how they helped each other - Rob helped Lauren feel more like herself and Lauren helped Rob see value in his life. Rob was a great character. Having only glimpsed him in the first book, we get to see just how broken of a character he is here. Living in the shadow of his perfect sister has really taken a toll on him and I really just wanted to smack his parents for not seeing how talented Rob was. Honestly, that was one thing that was missing - his parents having that 'oh shit' moment. Rob really deserved that.
This book also shed light on social anxiety. Now, I don't suffer from this but know people who do. But seeing it from the outside is different than living with it so I can't say for sure how accurate the portrayal was. But Lauren was believable as struggling. It was nice to see someone trying to better themselves and seek out help. There's such a stigma around getting help and here we have not one but two characters who benefit greatly from therapy.
I'm enjoying these books and will be heading to the next one to see how Max is doing.
Having purposely flunked out of college, Lauren returns home labeled a failure. And after alienating her best friend, she really has no one to talk to. Enter her best friends brother, Rob, who Lauren has been crushing on since a teen. Now all grown up, Lauren starts to wonder if Rob will ever see her as more than his little sisters friend.
I think I liked this book a little more than the first. Definitely in the beginning I was full on loving it. I liked watching Rob and Lauren get to know each other as adults and seeing how they helped each other - Rob helped Lauren feel more like herself and Lauren helped Rob see value in his life. Rob was a great character. Having only glimpsed him in the first book, we get to see just how broken of a character he is here. Living in the shadow of his perfect sister has really taken a toll on him and I really just wanted to smack his parents for not seeing how talented Rob was. Honestly, that was one thing that was missing - his parents having that 'oh shit' moment. Rob really deserved that.
This book also shed light on social anxiety. Now, I don't suffer from this but know people who do. But seeing it from the outside is different than living with it so I can't say for sure how accurate the portrayal was. But Lauren was believable as struggling. It was nice to see someone trying to better themselves and seek out help. There's such a stigma around getting help and here we have not one but two characters who benefit greatly from therapy.
I'm enjoying these books and will be heading to the next one to see how Max is doing.
October 7, 2014
We first met Lauren as best friend and roommate to Angus, Max and finally Nadia in I Want It That Way. Whilst she wanted to grow up, go to college and go to university with Nadia, she knew she was just following the footsteps of her best friend, it wasn't her path to take. Clearly Lauren wasn't herself, so she took to parties and alcohol to cover the rejections and failures she was getting through uni, she knew this was effecting not only herself but also those of her roommates, and distancing from her one true friend. So she decided to go back, to Sharon, Nebraska, to back home, where not only she will find a place to stay but also place to share it with. This is where As Long As You Love Me continues. This was what I loved about this sequel, Aguirre completely transports you to where you left off and often highlights moments from the previous novel. Only this time we see new character relationships forming into the 2B family.
Lauren focuses on forming a new life or maybe just rekindling her old life, with old relationships and new. Krista, a friend from way back in high school has also returned to Sharon only to be pregnant and her boyfriend who is out fighting for his country. Instantly they started where they left off, so life in Sharon doesn't seem so bad after all. She also befriends Rob's ex girlfriend who has way more in common than they realise and become really close friends.
However, she also runs into Rob, Nadia's very hot big brother in the superstore. Only, Lauren has a huge crush on him for like...forever. However, Rob currently has a girlfriend and even before then he has always treated Lauren like a second sister. But that doesn't mean they can be friends now can it!? Lauren is very much a different character that we might have seen IWITW, we saw a totally unrecognisable self than we see in this novel. What I love about Lauren is that she is totally honest, bold, sweet girl who just wants to find a path for herself. She suffers from her anxiety problems, but she tries to take control of them rather than they controlled her in IWITW.
Rob isn't your typical NA male character, he far from the badass, overly confident persona that we usually see, who just swoon into the female character's lead. However, Rob has confidence, issues, he has always believed that he wasn't the brains of the family and that he shouldn't bother with his life. His mum and dad tended to resolve around Nadia for that. But Rob is talented, he's a hard worker but he just doesn't have inspiration or enthusiasm to build on or move up of his own life. So when Lauren waltzes back into his life, he finds someone to latch onto, to support him in his future but also his happiness. You instantly fall on love with his character, his heart is laid out for you too see and all you want to do is grab it for yourself, he's kind, honest and literally has a heart of gold. In my book he has hit all the right buttons...oh and including his obvious hotness *blushes*
Aguirre's companion novel in the 2B trilogy is far more emotional, realistic and heart-warming to read. It makes your toes curl, a dreamy sigh escapes you and a bright smile as an after effect. Like I've said before, NA truly is changing and I think this woman really has highlighted that more through her primary and secondary characters, building quite an flawlessly written New Adult novel. If your not usually into NA or haven't read this series, I really urge you too and please let me know of your thoughts.
Rating - 5
You can find this review on my blog
Lauren focuses on forming a new life or maybe just rekindling her old life, with old relationships and new. Krista, a friend from way back in high school has also returned to Sharon only to be pregnant and her boyfriend who is out fighting for his country. Instantly they started where they left off, so life in Sharon doesn't seem so bad after all. She also befriends Rob's ex girlfriend who has way more in common than they realise and become really close friends.
However, she also runs into Rob, Nadia's very hot big brother in the superstore. Only, Lauren has a huge crush on him for like...forever. However, Rob currently has a girlfriend and even before then he has always treated Lauren like a second sister. But that doesn't mean they can be friends now can it!? Lauren is very much a different character that we might have seen IWITW, we saw a totally unrecognisable self than we see in this novel. What I love about Lauren is that she is totally honest, bold, sweet girl who just wants to find a path for herself. She suffers from her anxiety problems, but she tries to take control of them rather than they controlled her in IWITW.
Rob isn't your typical NA male character, he far from the badass, overly confident persona that we usually see, who just swoon into the female character's lead. However, Rob has confidence, issues, he has always believed that he wasn't the brains of the family and that he shouldn't bother with his life. His mum and dad tended to resolve around Nadia for that. But Rob is talented, he's a hard worker but he just doesn't have inspiration or enthusiasm to build on or move up of his own life. So when Lauren waltzes back into his life, he finds someone to latch onto, to support him in his future but also his happiness. You instantly fall on love with his character, his heart is laid out for you too see and all you want to do is grab it for yourself, he's kind, honest and literally has a heart of gold. In my book he has hit all the right buttons...oh and including his obvious hotness *blushes*
Aguirre's companion novel in the 2B trilogy is far more emotional, realistic and heart-warming to read. It makes your toes curl, a dreamy sigh escapes you and a bright smile as an after effect. Like I've said before, NA truly is changing and I think this woman really has highlighted that more through her primary and secondary characters, building quite an flawlessly written New Adult novel. If your not usually into NA or haven't read this series, I really urge you too and please let me know of your thoughts.
Rating - 5
You can find this review on my blog
October 4, 2014
ARC REVIEW:
I am not sure this genre features Ann Aguirre’s best writing. For me, Ann Aguirre creates the most amazing worlds – creative, edgy, and dark. I’m currently reading another one of her books, Havoc, and I’m enthralled. So I’m sorry to say that I don’t feel the same way about this story. I miss her imagination and tight-wire storytelling. The irony is that I read many more romance and New Adult books than science fiction. Still, I liked a lot of things about the book, but I didn’t feel compelled by the story.
I like the premise. Going against the norm, small-town girl Lauren doesn’t want to escape from the small town, she wants to go home. Back at home she reconnects with her best-friend’s brother, a man she has had a mad crush on since she was a kid.
Every wonder what happened to the BMOC (Big Man On Campus) after high school? Both his family and the community saddle Rob with the reputation as the dumb jock. Is he doomed to relive the Glory Days for the rest of his life with no expectations to break out of that stereotype? People didn’t expect much for him and Rob lives up to that reputation.
Lauren shares that struggle – both are hiding behind a façade. She learned in her teens that she could hide her true self by pretending to be a extrovert – the Party Lauren. The difference between the two is the Lauren sees herself as a work in progress; Rob hasn’t begun his self-actualization yet. They get each other. One of the best lines in the book says this best:
“Lauren, you’re the only person in the world who doesn’t make me feel like half a ham sandwich.”
What was missing for me: I feel like the emotional punch comes too late in the story. This made the pace of the book really slow for the first half of the book. There is very little drama to sustain the first half of the book. Even where there is a point when Rob has to make a decision regarding his girlfriend – a potential trigger for conflict – it falls flat.
IN A NUTSHELL:
A nice contemporary New Adult romance, it has the emotional power to make it a nice to read, but not necessarily a MUST read.
Thanks to the author and publisher for the opportunity to read this book in exchange for an honest review.
I am not sure this genre features Ann Aguirre’s best writing. For me, Ann Aguirre creates the most amazing worlds – creative, edgy, and dark. I’m currently reading another one of her books, Havoc, and I’m enthralled. So I’m sorry to say that I don’t feel the same way about this story. I miss her imagination and tight-wire storytelling. The irony is that I read many more romance and New Adult books than science fiction. Still, I liked a lot of things about the book, but I didn’t feel compelled by the story.
I like the premise. Going against the norm, small-town girl Lauren doesn’t want to escape from the small town, she wants to go home. Back at home she reconnects with her best-friend’s brother, a man she has had a mad crush on since she was a kid.
Every wonder what happened to the BMOC (Big Man On Campus) after high school? Both his family and the community saddle Rob with the reputation as the dumb jock. Is he doomed to relive the Glory Days for the rest of his life with no expectations to break out of that stereotype? People didn’t expect much for him and Rob lives up to that reputation.
Lauren shares that struggle – both are hiding behind a façade. She learned in her teens that she could hide her true self by pretending to be a extrovert – the Party Lauren. The difference between the two is the Lauren sees herself as a work in progress; Rob hasn’t begun his self-actualization yet. They get each other. One of the best lines in the book says this best:
“Lauren, you’re the only person in the world who doesn’t make me feel like half a ham sandwich.”
What was missing for me: I feel like the emotional punch comes too late in the story. This made the pace of the book really slow for the first half of the book. There is very little drama to sustain the first half of the book. Even where there is a point when Rob has to make a decision regarding his girlfriend – a potential trigger for conflict – it falls flat.
IN A NUTSHELL:
A nice contemporary New Adult romance, it has the emotional power to make it a nice to read, but not necessarily a MUST read.
Thanks to the author and publisher for the opportunity to read this book in exchange for an honest review.
October 14, 2014
Its almost scary how many commitments I cut just to finish reading this.
But all for what? For it to go spiralling down at the last 10%. I shit you not. I was planning to give this a 4.5 star because of its wonderful relationships, awesome writing and great steam. But the last 10% made no sense and pissed me off so much that I cut down 1.5 stars.
January 18, 2015
I have to say that I fell hard for Rob and his insecurities. That poor, sweet man. The things he put up with from his family and Avery because he thought he couldn't be more than a pretty face just about broke my heart.
Needless to say, his growth (with a few not-so-subtle pushes from Lauren) made me smile. On the flip side, he's so good for Lauren. He accepts her quirks and he gives her the foundation she needs to find herself. Although Lauren seems put together on the surface, she's a bit of a mess underneath and Rob's unwavering support gives her the strength to confront her issues.
Not without some speed bumps along the way, of course.
Meanwhile, I wasn't sure what to think of Avery at first. She comes across as cold and haughty, but as her story unfolded we got to see a whole other side of her. Her friendship with Lauren was unexpected (the current girlfriend and the ex don't seem like they'd make good pals), but it worked. Lauren ended up needing her as much as Avery needed Lauren.
I haven't read book 1 in this series yet, but the glimpses we were given of Nadia and Daniel made me want to pick it up. Because they intrigued me. Not to mention Courtney and Max.
Yep, this whole trilogy officially has me intrigued.
-Kelly @ Reading the Paranormal
Needless to say, his growth (with a few not-so-subtle pushes from Lauren) made me smile. On the flip side, he's so good for Lauren. He accepts her quirks and he gives her the foundation she needs to find herself. Although Lauren seems put together on the surface, she's a bit of a mess underneath and Rob's unwavering support gives her the strength to confront her issues.
Not without some speed bumps along the way, of course.
Meanwhile, I wasn't sure what to think of Avery at first. She comes across as cold and haughty, but as her story unfolded we got to see a whole other side of her. Her friendship with Lauren was unexpected (the current girlfriend and the ex don't seem like they'd make good pals), but it worked. Lauren ended up needing her as much as Avery needed Lauren.
I haven't read book 1 in this series yet, but the glimpses we were given of Nadia and Daniel made me want to pick it up. Because they intrigued me. Not to mention Courtney and Max.
Yep, this whole trilogy officially has me intrigued.
-Kelly @ Reading the Paranormal
March 14, 2017
4 stars. I liked this just a tad less than the first in the series, but I still enjoyed the book for what it was. A fun contemporary romance. I did enjoy the crush-on-best-friend's-older-brother-trope. That is always a fun one, and it was handled age-appropriately. The love happens quite quickly in the novels, but the physical side isn't consummated that fast, if that's something that bothers you.
I think what the novel did well is that is drove home the importance of refraining from male - or obviously female - objectification. People are not just their looks and bodies, and I think it's important to note that a lot of women also treat men as pure eye-candy (when at the same time saying women shouldn't be objectified). I know I definitely do (although I don't leave demeaning comments on people's appearance online). Definitely something to think about.
Sure, a lot of the action was oh, so convenient, but sometimes you need to read a good new adult romance without it being overly angsty, dramatic and heart-breaking. I still cried, so the emotion is done well, if predictable. I don't mind, though, but consider yourselves warned.
So yeah, fun book. I read it in a day. Can't wait to pick up the next.
PS the female friendships are awesome in this one.
I think what the novel did well is that is drove home the importance of refraining from male - or obviously female - objectification. People are not just their looks and bodies, and I think it's important to note that a lot of women also treat men as pure eye-candy (when at the same time saying women shouldn't be objectified). I know I definitely do (although I don't leave demeaning comments on people's appearance online). Definitely something to think about.
Sure, a lot of the action was oh, so convenient, but sometimes you need to read a good new adult romance without it being overly angsty, dramatic and heart-breaking. I still cried, so the emotion is done well, if predictable. I don't mind, though, but consider yourselves warned.
So yeah, fun book. I read it in a day. Can't wait to pick up the next.
PS the female friendships are awesome in this one.
October 5, 2014
Yes! YES! YES!! YES!!!
I'm just going to pretend the first book in this trilogy never happened. It was not as good as Ann's previous work. Thankfully, As Long As You Love Me, makes up for that mistake.
I mean, the pairing in this book was so real, which doesn't happen a lot in new adult books. Everyone's usually so messed up in the head. These characters are only slightly damaged. Lauren, a college dropout is actually a talented programmer with a wicked sense of humor and then there's Rob. *sigh* He is a type of guy you'd gladly show off to your friends and even to your family. He's not like all those alpha males. No, he's hardworking, kind, caring and humble even though he looks like a Greek sculpture. Rob's not like any other guy you've met before.
Lauren had some demons and Rob was insecure because he felt he wasn't smart enough. They're not perfect people but they're perfect for each other.
I'm just going to pretend the first book in this trilogy never happened. It was not as good as Ann's previous work. Thankfully, As Long As You Love Me, makes up for that mistake.
I mean, the pairing in this book was so real, which doesn't happen a lot in new adult books. Everyone's usually so messed up in the head. These characters are only slightly damaged. Lauren, a college dropout is actually a talented programmer with a wicked sense of humor and then there's Rob. *sigh* He is a type of guy you'd gladly show off to your friends and even to your family. He's not like all those alpha males. No, he's hardworking, kind, caring and humble even though he looks like a Greek sculpture. Rob's not like any other guy you've met before.
Lauren had some demons and Rob was insecure because he felt he wasn't smart enough. They're not perfect people but they're perfect for each other.
October 29, 2018
Lauren adalah remaja yg bermasalah. Di usia 21 tahun dia nyaris "gagal" dan pulang tinggal bersama ibunya. Disana dia bertemu dgn Rob, kakak Nadia - sahabat terbaiknya, yg sudah lama ditaksir Lauren. Sayangnya Rob sedang menjalin hubungan dgn Avery.
Lauren membantu Rob merenovasi rumahnya. Sbg gantinya, Rob mengajari Lauren menyetir truk. Tetapi akibatnya Rob putus dgn Avery. Ternyata Rob juga sudah punya perasaan pada Lauren sejak Lauren masih SMA. Yasudlah, transisi Rob menjadi pacar Lauren berlangsung mulus, krn Avery memberi "restu"nya, bahkan belakangan Lauren dan Avery menjadi sohib baik.
Lauren membuat vlog ttg Rob yg bisa membuat perabotan dan langsung tenar di internet (mengingatkan gw pada Nate Berkus). Tidak butuh waktu lama Rob mendapatkan tawaran menggiurkan utk mengisi acara di tv di Kanada. Tetapi Lauren justru memutuskan hubungan mereka krn tidak mau mengganggu karier Rob.
Ini pertama kalinya saya membaca buku author. Genre new adult bukan genre favorit saya, dan walaupun plot cerita lebih baik drpd new adult lain yg pernah baca, tetapi gaya penulisan author (maaf) cenderung membosankan dan saya berjuang utk tidak tidur. Mungkin kalau disisipkan unsur-unsur sarkastis, akan jauh lebih menarik bagi saya. Saya suka tidak ada drama dlm novel ini padahal potensi ke arah itu ada dan sangat besar peluangnya. Saya juga suka pertemanan Lauren dgn Avery berlangsung alamiah tanpa gontok-gontokan gara-gara rebutan pacar. Fungsi teman yg baik sangat bagus ditonjolkan oleh Lauren, tidak berlebihan tetapi juga tidak pasif.
Sayangnya justru pd relationship Lauren dan Rob, saya kurang sreg dgn alasan Lauren utk putus. Rob yg digambarkan kurang pintar tetapi memiliki wajah dan tubuh lebih dari lumayan, juga kurang "usaha" utk mempertahankan hubungan. Koq rasanya sbg cowok terlalu mudah diatur sih mas Rob ini, disuruh bercinta ya hayo, disuruh putus ya gpp. Terlalu submisif tipe mas Rob ini bagi saya.
Sedangkan Lauren juga hanya lebih baik sedikit drpd Rob. Sepertinya Lauren ini mau-mau enggak-enggak jika Rob makin tenar di dunia tv. Lauren mau dan sangat membantu karier Rob, tapi saat Rob butuh di saat yg paling penting, justru Lauren berpaling. Untung saja gak pake lama, karena gw yakin kalau kelamaan dikit lagi, keduanya udah punya pasangan masing-masing lagi.
Lauren membantu Rob merenovasi rumahnya. Sbg gantinya, Rob mengajari Lauren menyetir truk. Tetapi akibatnya Rob putus dgn Avery. Ternyata Rob juga sudah punya perasaan pada Lauren sejak Lauren masih SMA. Yasudlah, transisi Rob menjadi pacar Lauren berlangsung mulus, krn Avery memberi "restu"nya, bahkan belakangan Lauren dan Avery menjadi sohib baik.
Lauren membuat vlog ttg Rob yg bisa membuat perabotan dan langsung tenar di internet (mengingatkan gw pada Nate Berkus). Tidak butuh waktu lama Rob mendapatkan tawaran menggiurkan utk mengisi acara di tv di Kanada. Tetapi Lauren justru memutuskan hubungan mereka krn tidak mau mengganggu karier Rob.
Ini pertama kalinya saya membaca buku author. Genre new adult bukan genre favorit saya, dan walaupun plot cerita lebih baik drpd new adult lain yg pernah baca, tetapi gaya penulisan author (maaf) cenderung membosankan dan saya berjuang utk tidak tidur. Mungkin kalau disisipkan unsur-unsur sarkastis, akan jauh lebih menarik bagi saya. Saya suka tidak ada drama dlm novel ini padahal potensi ke arah itu ada dan sangat besar peluangnya. Saya juga suka pertemanan Lauren dgn Avery berlangsung alamiah tanpa gontok-gontokan gara-gara rebutan pacar. Fungsi teman yg baik sangat bagus ditonjolkan oleh Lauren, tidak berlebihan tetapi juga tidak pasif.
Sayangnya justru pd relationship Lauren dan Rob, saya kurang sreg dgn alasan Lauren utk putus. Rob yg digambarkan kurang pintar tetapi memiliki wajah dan tubuh lebih dari lumayan, juga kurang "usaha" utk mempertahankan hubungan. Koq rasanya sbg cowok terlalu mudah diatur sih mas Rob ini, disuruh bercinta ya hayo, disuruh putus ya gpp. Terlalu submisif tipe mas Rob ini bagi saya.
Sedangkan Lauren juga hanya lebih baik sedikit drpd Rob. Sepertinya Lauren ini mau-mau enggak-enggak jika Rob makin tenar di dunia tv. Lauren mau dan sangat membantu karier Rob, tapi saat Rob butuh di saat yg paling penting, justru Lauren berpaling. Untung saja gak pake lama, karena gw yakin kalau kelamaan dikit lagi, keduanya udah punya pasangan masing-masing lagi.
November 15, 2017
I enjoyed this book. I still like the other couple better. I felt that Lauren at times was flighty. If she just had learned to be honest things would have been different. I did like how that even though the ex-girlfriend had started some stuff that they ended up being good friends. Especially because Avery really needed someone there for her. I now just hope the last couple in the series is likable too.
July 23, 2018
I really am enjoying this series.
March 2, 2015
The main character Lauren Barrett after three years in college, drops out, and returns home to her hometown of Sharon, Nebraska. Lauren hated being away from her hometown, her mother, and friends, but mostly away from Rob Conrad, her best friend's older brother. Though Rob barely knew she was alive as a teenager, Lauren still can't hope daydreaming and wanting to be with him.
Honestly I quibbled between giving this book a half star to one star. I finally rounded up to one star because the author chose not to go with the ex girlfriend is evil personified story line. And sadly this character was more interesting and had more depth to her than Lauren and Rob combined. Other than that this book was in my opinion equal parts boring and infuriating. I swear I am starting to not think that New Adult fiction is going to be my cup of tea. I don't know if it is just this book or many in the genre that I have read lately but there never seems to be a major obstacle between the two characters getting together. There was a potential obstacle here and there, but things just got dropped until we had the most ridiculous story line come out of nowhere as an obstacle.
First of all, if I don't care for the narrator in a story it is going to be an uphill battle for me to like the book. I could not stand Lauren as a character. There is one part of the book where she remembers how Rob ended up saving her from the attentions of a boy who wasn't taking no, not interested, as a reason to back off. Rob was there to pick her and his sister up and got the guy off of her. So she remembers this fondly.
She also at certain times seems to have a social anxiety disorder and at other times does not. By the way this issue is never even brought up until page 72. If your character has a social anxiety disorder how about that gets brought up sooner rather than later. I think it was used as a plot point to advance the story at certain times but at other times the author forgot that the character suffered from this. Case in point, she wants to take online college courses thinking that it will be easy on her to finish school this way. Then she gets a job at a car dealership which is going to involve her having to talk to strangers and coworkers all day. Do you think we get one scene where she is having an attack? Nope. We get an attack after she has sex for the first time with the hero. Does she have an attack when she is out and doing freaking karaoke in a bar? Nope.
The character of Rob is also written inconsistently as well. Used to be thought of as himbo, Rob is sensitive about anyone talking about how good looking he is. He has a girlfriend that he cares about since she actually sees potential in him. Good thing that Rob doesn't realize that 90 percent of the time Lauren is inner monologuing about how hot and sexy he is.
Lauren also spends all of her time helping out Rob and telling him how awesome he is. Rob seriously has a self esteem problem. I would have been more interested in this book if told from Rob's point of view actually. Though his sad sack self got on my nerves too.
The book fluctuates around many plot points and none of them are done well. Things just seem to be happening after Lauren and Rob get together. Frankly this should have been a novella since I felt as if the author just kept throwing things in the story to prolong it. Instead of focusing on things that actually could have added meat to the story this totally out of the normal chance of a lifetime comes Rob's way. And of course because of her social anxiety disorder (that only flares once in a while) Lauren can't hold Rob back from having it all.
The writing isn't really that great either and each chapter ends awkwardly and the next chapter beginning doesn't tie into the ending of the previous chapter. Sometimes the preceding chapter would drop a sentence that you would think would be followed up in the next chapter and nada. It was beyond annoying to keep reading the book that was set up this way. I felt like I was reading a Dan Brown book since he is always ending his chapters on mini-cliffhangers.
This book is apparently part of a series that Ann Aguirre has written. I have not read the other book in this series and have no idea if those books are better or not. In my opinion I really wouldn't bother with this one.
Please note that I received this book for free via the Amazon Vine Program.
Honestly I quibbled between giving this book a half star to one star. I finally rounded up to one star because the author chose not to go with the ex girlfriend is evil personified story line. And sadly this character was more interesting and had more depth to her than Lauren and Rob combined. Other than that this book was in my opinion equal parts boring and infuriating. I swear I am starting to not think that New Adult fiction is going to be my cup of tea. I don't know if it is just this book or many in the genre that I have read lately but there never seems to be a major obstacle between the two characters getting together. There was a potential obstacle here and there, but things just got dropped until we had the most ridiculous story line come out of nowhere as an obstacle.
First of all, if I don't care for the narrator in a story it is going to be an uphill battle for me to like the book. I could not stand Lauren as a character. There is one part of the book where she remembers how Rob ended up saving her from the attentions of a boy who wasn't taking no, not interested, as a reason to back off. Rob was there to pick her and his sister up and got the guy off of her. So she remembers this fondly.
She also at certain times seems to have a social anxiety disorder and at other times does not. By the way this issue is never even brought up until page 72. If your character has a social anxiety disorder how about that gets brought up sooner rather than later. I think it was used as a plot point to advance the story at certain times but at other times the author forgot that the character suffered from this. Case in point, she wants to take online college courses thinking that it will be easy on her to finish school this way. Then she gets a job at a car dealership which is going to involve her having to talk to strangers and coworkers all day. Do you think we get one scene where she is having an attack? Nope. We get an attack after she has sex for the first time with the hero. Does she have an attack when she is out and doing freaking karaoke in a bar? Nope.
The character of Rob is also written inconsistently as well. Used to be thought of as himbo, Rob is sensitive about anyone talking about how good looking he is. He has a girlfriend that he cares about since she actually sees potential in him. Good thing that Rob doesn't realize that 90 percent of the time Lauren is inner monologuing about how hot and sexy he is.
Lauren also spends all of her time helping out Rob and telling him how awesome he is. Rob seriously has a self esteem problem. I would have been more interested in this book if told from Rob's point of view actually. Though his sad sack self got on my nerves too.
The book fluctuates around many plot points and none of them are done well. Things just seem to be happening after Lauren and Rob get together. Frankly this should have been a novella since I felt as if the author just kept throwing things in the story to prolong it. Instead of focusing on things that actually could have added meat to the story this totally out of the normal chance of a lifetime comes Rob's way. And of course because of her social anxiety disorder (that only flares once in a while) Lauren can't hold Rob back from having it all.
The writing isn't really that great either and each chapter ends awkwardly and the next chapter beginning doesn't tie into the ending of the previous chapter. Sometimes the preceding chapter would drop a sentence that you would think would be followed up in the next chapter and nada. It was beyond annoying to keep reading the book that was set up this way. I felt like I was reading a Dan Brown book since he is always ending his chapters on mini-cliffhangers.
This book is apparently part of a series that Ann Aguirre has written. I have not read the other book in this series and have no idea if those books are better or not. In my opinion I really wouldn't bother with this one.
Please note that I received this book for free via the Amazon Vine Program.
September 1, 2015
Deep down, I suspected I’d been skating toward my first broken heart since I was thirteen years old, and there was nothing for it now but to make good.
I love the way Ann Aguirre takes a premise and makes it completely her own.
Lauren has the best friend's older brother crush.
But having him up here made me want to die because it reinforced every preconception he must have about my maturity. I sat on a stuffed unicorn and hated my life.
Rob
Poor Rob, she’d said. He’s just smart enough to know he’s dumb.
Rob's a fascinating guy. He's kind and generous and he really despises himself. He hates being known as the “good-natured lummox”. It's not everyday that an author decides to make her hero a little slow. He's made up of a lot of characteristics that most authors would be appalled to give to a love interest. He's an extremely sensitive soul but he's not a wuss. Somehow, Aguirre makes it work. He's not intellectual, but he is patient and to-the-death loyal. He's really not complicated, says it like it is, and carries a wounded sadness of being constantly looked down upon for not having the smarts.
“I’m the one they sleep with before they meet Mr. Right. Anyone who ends up with me, she’ll just be settling.”
Having been mocked his whole life, Rob is touchy about being made fun of.
“It’s a good thing I’m hot, right?”
Ann Aguirre did a good job with shaping his character.
“And I never noticed anything was wrong. A better son, a smarter one, would have. And my mom wouldn’t be so fucking scared and exhausted if she could rely on me.”
I liked his quirky humour. And it springs up at unexpected moments which made it all the more fun.
“I know you’re just trying to cheer me up, but...it’s working.” His smile did ridiculous things to me.
Rob is actually downright hilarious.
“I need to lose about twenty pounds.”
“In what world?” He scowled openly, dark brows drawn together. “You’d lose all the oomph and most of your bam.”
And I have to admit I was in the mood for his dirty mouth.
“Now I can say what I’ve wanted to for years. Lauren Barrett...get in my fucking bed.”
Lauren
Lauren's life isn't actually going amazingly, but her relationships are swimming along nicely.
Mum - “In that case, be careful. Keep it PG-13.”
Smirking, I said, “Like that’ll happen. I’ll film it for you.”
Lauren is actually an anti-social gamer and computer nerd
Normally I’d just go to bed and stay there for a day or two.
She can put on a front to play nice and she's actually really good at handling people.
“That doesn’t mean you don’t deserve to be happy.”
For a few seconds, she just stared at me. “Are you for real?”
“Most of the time. Except for Wednesdays, when I’m imaginary.”
The thing about Lauren is she's got a biting sarcasm and because she loves Rob, she curbs it because she knows jokes like that hit him where it hurts.
I like that she's comfortable and confident with the topic of sex.
Was this the opposite of the walk of shame? The walk of no-game?
Aguirre writes so eloquently what it's like to be insecure and put on a show. I just had to include this paragraph.
No more of this. I hate Lauren Barrett, I hate everything about her. So I changed her clothes, her attitude, her hair, her fear, pulled myself into a different shape and lived in that skin for five long years. I rarely wrote fan fiction, stopped playing on the computer for hours. The worst thing about that? Nobody questioned it. Nobody—not even Nadia—said, Wow, what’s wrong? You’re not yourself. It was more like everyone heaved a collective sigh of relief and thought, Thank God, she’s finally normal.
Sexual Content: Similar to the first's, this has graphic sex scenes. It shows testament to Aguirre's writing that I keep coming back because I really am not keen on steamy hanky panky.
April 29, 2016
Review courtesy of Dark Faerie Tales
Quick & Dirty: A steamy sequel with even more feels than the first one!
Opening Sentence: “It would be hard to argue with anyone who called me a failure.”
The Review:
Whew! Where can I even begin. When I saw this on my review list I picked up the first one because I usually try to read a series in order, (I don’t always have the time to do catch up on a large series, but if one or two books are out before the one I have to review, I will read the series from the beginning) I really loved it! That being said, this one was my favorite so far… I mean seriously, Lauren was so freaking likeable and totally great! Rob was like the perfect book boyfriend, and well the perfect guy in general. If you remember his sister Nadia is the focus of book one, and this book actually parallel each other. Lauren fails out and leaves not too long into the first book. As Long As You Love Me picks up literally where she leaves off in book one.
Lauren comes home feeling like a failure, and she is struggling to admit to herself why she let everything turn into an epic failure. She runs into Rob and then ends up hanging out despite the fact that he is dating Avery. They really begin to get to know each other in spite of the major crush Lauren has had on him since she was 14. When a friend of Avery gossips that Rob is cheating on Avery with Lauren, Rob breaks up with Avery because of the trust issues (L + R are not cheaters, just so we are all clear). Not long after that Rob and Lauren start to fall into a relationship. Lauren ends up in one of the funniest fights I have ever seen in a book. I am not lying. I laughed out loud, and seriously loved every minute of it, including Avery! In an odd twist the girls actually become fast friends after the altercation!
From there it just gets way too filled with spoilers to tell you more. Suffice to say this book is the best. I loved the friendships, not only between the girls but between Rob and Lauren. It was a major highlight of this book to see such an emphasis on friendship! I can say that I laughed and cried during this book, the feels are there. I really connected with Lauren, I loved her wit, snark and just about everything about her. It was great to see a woman who can realize she is broken, and that is important for people to be successful on their own. I say that because a lot of people can get dependent in relationships, and I think the most successful relationships are between equals and it is important for you to know your demons, and love yourself regardless! That is a huge message and it made me love this book even more.
I thought for sure I would breeze through this book like I had the first one, but I enjoyed it so much that I found myself soaking in every word. You don’t need to have read book one, but it would help you to know who everyone is. I am super excited to read book 3, even though I am fairly sure it just won’t top As Long As you Love Me. If you are looking for an amazing New Adult read then look no further, so far this series has been amazing! Although I do have to admit that I really want more of Rob and Lauren, seriously I could read another book about them.
Notable Scenes:
“There were no running boards, and I was short, almost a full foot smaller than him; before I could clamber up, he set his hands on my waist and lifted, setting me on the passenger seat with a sort of casual strength that stole my breath.”
“He was tentative, and I wondered if he’d always been this unsure of himself.”
“Rob building my bed was likely the closet I’d ever come to having him in it.”
“I siphoned the bitterness out of the thought as he studied my face.”
“Everything was just hidden like a deep, deep well, and then sealed shut with an iron lid.”
“Not the best move when your not-boyfriend might be planning to bludgeon your boss to death.”
FTC Advisory: Harlequin provided me with a copy of As Long As You Love Me. No goody bags, sponsorships, “material connections,” or bribes were exchanged for my review.
Quick & Dirty: A steamy sequel with even more feels than the first one!
Opening Sentence: “It would be hard to argue with anyone who called me a failure.”
The Review:
Whew! Where can I even begin. When I saw this on my review list I picked up the first one because I usually try to read a series in order, (I don’t always have the time to do catch up on a large series, but if one or two books are out before the one I have to review, I will read the series from the beginning) I really loved it! That being said, this one was my favorite so far… I mean seriously, Lauren was so freaking likeable and totally great! Rob was like the perfect book boyfriend, and well the perfect guy in general. If you remember his sister Nadia is the focus of book one, and this book actually parallel each other. Lauren fails out and leaves not too long into the first book. As Long As You Love Me picks up literally where she leaves off in book one.
Lauren comes home feeling like a failure, and she is struggling to admit to herself why she let everything turn into an epic failure. She runs into Rob and then ends up hanging out despite the fact that he is dating Avery. They really begin to get to know each other in spite of the major crush Lauren has had on him since she was 14. When a friend of Avery gossips that Rob is cheating on Avery with Lauren, Rob breaks up with Avery because of the trust issues (L + R are not cheaters, just so we are all clear). Not long after that Rob and Lauren start to fall into a relationship. Lauren ends up in one of the funniest fights I have ever seen in a book. I am not lying. I laughed out loud, and seriously loved every minute of it, including Avery! In an odd twist the girls actually become fast friends after the altercation!
From there it just gets way too filled with spoilers to tell you more. Suffice to say this book is the best. I loved the friendships, not only between the girls but between Rob and Lauren. It was a major highlight of this book to see such an emphasis on friendship! I can say that I laughed and cried during this book, the feels are there. I really connected with Lauren, I loved her wit, snark and just about everything about her. It was great to see a woman who can realize she is broken, and that is important for people to be successful on their own. I say that because a lot of people can get dependent in relationships, and I think the most successful relationships are between equals and it is important for you to know your demons, and love yourself regardless! That is a huge message and it made me love this book even more.
I thought for sure I would breeze through this book like I had the first one, but I enjoyed it so much that I found myself soaking in every word. You don’t need to have read book one, but it would help you to know who everyone is. I am super excited to read book 3, even though I am fairly sure it just won’t top As Long As you Love Me. If you are looking for an amazing New Adult read then look no further, so far this series has been amazing! Although I do have to admit that I really want more of Rob and Lauren, seriously I could read another book about them.
Notable Scenes:
“There were no running boards, and I was short, almost a full foot smaller than him; before I could clamber up, he set his hands on my waist and lifted, setting me on the passenger seat with a sort of casual strength that stole my breath.”
“He was tentative, and I wondered if he’d always been this unsure of himself.”
“Rob building my bed was likely the closet I’d ever come to having him in it.”
“I siphoned the bitterness out of the thought as he studied my face.”
“Everything was just hidden like a deep, deep well, and then sealed shut with an iron lid.”
“Not the best move when your not-boyfriend might be planning to bludgeon your boss to death.”
FTC Advisory: Harlequin provided me with a copy of As Long As You Love Me. No goody bags, sponsorships, “material connections,” or bribes were exchanged for my review.
September 28, 2014
As Long As You Love me is book 2 in Ann Aguirre’s foray into the New Adult genre, and once again, I liked but didn’t love this installment.
We met our main characters briefly in book 1. Lauren has just moved back to Sharon, Nebraska. You might remember her as Nadia’s roommate in I Want It That Way, and I knew when we met her that her story would include Rob, Nadia’s brother.
College just wasn’t working for Lauren. She knows what she wants and she’s determined to get it, but she can do it from home… and by home she means Sharon, the small town she grew up in.
For ages she’s had a crush on her best friend, Nadia’s brother, and even though he’s got a girlfriend she’s not willing to pass on the opportunity to get to know him better and work on a possible friendship with him.
Rob’s kind of been written off as unintelligent by those around him, so he’s never really expected much of himself. He never pursued college because what good would it do when he’d just end back up in Sharon working construction. The one thing he’s doing for himself though is flipping a house.
Lauren jumps at the opportunity to help Rob in anyway that she can, whether it’s sanding or painting she’s up for the chance to get to know him better. When she sees what he can do, she decides to help Rob in the one way she can… by building him a website and posting ‘how to’ videos. She’s positive with his good looks plenty of people will watch, and once they watch, they’ll see how amazing he actually is!
When Rob and his girlfriend break up though, it doesn’t take long for their friendship to escalate into something more, and Robs videos are garnering the attention of people they never expected.
So here’s the thing. I actually really like the stories that we’re getting in this series… I really do. I think I’m struggling more with the connections among the characters. I’m just not feeling that zap when they’re together. You know, the one that makes me cheer for them, and fall for them. I like them well enough, I just don’t love them.
I do have to say I really loved Rob as a character – he’s different than your typical hero for sure, and I liked that aspect of him. And I even liked Lauren. She’s smart, she’s decisive and I love when we get to meet intelligent female characters.
I do feel like the end of the book felt very rushed to me. I disliked (immensely) the drama that caused the separation of these two. I just felt like Rob fell for it a bit too easily, especially after the way their relationship progressed so wonderfully.
I did like the added side story of Lauren’s mom in this one, and I do have to say that I’m really looking forward to Max’s story next. I’m incredibly intrigued by him!
Overall, this series is a wonderful addition to the new adult genre – not as heavy as some of the books you’ll find in this genre, but I really like that we’re getting some that aren’t all angst, angst, angst. I wouldn’t put this among my all-time favorites, but I like them! I’ll definitely be waiting to hear all about Max in book 3!
Thanks to Harlequin and Netgalley for the advanced copy in exchange for my honest thoughts!
We met our main characters briefly in book 1. Lauren has just moved back to Sharon, Nebraska. You might remember her as Nadia’s roommate in I Want It That Way, and I knew when we met her that her story would include Rob, Nadia’s brother.
College just wasn’t working for Lauren. She knows what she wants and she’s determined to get it, but she can do it from home… and by home she means Sharon, the small town she grew up in.
For ages she’s had a crush on her best friend, Nadia’s brother, and even though he’s got a girlfriend she’s not willing to pass on the opportunity to get to know him better and work on a possible friendship with him.
Rob’s kind of been written off as unintelligent by those around him, so he’s never really expected much of himself. He never pursued college because what good would it do when he’d just end back up in Sharon working construction. The one thing he’s doing for himself though is flipping a house.
Lauren jumps at the opportunity to help Rob in anyway that she can, whether it’s sanding or painting she’s up for the chance to get to know him better. When she sees what he can do, she decides to help Rob in the one way she can… by building him a website and posting ‘how to’ videos. She’s positive with his good looks plenty of people will watch, and once they watch, they’ll see how amazing he actually is!
When Rob and his girlfriend break up though, it doesn’t take long for their friendship to escalate into something more, and Robs videos are garnering the attention of people they never expected.
So here’s the thing. I actually really like the stories that we’re getting in this series… I really do. I think I’m struggling more with the connections among the characters. I’m just not feeling that zap when they’re together. You know, the one that makes me cheer for them, and fall for them. I like them well enough, I just don’t love them.
I do have to say I really loved Rob as a character – he’s different than your typical hero for sure, and I liked that aspect of him. And I even liked Lauren. She’s smart, she’s decisive and I love when we get to meet intelligent female characters.
I do feel like the end of the book felt very rushed to me. I disliked (immensely) the drama that caused the separation of these two. I just felt like Rob fell for it a bit too easily, especially after the way their relationship progressed so wonderfully.
I did like the added side story of Lauren’s mom in this one, and I do have to say that I’m really looking forward to Max’s story next. I’m incredibly intrigued by him!
Overall, this series is a wonderful addition to the new adult genre – not as heavy as some of the books you’ll find in this genre, but I really like that we’re getting some that aren’t all angst, angst, angst. I wouldn’t put this among my all-time favorites, but I like them! I’ll definitely be waiting to hear all about Max in book 3!
Thanks to Harlequin and Netgalley for the advanced copy in exchange for my honest thoughts!
September 9, 2014
Book Summary
Published by - Harlequin
Release Date - September 30th 2014
Pages - 352
My Rating - 5 Stars
Review
This book is simply perfection!!! I didn't mind the first book in this series, I Want It That Way, but it truly wasn't anywhere near as beautifully written as this one.
Lauren and Rob were real, believable and from the moment that you start reading it you fall irrevocably in love with the pair of them as individuals as well as a couple. Their plight tears you apart. On one hand you want Rob to be happy and to follow his dreams, but on the other your heart breaks right along with Lauren's when Rob leaves for Toronto.
The story isn't overwhelmed with drama, sure there are moments filled with angst, but Ann Aguirre manages to balance it with humour that has you crying and laughing at the same time as well as trying to control your heart before it slams right out of your chest.
I'm not usually one to enjoy a story about a guy who isn't cock of the walk, but the way that Ann Aguirre has written him and the way that Lauren so utterly believes in him, it makes it so you can see what Lauren sees in him. The growth and maturity of the characters that develops through this book is one of the things I love the most. The two people who come out at the end aren't anything like the same characters in the beginning and it is truly refreshing to see such a natural and yet obvious growth in them.
If you're a fan of New Adult, or teenage crushes that turn into more, then I seriously recommend that you pick this book up and read it. Even if you haven't read I Want It That Way, you'll still be able to pick this book up and read it as a stand alone, and trust me, it will totally be worth it!!!
December 31, 2017
This is my review from Audible.
http://www.audible.com/listener/Ashle...
"Better than the First Book!"
Overall⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Performance⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Story⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
As Long As You Love Me is the second book in the 2B series but it can easily be a standalone. The book follows Lauren as she moves back home after losing her scholarship to college where she didn’t feel like it was a fit for her. While she’s at the store she runs into her longtime crush Rob (the older brother of her best friend Nadia who the first book in the series is about) and they end up spending time together fixing up his house - as friends, since he has a girlfriend.
Both of the main characters have their own issues to work through. Lauren is portrayed as a part girl in the first book, but she’s nothing like that in this book. She deals with anxiety and was using drinking as a means to cope with her problems, in this book she is working on being her best self. Rob, while he is incredibly gorgeous, is very insecure as many of the people around him seem to have the mentality of ‘well at least he’s pretty.’ There’s a line in the book that goes along the lines of “My grandmother once said ‘he’s just smart enough to know he’s dumb’”. Lauren and Rob are constantly bolstering each other up and are great for each other that way as they navigate through life and family issues.
I loved the chemistry between Lauren and Rob! It was a slower burn and well worth the wait. They are both real characters and are developed so well that you’re invested in their story. You want the best for them and you can see where they are coming from with the decisions they make.
Bailey Carr gave a better performance in this book than the first book, or maybe it’s that I thought that she was the perfect fit for Lauren. Her pitch and tone were ideal for the character. She’s easy to listen to and made it an enjoyable experience.
I got this book as part of the Romance Package so I didn’t need to use a credit. If you have the Romance Package I recommend it, it’s got a lot of heart and more depth than expected. You do not need to read or listen to the first book to enjoy this one!
http://www.audible.com/listener/Ashle...
"Better than the First Book!"
Overall⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Performance⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Story⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
As Long As You Love Me is the second book in the 2B series but it can easily be a standalone. The book follows Lauren as she moves back home after losing her scholarship to college where she didn’t feel like it was a fit for her. While she’s at the store she runs into her longtime crush Rob (the older brother of her best friend Nadia who the first book in the series is about) and they end up spending time together fixing up his house - as friends, since he has a girlfriend.
Both of the main characters have their own issues to work through. Lauren is portrayed as a part girl in the first book, but she’s nothing like that in this book. She deals with anxiety and was using drinking as a means to cope with her problems, in this book she is working on being her best self. Rob, while he is incredibly gorgeous, is very insecure as many of the people around him seem to have the mentality of ‘well at least he’s pretty.’ There’s a line in the book that goes along the lines of “My grandmother once said ‘he’s just smart enough to know he’s dumb’”. Lauren and Rob are constantly bolstering each other up and are great for each other that way as they navigate through life and family issues.
I loved the chemistry between Lauren and Rob! It was a slower burn and well worth the wait. They are both real characters and are developed so well that you’re invested in their story. You want the best for them and you can see where they are coming from with the decisions they make.
Bailey Carr gave a better performance in this book than the first book, or maybe it’s that I thought that she was the perfect fit for Lauren. Her pitch and tone were ideal for the character. She’s easy to listen to and made it an enjoyable experience.
I got this book as part of the Romance Package so I didn’t need to use a credit. If you have the Romance Package I recommend it, it’s got a lot of heart and more depth than expected. You do not need to read or listen to the first book to enjoy this one!
October 10, 2020
I loved the first book in this series, so I was very happy when I won this book in a reviewer giveaway held by Ann Aguirre.
And this book is so good!
I'm usually not into Contemporary Romance, but Aguirre's New Adult Romances are super addictive.
I think it's because this book leaves out all the extra drama that is in so many other contemporary romances. No jealousy games, no other love interests muddying the waters, just two people who really want to be together, but have to overcome certain obstacles before they can make it work.
I think I loved this book even more than the first: I totally fell in love with Lauren and Rob as a couple. Their romance is so sweet, and both of them are so vulnerable in their own way. I loved to read how they supported each other, and gave each other strength. I also really liked how Aguirre shows that there are situations in which just loving each other isn't enough, and that other steps are needed to straighten things out, to get a healthy relationship.
Next to this being a really sweet romance, it's also hot and intense. There were some very steamy scenes, and some very emotional ones as well. When I finished this book it left me with warm, fluffy feelings, and the need to get my hands on the next book, because I want more.
And this book is so good!
I'm usually not into Contemporary Romance, but Aguirre's New Adult Romances are super addictive.
I think it's because this book leaves out all the extra drama that is in so many other contemporary romances. No jealousy games, no other love interests muddying the waters, just two people who really want to be together, but have to overcome certain obstacles before they can make it work.
I think I loved this book even more than the first: I totally fell in love with Lauren and Rob as a couple. Their romance is so sweet, and both of them are so vulnerable in their own way. I loved to read how they supported each other, and gave each other strength. I also really liked how Aguirre shows that there are situations in which just loving each other isn't enough, and that other steps are needed to straighten things out, to get a healthy relationship.
Next to this being a really sweet romance, it's also hot and intense. There were some very steamy scenes, and some very emotional ones as well. When I finished this book it left me with warm, fluffy feelings, and the need to get my hands on the next book, because I want more.
August 22, 2014
After reading the first book in this series I wasn't sure I wanted to read this one, but I was reading it with a friend and she sort of talked me into reading this one too. And after reading this one, boy am I really glad!
The tone of this book was so different from first, a big part of why I liked this one so much better. I really liked the relationship that Lauren and Rob had. It was great that it started out a friendship and then built, going back to the crushes. I loved how both were able to be more of themselves with the other, bad spots and all. I especially loved how Lauren was in Rob's corner all the time, building his confidence, something that was sorely needed. Things were going so well with them that I wondered what the big bump would be for Lauren and Rob. When the drama did happen I was torn, mostly because as much as I wanted them to have their HEA, they also needed time apart to believe in themselves. The ending was perfect for Rob and Lauren!
The one surprise in this book was Avery. I didn't expect things to go where they did with her. That aspect of the book became one of my favorite things about it.
The tone of this book was so different from first, a big part of why I liked this one so much better. I really liked the relationship that Lauren and Rob had. It was great that it started out a friendship and then built, going back to the crushes. I loved how both were able to be more of themselves with the other, bad spots and all. I especially loved how Lauren was in Rob's corner all the time, building his confidence, something that was sorely needed. Things were going so well with them that I wondered what the big bump would be for Lauren and Rob. When the drama did happen I was torn, mostly because as much as I wanted them to have their HEA, they also needed time apart to believe in themselves. The ending was perfect for Rob and Lauren!
The one surprise in this book was Avery. I didn't expect things to go where they did with her. That aspect of the book became one of my favorite things about it.
June 10, 2015
As Long As You Love Me
The Characters
Rob Conrad is the best. So strong and caring and surprisingly sweet.
Lauren Barrett smart, funny and relatable.
The Story
I’ve been crap at reviews lately. I seem to be stuck at loved it or hate it. On the bright side I loved this one. All I can put together to say is the blurb should read:
Hot sex scenes, a smart heroine and a hero that will make
your heart and your panties melt.
The Random Thoughts
4 Stars
The Characters
Rob Conrad is the best. So strong and caring and surprisingly sweet.
Lauren Barrett smart, funny and relatable.
The Story
I’ve been crap at reviews lately. I seem to be stuck at loved it or hate it. On the bright side I loved this one. All I can put together to say is the blurb should read:
Hot sex scenes, a smart heroine and a hero that will make
your heart and your panties melt.
The Random Thoughts
4 Stars
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